bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Rotifers in the Tigris River before and after the Al Kut Dam /Iraq
Authors: Salman Rasha
Published: July 2024

A study was conducted to analyze the makeup of the rotifera community in terms of both quantity and quality. The study took place over four seasons at two locations on the Tigris River, both before and after the construction of Al-Kut's Barrage. The study period spanned from January to December 2023, during which a total of 48 taxonomic units of rotifera were discovered. The overall population density of the Rotifera at the initial location prior to Al-Kut's Barrage varied between the peak value of 10509.9 individuals/m3 in the spring and the minimum value of 2621.1 individuals/m3 in the winter. The second location downstream of Al-Kut's Barrage had a peak density of 5198.8 persons per cubic meter during spring, while the lowest density of 1088.3 individuals per cubic meter was seen during winter. The study examined the indicators of relative abundance and the Shannon-Wienercoefficient of biological diversity. The values observed ranged from 2.198 to 6542 bits per individual. The index of species appearance homogeneity ranged from 0.67 to 0.85, and the index of species abundance ranged from 5.25 to 7.89. The decline in the population of Rotifera during winter is attributed to the adverse impact of cold temperatures, which hampers the restricted growth of the species. During the winter season, there is a reduction in illumination and phytoplankton, resulting in a fall in food availability. This shortage of food is responsible for the decline in Rotifera populations.
Solving Some types of Linear Systems of Partial Differential Equations by Using Albazy Altememe Transformation
Authors: Ali Hassan Mohammed  , Haider Kareem Tuqa
Published: July 2024

In this work we will use A novel approach to solving linear PDES utilising the (“Albazy Altememe Integral Transform”) transformation, which is defined by the integral :
 
Also presenting the characteristics , theorems and transformations of some functions such as (  constant functions , logarithm functions  and others . finding the way to use it in solving partial differential equations.
Histological Study the Renal Corpuscle Distribution in Kidney of Sheep (Ovies Aries) in Middle Iraq
Authors: Naji Salih Alaa
Published: July 2024

The kidneys in animals are the main excretory structures of the body have a chief character in the keep of fluid and electrolyte equilibrium , control of the blood pressure. The aim of this study to determine the histological structure of renal corpuscles distribution of sheep. Twelve kidney of sheep male and female was collected from massacre middle of Iraq, tissue samples were processed, sectioned and subjected to specific stains to reveal histological details, this study reveal the kidney enclosed by thick capsule consist of dense connective tissue ,the kidneys consist of cortex and medulla, the cortex form the majority of the kidney and it made of large and small renal corpuscle, The renal corpuscles distribution in sub-capsular, mid-cortical and juxta-medullary zone. Renal corpuscle in the subscapular zone less numerically than in other zones, it increasing distribution toward the mid-cortical zone and the Juxta-medullary zone. The diameter of renal corpuscle in sub-capsular zone was less than in mid-cortical renal corpuscle and the juxta-medullary.
Security and Information Technology for Big Data
Authors: Muhasin Haifaa Jassim , Gheni Ali Yahya , Yousif Hiba Adil
Published: July 2024

Big data has grown in importance in a variety of corporate and academic fields as a result of substantial changes in human behavior and lifestyles. While this focus simplifies data management, big data is regarded as important in many industrial areas because it can be merged with other types of data. Big data can be managed alongside other types of data, particularly in large organizations that handle a range of data types. This type of management contributes to the improvement and development of the organizational structure, as well as raising the skill level of employees in these organizations. Despite these benefits, there are numerous concerns, particularly throughout the stages of data gathering and storage, when there is a risk of hacking or leakage, as well as the difficulty of sorting and identifying data. For these reasons, big data protection is regarded as one of the most important issues discussed in this paper in order to develop an appropriate framework for protecting big data related to companies, as well as methods for dealing with this data in order to develop an appropriate strategy to protect big data security and privacy.
Is it time to de-normalize the normalization procedures based on ratio variables?
Authors: Fernández-Matías Rubén
Published: July 2024

Ratio variables are created by dividing one variable by another variable. This procedure is usually done with the aim of “normalizing” for the denominator variable, to obtain associations adjusted for that confounding variable, or to calculate ranges of normative values. Despite its widespread use, ratio variables bring with them many statistical problems. In this editorial, the reader will be introduced to the statistical assumptions of using ratio variables, the problems that arise when those assumptions are not met, and how to use proper regression models to achieve the desired objectives without the need to use ratio variables.
Indonesia’s RSBI Project: Looking Back and Lesson Learnt
Authors: Noviani Rachma
Published: July 2024

At the beginning of the 2000s, Indonesia, a developing country with one of the largest populations in the world, instituted a series of reforms in its education practices; one of them was the decentralization policy. A part of this policy was education internationalization through the inclusion and enforcement of the international-standard schools pilot project known as Rintisan Sekolah Bertaraf International (RSBI) project. Nevertheless, the government discontinued the initiative in 2013 as a result of some disapproval of its implementation. This paper aims to address how the RSBI project diverged from social justice values in a democratic society. By analysing the influence of globalization on educational policies and their implications, it elaborates on how the project led to an increase in social inequality and contributed to the loss of national identity.
Littoral activity in the lava deltas of 2021 eruption on Cumbre Vieja Volcanic Rift, La Palma (Canary Islands): constraints on explosive water-magma interaction
Authors: Coello-Bravo Juan , Herrera Raquel , Márquez Álvaro , Ancochea Eumenio , Galindo Inés , Huertas María José , Sanz-Mangas David
Published: July 2024

