bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SIG y mejora energética de un grupo de viviendas: una propuesta de transformación a nZEB
Authors: Ruiz-Varona Ana , García-Ballano Claudio Javier , Malpica-García Maria José
Published: November 2022

In line with the policies of climate neutrality and energy self-sufficiency of cities, the objective of the innovation practice is to incorporate in the teaching program of two subjects of the degree of Architecture (Installations and Urban Planning) the knowledge and management of analysis and design tools suitable for data-based decision making, related to the new demands for improvement of the energy component of housing. The methodology allows to evaluate in a real context what is the response obtained when detecting actions to improve a group of houses, as well as to design an urban strategy that sets criteria for action at neighborhood or city level. Students generate a video as learning material that includes interviews with end users, favoring the digital skills of students and enabling the consultation of this experience to other colleagues.

En línea con las políticas de neutralidad climática y autosuficiencia energética de las ciudades, el objetivo de la práctica de innovación es incorporar en el programa docente de dos asignaturas del grado de Arquitectura (Instalaciones y Urbanismo) el conocimiento y manejo de herramientas de análisis y diseño adecuadas para la toma de decisiones basadas en datos, relacionados con las nuevas demandas de mejora del componente energético de las viviendas. La metodología permite evaluar en un contexto real cuál es la respuesta que se obtiene a la hora de detectar las acciones de mejora de un grupo de viviendas, así como de diseñar una estrategia urbana que fije criterios de actuación a nivel de barrio o de ciudad. Los alumnos generar un vídeo como material de aprendizaje que incluye entrevistas a usuarios finales, favoreciendo las habilidades digitales de los alumnos y posibilitando la consulta de esta experiencia a otros compañeros.
“Volver al pueblo”: reuso de edificaciones en el medio rural aragonés
Authors: Gómez Navarro Belén
Published: November 2022

Based on a proposal made by the Architecture and Rehabilitation Service of the Department of Vertebration of the Territory, Mobility and Housing of the Government of Aragon and in collaboration with the City Council of Sierra de Luna (Zaragoza), the San Jorge University was asked the possibility to carrying out a study that would serve as a debate and reflection through the analysis of the physical and constructive state of some buildings in the nucleus and the possibilities of reusing its buildings. All this has been carried out by a group of students of the subjects of Constructionof the second, third and fourth courses (all four-monthly). The study has been developed as a Vertical Workshop, with several visits to the nucleus. Through the analysis of factory injuries, the current regulations, and the conversations held with the owners of the three selected buildings, a series of questions are raised to be taken into account in a future intervention and some possible proposals open to new debates.

A partir de una propuesta realizada desde el Servicio de Arquitectura y Rehabilitación del Departamento de Vertebración del Teritorio, Movilidad y Vivienda del Gobierno de Aragón y en colaboración con el Ayuntamiento de Sierra de Luna (Zaragoza), se planteó a la Universidad San Jorge la posibilidad de realizar un estudio que sirviera como debate y reflexión a través del análisis del estado físico y constructivo de algunas edificaciones del citado núcleo y las posibilidades de reutilización de sus edificaciones. Todo ello se ha llevado a cabo por un grupo de estudiantes de las asignaturas de Construcción de los cursos segundo, tercero y cuarto (todas ellas cuatrimestrales). El estudio se ha desarrollado como Taller Vertical, con varias visitas al núcleo. Mediante el análisis de las lesiones de las fábricas, las normativas vigentes, y las conversaciones mantenidas con los propietarios de las tres edificaciones seleccionadas, se plantean una serie de cuestiones a tener en cuenta en una futura intervención y algunas posibles propuestas abiertas a nuevos debates.
Murales para hogares de acogida: una experiencia de ApS, PBL y docencia integrada
Authors: Villanueva Fernández María , García-Diego Villarias Héctor , Cidoncha Pérez Antonio , Goñi Castañón Francisco Xabier
Published: November 2022

The teaching experience to be analyzed is a teaching innovation project, developed with Project-Based Learning (PBL) and Service-Learning (ApS) methodology, in which two first-year subjects, an art center, an NGO and a time bank participated. This work consisted in the realization and donation of drawings made by students of the subject to adapt the interiors of the shelters of an NGO. It has been carried out through the graphic analysis of 3 murals of a Spanish artist of the twentieth century linked to the world of architecture.
The paper analyzes this project in depth and evaluates the positive aspects and areas for improvement of the experiences, providing qualitative assessment data from the students.

