bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Model Pembelajaran Contextual Teaching and Learning terhadap Kemampuan Menulis Deskripsi Siswa Kelas VII SMP Negeri 41 Kota Bekasi
Authors: Nita Zulaekha  , Haryanti Ade Siti , Permana Adi
Published: November 2024

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh penggunaan model pembelajaran Contextual Teaching and Learning terhadap kemampuan menulis deskripsi pada siswa kelas VII SMP Negeri 41 Kota Bekasi. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah metode eksperimen dengan desain penelitian post-test only control group design. Populasi berjumlah 278 siswa, jumlah sampel yang digunakan pada penelitian adalah 60 siswa, dengan menggunakan teknik simple random sampling, isntrumen yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah lembar penilaian. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa berdasarkan hasil uji t dengan nilai thitung=15,72> ttabel=1,67 maka Ho ditolak dan H1 diterima, artinya terdapat pengaruh signifikan dalam penggunaan model pembelajaran Contextual Teaching and Learning terhadap kemampuan menulis deskripsi pada siswa kelas VII SMP Negeri 41 Kota Bekasi. Karena dengan model pembelajaran tersebut menghasilkan nilai rata-rata yang lebih tinggi sebesar 82, dibandingkan dengan nilai rata-rata dari hasil pembelajaran dengan model pembelajaran Inqury sebesar 61.
Research on Population Aging, Effectiveness of Monetary Policy, and Real Estate Prices
Authors: Li Ping
Published: November 2024

As the global trend of population aging intensifies, the multifaceted impacts of aging on the economy are becoming increasingly apparent, especially in the areas of monetary policy and the real estate market. This paper aims to explore the intrinsic relationship between population aging, the effectiveness of monetary policy, and real estate prices. By analyzing the impact of demographic changes on consumption, savings, and investment behavior, the paper further reveals how aging affects the transmission mechanism of monetary policy and examines the role of monetary policy in real estate price fluctuations. The paper begins by defining the current status of population aging and discussing its broad economic impacts, followed by an analysis of the tools and transmission mechanisms of monetary policy and its specific effects on the real estate market. Based on the construction of a theoretical model, this paper also empirically tests the responses of the real estate market to monetary policy in different countries and regions facing aging societies. Finally, based on both theoretical and empirical research results, policy recommendations are made regarding the adjustment of monetary policy and regulation of the real estate market in the context of an aging society. This study provides theoretical support and practical guidance for policymakers to address the challenges that population aging brings to economic policy.
Anthropometric indicators and their relationship with body fat in obese women.
Authors: Rosales-Ricardo Yury , Caiza-Ruiz Vinicio , Álvarez-Carrión Sonia
Published: November 2024

To determine the anthropometric indicator of best correlation with body fat in women with obesity aged 20 to
59 years. A correlational cross-sectional study was conducted. The percentage of body fat was determined (%
GC) and lipid profile (LDL, TG, CT), Body Mass Index (BMI), Hip Waist Index (ICC), Waist Height Index
(ICE), Conicity Index (CI), Body Adiposity Index (BSI), Hip Height Index (HSI) and Body Weight by Height
Index (BWI). Seven hundred and eighty obese women were selected by random cluster sampling. The
correlation of the mean % GC with anthropometric indicators was: BMI:0.697, ICC: 0.661, ECI: 0.910, CI:
0.587, ICadE: 0.323, CAI: 0.578, EICP: 0.549. The lipid profile correlation with anthropometric variables and
indices was: LDL (BMI: 0.615, ICC: 0.765, ECI: 0.881, CSI: 0.535, ICadE: 0.588, ECDI: 0.492), TG (BMI:
0.690,
ICC: 0.776, ICE: 0.855, CI:0.625, CI: 0.572, CIadE: 0.632, EICP: 0.631) Y TC (BMI: 0.699, ICC: 0.715, ECI:
0.829, CI: 0.601, ACI: 0.609, CIadE: 0.709, EICP: 0.500) High correlation between % GC and Waist
Circumference. Waist Height Index had a better correlation with Body Fat.
Keywords: obesity; health; women; nutritional status
Estrategia de intervención educativa para el abordaje del riesgo cardiovascular en pacientes con hipertensión arterial
Authors: Rojas-Montenegro Karen , Cisneros-Cañas Gustavo , Suárez de Terán Rosario , Cajilima-Vega Ruben , Arteaga-Pazmiño Cecilia , Frias-Toral Evelyn
Published: November 2024

Introducción: Las enfermedades cardiovasculares (ECV) son la principal causa de muerte prevenible a nivel
mundial y nacional. Frente a esta problemática, las estrategias educativas son esenciales en la prevención y
manejo de las ECV. Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio fue desarrollar una estrategia de intervención
educativa para abordar el riesgo cardiovascular (RCV) en pacientes con hipertensión arterial (HTA). Métodos:
Se realizó un estudio cuasi-experimental, en el que se determinó el RCV y hábitos de vida a través de la Escala
Globorisk y FANTASTIC, respectivamente, previo a la intervención educativa y posterior a ésta, en una
población de 97 pacientes de 40 a 79 años de edad con HTA primaria en el periodo de marzo a agosto del
2021. La intervención consistió en estrategias educativas para promover hábitos de vida saludables, y la
prescripción de un plan de alimentación individualizado de acuerdo a las necesidades de los participantes.
Resultados: Posterior a la intervención se obtuvo un control de la tensión arterial en el 28.86% de la población
de estudio, el índice de masa corporal disminuyo en el 3.1%, el RCV disminuyó en un 11.34%, y los estilos
de vida saludables mejoraron en un 9.15% (p=0.000) en todas las variables. Conclusiones: En los pacientes
con HTA, las intervenciones educativas para promover estilos de vida saludables, mejoran los factores de
RCV.
Keywords: Hipertensión arterial; Riesgo cardiovascular; Estilos de vida saludables, Atención primaria en
salud.
Brechas sociotécnicas y experiencia pedagógica: una exploración a la gamificación en Chile
Authors: Valdebenito Allendes Jorge , Ferrer Lorca Nicolás
Published: November 2024