Tephra jets are a characteristic explosive phenomenon of lava deltas built by pāhoehoe or ‘a‘ā lava flows. Field observations made during the growth of the 2021 South Lava Delta (La Palma island), emplaced under a 100–150 m high marine cliff, show tephra jets driven by penetration of seawater through the external lava breccia into the interior of ‘a‘ā lava flows entering the ocean. However, this littoral explosive activity was weak and very scarce throughout the entire period of delta emplacement, a circumstance that seem to have concur in other ‘a‘ā lava deltas also emplaced under high marine scarps. Main constraint to explosive activity in these coastal settings seem to be the slow penetration into the ocean of ‘a‘ā lava flows, which is clearly induced by coastal morphology, as lava abruptly slows and accumulates on the flatter abrasion platform after flowing on ramps of lava debris down the marine cliff.
Item accessibility in children’s working memory: convergent evidence from 3 related paradigms
Authors: Roome Hannah , Towse John Nicholas
Published: July 2024

The development of working memory is typically measured by accuracy. Whilst this helps to understand age-related changes in capacity, it is not necessarily so well adapted to reveal working memory processes. Chronometry provides the opportunity to pivot more towards a consideration of processes unfolding over time during participants test performance. We focussed on the idea that working memory items are fragile, and the ability to access and reconstruct memoranda is a key factor in both the development of working memory capacity, and more complex cognition (such as reading comprehension). This study deployed different memory tasks, all potentially requiring cue-dependent search and retrieval processes. These included storage-only paradigms and a complex span paradigm that interleaves processing and storage elements. Three different response times were extracted from participants responses. The preparatory interval is a reflection of the time taken to prepare to be recalled memoranda; the interword pause reflects the time between recalled items where participants access the next item to be recalled, and the word duration indexes the articulation speed of the spoken memory item. Here, we found accuracy on these tasks remained consistent. However, each task showed a nuanced chronometric profile. Nonetheless, children’s preparatory interval, i.e., predicted both individual differences in working memory capacity and reading comprehension. In conclusion, the research highlights the importance of reconstructive retrieval processes in WMC and reading comprehension. It also further emphasises the significance of response time measures in understanding the nuances of memory tasks and their impact on understanding cognitive development.
Graph-Based Analysis of Brain Connectivity in Major Depressive Disorder Using EEG
Authors: Jahanian Najafabadi Amir , Bagh Khaled
Published: July 2024

In line with our prior research, we aimed to identify and classify biomarkers of major depressive disorder (MDD) using electroencephalography (EEG) in patients and age-matched healthy children and adolescents. To achieve this, resting-state eyes-closed EEG data were pre-processed, and the analysis was performed on a channel-wise and Regions of Interest (ROI)-wise basis. We computed several resting-state Functional Connectivity (rsFC) measurements using a Multivariate Auto-Regressive (MVAR) model. The resulting connectivity measurements were then used to train a Random Forest model. We analyzed the best-performing models to understand the model's decision-making process and identify the learned biomarkers. Overall, the Random Forest model achieved a F1-score of 0.975 and a Matthews Correlation Coefficient (MCC) of 0.970. The model's test scores were highest with Partial Directed Coherence (PDC) and its variants. Additionally, we found that direct measurements, specifically PDC Factor and direct Directed Transfer Function (dDTF), performed better than other variants.
The MBTI, cultural creation and self-conceptions: A case study of a subcultural meme on Chinese social media
Authors: Williams J. Patrick , Wu Si
Published: July 2024

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, or MBTI, has recently gained popularity among Chinese millennials and Gen Zs. Framing the MBTI has a cultural item or meme, we explore it and the subculture that has emerged around it on Chinese social media. We rely on a symbolic interactionist conception of cultural creation to show how the MBTI became known (K), useable (U), functional (F), appropriate (A), and triggered (T) on social media platforms, and how it circulates within a network of young Chinese social media users. Our analysis highlights the memetic spread of MBTI among Chinese millennials and Gen Zs in terms of a contemporary Chinese social media subculture that facilitates and supports the development and expression of non-traditional self-conceptions and identities. Using the MBTI not only provides opportunities for desirable presentations of self, but also simplifies definitions of self and other and thus helps streamline interactions among youths.
IMPLEMENTASI PERAN GURU TENTANG INOVASI PENDIDIKAN
Authors: Faquh Abdullah
Published: July 2024