La experiencia docente que se propone analizar es un proyecto de innovación docente, desarrollado con metodología de Aprendizaje Basado en Proyectos (PBL) y Aprendizaje-Servicio (ApS), en el que participaron dos asignaturas de primero, un centro de arte, una ONG y un banco de tiempo. Este trabajo ha consistido en la realización y donación de láminas de dibujos elaboradas por alumnos de la asignatura para adecuar los interiores de los hogares de acogida de una ONG. Se ha llevado a cabo a través del análisis gráfico de 3 murales de un artista español del siglo XX vinculado al mundo de la arquitectura.
En la comunicación se analiza en profundidad este proyecto y se valorarán los aspectos positivos y áreas de mejora de las experiencias, aportando datos de valoración cualitativos de los alumnos.
AppQuitectura: primeros resultados y próximos retos
Authors: Soler Montellano Agatángelo , García Carbonero Marta , Mayor Márquez Jesús , Esteban Maluenda Ana
Published: November 2022

AppQuitectura is a reinforcement tool for learning the subjects of the Architectural Composition Knowledge Area, which uses the game to encourage the approach to the more theoretical subjects of architectural studies. Created as an educational innovation project obtained in a competitive call of the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), it consists of a game of questions and answers, with weekly challenges, which tries to take advantage of the widespread use of mobile phones among university students. After a year of hard work by a multidisciplinary team made up of UPM professors from the fields of Architecture and Computer Science, this communication reviews the first tests carried out after its design and before its definitive launch to students, which have detected small errors, but, above all, have shown the possibilities of success of the tool in the student community.

AppQuitectura es una herramienta de refuerzo en el aprendizaje de las asignaturas del Área de Conocimiento en Composición Arquitectónica, que se vale del juego para incentivar el acercamiento a las asignaturas más teóricas de los estudios de arquitectura. Creada como proyecto de innovación educativa obtenido en convocatoria competitiva de la Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), consiste en un juego de preguntas y respuestas, con retos y desafíos semanales, que trata de aprovechar las ventajas del uso extendido de los teléfonos móviles entre los estudiantes universitarios. Tras un año de arduo trabajo de un equipo multidisciplinar compuesto por profesores de la UPM de las ramas de Arquitectura e Informática, esta comunicación revisa las primeras pruebas efectuadas tras su diseño y antes de su lanzamiento definitivo al alumnado, que han detectado pequeños errores, pero, sobre todo, han puesto de manifiesto las posibilidades de éxito de la herramienta en la comunidad estudiantil.
Sympoiesis method for robotic fabrication: collectively prototyping in architecture education
Authors: Mayor Luque Ricardo
Published: November 2022

This paper considers how research by design and innovative technologies can join in the development of a collective project in Architectural Education. Based on the book Staying with the Trouble by Donna J. Haraway, this paper establishes a method called Sympoiesis methodology in which a theoretical framework is introduced that consists of collective design, prototype interaction and robotic fabrication. The aim of the paper is to propose a new method in architectural design studio teaching based on collective problem-solving access through making-with prototypes over the implementation of robotic fabrication. Finally, a 6-week seminar studio is presented as a case study, illustrating the proposed framework and helping determine its applicability, impact and limitations, to establish a more profound dialogue between new technologies and digital tools in new participatory learning spaces in the best practices and design in Architectural Education.

