bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Statistical Analysis of Rebound Hammer Assessment on Reinforced Concrete Buildings
Authors: DOTUN ATOYEBI OLUMOYEWA , O. Afolayan J. , C. Arum , A. Alabi S. 
Published: April 2023

Abstract

This research explores the use of non-destructive equipment (Schmidt Rebound Hammer) to investigate the state of reinforced concrete buildings. A total of 138 Slabs, 266 Beams and 210 Columns were assessed as structural elements spread across six (6) different buildings. The columns, beams and slabs for the residential buildings have overall mean rebound compressive strength of 26.15 N/mm2, 20.18 N/mm2 and 32.2 N/mm2 respectively. For the institutional buildings, the overall average rebound compressive strength for the columns, beams and slabs is 25.71 N/mm2, 27.22 N/mm2 and 34.92 N/mm2 respectively. The columns, beams and slabs for the industrial buildings have overall mean rebound compressive strength of 30.27 N/mm2, 24.23 N/mm2 and 39.87 N/mm2 respectively. Rebound compressive strength values reduce as the height of the building increases. The standard deviation and coefficient of variance for a set of structural elements in the buildings showed high level of uncertainties and disparities which is an established factor in the use of the rebound hammer. This is a clear indication that a more robust method of analysis is needed for the interpretation and drawing of conclusions from the rebound hammer assessment.
Transmission of lethal H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b avian influenza in ferrets
Authors: Kobasa Darwyn , Warner Bryce , Alkie Tamiru , Vendramelli Robert , Moffat Estella , Tailor Nikesh , Audet Jonathan , Gunawardena Tarini , Safronetz David , Mubareka Samira , Moraes Theo , Lung Oliver , Embury-Hyatt Carissa , Berhane Yohannes 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses of the H5N1 subtype are highly lethal in many avian species. Since 2014, viruses of the genetically distinct clade 2.3.4.4 have been circulating in Eurasia, Africa and briefly in North America, killing millions of wild and domestic birds. In December, 2021 clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 viruses were first isolated from poultry and wild birds in Canada. Further spread of H5N1 viruses has since led to infection in many terrestrial and aquatic mammalian species. Some of the H5N1 viruses isolated from mammals have acquired adaptations previously shown to increase viral replication in mammals as well as novel patterns of reassortment of internal gene segments with North American (NA) lineage influenza A viruses (IAVs). While there have been few human cases of infection with clade 2.3.4.4b viruses reported to date, the potential for spillover, particularly of viruses harboring mammalian adaptation signatures remains a critical concern. Here we show that multiple naturally circulating reassortant H5N1 viruses can replicate in primary human airway epithelial cells and cause lethal disease in multiple mammalian species. One isolate, A/Red Tailed Hawk/ON/FAV-0473-4/2022, efficiently transmitted by direct contact between ferrets, resulting in lethal outcomes. Historically, H5 subtype viruses do not transmit effectively between mammals, and recent studies of currently circulating H5N1 viruses showed mild infection outcome in ferrets without detectable transmission. While known specific mutations within the Eurasian lineage H5Nx viruses have allowed for increased viral fitness in mammals, reassortment of H5N1 viruses with NA lineage avian IAVs may be unpredictably (unexpectedly) contributing to further enhancements in virulence and transmissibility in mammals, with potential increased risk to humans. Our research has determined that certain, as yet uncharacterized, genetic signatures may be important determinants of mammalian adaptation and pathogenicity of these viruses. Ongoing surveillance of circulating HPAI A(H5N1) viruses across species, including humans, should be a top priority so as to promptly identify viruses that may have pandemic or outbreak potential in mammals.
Irrigation water pricing based on the ELES-WPTI model in the Yinda-Jihuang project of China
Authors: Chen He , Wang Ting , Fang Guohua , He Huaxiang , Xie Xinmin , Yin Mingwan , Xiao Ping 
Published: April 2023

Abstract

Water pricing is the key to maximizing the economic and social benefits of the water transfer project. In this study, we propose the extended linear expenditure system-water price tolerance index (ELES-WPTI) model that combines the ELES model and the WPTI method for water pricing. Firstly, the ELES model is used to estimate the price elasticity of water demand and the basic demand for farmers of different income levels. Secondly, the WPTI method is used to simulate and analyze the affordability of farmers of different income levels for agricultural water under the dynamic change of water price standards. Finally, the ELES-WPTI model is applied to the Yinda-Jihuang (YJ) Project, China, to determine the appropriate agricultural water price. The results reveal that the farmers in the DH district have slightly higher affordability of water price than that in HL District. As water consumption should account for less than 15% of the total production cost and 10% of the net income, the affordable water price is determined to be 237 $/hm² in the DH district and 205 $/hm² in the HL district, respectively.
Water consumption behaviour and the use of technology among households in Durban, South Africa
Authors: Ngcobo Mbuso , Murwirapachena Genius , Reddy Maliga 
Published: April 2023