Este estudio explora la percepción estudiantil sobre la implementación de la gamificación, desde Kahoot!, en una universidad chilena durante el año 2023. En tal sentido, se presta especial atención a dos aspectos: la experiencia pedagógica asociada con el uso de dichas herramientas y las particularidades del impacto que en tal sentido poseen las brechas socioeconómicas del escenario chileno sobre dicha experiencia. El diseño metodológico es cualitativo, basado en el análisis del contenido de entrevistas a informantes clave, seleccionados intencionadamente acorde con criterios de conveniencia y proximidad. Así, se identifica que Kahoot!, si bien es lúdico y estimulante, posee debilidades en cuanto al impacto negativo en términos emocionales tras su implementación. Esto se debe a la prevalencia de deficiencias técnicas entre los dispositivos y conexiones a Internet del estudiantado, las cuales inhabilitan el despliegue de sus potencias, generando ansiedad, frustración y rabia entre sus miembros.
An Overview of Image Steganography Techniques: Historical Development, Methodologies, and Evaluation Criteria
Authors: Hammad Omar Mejbel , Smaoui Ikram , Fakhfakh Ahmed , Hashim Mohammed Mahdi
Published: November 2024

This paper provides a detailed overview of image steganography, tracing its historical roots and examining the development of modern techniques. Steganography, derived from the Greek words "stegos" (cover) and "graphia" (writing), refers to the practice of concealing information within a host medium. Historically, steganographic techniques included tattooing hidden messages and using invisible ink, but the digital age has introduced new possibilities for secure data embedding, particularly within images. With the advent of the internet, the need for robust steganographic techniques has increased, leading to advancements in both spatial and frequency domain methods, including Least Significant Bit (LSB) replacement, Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT), and wavelet-based techniques. This paper also reviews evaluation criteria such as Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR), Mean Squared Error (MSE), and Structural Similarity Index Measure (SSIM) to assess the effectiveness of various steganographic methods in achieving high security, capacity, and imperceptibility. Challenges such as balancing these criteria, developing multi-criteria evaluation tools, and optimizing embedding processes are highlighted. This review aims to provide insights into current advancements, limitations, and future directions for research in image steganography.
Interculturalidad en la Educación: paradigmas y propuestas desde una perspectiva crítica
Authors: Jiménez Morales Jorge
Published: November 2024

En la actualidad la mayoría de las legislaciones y planes educativos otorgan a la diversidad cultural un destacado papel a la hora de desarrollar los programas curriculares. Sin embargo, la visión que se hace de la diversidad aún se presenta como un problema que debe de ser resuelto más que una oportunidad de aprendizaje desde una perspectiva intercultural. Este trabajo de investigación utiliza la revisión sistemática como herramienta metodológica con el fin de abordar un análisis interpretativo, desde la antropología de la interculturalidad, para analizar, describir y situar los más relevantes discursos y paradigmas interculturales y su influencia en el desarrollo de políticas educativas en el contexto europeo, así como en países de Latinoamérica. Otro objetivo es valorar el papel emergente que la Educación Superior debe de asumir como escenario de diálogo intercultural y empoderamiento ante el modelo de inclusión educativa y homogeneizador. A partir del reconocimiento del carácter contextual del concepto de interculturalidad, se analizan las experiencias llevadas a cabo por varias universidades interculturales para determinar qué desafíos se plantean de cara a la pretendida transformación de la educación. Como resultados, destaca la delimitación del enfoque pedagógico intercultural y crítico como vía para visibilizar las asimetrías y desigualdades en el entorno escolar y superar las dicotomías de las diferencias que el “saber universal” ha supuesto para el diseño de currículos y formas de entender los procesos de enseñanzas y aprendizajes hegemónicos. Se plantea finalmente una serie de propuestas alternativas para crear entornos educativos más iguales y justos para todos.
Digitalna uključenost, povezanost i pismenost starijih osoba
Authors: Pokec Ivan , Grabovac Đurđica , Rafaj Goranka , Vukmanić Daliborka
Published: November 2024

U današnjem digitalnom dobu tehnologija je postala ključni aspekt naših života, a tehnološkim napretkom digitalna uključenost starijih osoba postaje sve važnija. Iako su u prošlosti starije generacije možda bile skeptične prema tehnološkim inovacijama, trendovi se mijenjaju. Razumijevanje digitalnih alata nije prirodno stečena vještina, već zahtijeva ulaganje u učenje. Edukacijski programi koji obuhvaćaju osnove interneta, e-pošte i mobilnih aplikacija mogu značajno povećati samopouzdanje starijih korisnika u korištenju tehnologije. Organizacije, zajednice i državne institucije trebale bi prepoznati važnost ovih inicijativa te ponuditi tečajeve za starije. Digitalna pismenost također uključuje sposobnost sigurnog korištenja interneta, prepoznavanje lažnih vijesti te zaštitu privatnosti online. Inovativnim rješenjima, poput personaliziranih edukacijskih platformi, upotrebe umjetne inteligencije za personalizirano učenje, međugeneracijskih radionica i virtualne stvarnosti, možemo dodatno podržati starije osobe u njihovoj integraciji u digitalni svijet. Na taj im način možemo pomoći da ostanu aktivni, povezani te neovisni u svojim zajednicama.
Dodaci prehrani u liječenju psihičkih poremećaja
Authors: Kudumija Slijepčević Marija , Ivanda Lucija , Eljuga Ksenija , Jovanović Nikolina
Published: November 2024