Implementasi peran guru dalam inovasi pendidikan telah menjadi fokus utama dalam pembangunan sistem pendidikan yang dinamis. Studi ini mengeksplorasi pentingnya peran guru dalam mengadopsi, mengembangkan, dan menyebarkan inovasi pendidikan di lingkungan pembelajaran mereka. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan teknik wawancara dan observasi untuk mengevaluasi praktik inovatif guru serta faktor-faktor yang memengaruhi implementasi inovasi pendidikan. Temuan menyoroti tantangan yang dihadapi guru dalam mengadopsi inovasi, seperti keterbatasan sumber daya dan resistensi terhadap perubahan. Namun demikian, penelitian ini juga menunjukkan bahwa dengan dukungan yang tepat, seperti pelatihan yang sesuai dan kolaborasi antar rekan, guru mampu menjadi agen perubahan yang efektif dalam sistem pendidikan. Implikasi praktis dan rekomendasi untuk pengembangan kebijakan pendidikan juga dibahas.
Valoración de empresas a través del flujo de caja descontado: caso de estudio
Authors: Molina Panchi Diego Fabián , Molina Panchi Pablo Alexander , Tobar Rubio Digna Yolanda , Pico Barrionuevo Fanny Paulina
Published: July 2024

Hoy en día las organizaciones deben adaptarse a varios escenarios que influyen de forma positiva y negativa en el desempeño económico-financiero, por lo que estas deben replantear su modelo de gestión empresarial con un enfoque en la mitigación de la incertidumbre y aprovechamiento de sus potenciales fortalezas. Ahora bien, en esencia, la valuación de empresas estima el grado de subjetividad, dado que no hay un método que permita medir con exactitud el valor real de una compañía. De igual forma, el valor es un término usado en economía que busca la cuantificación de los beneficios obtenidos en el presente y en el futuro a través de métodos estáticos y dinámicos. Así mismo, el objetivo de la investigación es establecer el importe actual de un caso de estudio empresarial a través del método de valoración de flujo de caja descontado para la determinación de su valor intrínseco. En este sentido, el enfoque de la investigación está centrado en el uso de variables cuantitativas y pruebas de evaluación financiera. Por otro lado, el tipo de investigación es descriptiva y por su diseño es no experimental de tipo longitudinal. Los resultados muestran lo siguiente: el valor financiero promedio de la empresa está por encima de la inversión y un valor de riesgo poco significativo.
URL: https://revistas.uta.edu.ec/erevista/index.php/bcoyu/article/view/2442
Exploring the immunomodulatory and antioxidant capacities of Berberis aristata in avian lymphocytes
Authors: Rawat Sneha , Goswami Rashmi , Ambwani Sonu , Ambwani Tanuj Kumar
Published: July 2024

India is one of the leading producers for eggs and broilers globally and thus has witnessed significant growth in the poultry sector. Different poultry stressors can negatively impact the growth, gut health, immune function and production reproductive performances of poultry. Antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) have been used in the poultry industry as they also combat stress in poultry along with growth promotion. But the use of antimicrobials as growth promoter raises the concern of antibiotic resistance and its potential hazardous effect on human health as well as the environment. Several other alternatives are available for AGPs such as acidifiers, probiotics, prebiotics, antibacterial peptides and phytobiotics. Phytobiotics are known to possess several benefits for poultry as well as livestock such as immunomodulation, anti-inflammatory effect, antioxidant effect, maintain intestinal health etc. One such important plant is Berberis aristata belonging to the family Berberidaceae which is used in traditional system of medicine for the management of various inflammatory disorders. In the present study aqueous root extract of Berberis aristata (BAE) was evaluated for its immunomodulatory and antioxidant activity. The extraction yield of the roots of Berberis aristata in water was about 9.78%. The BAE showed presence of phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids and contained about 104.97 mg/gm of BAE and 83.14 mg/gm of BAE of phenolics and flavonoids, respectively. BAE showed significant antioxidant activity in DPPH free radical scavenging assay. Maximum non-cytotoxic dose (MNCD) of BAE for lymphocyte culture was determined to be 600 µg/ ml. Lymphocytes proliferation assay (LPA) showed that BAE enhanced lymphocyte proliferation of B-cells stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and T-cells stimulated by Concanavalin A and Phytohaemagglutinin M (PHA). Treatment with BAE significantly reduced lipid peroxidation (LPO) and increased the level of reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase in chicken lymphocytes, thus indicating antioxidant potential of BAE. The study reveals significant immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties of BAE, thus suggesting that it could be a potential alternative to AGPs in poultry production. But further in vivo studies are required to explore its efficacy and safety for its application in commercial poultry farming.
Aqueous extract of Pycnanthus angolensis (Welw.) Warb. (Myristicaceae) alleviates paroxetine-induced erectile dysfunction in male rats
Authors: Béboy Sara Nathalie Edjenguèlè , Mbog Louise Marie Coûte-Chère , Jignoua Yannick Sani , Keumedjio Paulin Teko , Feune Patrick Kevin Motto , Moundipa Paul Fewou
Published: July 2024