Abstract

Freshwater resources remain under constant pressure due to population growth, economic development, and changing weather patterns. Water supply utilities generally struggle to keep up with the growing demand for freshwater resources and consequently adopt demand management policies to address supply challenges. As water consumers, households can play a major role in water conservation. This paper examines the impact of biographic characteristics on water consumption behaviour and the adoption of water-efficient technologies in the city of Durban, South Africa. Probit regression models are estimated using survey data collected from 300 household heads sampled across the city. Among other results, the study finds income as the most consistent determinant of water consumption behaviours and the adoption of water-efficient technologies. Furthermore, the level of education was also found to be a consistent determinant of the adoption and installation of water-efficient technologies. These results are significant and serve to guide water utilities when implementing demand management water policies.
Modelling future flood events under climate change scenarios in the Pungwe River Basin
Authors: Paulo Mavaringana Moises de Jesus , Gumindoga Webster , Kileshye Onema Jean-Marie , Makurira Hodson 
Published: April 2023

AbstractThis study sought to project future changes in hydroclimatic variables and to establish how climate change affects flood inundation extent in the Pungwe River Basin. Climate ensembles of 10 Regional Climate Models from the CORDEX project were selected. The historical rainfall and temperature time series and the downscaled climate data were input into the HBV model to generate streamflow for the 2022–2099 period. Flood extents for 50-, 100-and 1,000-year return periods were predicted using the HEC-RAS hydraulic model. By 2070, annual rainfall at all nine studied meteorological stations is predicted to reduce by a maximum of 61%. Temperature is expected to increase up to 1.5% over the same period. By the 2070s, simulations from HBV revealed that the peak flows for the Pungwe River Basin will increase by up to 100% and decrease by approximately 57% as projected by the model ensemble. The analyses also show that by 2070 climate change may cause a minimum of 2,784.4 km2 and a maximum of 8,235.6 km2 of flood extension. These results are essential for decision-making on flood hazard mapping and early warning systems, prompting a pathway for sustainable development.
Key factors impacting treatment efficiency in actual copper mineral processing wastewater by ozonation
Authors: Sun Shukai , Lu Miaoqiang , Wei Qihang , Chen Jincheng , Wu Renya , Feng Fei , Wei Linsheng 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Ozone advanced oxidation has been widely used in water treatment, but little research has been reported on the application of ozone to difficult-to-degrade mineral wastewater. In this paper, the effect of ozonation application in the treatment of copper mineral processing wastewater, which is difficult to be effectively treated by traditional processes due to its complex composition, was investigated. The effects of ozonation time, ozone concentration, temperature and pH on the degradation of organic compounds in the wastewater by ozonation were researched. It was found that the chemical oxygen demand (COD) of the wastewater could be reduced by 83.02% by ozonation under optimal treatment conditions. In addition, the mechanism of ozone degradation of the difficult-to-degrade wastewater was studied, and the reasons for the fluctuating variations of COD and ammonia nitrogen during ozonation treatment were explained.
Tandem high-dose chemotherapy and autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in pediatric patients with high-risk neuroblastoma: single-center experience
Authors: Kulyova S. A. , Abadjeva A. A. , Mikhailova E. A. , Kulyov M. A. , Fedukova Yu. G. , Khabarova R. I. 
Published: April 2023

Currently, the use high doses chemotherapy (HDC) supported by autologous peripheral blood stem cells in consolidation is a necessary therapeutic option in patients with high-risk neuroblastoma (NB). Conditioning regimens and schemes of HDC remain the subject of debate. In recent years, the evidence base of the advantages of tandem myeloablative procedures in comparison with single-transplantation has been actively accumulated in clinical practice. This article presents our own experience of tandem-transplantation with stem cell rescue in the N.N. Petrov National Medical Research Centre of Oncology (Saint-Petersburg) in four patients with initially stratified high-risk group NB; two of them were NMYC amplified. Tandem consolidation included TC ([T]hiotepa, [C]yclophosphamide) and CEM ([C]arboplatin, [E]toposide, [M]elphalan) regimens. The acceptable toxicity of the tandem-transplantation is proved.
An Overview of Chatbot-Based Mobile Mental Health Apps: Insights From App Description and User Reviews
Authors: Haque M D Romael , Rubya Sabirat 
Published: April 2023

Background
Chatbots are an emerging technology that show potential for mental health care apps to enable effective and practical evidence-based therapies. As this technology is still relatively new, little is known about recently developed apps and their characteristics and effectiveness.

Objective
In this study, we aimed to provide an overview of the commercially available popular mental health chatbots and how they are perceived by users.