Cilj je ovog rada pružiti sveobuhvatan pregled trenutnih saznanja o ulozi dodataka prehrani u liječenju psihičkih poremećaja, s naglaskom na njihove potencijalne koristi i ograničenja. Prehrana, kao temeljna komponenta u održavanju općeg zdravlja, ima izravan utjecaj na psihičko i fizičko zdravlje. Smjernice o zdravoj prehrani i količina potrebnih nutrijenata određuju se individualno, a adekvatan unos nutrijenata dokazano ima pozitivne učinke na razvoj i funkcioniranje mozga. Brojna istraživanja potvrđuju ključnu ulogu sastava prehrane u patogenezi psihijatrijskih poremećaja.Dodaci prehrani koji sadrže vitamine, minerale i ljekovite biljke ili njihove ekstrakte konzumiraju se s ciljem obogaćivanja prehrane i prevencije bolesti, ali nisu lijek niti se takvima smiju smatrati. Unos dodataka prehrani preporučuje se kao mjera prevencije i u procesu liječenja psihičkih poremećaja, najčešće s ciljem zadovoljavanja nutritivnih potreba, postizanja fiziološke dobrobiti, poboljšanja apsorpcije hranjivih tvari i smanjenja razine središnjih i perifernih markera oksidativnog stresa i upale, koji su povezani s učinkovitošću farmakoloških intervencija kod oboljelih.Odluka o primjeni dodataka prehrani donosi se ovisno o vrsti psihičkog poremećaja i rezultatima procjene nutritivnog statusa. Dodaci prehrani smatraju se sigurnima zbog niske incidencije nuspojava i štetnih učinaka, no moraju se primjenjivati nakon konzultacije s liječnikom i pod nadzorom.
Projektno utemeljen međupredmetni pristup poučavanju stručnih predmeta i engleskoga kao jezika struke u obrazovanju studenata računarstva
Authors: Jurković Ivana , Adamović Tomislav
Published: November 2024

Učenje temeljeno na projektima, iako postoji već dugi niz godina, i danas se smatra inovativnom metodom poučavanja koja u usporedbi s većinom tradicionalnih pristupa istovremeno zahtijeva i rezultira aktivnijom i odgovornijom ulogom studenata u procesu učenja. Projektno orijentirana nastava i međupredmetni pristup poučavanju predmeta iz srodnih područja često se implementiraju u procesu učenja i poučavanja na inženjerskim studijima, a to je u današnje vrijeme uvjetovano i povećanom potrebom za interdisciplinarnim pristupom rješavanju inženjerskih problema. Slične nastavne metode često su prisutne i u drugim područjima, a u poučavanju stranih jezika danas se često koristi metoda integriranoga poučavanja jezika i sadržaja (engl. CLIL). U ovome radu opisan je međupredmetni pristup učenju temeljenom na projektima koji se temelji na metodi CLIL. Evaluacija testiranoga pristupa provedena je u obliku istraživanja koje je provedeno na uzorku studenata koji su sudjelovali u njegovoj provedbi. Rezultati su analizirani metodama deskriptivne statistike te primjenom tematske analize, a na njihovoj je osnovi izveden zaključak o prednostima i svrhovitosti implementacije opisanoga pristupa u nastavnome procesu.
USO DAS TECNOLOGIAS DA INFORMAÇÃO E COMUNICAÇÃO NAS INSTITUIÇÕES DE ENSINO SUPERIOR DO BRASIL
Authors: Clael Sacha , Melo Bárbara de Caldas , Balestrin Viviane Giusti , Santana Breno de Sousa , Martins Wagner Rodrigues
Published: November 2024

A pandemia da COVID-19 alterou a estrutura pedagógica da Educação, demandando aos professores utilizarem as Tecnologias da Informação e da Comunicação (TICs). Entretanto, existiram desafios para essa implementação, como o espaço físico e a dificuldade na utilização das ferramentas, sendo assim o objetivo do presente estudo é verificar o conhecimento dos professores de instituições de ensino superior públicas e privadas do Brasil a respeito das TICs. Foi realizado um survey no Google Forms com 146 professores. O primeiro bloco de perguntas foi para caracterização amostral e o segundo bloco de perguntas foi para avaliar o conhecimento dos professores a respeito das TICs. As perguntas que avaliaram o nível de conforto com as ferramentas Word, Excel, PowerPoint e Google for Education foram utilizadas para medir os conhecimentos a respeito das TICs. A correlação de Spearman foi utilizada para verificar a associação da idade do professor e seus conhecimentos a respeito das TICs. O teste Exato de Fisher foi utilizado para verificar as diferenças entre grupos (público versus privado) com relação aos conhecimentos das TICs. De forma geral, foi observado um bom domínio dos professores em relação as TICs, não sendo observada associação entre a idade do professor e seus conhecimentos sobre as ferramentas (p > 0,05), e não houve diferença de conhecimento a respeito das TICs entre professores de instituições públicas e privadas (p > 0,05). Conclui-se que os professores de ensino superior de instituições públicas e privadas do Brasil possuem o conhecimento das TICs.
Palavras - Chave: Google Forms; Word; Excel; PowerPoint; COVID-19.
An etymologically based lexicographic approach for developing encyclopaedic pedagogical dictionaries in African languages
Authors: Dladla Celimpilo P
Published: November 2024