Background: Erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve and maintain an adequate erection for sexual performance. Pycnanthus angolensis (Welw.) Warb. is a medicinal plant used by the traditional healers of the Southern region of Cameroon to manage male infertility and especially erectile dysfunction. Aim and objectives: This study aimed at investigating the effects of aqueous extract of Pycnanthus angolensis wood were investigated on paroxetine-induced erectile dysfunction in male rats. Material and methods: Thirty Wistar albino male rats (160-180 g) were randomly distributed into six groups of five animals each. Erectile dysfunction was induced in 5 groups for 21 days by oral administration of paroxetine (10 mg/kg), once a day. After induction, rats were orally treated during 14 days with three doses of plant extract (43, 86 and 172 mg/kg) except 2 groups which were given distilled water and sildenafil (5 mg/kg), respectively. Sexual behaviors were monitored on days 1, 4, 7, and 14 by pairing male rats to receptive females. After 14 days- treatment, the rats were killed by decapitation under ether anesthesia. The reproductive organs were collected for histological and biochemical analysis. Results: Paroxetine induced erectile dysfunction characterized by a significant decrease (p<0.05) in sexual arousal and performance of male rats. Nevertheless, this erectile dysfunction was improved by administration of the aqueous extract of Pycnanthus angolensis at the different doses. The administration of paroxetine significantly (p<0.05) reduced the nitric oxide level by 66.67% when compared to the distilled water-group. After 14 days-treatment, the extract induced significant increases (p<0.05) in the sexual performance parameters (mounts, intromissions and ejaculations frequency) as well as in the sexual arousal of the male rats. Results were markedly pronounced with the plant extract at the doses of 86 and 172 mg/kg. The nitric oxide levels in the erectile dysfunction-induced rats with paroxetine were restored after treatment with the plant extract. The degenerated seminiferous tubules and the low density of spermatozoa observed in the histological sections of the erectile dysfunction-induced rats with paroxetine, were restored after treatments with sildenafil and the aqueous extract at either doses (43, 86 and 172 mg/kg). Conclusions: Aqueous extract of Pycnanthus angolensis (Welw.) Warb alleviated the paroxetine-related erectile dysfunction by enhancing sexual behavior and the production of nitric oxide. In view of the abovementioned results, Pycnanthus angolensis (Welw.) Warb could be considered as an alternative treatment in the erection dysfunction management.
Livelihood Precarity of Migrants: Perspectives of African Refugees in Durban, South Africa
Authors: Umbyeyi Beatrice Samson
Published: July 2024

Migrants and refugees face numerous socioeconomic and institutional challenges in the host cities and countries. They are excluded from full participation in the labor market, which makes them vulnerable to poverty. To survive, migrants and refugees join the informal economic sector. Informed by the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF), the article examines how African refugees in Durban make and maintain their livelihoods, including their encounters with marginalization. Participants were drawn from Congolese, Rwandese, and Burundian community groups living in the inner city of Durban. The snowballing sampling method was key in identifying the participants, while face-to-face interviews were used for data collection. The findings show that African refugees in Durban pursue diverse forms of livelihood in the informal sector. They are faced with numerous challenges, such as a lack of start-up capital, weak social networks to protect themselves and their businesses, bureaucratic challenges, discrimination, and xenophobic attacks. Regardless of these challenges, migrants still forge ahead by starting their businesses and making a living under the circumstances of precarity and marginalization.
Workplace Learning in Nepal Through the Lens of Employers, Principal, and Students
Authors: Paudel Prakash Kumar
Published: July 2024

Workplace learning opportunities are considered to enhance an individual's occupation-related skills through work interaction. Workplace learning has become part and parcel of Nepal's policies in the last few decades. Internships and On the Job Training (OJT) have remained consistently a mode of workplace learning, but more recently, attempts have been made to execute dual vet apprenticeships. Nevertheless, studies in Nepal show a lack of well-built collaboration between education providers and employers in managing workplace learning. Furthermore, issues include a lack of access to and availability of relevant workplace learning opportunities. This paper discusses Nepal's workplace learning situation based on shared experiences by its actors, employers, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) providers, and students. The study uses five premises of workplace learning: learning is part of everyday life, it is spontaneous without a structured curriculum, learners need guidance and backing, an equitable opportunity to learn in a respectful environment, and integrating workplace learning with school learning proposed by Billett (2001) as a theoretical framework. The case study method suggested by Yin (2018) was used to explore their experiences. Twelve interviews, four from each group, employers, technical school principals, and students, were conducted to understand their views on workplace learning. Interview guidelines were followed for prolonged engagement in the field. The study's findings showed a lack of collaboration and preparedness among employers and TVET institutions for managing workplace learning. Workplace learning has become less of a priority for employers and TVET providers and is a neglected agenda.
Climate Change and Social-ecological Vulnerability in the Himalaya: A Study of the Kaligandaki Basin, Nepal
Authors: Pandey Rishikesh
Published: July 2024

This research examines the implications and opportunities for climate change adaptation in the Kaligandaki Basin, Nepali Himalaya. The study adopts a holistic approach to explain human-environmental interrelationships. The Sustainable Livelihood Approach and the system approach of analyzing Change-Impact-Response are integrated to construct a dynamic framework that assesses household and sub-regional social-ecological vulnerability. Findings suggest that climate-sensitive social-ecological systems of the Himalayas are highly exposed to both climate change and non-climatic stressors. Households are trying to adapt to rapid change; however, their adaptation knowledge is not sufficiently translated into actions. Consequently, food and livelihood systems are insecure, and social ecosystems in the Basin are highly vulnerable to change.
Interview with Professor Ram Bahadur Chhetri
Authors: Khattri Man Bahadur , Subedi Madhusudan , Rayamajhi Durlav , Gurung Bishnu
Published: July 2024