Methods
We conducted an exploratory observation of 10 apps that offer support and treatment for a variety of mental health concerns with a built-in chatbot feature and qualitatively analyzed 3621 consumer reviews from the Google Play Store and 2624 consumer reviews from the Apple App Store.

Results
We found that although chatbots’ personalized, humanlike interactions were positively received by users, improper responses and assumptions about the personalities of users led to a loss of interest. As chatbots are always accessible and convenient, users can become overly attached to them and prefer them over interacting with friends and family. Furthermore, a chatbot may offer crisis care whenever the user needs it because of its 24/7 availability, but even recently developed chatbots lack the understanding of properly identifying a crisis. Chatbots considered in this study fostered a judgment-free environment and helped users feel more comfortable sharing sensitive information.

Conclusions
Our findings suggest that chatbots have great potential to offer social and psychological support in situations where real-world human interaction, such as connecting to friends or family members or seeking professional support, is not preferred or possible to achieve. However, there are several restrictions and limitations that these chatbots must establish according to the level of service they offer. Too much reliance on technology can pose risks, such as isolation and insufficient assistance during times of crisis. Recommendations for customization and balanced persuasion to inform the design of effective chatbots for mental health support have been outlined based on the insights of our findings.
Preparation and evaluation of ciprofloxacin solid dispersion tablets developed from stearic acid, Polyethylene Glycol 4000 and Soluplus
Authors: Agubata Chukwuma Obumneme , Ogbonna Eugenia Chinyere , Onyechi Jacob Okwuchukwu , Ugwu Calister Elochukwu , Obasi Josephat , Akudu Adaobi Ukamaka , Chidebelu Innocencia , Ani Njideka Ifeoma 
Published: April 2023

Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic with a broad spectrum of activity used for the treatment of various bacterial infections and is characterized by poor aqueous solubility and low permeability. The aim of this study is to formulate and characterize ciprofloxacin solid dispersions using hydrophilic and lipophilic matrices for improved product qualities and drug delivery. Ciprofloxacin hydrochloride tablets were formulated as solid dispersions by melting and solvent evaporation in tablet moulds using varying concentrations of stearic acid (10-40 %w/w), Polyethylene glycol 4000 (PEG 4000) (10-40 %w/w) and Soluplus® (10-20 %w/w as ethanolic solution) as components. The prepared tablets were evaluated for weight uniformity, friability, hardness, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), moisture uptake, swelling index, disintegration time and dissolution rate, using standard methods and optimization techniques. The results showed uniform solid dispersion weights with friability, hardness, moisture uptake and swelling index of 0.4-0.5%, 3.0-7.5 kgf, mostly <20% and 1-71%, respectively. The formulations were chemically stable with no transformational interactions between components. Formulations without stearic acid disintegrated within 30 min whereas those containing the lipid broke up after more than 1 h. Drug release studies showed high immediate release in tablets without stearic acid but with cumulative steady state release higher in formulations with 10 %w/w Soluplus and different concentrations of stearic acid and PEG 4000. In conclusion, ciprofloxacin was presented as solid dispersion tablets with modified physicochemical attributes for improved drug delivery.
Keywords: Ciprofloxacin; solid dispersion; drug delivery
West Syndrome – Infantile Spasms: A Rare Paediatric Case Report
Authors: Murugan Akila , Umapathy P , Panchagiri Sabitha 
Published: April 2023

West syndrome (WS) is a rare, severe form of epilepsy with onset in infancy and early childhood. It involves clustered epileptic spasm episodes, the aberrant interictal electroencephalogram pattern known as hypsarrhythmia, and neuropsychomotor delay. In this view, we present a case of a 6-year-old female child a known case of west syndrome, global developmental delay, hypothyroidism, and post-operative laparoscopic gastrotomy performed under general anaesthesia on March 31/2022, in view of recurrent aspiration and came with the chief complaints of seizure 6-7 episodes per day, decreased urine output, constipation for two days, straining to pass urine, and three episodes of vomiting. The history included that the baby cried immediately after birth, seizure on day 5 of life, and was shifted to the Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), admitted there for 5 days because of respiratory distress syndrome and hyperalbuminemia. During their stay in the hospital, the child has been prescribed Lamotrigine 50mg, Levocarnitine 500mg, Levetiracetam 250mg, Clobazam 5mg, Phenobarbital 60mg, Sodium Valproate 100mg, Thyronorm 50mcg. Now the patient is symptomatically better. This case report intends to sensitize physicians in this region toward this rare neurological syndrome.
Keywords: Hypsarrhythmia, Infantile, Seizure, West syndrome.
NF-ĸB expression in endometriosis induced rat uterine tissue
Authors: ERMİŞ Işılay Sezen , DEVECİ Engin , Aşır Fırat 
Published: April 2023