Bilingual dictionaries in previously marginalised indigenous African languages often provide lemmata equivalents without definitions as is the nature of most bilingual dictionaries. The structure of bilingual dictionaries needs to be improved to include definitions and etymological information. To this end, this paper investigates how bilingual dictionaries can be enhanced through a qualitative content analysis of lemmata from the Scholar’s IsiZulu Dictionary by G.R Dent and C.L.S. Nyembezi (2009). A simple random sampling strategy was employed to select subject-specific lemmata that would contribute to the data analysed for the study. The microstructure of the resource was analysed using the Theory of Lexicographic Functions (Bergenholzt & Tarp, 2003) which considers the user profile, user needs, user situation, and lexicographic function. The element of user needs from this theory was used for this study, postulating that etymological data can enhance the acquisition of epistemological knowledge of users who speak African languages. This study revealed that an etymology-based dictionary structure does not only clarify scientific terminology to the user but also enhances the intellectual power of languages in education, thus increasing their potential of producing better education outcomes for students.
Towards breaking linguistic imperialism in teaching and learning in South African universities: A decolonial perspective
Authors: Munyaradzi Julliet
Published: November 2024

The elevation of English as the primary language of teaching and learning in South African higher education institutions defies the South African constitutional and other statutory obligations and their aspirations to promote the development of African languages as intellectual languages for teaching, learning and research. Thus, English hegemony must be teased out as part of the decolonial agenda that seeks to introduce pedagogical practices which break the coloniality of language and linguistic barriers to epistemic access to higher education. This conceptual paper problematised linguistic imperialism in South African universities and the hegemony of English over African languages. It employed decolonial tools to theorise the challenges and opportunities to negotiating a multilingual, Afrocentric approach to a democratised pedagogy in South African higher education. It concludes that deep introspection and complicated conversations are required on the intersectionality of decolonisation, multilingual pedagogical practices, and the English hegemony, which, in turn could map some way forward for the transformation of the self as a stakeholder, and the system at large as transformative tools. This, if consistently adhered to, could promote epistemic access in the teaching and learning of students, especially those who use English as an additional language in the predominantly English medium policy driven higher education contexts.
Drivable path detection for a mobile robot with differential drive using a deep Learning based segmentation method for indoor navigation
Authors: Mısır Oğuz
Published: November 2024

The integration of artificial intelligence into the field of robotics enables robots to perform their tasks more meaningfully. In particular, deep-learning methods contribute significantly to robots becoming intelligent cybernetic systems. The effective use of deep-learning mobile cyber-physical systems has enabled mobile robots to become more intelligent. This effective use of deep learning can also help mobile robots determine a safe path. The drivable pathfinding problem involves a mobile robot finding the path to a target in a challenging environment with obstacles. In this paper, a semantic-segmentation-based drivable path detection method is presented for use in the indoor navigation of mobile robots. The proposed method uses a perspective transformation strategy based on transforming high-accuracy segmented images into real-world space. This transformation enables the motion space to be divided into grids, based on the image perceived in a real-world space. A grid-based RRT* navigation strategy was developed that uses images divided into grids to enable the mobile robot to avoid obstacles and meet the optimal path requirements. Smoothing was performed to improve the path planning of the grid-based RRT* and avoid unnecessary turning angles of the mobile robot. Thus, the mobile robot could reach the target in an optimum manner in the drivable area determined by segmentation. Deeplabv3+ and ResNet50 backbone architecture with superior segmentation ability are proposed for accurate determination of drivable path. Gaussian filter was used to reduce the noise caused by segmentation. In addition, multi-otsu thresholding was used to improve the masked images in multiple classes. The segmentation model and backbone architecture were compared in terms of their performance using different methods. DeepLabv3+ and ResNet50 backbone architectures outperformed the other compared methods by 0.21%–4.18% on many metrics. In addition, a mobile robot design is presented to test the proposed drivable path determination method. This design validates the proposed method by using different scenarios in an indoor environment.
Examining the practical importance of nonstationary cardio-respiratory coupling detection in breathing training: a methodological appraisal
Authors: Li Jinfeng , Fan Yong , Shi Wenbin , Li Mengwei , Li Lixuan , Yan Wei , Yan Muyang , Zhang Zhengbo , Yeh Chien-Hung
Published: November 2024

This study investigates changes in cardiorespiratory coupling during clinic breathing training and its impact on autonomic nervous functioning compared with heart rate variability (HRV). A total of 39 subjects undergoing dynamic electrocardiogram-recorded breathing training were analyzed. Subjects were divided into early- and late-training periods, and further categorized based on changes in HRV indexes. Subtypes were identified using time-frequency cardiorespiratory coupling diagrams. Significant differences were observed in the high-frequency (HF) index between training stages in the subgroup with increasing HF-HRV (p = 0.0335). Both unimodal and bimodal subtypes showed significant high-frequency coupling (HFC) in the mid-training period compared with early and late stages (both p < 0.0001), suggesting improved parasympathetic cardiac regulation or reduced sympathetic control. This study highlights the potential of nonstationary cardiorespiratory coupling analysis alongside traditional HRV in evaluating the therapeutic effect of breathing training on autonomic nervous function. Cardiorespiratory coupling analysis could provide valuable adjunctive information to HRV measures for assessing the impact of breathing training.
Evaluación in vitro de la tolerancia al déficit hídrico de hongos endófitos y rizosféricos provenientes de especies forestales nativas de la región de Coquimbo
Authors:   , Martínez Chacón María Paz
Published: November 2024