Este artículo considera cómo la investigación a través del diseño e innovadoras tecnologías pueden unirse en el desarrollo de un proyecto colectivo en la enseñanza de Arquitectura. Basándose en el libro Staying with the Trouble de Donna J. Haraway, se presenta un método llamado metodología Sympoiesis que propone un marco teórico compuesto por: el diseño colectivo, la interacción con prototipos y la fabricación robótica. El objetivo es proponer un nuevo método dentro del estudio de diseño arquitectónico basado en un acceso colectivo a la resolución de problemas a través de la creación de prototipos con la fabricación robótica. Finalmente, se presenta un seminario de 6 semanas que ilustra el marco propuesto y ayuda a determinar su aplicabilidad, impacto y limitaciones, para establecer un diálogo más profundo entre las nuevas tecnologías y las herramientas digitales en nuevos espacios de aprendizaje participativo, mostrando así una nueva forma de abordar el diseño en la escuela de Arquitectura.
Cartografías enhebradas: resiguiendo la cuenca del Ebro contracorriente
Authors: Tiñena Ramos Arnau , Solans Ibañez Indibil , Lopez Frasca Stella
Published: November 2022

The precise and detailed exploration of any territory reveals a plethora of geographical, urban, and architectural sedimentated lessons awaiting to be descovered. After an apparent consistency forged by time, constant and rigorous work reveals the fragile and delicate layers that make up it. Following the logic of water, this research addresses the study of the different dynamics superimposed on the territory of the Ebro Basin. Study performed over three consecutive courses, in the classroom, on screens and on the site. From the cartographical redrawing to the architectural detail of the proposals -going through the study of agricultural traces and the urban form, the urban fabrics, and the public space of its towns and cities- the course proposed, from a trans-scalar logic, the Ebro Basin as a large territorial laboratory, a complex pedagogical basis from which to critically review the existing reality and propose growth and transformation strategies.

La exploración precisa y detallada, de manera reiterativa, de cualquier territorio cercano desvela un sinfín de lecciones geográficas, urbanas y arquitectónicas sedimentadas a la espera de ser reconocidas. Tras una aparente consistencia forjada por el tiempo, el trabajo constante y riguroso nos revela las frágiles y delicadas capas que lo conforman. Siguiendo la lógica del agua, esta investigación aborda el estudio de las sucesivas dinámicas superpuestas en el territorio de la Cuenca del Ebro. Estudio realizado a lo largo de tres cursos consecutivos, en el aula, en las pantallas y sobre el terreno. Desde el redibujado cartográfico hasta el detalle arquitectónico de las propuestas -pasando por el estudio de las trazas agrícolas y la forma urbana, los tejidos, y el espacio público de sus pueblos y ciudades- el curso propuso, empleando una lógica transescalar, la Cuenca del Ebro como un gran laboratorio territorial, una base pedagógica compleja a partir de la cual revisar críticamente la realidad existente y proponer estrategias de crecimiento y transformación.
Report on Full-Scale Tests With Pinnate Propellers in a Swedish Navy Patrol Boat
Authors: Simonsson Peter
Published: November 2022

The pinnate propeller is a programmable pitch propeller. It has an even number of blades, and the opposing blades are assembled in pairs on axles which pass through the hub. These axles, called pinnate axles, can be turned by a mechanism and give the blades a programmed pitch variation when the propeller rotates.

The principles of the pinnate propeller and results from model tests were presented in a paper at the Propellers 81 Symposium (1).

In October 1982 tests were begun with two pinnate propellers in a Swedish Navy patrol boat. In this paper the tests are described, and some of the main experience is presented.

* The tests confirm the technical feasibility of the concept.

* They show a remarkable reduction of the intermittent cavitation when a suitable pitch program is applied and a reduction of pressure pulses at the hull above 'the propellers.

* Despite the lower pressure pulses, the vertical acceleration in the hull above the propellers increased, whereas the transversal acceleration was diminished.