Professor Ram Bahadur Chhetri was born in Dehradun, India, on April 4, 1952. He comes from a military and peasant socio-cultural background. After completing his high school education in Nagaland, India, he received his Intermediate and Bachelor's degrees at Prithvi Narayan Campus in Pokhara, Nepal. He was initially enrolled in the Master's in Political Science program at the Central Department of Political Science at Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur, Nepal. However, circumstances led him to earn an MA in Anthropology from Pune University in Maharashtra, India, in 1980. He eventually earned a PhD from the University of Hawaii, USA, in 1990.
Improving the Snakebite Envenoming First Aid Treatment of Farmers in Rural Areas of Indonesia: An Educational Intervention Program
Authors: Yunanto Rismawan Adi , Wantiyah Wantiyah , Setioputro Baskoro , Siswoyo Siswoyo , Susanto Tantut
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Snakebite Envenoming (SBE) cases are a worldwide health problem. Farmers have a big risk of becoming victims of SBE. SBE management is an issue that needs to be resolved due to a lack of information regarding the appropriate management of SBE. This study aimed to analyze the effectiveness of educational intervention programs on the knowledge, attitude, practice, and self-efficacy of farmers toward SBE management.
Methods: The design of this study was a non-blinded cluster randomized controlled trial design, applied to 80 farmers in six subdistricts from rural areas of Indonesia. A multistage sampling was used to select participants. Data collection tools included a three-part questionnaire that consisted of demographics, knowledge, self-efficacy, and an observation checklist for SBE first aid practices for farmers. Education and training sessions were carried out for eight weeks for the intervention group by providing eight sessions of education and training activities. The effectiveness of the intervention was analyzed using a dependent t-test, and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) with p<0.05 was considered significant.
Results: The results of this study showed that there were significant differences in knowledge, attitude, practice, and self-efficacy (p<0.05) of farmers in SBE first aid before and after the program. The intervention group showed better results compared to the control group after the follow-up.
Conclusion: The educational intervention programs using the digital health education method with snakebite first aid applications have proven positive effect in increasing knowledge, attitudes, practices, and self-efficacy of SBE first aid among farmers.
Kertoacanthoma: To Excise or Not to Excise?
Authors: Gamal-AbdelNaser Ayat
Published: July 2024

Background Although surgical excision is considered the gold standard for management of keratoacanthoma, there is lack of consensus regarding its best management options. This confusion originates due to the few number of reports describing keratoacanthoma cases. This report presents a case of keratoacanthoma that was managed using the conservative choice. A 49-year-old woman presented with a disfiguring exophytic mass at her lower lip that enlarged continuously over 3 weeks’ time. The patient had no significant medical, dental or family history or lymphadenopathy. The midline of the lower vermilion border showed a solitary soft sessile dome-shaped papule that was covered by non-keratinized mucosa with a central keratin plug at the top. The lesion was managed conservatively with favorable outcomes. The self-healing potential of the lesion provides amazing results. When signs of regression are seen, conservative approach is advised.
Microbiological Profile and Antibiotic Resistance Pattern in Acuteexacerbations of COPD: A Study from Northern India
Authors: Anusha Pilli , Kaur Kamaldeep , Lakshmi Nunsavathu
Published: July 2024

Background Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD) is a major cause of morbidity and one of the principal causes of death worldwide. The objective of this study is to identify the bacterial etiological agents in patients with acute exacerbations of COPDs by sputum culture and their antibiogram.MethodsThis is a prospective study comprising 100 diagnosed patients of COPD taken as GOLD Grade 4 who were admitted in the Department of Pulmonary Medicine, TB and Chest Hospital which comes under King George Hospital, Visakhapatnam.ResultsOut of 100 patients, 83 were males of which 87% were smokers. The most common organisms isolated were Gram negative bacilli in 51 patients and only 26 were Gram positive cocci. The most common Gram-negative isolate was Klebsiella pneumoniae 27 cases followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa in 19 cases. The most common Gram-positive isolate was Streptococcus pneumoniae in 16 cases followed by Streptococcus pyogenes in 6 cases and Staphylococcus aureus in 2 cases.Conclusions Frequent exacerbations appear to be associated with worsening healthoutcomes and effort should focus on prompt and effective treatment of eachepisode. Bacterial pathogens, mostly Gram negative bacilli are found to be the chief etiological agents in AECOPD. Antibiotic therapy should be initiated early depending on the culture. Susceptibility patterns of that particular region should be determined to prevent antibiotic resistance and to decrease health costs.
Estimation of Stature from Head Length and Head Breadth in Undergraduate Medical Students: An Anthropometric Study
Authors: Pandey Niraj , Mani Chaudhary Deepak , Yadav Sanjay Kumar
Published: July 2024