Las zonas áridas y semiáridas de Chile albergan ecosistemas singulares capaces de prosperar en condiciones climáticas adversas, incluyendo una baja disponibilidad de agua y una alta radiación. Sin embargo, el conocimiento acerca de la biodiversidad de su microbiota, y su potencial impacto en la capacidad de las plantas para afrontar estas condiciones de déficit hídrico extremo, es escaso. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar la tolerancia al estrés hídrico in vitro de hongos endófitos y rizosféricos aislados desde especies forestales nativas procedentes de la región de Coquimbo. Para ello, se aislaron hongos desde individuos de Vachellia caven, Cordia decandra, Lithraea caustica, Porlieria chilensis, Prosopis chilensis, Quillaja saponaria, Schinus latifolius y Senna candolleana ubicados en tres reforestaciones experimentales de la región. Los diferentes aislados se sometieron a ensayo de déficit hídrico in vitro, ajustando el potencial hídrico del medio de cultivo Agar Papa Dextrosa (APD) con el agente polietilenglicol (PEG 6000). Esto permitió evaluar el área de crecimiento micelial en condiciones de estrés hídrico moderado (≈-0,7 Mpa) y comparar con el tratamiento control. Se seleccionaron aquellos aislados que poseían un crecimiento similar en área bajo ambas condiciones. Los aislados seleccionados se identificaron molecularmente mediante la secuenciación de su región ITS. En total, se obtuvieron 101 aislados. De estos, el 31% toleró las condiciones de estrés hídrico. Los resultados de la secuenciación indican la presencia de microorganismos patógenos de plantas con resistencia a condiciones de estrés hídrico, lo cual puede implicar una problemática futura para las plantas sometidas a estrés en la zona norte, pero además revelan especies con un potencial uso biotecnológico en la mitigación del cambio climático en plantas, a través del desarrollo de bioproductos que puedan mediar una mayor tolerancia a la sequía.
Efectos de la rotura de partículas en materiales granulares
Authors:   , Osses Peña Rodrigo Hernán
Published: November 2024

Los materiales granulares sujetos a niveles de esfuerzo relativamente elevados pueden desarrollar un fenómeno denominado rotura de partículas, desencadenado cuando las tensiones impuestas en las partículas individuales sobrepasan su resistencia al fracturamiento. Adicionalmente, el aumento de la humedad debilita la resistencia individual de los granos, por lo que se incrementa la rotura de partículas. Esta tesis presenta un estudio aplicado en 2 materiales: una roca extrusiva en tamaño arena (1-2 mm) perteneciente a una cantera de la comuna de Colina (Chile); un coluvio en tamaño arena (0.30-2.36 mm) y grava (9.5-50 mm) de una mina de hierro de la región de Pilbara en Western Australia (Australia). Se evaluó el efecto de la humedad relativa (succión total), de la compresibilidad, de la fluencia lenta (creep), y del tamaño de muestras y partículas. La humedad se evaluó a través curvas de retención de humedad. Los resultados en ambos materiales arrojaron una relación inversamente proporcional entre la humedad y el tamaño de las partículas. Es decir, la humedad alcanzó un valor más alto cuando se disminuyó el tamaño de las partículas. La succión total se evaluó mediante la técnica de equilibrio de vapor a través de ensayos edométricos. Se aplicaron rangos de tensiones totales de 0 hasta 3200 kPa y succiones totales de 0 a 340 MPa. Para el control de succión, se desarrolló un circuito de aire cerrado con control de la humedad relativa mediante un flujo controlado. Los resultados demostraron una dependencia del comportamiento con la succión total en ambos materiales: a mayor humedad, mayor compresibilidad y creep. Finalmente, el escalamiento de los ensayos edométricos fue realizado al material de Pilbara, durante una pasantía en The University of Newcastle (Australia), mediante un equipo edométrico de gran tamaño. Los resultados arrojaron que, a mayor tamaño de partículas, aumenta la rotura de las mismas y, en consecuencia, aumenta la compresibilidad y las deformaciones por creep. En materiales granulares gruesos, la rotura de partículas y los efectos de la humedad y del tamaño forman parte de las problemáticas relativas a varias obras geotécnicas. En particular en Chile, obras como los botaderos de estériles mineros se caracterizan por estar constituidos por partículas gruesas, expuestas a ciclos de humedad y cuyo tamaño de partícula dificulta o imposibilita su estudio en experimental en laboratorio. La combinación de estos efectos constituye un problema relevante para el diseño geotécnico. En ese sentido, los resultados de esta investigación contribuyen a proponer y promover métodos más avanzados para la caracterización de materiales gruesos, con el fin de obtener parámetros geotécnicos realistas y confiables para los diseños geotécnicos, tales como la estabilidad física y las deformaciones de grandes rellenos de roca estéril de mina.
Optimal design of grid-connected photovoltaic systems for water pumping in agriculture
Authors:   , Contardo Cánepa Elena
Published: November 2024