* The highest cavitation-free speed was increased.
Healthcare Access Dimensions and Guideline-Concordant Ovarian Cancer Treatment: SEER-Medicare Analysis of the ORCHiD Study
Authors: Montes de Oca Mary Katherine , Wilson Lauren E. , Previs Rebecca A. , Gupta Anjali , Joshi Ashwini , Huang Bin , Pisu Maria , Liang Margaret , Ward Kevin C. , Schymura Maria J. , Berchuck Andrew , Akinyemiju Tomi F.
Published: November 2022

Background: Racial disparities exist in receipt of guideline-concordant treatment of ovarian cancer (OC). However, few studies have evaluated how various dimensions of healthcare access (HCA) contribute to these disparities. Methods: We analyzed data from non-Hispanic (NH)–Black, Hispanic, and NH-White patients with OC diagnosed in 2008 to 2015 from the SEER-Medicare database and defined HCA dimensions as affordability, availability, and accessibility, measured as aggregate scores created with factor analysis. Receipt of guideline-concordant OC surgery and chemotherapy was defined based on the NCCN Guidelines for Ovarian Cancer. Multivariable-adjusted modified Poisson regression models were used to assess the relative risk (RR) for guideline-concordant treatment in relation to HCA. Results: The study cohort included 5,632 patients: 6% NH-Black, 6% Hispanic, and 88% NH-White. Only 23.8% of NH-White patients received guideline-concordant surgery and the full cycles of chemotherapy versus 14.2% of NH-Black patients. Higher affordability (RR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.01–1.08) and availability (RR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.02–1.10) were associated with receipt of guideline-concordant surgery, whereas higher affordability was associated with initiation of systemic therapy (hazard ratio, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.05–1.13). After adjusting for all 3 HCA scores and demographic and clinical characteristics, NH-Black patients remained less likely than NH-White patients to initiate systemic therapy (hazard ratio, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.75–0.99). Conclusions: Multiple HCA dimensions predict receipt of guideline-concordant treatment but do not fully explain racial disparities among patients with OC. Acceptability and accommodation are 2 additional HCA dimensions which may be critical to addressing these disparities.
Transport Network of Yakutia: Multi-time Analysis by Cartographic Sources
Authors: Filippova Viktoriia Viktorovna , Arkhipova Irina Mikhailovna
Published: November 2022

The article is devoted to the study of the development of the transport network of one of the largest regions of Russia on the example of mapping land routes in different historical periods. The relevance of the research topic is due to the lack of research, among the available historical and geographical works related to the study of the history of mapping the transport network of Yakutia. The purpose of this work is to study the history of the development of the transport network of Yakutia from the XVII to the beginning of the XXI centuries based on the analysis of various cartographic sources. To achieve this goal, the domestic experience of transport mapping was investigated; on the basis of identified published and unpublished sources, multi-time maps showing land routes of communication were selected and analyzed; on the basis of the analysis, the main stages of mapping land transport in Yakutia were identified. The study was conducted using a systematic approach, historical-comparative, cartographic and geoinformation methods. Due to the fact that this research is at the junction of a number of sciences, the work is based on an integrated approach. As a results of the study, the authors identified the stages in the history of mapping the transport network of Yakutia: the first stage (XVIII – late XIX centuries); the second stage (the first half of the twentieth century); the third stage (mid–twentieth century - 1990s); the fourth stage (post–Soviet period - to the present). Currently, a new information environment for the development of historical and geographical sciences is being created. GIS technologies enable access to historical maps, as well as the emergence of new ways to extract historical information from them. There are opportunities to detect previously hidden information, extract it and process it. The practical significance of the presented work is connected with the possibility of using its results to determine the directions of development and optimization of territorial aspects of the functioning of transport networks of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia).
Learning-related contraction of gray matter in rodent sensorimotor cortex is associated with adaptive myelination
Authors: Mediavilla Tomas , Özalay Özgün , Estévez-Silva Héctor M , Frias Bárbara , Orädd Greger , Sultan Fahad R , Brozzoli Claudio , Garzón Benjamín , Lövdén Martin , Marcellino Daniel J
Published: November 2022