Background: Height is a significant parameter for growth and development of an individual. The aim of our study is to estimate stature from Head Length (HL) and Head Breadth (HB) in living and to derive the correlation and regression formulae between them.
Methods: This is a descriptive study. A total of one hundred and ninety four medical students, presently studying at Devdaha Medical College and Research Institute, aged between eighteen and twenty four years were selected as the subjects for the present study. Two skull measurements namely head length and head breadth were taken by following standards- Anthropometric methods and technique and the Standing height was measured using a stadiometer.
Results: The Regression equation for stature of males using head length is 153.02+0.75HL and using head breadth is 141.65+1.67HB. The regression equation for stature in females using head length and breadth are 100.837+3.081HL and 112.23+3.002HB respectively.
Conclusion: From our study we conclude that there is a weak positive correlation between height and head length in both males and females. The data obtained may be useful in anthropological research, forensic, genetic research, as well as in medical clinical practice.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Adverse Drug Reactions Reporting among Health Care Workers at Devdaha Medical College and Research Institute, Bhaluhi, Rupandehi
Authors: Guragain Sanjeev , Upadhaya Namrata
Published: July 2024

Background: Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are unintended and noxious responses of a drug when used at normal doses in human beings. Increased incidence of ADRs is the challenge for the health care workers (HCWs) throughout the world. Therefore, we focused to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of ADRs among HCWs at tertiary care hospital, Devdaha.
Methods: This study is a cross-sectional questionnaire based descriptive study. The validated questionnaire consists of questions that contains scores to categorize knowledge and attitude among HCWs. It also documented practice adopted by the HCWs at the hospital. Out of 50 HCWs approached, 26 gave consent to participate in the study. The collected data were entered in excel and expressed in percentage or frequency.
Results: All HCWs, 26 (100%), have heard about pharmacovigilance. However, only 11 (42.31%) participants have adequate knowledge regarding ADRs. In which, 22 (84.62%) expressed desire to report ADRs that they encounter during their medical practice. But, they have not reported any ADRs till date. Moreover, only 12 (46.15%) participants have positive attitude towards ADRs reporting. In case of practice, nine (34.62%) participants mentioned that the main factor that hinders them to practice reporting of ADRs is unavailability of the ADRs reporting form in the institute. Almost all (21) HCWs wanted training in pharmacovigilance.
Conclusion: All HCWs are fully aware of ADRs but most of them show inadequate knowledge regarding ADRs. Over half of them lack positive attitude towards ADRs reporting and the practice of ADRs reporting is not satisfactory. Further, proper training of pharmacovigilance and form to report ADRs reporting should be provided in the hospital.
Comparison of Collum Angle in Different Skeletal Growth Pattern using Cephalometric Radiographs among Orthodontic Patients in Tertiary Dental Care Center of Kathmandu
Authors: Piya Anshu , Shrestha Bikash Veer , Khapung Anju , Bhattarai Prakash , Ojha Anita
Published: July 2024

Collum angle has been previously studied in different types of sagittal malocclusion but very few studies have focused on vertical malocclusion in our population. Since collum angle is responsible for variation in torque expression, root resorption, fenestration and dehiscence, with prior knowledge of collum angle in high angle and low angle cases, operator can prevent above deleterious effects and accompanied better bracket positioning in future orthodontic treatment. Lateral cephalograms of all the patients of age group 13-30 years attending Department of Orthodontics in Nepal Medical College from October 2023 to March 2024, having clinically harmonious and symmetrical face, full complement of dentition except third molar, minimum crowding were taken. Based on the value of SNMP (Sella-Nasion and Mandipular plane), and Jarabak ratio, the samples were divided into high angle and low angle. Collum angle was drawn and measured in terms of degrees. The data were transferred to SPSS-17 for further analysis. A total of 60 study participants were included in the study with an equal number of male and females. (30 each with age ranging from 13 to 30 years with mean age 19.18±3.89 years) There was an equal distribution of study participants in horizontal and vertical growth patterns (30 each). There was no statistically significant difference in mean collum angle between study participants in horizontal and vertical growth patterns (p = 0.09). No statistically significant difference in mean collum angle between study participants in horizontal and vertical growth patterns in relation to gender was found (Male p = 0.08 and female - p-value 0.55).
A Review of Biogas Production from Small-Scale Anaerobic Digestion Plants
Authors: Maher Wadi Raghad , Atallah Khalifa Sroor
Published: July 2024

One of the most serious problems facing the whole world today is global warming. Their lease of greenhouse gases is exacerbating the effects of global warming. Reduced greenhouse gas emissions and searching for alternative energy sources are becoming increasingly crucial. This study aims to review that one of the effective methods for lowering greenhouse gas emissions is the creation of biogas from agricultural waste using anaerobic digester plants. A lab-scale 5-liter batch fermenter was incubated at room temperature, specifically mesophilic (35°C). Biogas is a clean, reasonably priced, and sustainable energy source produced by the anaerobic fermentation of waste and organic waste. Mixing sludge and waste to react with each other during biogas production is essential. Factors affecting biogas, such as loading rate, retention time, operating ambient temperature, pH, mixing, etc., are also discussed. Asia is a region where the generation of this form of renewable energy is widespread, particularly in nations like China and India. The generation of biogas never has any adverse environmental effects, but it also yields environmentally safe byproducts. Agricultural waste is a large and anthropogenic source of methane in the atmosphere. It can be converted into nutrient-rich fertilizer. Agricultural waste, food waste, animal or human manure, and other organic waste are all converted into energy (in the form of biogas or electricity) using anaerobic digesters. Another advantage of biological fermentation is that it leaves behind a high-quality organic fertilizer
Traffic State Comparison of Signalized Intersections Using SIDRA and SYNCHRO Software
Authors: Laith Kareem Maryam , Alkaissi Zainab A.
Published: July 2024