El riego es un componente esencial en la producción de alimentos, pero implica un alto consumo de agua y energía, lo que incrementa los costos operativos y el impacto ambiental. Con el mayor acceso a la electricidad en áreas rurales, los sistemas fotovoltaicos emergen como una solución sostenible para reducir los costos eléctricos y las emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero asociados al riego agrícola, al mismo tiempo que promueven la generación descentralizada de energía. Sin embargo, el diseño óptimo de estos sistemas es complejo debido a la necesidad de equilibrar múltiples factores, como la disponibilidad de radiación solar, el consumo de agua, los costos de los componentes, las tarifas eléctricas, las políticas regulatorias y las restricciones técnicas. Para abordar esta complejidad, esta investigación presenta un modelo de optimización desarrollado específicamente para determinar la configuración óptima de sistemas fotovoltaicos conectados a la red eléctrica para el bombeo de agua en la agricultura. El modelo tiene como objetivo maximizar el Valor Actual Neto de las instalaciones fotovoltaicas optimizando la cantidad, orientación y distribución de los módulos fotovoltaicos y la selección de inversores, teniendo en cuenta los factores antes mencionados. El modelo fue validado mediante dos escenarios experimentales, cada uno con diferentes sistemas de riego y condiciones regulatorias. Los resultados demuestran que alinear la generación de energía fotovoltaica con demandas específicas de consumo puede mejorar significativamente el desempeño económico, especialmente al incrementar el autoconsumo y reducir la dependencia de la electricidad de la red. Además, el estudio destaca el papel crucial de los marcos regulatorios en la determinación del tamaño y configuración óptima de los sistemas fotovoltaicos. Los hallazgos destacan el potencial del modelo de optimización para diseñar sistemas fotovoltaicos eficientes y rentables para aplicaciones agrícolas, ofreciendo un camino hacia prácticas de riego más sostenibles y económicamente viables. Investigaciones futuras podrían refinar el modelo incorporando un modelo de generación más avanzado y adaptándolo a diferentes estructuras tarifarias y entornos regulatorios.
Tren Lolero. Patrimonio, memoria y prácticas ferroviarias del tramo Ovalle – Combarbalá
Authors:   , Alfaro Olavarría Francesca Alejandra
Published: November 2024

El ferrocarril en Chile –como en gran parte del mundo- resulta ser un factor esencial de transformación territorial. Esto, en el sentido que las nuevas tecnologías, los cambios productivos, económicos y las vicisitudes políticas ocasionando que, con el transcurrir de las décadas, el sistema ferroviario se degrade y se torne obsoleto. Desde las últimas décadas del siglo XX, ha surgido un interés desde los estudios del patrimonio, por la puesta en valor de los vestigios ferroviarios que configuran el paisaje cultural del territorio nacional. Esta investigación busca comprender la construcción social que existe en torno al ferrocarril y sus vestigios, a través de discursos e hitos históricos que emanan desde las comunidades, que perpetúan la memoria ferroviaria hasta nuestros días. A partir del estudio de la memoria ferroviaria, en torno al Tren Lolero y su recorrido por el tramo Ovalle – Combarbalá, se propone desarrollar una metodología participativa para las comunidades de la zona, a través del rescate de la vivencia individual y colectiva. El trabajo con la fotografía intentará promover un discurso histórico y la memoria de cualquier persona y comunidad que se involucre en el proceso.
Serum Vitamin D Level in Patients with Sepsis and its Correlation with Sequential Organ Failure Assessment Score: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Lamichaney Sunita , Goswami Priyam , Das Monigopa , Dutta Pranjal Kumar , Yusuf Tanvee
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Sepsis is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score is used as a key criterion in diagnosing the sepsis syndrome. Recent studies have also suggested that vitamin D is an important mediator in the immune system and plays an inhibitory role in sepsis. Aim: To assess serum vitamin D levels in patients with sepsis and to investigate the correlation between vitamin D levels and the SOFA score, as well as the outcomes of sepsis. Materials and Methods: This was a hospital-based crosssectional study carried out on 91 patients diagnosed with sepsis. The SOFA score was calculated within 24 hours of admission and again at 72 hours; however, only the SOFA score obtained on admission (within 24 hours) was used to assess disease severity and to compare with vitamin D levels. Vitamin D assessment was conducted using a competitive immunoassay in the VITROS 5600 fully automated integrated assay system. Pearson’s correlation (r) was used to measure the association between variables. Results: The mean age of the study population was 57.34±16.55 years, with a male to female ratio of 1.17:1. A significant increase in vitamin D deficiency was noted in patients with a SOFA score above 10. There was a negative correlation between serum vitamin D levels and the SOFA score within 24 hours after admission, which was statistically significant (p-value <0.001, r-value -0.420). In the vitamin D deficient group, 65.7% of patients died, demonstrating a significant negative association between vitamin D levels and mortality (p-value <0.001). Conclusion: This study has shown that lower levels of vitamin D are associated with greater severity of sepsis upon admission. Additionally, lower vitamin D levels are linked to a higher mortality rate and poor outcomes. However, larger-scale, interventionbased trials of supplementary vitamin D therapy in the management of sepsis are required to strengthen the evidence of the correlation between these two variables.
Past, Present and Future Perspective of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare and Nanotechnology: A Communication
Authors: Jain Mansi , Vats Sakshi , Pahwa Chhavi , Chahal Aksh , Ali Kamran
Published: November 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an emerging technology that has the potential to impact all professions, including medicine and medical education. Over the last decade, there has been a multiple-fold increase in the use of AI tools in medical allied sciences and rehabilitation, as well as in nanotechnology research. This paper highlighted some of the AI-based outcomes in bioengineering, neuroscience, and related disciplines. In addition, current trends and future perspectives of AI-based applications will also be discussed. Consequently, fundamental concepts in AI, its contributions, and the promise of nanotechnology coupled with AI will be summarised.
Advancing Gender Inclusion in Forest Governance in Selected Communities; Kori Chiefdom, Southern Sierra Leone
Authors: Otesile Adegboyega A. , Sheriff Kadijatu B.
Published: November 2024