Objective: Our aim in this study is to examine the effects of endometriosis on uterine tissue.
Materials and methods: Two groups were formed, with eight rats in each group. Sham group was subjected only saline solution for 7 days. The endometriosis (EM) model was induced with estradiol benzoate (EB). In the EM group, EB was given to rats for 7 days. At the end of the experiment, blood was taken from the animals and serum total antioxidant status (TAS) and total oxidant status (TOS) values were studied. Uterine tissues were fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin blocks. NF-ĸB 3 immune staining were performed on uterine sections. The results were examined under the microscope.
Results: Compared to sham group, TAS values were significantly decreased and TOS values were significantly increased in serum of rats belonging to EM group. In the analysis of NF-ĸB expression in uterine tissue of sham group, the expression was slight and found only in connective tissue cells and inflammatory cells. NF-ĸB expression was mainly negative. After EM induction, NF-ĸB expression was increased in degenerated epithelial cells and gland cells, inflammatory cells around the glands and blood vessel endothelial cells and lamina propria.
Conclusion: We think that NF-κB signal may be a determinant in the treatment of endometriosis.
Keywords: endometriosis, immunohistochemistry, NF-κB, biochemistry, rat
The Political and Economic Status of the Chinese Diaspora in Southeast Asia
Authors: Wang Yonghao 
Published: April 2023

The relevance of the study stems from the Chinese government’s focus on developing cultural, economic partnerships with Asia-Pacific states. It is the Huaqiao who have contributed to this process, for example, there are many investors who balance the flow of money between China and other countries, as well as scholars who share scientific knowledge with Chinese citizens.Aim. Based on the above, the aim of the study is to analyse the current position of the Chinese diaspora in the economic and political spheres of life in Southeast Asia.Tasks. In order to successfully realise the objective, it is necessary to solve the research tasks:to describe the essence of the concept of “diaspora” in the academic literature, as well as its specific features;to consider the role of huaqiao in the formation of China’s external image;to evaluate the degree of Chinese business activity in trade of the countries under consideration;4) to study the degree of Chinese diasporas’ participation in political life of the states of residence.Methods. Analysis and synthesis of literary sources (while studying the concept of “diaspora”), historical method (while describing three main waves of Chinese diaspora migration and studying Chinese settlement in different parts of South-East Asia), descriptive method (while studying the place of Chinese diaspora in political and economic life of South-East Asia) were used as main research methods.Results. The research results have been summarised according to the level of representation of the positive image of the Chinese as a result of the Huaqiao’s economic and political actions.Conclusions. Firstly, about 75% of overseas Chinese, or 28 million people, live in modern Southeast Asian countries.Secondly, within the framework of the business activities of the Chinese diaspora, the most significant factor of influence is the association of Chinese enterprises in the “bamboo network” and expansion of areas of cooperation with each other.Third, the Chinese diaspora has different rights these days depending on the form of government and state structure of the country.
LEXICAL UNITS DENOTING PARALANGUAGE ELEMENTS OF COMMUNICATION
Authors: MYHOLYNETS Oksana 
Published: April 2023

Nonverbal communication is the process of sending and receiving messages between two or more people without the use of words. We can communicate in a variety of nonverbal ways including our posture, gestures, facial expressions, touch, eye contact, and intonation. Research suggests that nonverbal communication makes up over 60-70% of all that we communicate. In other words, how we say something is often more important than what we say.Paralanguage is considered to be one of the components of non-verbal communication, which goes beyond the specific spoken words. It includes pitch, amplitude, rate, and voice quality of speech. Paralanguage reminds us that people convey their feelings not only in what they say, but also in how they say it.The present research paper is devoted to the study of the verbalization of paralanguage as the component of non-verbal communication in English.The topicality of the paper is preconditioned by the general orientation of modern linguistics on the analysis of the ways and means a language possesses for the nomination of different properties of speech which, in their turn, proved to be an important means of non-verbal communication. The aimof the research is to provide an analysis of language units, used for the nomination of paralanguage components of communication in Modern English. The subject of the inves- tigation is represented by the analysis of language units used for the verbilazation of paralanguage elements. The object of the research is lexical units verbalizing paralanguage components of non-verbal communication in Modern English. Primary attention is focused on the analyses of the lexemes representing different properties of the voice. As far as paralanguage con- siders the acoustic properties of the voice, we have considered the functioning of the lexemes, which in combination with the adverbs also demonstrate a variety of feelings and emotions of the speakers. We have also fixed lexical units used to verbalize shouting, crying, laughing.The acoustic aspect of voice found the reflection in such units as: to grumble, to murmur, to sniff, to twang etc. In the course of the analysis we have also fixed lexical units used for the nomination even of the absence of speech. Being the component of paralanguage silence finds its manifestation in a number of lexical units, each of which demonstrates certain functional characteristics.