The number of shopping malls and vehicles in Baghdad has quickly increased along with the city's population. This has resulted in an increase in daily trips, which affects the roadway network's traffic flow and causes congestion, particularly on Al-Mansour Street and Al-Rowad Street near the city center. To determine the best signal time, the 14th Ramadan signalized intersection was evaluated and analyzed using the SIDRA 8.0 and SYNCHRO 11.0 software. First, the findings revealed that the chosen traffic facility is presently experiencing a substantial reduction in service level that is leading to forced conditions (LOS "F"). It is suggested that the cycle time at the intersection of the 14th Ramadan be changed from 240 seconds to 160 seconds and 125 seconds in SIDRA and SYNCHRO, respectively. Signal timings have reduced the delay for the 14th Ramadan intersection (76.8%), thus improving LOS from (F) to (D) for the intersection. The best delays after optimization in SYNCHRO 11.0, however, were 31% reduction with LOS of (E and D). Cycle times have also been lowered for the intersection to 25% as part of the optimum signal timing optimization. In SYNCHRO 11.0, which is better than SIDRA 8.0, the back of the queue has improved at the 14th Ramadan intersection by 33%. However, SYNCHRO has a better representation than SIDRA for current traffic saturation
Evaluasi Struktur Ruang Kota Berdasarkan Ketersediaan Sarana Permukiman di Kabupaten Rembang Provinsi Jawa Tengah
Authors: Hidayat Taufiq , Evitasari Sherly
Published: July 2024

The presence of development disparities among sub-districts poses a significant issue for Rembang Regency. This study aims to assess the development level of the city, determine the centrality index for each sub-district, analyze the needs for facilities and infrastructure, and evaluate the carrying capacity of settlements in Rembang Regency. The findings will serve as a reference for policy formulation in regional development. This research employs quantitative methods, utilizing data from the Central Statistics Agency. Results from the scalogram analysis and centrality index indicate notable disparities between sub-districts in Rembang Regency. The highest service center and centrality value are concentrated in the Rembang sub-district, which serves as the capital of Rembang Regency. This is attributable to the sub-district's role as the governmental and economic hub of the region. Furthermore, the analysis of facility needs underscores the importance of developing educational facilities to enhance education services across Rembang Regency, ensuring they are accessible to the entire community. The availability of land in Rembang Regency is deemed highly conducive to the development of settlement facilities, as the settlement capacity has not been exceeded.
Keywords: Urban Spatial Structure, Residential Facilities, Urban Development Analysis Rembang Regency, Central Java Province.
 
INTISARI
Keberadaan disparitas pembangunan antar-kecamatan merupakan masalah signifikan bagi Kabupaten Rembang. Penelitian ini bertujuan menilai tingkat perkembangan kota, menentukan indeks sentralitas untuk setiap kecamatan, menganalisis kebutuhan fasilitas dan infrastruktur, serta mengevaluasi daya dukung permukiman di Kabupaten Rembang. Temuan ini akan menjadi acuan bagi perumusan kebijakan dalam pembangunan daerah. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kuantitatif dengan memanfaatkan data dari Badan Pusat Statistik. Hasil dari analisis skalogram dan indeks sentralitas menunjukkan adanya disparitas yang signifikan antar kecamatan di Kabupaten Rembang. Nilai pusat pelayanan dan sentralitas tertinggi terkonsentrasi di Kecamatan Rembang, yang berfungsi sebagai ibu kota Kabupaten Rembang. Hal ini disebabkan oleh peran kecamatan tersebut sebagai pusat pemerintahan dan ekonomi di wilayah ini. Lebih lanjut, analisis kebutuhan fasilitas menekankan pentingnya pengembangan fasilitas pendidikan untuk meningkatkan layanan pendidikan di seluruh Kabupaten Rembang, memastikan aksesibilitasnya bagi seluruh masyarakat. Ketersediaan lahan di Kabupaten Rembang dianggap sangat mendukung pengembangan fasilitas permukiman, karena kapasitas permukiman belum terlampaui.
Kata Kunci: Struktur Ruang Kota, Sarana Permukiman, Analisis Pembangunan Kota, Kabupaten Rembang, Provinsi Jawa Tengah.
Promoting Heritage Language: A Phenomenological Study on the Approaches Used by Cordilleran Students
Authors: Catama Bryan V. , Murillo Mark Gerald N. , Marcos Priestly Van G. , Mesa Joshua T. , Navida Mark Lester N. , Pode Zion Delmar L. , Tabilin Kathrina C.
Published: July 2024