In Sierra Leone, existing cultural norms are believed to limit gender mainstreaming in sustainable forest management. This study investigated women’s involvement in decision making regarding forest governance and management in five communities within Kori Chiefdom Southern Sierra Leone. Respondents were selected using both probability and non-probability sampling methods. Stratified sampling was used to classify key respondents into youth and adults (male and female, based on age classes and gender. Consequently, due to the small populations of selected communities (Kawella, Lagor Kawema, Nyamawabu, Kangahun and Foya), purposive sampling was used to select 100.0% of male and female youth (ages 18 to 35), and adults (age 36 and above). Data was collected using structured questionnaires and interview schedule. Data from respondents was analysed using descriptive analysis and presented in tables and charts. The 2010 Sierra Leone National Forest Policy was analysed using content analysis. Findings revealed that 100.0% of youth, men and women sampled, confirmed that women attend forest-user group meetings and were actively involved in decision making concerning forest governance. Likewise, majority of men sampled (above 56.2%) opined that the chiefs took final decision over forests use in their respective communities. Furthermore, most of the youth (above 50.0%) in each community and men (above 87.5%), with the exception of those in Foya, (25.0% in Kangahun), revealed that women held positions in forest-user groups. Similar proportions of youth and men also confirmed that women actively engage in implementing decisions made regarding forest governance. All, (100%) of women attested that there was no existing gender marginalization in forest governance within the communities sampled. Finally, content analysis of the 2010 Sierra Leone National Forest Policy revealed that there aren’t any women specific - provisions or roles assigned to or reserved for women in any part of the policy document. In conclusion, in spite of the absence policy provisions to promote mainstreaming women’s involvement in forest governance, this research confirmed that women are not hindered from participating in forest decision making and governance in the study areas. It is therefore recommended that women should be given more encouragement to participate in forest decision making and assigned more leadership roles in forest governance.
Effect of Biodigester Effluent on Carbohydrate Metabolizing Enzymes and Oxidative Stress Markers in the African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus)
Authors: Ogbole Faith Ajiebabhio , Enegborienegha Teke Calmday
Published: November 2024

Background: Although the use of biodigester effluent as fish feed have been previously reported, however, its effect on the metabolic activities of fish, which might inform its safety and administration guideline in fish farming is poorly understood.
Aim: The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of pig dung biodigester effluent (PDBE) on key metabolic enzymes and antioxidant markers in Clarias gariepinus.
Methodology: Fifteen catfish (120±10 g) were purchased and grouped into three. Group I (control): exposed to freshwater; group two: exposed to raw PDBE; and group three: exposed to 1:10 dilution of PDBE. After exposure, serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PDH) activities and total protein concentration were measured using commercially available kits while serum reduced glutathione concentration and glutathione peroxidase activity were measured using standard methods.
Results: The TP (g/dl) for control, group II and III were 6.00±0.12; 20.0±0.10 and 6.86±0.02 respectively, while their LDH activities (IU/L/min) were 115.00±1.57; 422.00±5.64 and 105.00±5.18 respectively. The activities of G-6-PDH (U/L/min) in control, group II and III were 8.00±0.40; 32.00±0.73; 7.00±0.40 respectively, while their glutathione concentrations (µg/ml) were 6.5±0.01; 0.5±0.01 and 9.83±0.12 respectively. The activities of GPx (µg/ml/min) in control, group II and III were 15±0.25; 64±1.99 and 10±1.33.
Conclusion: Raw PDBE caused a significant alteration in the metabolic parameters of catfish however these alterations were absent in a 1:10 dilution of the PDBE. This study’s novel inclusion of both raw and diluted PDB effluent exposures offers valuable guidelines for effluent usage in aquaculture.
Analysis of Forecasted Rainfall Across Blocks in Guntur District, Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: M Ratnam , M V Priya
Published: November 2024

This paper represents a block and district level analysis of agro meteorological forecasted rainfall of Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh, during 2022-23. The forecasted rainfall data which was issued by IMD, Amaravathi, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh and the data was validated by employing both qualitative (success rate) and quantitative analysis (Ratio score, Hanssen and Kuipers Score and Probability of Detection). The quantitative analysis was performed by calculating ratio score analysis values ranged from 0.6 to 0.9 during the monsoons, indicating good forecast. Hansen and Kuipers score test results found to have good agreement during north east monsoon (0.5 to 0.8) with highest score values which indicates better forecast agreement, followed by monsoon period (0.3 to 0.5) and south west monsoon (0 to 0.3). Probability of Detection values found in the range of 0.7 to 1.0 indicated that better score values resulting in good forecast during the monsoon seasons. Whereas, the qualitative analysis was performed by deriving success rate for forecasted rainfall accuracy and the results reported that highest success rate was observed during north east monsoon followed by south west monsoon across different blocks and also in the entire Guntur district. The per cent deviation in the analysed data might be due to the spatio-temporal variations in the rainfall distribution pattern over the study area.
Compatibility of Velum® (Synthetic Nematicide) with Endophytic Colletotrichum nigrum and Commercial Trichoderma asperellum against Root-Knot Nematodes on Tree Tomato
Authors: Stanlous Juma Waswa, , J. Wanjohi Waceke, , Mwangi Maina
Published: November 2024

Root-knot nematodes (RKNs) hinder agricultural production worldwide. Many methods of managing RKNs have been used. However, an approach of combining velum® with endophytic fungi and commercial Trichoderma asperellum has not been tested against RKNs. This study was carried out between September 2022 to February 2023 to evaluated compatibility of Velum® with endophytic Colletotrichum nigrum isolated from roots of tree tomato and commercial Trichoderma asperellum to contain RKNs in vitro and in the greenhouse on tree tomato. Leading mycelial discs from the colony of C. nigrum and T. asperellum were removed using a cork borer and inoculated onto PDA media amended with Velum® and incubated for seven days at 25oC. Colletotrichum nigrum and T. asperellum alone and in combinations with Velum® were tested for their efficacy against second stage juveniles (J2s) of RKN in the greenhouse. In vitro and greenhouse tests were replicated four times in Completely Randomized Design. Data was analyzed by Anova SAS, 9.2 and significant means separated by Tukey's Honestly Significant Differences test at P ≤ 0.05. There was no significant inhibition in the colony growth of C. nigrum and T. asperellum by Velum® in vitro and therefore were found to be compatible. Colletotrichum nigrum combined with Velum® significantly (P≤0.05) reduced the RKN J2s, nematode reproduction factor, galling and egg mass indices in both experiments more than when applied alone. There was also a significant increase in plant growth parameters of tree tomato treated with C. nigrum combined with Velum®. This study has shown that combining Velum® with C. nigrum and T. asperellum successfully controlled RKNs on tree tomato. These findings could be used to promote integrated nematode management using less toxic nematicides and biocontrol agents.
Effect of Tillage and Weed Management on Maize (Zea mays L.) Yield and Nutrient Uptake
Authors: Reddy K. Kiran Kumar , Vani K. P. , Sudhakar C. , Babu P. Surendra , Triveni S.
Published: November 2024

The field experiment was carried out during two consecutive kharif seasons of 2018 and 2019 at Agricultural Research Station, Tandur, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Telangana. The study employed a strip-plot design, where tillage methods (conventional and reduced) were assigned to vertical plots and various weed management practices were allotted to horizontal plots, replicated thrice. N, P and K uptake by maize was highest in conventionally tilled plots than in reduced tillage plots with no significant difference between them. The removal of N, P and K by weeds was highest in the weedy check treatment. Hand weeding twice at 20 and 40 DAS recorded higher N, P and K uptake which was on par with Atrazine 50% WP @ 0.5 kg a.i. ha-1 + Tembotrione 42% SC @ 120 g a.i. ha-1 (early PoE) fb HW at 40 DAS and Atrazine 50% WP @ 1.0 kg a.i. ha-1 (PE) fb Tembotrione 42% SC @ 120 g a.i. ha-1 (PoE). Results revealed that there is no significant difference (p<0.05) between tillage practices with respect to the yield of maize. Higher grain yields of maize were obtained with two hand weedings which was on par with Atrazine 50% WP @ 0.5 kg a.i. ha-1 + Tembotrione 42% SC @ 120 g a.i. ha-1 (early PoE) fb HW at 40 DAS and Atrazine 50% WP @ 1.0 kg a.i. ha-1 (PE) fb Tembotrione 42% SC @ 120 g a.i. ha-1 (PoE). The interaction effect of tillage and weed management practices was found to be non-significant.  Conventional tillage along with hand weeding twice at 20 and 40 DAS resulted in higher plant dry matter and consequently highest N, P and K nutrients uptake by the plants and lead to higher yield.
Drug repositioning in epilepsy reveals novel antiseizure candidates
Authors: Brueggeman Leo , Sturgeon Morgan L. , Martin Russell M. , Grossbach Andrew J. , Nagahama Yasunori , Zhang Angela , Howard Mathew A. , Kawasaki Hiroto , Wu Shu , Cornell Robert A. , Michaelson Jacob J. , Bassuk Alexander G.
Published: December 2018

Objective

Epilepsy treatment falls short in ~30% of cases. A better understanding of epilepsy pathophysiology can guide rational drug development in this difficult to treat condition. We tested a low‐cost, drug‐repositioning strategy to identify candidate epilepsy drugs that are already FDA‐approved and might be immediately tested in epilepsy patients who require new therapies.

Methods

Biopsies of spiking and nonspiking hippocampal brain tissue from six patients with unilateral mesial temporal lobe epilepsy were analyzed by RNA‐Seq. These profiles were correlated with transcriptomes from cell lines treated with FDA‐approved drugs, identifying compounds which were tested for therapeutic efficacy in a zebrafish seizure assay.

Results

In spiking versus nonspiking biopsies, RNA‐Seq identified 689 differentially expressed genes, 148 of which were previously cited in articles mentioning seizures or epilepsy. Differentially expressed genes were highly enriched for protein–protein interactions and formed three clusters with associated GO‐terms including myelination, protein ubiquitination, and neuronal migration. Among the 184 compounds, a zebrafish seizure model tested the therapeutic efficacy of doxycycline, metformin, nifedipine, and pyrantel tartrate, with metformin, nifedipine, and pyrantel tartrate all showing efficacy.

Interpretation

This proof‐of‐principle analysis suggests our powerful, rapid, cost‐effective approach can likely be applied to other hard‐to‐treat diseases.
Planar Ultrasonic Lenses Formed by Concentric Circular Sandwiched‐Ring Arrays
Authors: Xia Xiangxiang , Cai Feiyan , Li Fei , Meng Long , Ma Teng , Zhou Hui , Ke Manzhu , Qiu Chunyin , Liu Zhengyou , Zheng Hairong
Published: December 2018

An underwater ultrasonic planar lens is numerically and experimentally developed with a small thickness and maintains a highly efficient transmission. The lens is formed by an array of concentric circular resin rings sandwiched between two identical silicone rings. Since the velocity of the water is closely in between that of the resin and silicone, a 2π phase variation can be achieved by changing the thickness ratios of the resin to the silicone ring within a thin sandwiched structure. Based on this principle, both single‐point and multipoint focusing lenses with high transmission in the axial direction are realized, which are believed to have potential applications in underwater imaging and detection.