Heritage languages are crucial to identity and community cohesion, but they face a threat from dominant global languages in education, media, and mobility. This threatens their transmission between generations and risks their survival and evolution. This phenomenological study aimed to investigate the approaches utilised by university students in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) in one of the universities in Northern Philippines to promote their heritage languages. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 purposively sampled participants who met specified inclusion criteria. Thematic analysis uncovered four main strategies students employ: intergenerational family transmission, interpersonal sharing and storytelling, informal peer teaching and exchange, and online dissemination. Findings reveal the vital role of families in developing heritage language proficiency through exclusive daily use and active transmission across generations. Students leverage interpersonal interactions and storytelling to affirm cultural identities and foster belonging. Peer teaching enables organic exchange and retention through translation, lessons, and collaborative projects. Interactive online platforms provide expanded reach for promoting heritage beyond local communities. Overall, promotion occurs through interconnected familial, social, educational, and virtual modes that empower students as change agents counteracting assimilation pressures. This contributes to identity formation, pluralism, and sustaining marginalised traditions often excluded from formal domains. Recommendations include an integrated approach reinforcing students' informal efforts through heritage programmes, intergenerational activities, media guidance, policy support, and community collaboration. Formal initiatives should strategically nurture familial foundations and amplify student-driven promotion spanning diverse spheres.
Effect of quercetin on oxidative stress in 3T3-L1 mature and hypertrophic cells
Authors: Tunç-ata Melek , Kılıç Toprak Emine , Akan Gizem
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Purpose: The process of excessive or abnormal accumulation of fat in the body is called obesity, and its prevalence is increasing globally. The imbalance between antioxidants and free radicals, or oxidative stress, can be caused by or result from obesity. Flavonoids with antioxidant potential may help lower the increased oxidative stress associated with obesity. This study aimed to determine how quercetin affected oxidative stress in hypertrophied and mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes.
Materials and methods: After differentiating, 3T3-L1 adipocytes were treated with insulin and a glucose-containing medium to become mature (10 days) and hypertrophic (18 days). The cells were subsequently incubated with 80 µM quercetin for 24 and 48 hours. ELISA was used to determine the levels of total antioxidant capacity/total oxidant capacity (TAS/TOS). Using Oil Red O staining, an accumulation of triglycerides in cells was examined.
Results: It was shown that the quercetin molecule had a prooxidative effect on hypertrophic adipocytes but did not impact on oxidative stress in mature adipocytes.
Conclusion: It is believed that the number and kind of fat cell will determine the appropriate dose and duration of administration for quercetin's antioxidant mechanism of action, which produces numerous beneficial effects.
El concepto de medición en psicología
Authors: Miranda Herrera Andrés
Published: July 2024

En su intento por constituirse como una disciplina científica por mérito propio a lo largo de su historia, la psicología ha transitado entre la ciencia natural y la ciencia social, y ha llegado a establecerse como una disciplina puente entre estos dos supuestos extremos. Como consecuencia, la manera en que se define y aborda su objeto de estudio —aquello que llamamos “lo psicológico”— ha sufrido tal diversificación, que en ocasiones resulta difícil continuar pensando en la psicología, y tendríamos quizás que empezar a considerar de manera formal la posibilidad de las psicologías como disciplinas separadas e irreductibles entre sí. Los partidarios de oposiciones como natural–social, natural–humano, externo–interno, público–privado, y otras semejantes, suelen considerar que los fenómenos psicológicos no son susceptibles de ser estudiados científicamente, como se estudian otros fenómenos naturales (en términos de cuantificar y matematizar) cuya finalidad última es la búsqueda de leyes naturales susceptibles de ser generalizadas. Si bien la característica definitoria de lo psicológico radica en su individualidad, el hecho de que estos fenómenos sean comunes, es decir, ocurran a todos, o al menos a la mayoría de los individuos, permite la búsqueda de tales regularidades y leyes generales. En este capítulo, se describe una comprensión naturalista de lo psicológico, que sustentará la posibilidad de cuantificación de los atributos psicológicos, siempre y cuando se cuente con una sólida teoría de ellos. En términos generales, el objetivo está dirigido a responder las siguientes preguntas: en el caso específico de la psicología, ¿qué es la medición? ¿qué es lo que se mide? ¿cuál es la finalidad de la medición? y ¿cuál es la utilidad de la medición?
El papel crucial de la prueba piloto dentro del proceso metodológico de investigación
Authors: Silva Medina Yasodhara
Published: July 2024

Este capítulo tiene el propósito de estimular el interés acerca de las ventajas de incluir un estudio piloto en el proceso de investigación. Para ello, se destaca la importancia y las implicaciones del diseño de pruebas piloto, para prevenir las fuentes de error en las diferentes fases de investigación, ya sea cualitativa, cuantitativa o mixta. Se plantean consideraciones sobre los propósitos y el diseño de los modos, momentos y escenarios para la fase de pilotaje en la ruta investigativa, la cual se convierte en la oportunidad de un ensayo preliminar en pequeña escala. Las pruebas piloto sirven como primer punto de encuentro entre el planteamiento teórico y los instrumentos de observación y análisis empírico; de tal forma que su ausencia limita las posibilidades de enriquecer e introducir los ajustes en la construcción del diálogo entre la teoría y los datos.