From observations in rodents, it has been suggested that the cellular basis of learning-dependent changes, detected using structural MRI, may be increased dendritic spine density, alterations in astrocyte volume, and adaptations within intracortical myelin. Myelin plasticity is crucial for neurological function, and active myelination is required for learning and memory. However, the dynamics of myelin plasticity and how it relates to morphometric-based measurements of structural plasticity remains unknown. We used a motor skill learning paradigm in male mice to evaluate experience-dependent brain plasticity by voxel-based morphometry (VBM) in longitudinal MRI, combined with a cross-sectional immunohistochemical investigation. Whole-brain VBM revealed nonlinear decreases in gray matter volume (GMV) juxtaposed to nonlinear increases in white matter volume (WMV) within GM that were best modeled by an asymptotic time course. Using an atlas-based cortical mask, we found nonlinear changes with learning in primary and secondary motor areas and in somatosensory cortex. Analysis of cross-sectional myelin immunoreactivity in forelimb somatosensory cortex confirmed an increase in myelin immunoreactivity followed by a return towards baseline levels. Further investigations using quantitative confocal microscopy confirmed these changes specifically to the length density of myelinated axons. The absence of significant histological changes in cortical thickness suggests that nonlinear morphometric changes are likely due to changes in intracortical myelin for which morphometric WMV in somatosensory cortex significantly correlated with myelin immunoreactivity. Together, these observations indicate a nonlinear increase of intracortical myelin during learning and support the hypothesis that myelin is a component of structural changes observed by VBM during learning.
Phage resistance profiling identifies new genes required for biogenesis and modification of the corynebacterial cell envelope
Authors: McKitterick Amelia C , Bernhardt Thomas G
Published: November 2022

Bacteria of the order Corynebacteriales including pathogens such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Corynebacterium diphtheriae are characterized by their complex, multi-layered envelope. In addition to a peptidoglycan layer, these organisms possess an additional polysaccharide layer made of arabinogalactan and an outer membrane layer composed predominantly of long-chain fatty acids called mycolic acids. This so-called mycolata envelope structure is both a potent barrier against antibiotic entry into cells and a target of several antibacterial therapeutics. A better understanding of the mechanisms underlying mycolata envelope assembly therefore promises to reveal new ways of disrupting this unique structure for the development of antibiotics and antibiotic potentiators. Because they engage with receptors on the cell surface during infection, bacteriophages have long been used as tools to uncover important aspects of host envelope assembly. However, surprisingly little is known about the interactions between Corynebacteriales phages and their hosts. We therefore made use of the phages Cog and CL31 that infect Corynebacterium glutamicum (Cglu), a model member of the Corynebacteriales, to discover host factors important for phage infection. A high-density transposon library of Cglu was challenged with these phages followed by transposon sequencing to identify resistance loci. The analysis identified an important role for mycomembrane proteins in phage infection as well as components of the arabinogalactan and mycolic acid synthesis pathways. Importantly, the approach also implicated a new gene (cgp_0396) in the process of arabinogalactan modification and identified a conserved new factor (AhfA, Cpg_0475) required for mycolic acid synthesis in Cglu.
Re-evaluation of the morphology and phylogeny ofDiplocynodon levantinicumHuene & Nikoloff, 1963 and the stratigraphic age of the West Maritsa coal field (Upper Thrace Basin, Bulgaria)
Authors: Massonne Tobias , Böhme Madelaine
Published: November 2022

Diplocynodon levantinicumHuene & Nikoloff, 1963 was described based on few bone fragments from the West-Maritsa lignite basin of Central Bulgaria. Huene & Nikoloff, 1963 assumed a late Pliocene age, implying that this species represents the stratigraphically youngest crocodilian of Europe. In this current study, we re-evaluate the stratigraphy of the West-Maritsa Basin and conclude a late Oligocene age of ~26 Ma for the Kipra coal-seam, the fossiliferous horizon. Furthermore, topotypical and undescribedD. levantinicumspecimens are accessible now and allowed for a deeper taxonomic and phylogenetic analysis. A comparison with otherDiplocynodonspecies revealsD. levantinicumas a valid species, having (1) a long suborbital fenestra, (2) a very short dentary symphysis, (3) a large gap between the first and second dentary alveolus, (4) an occlusion pit in line with the tooth row posterior to the 14thdentary alveolus, (5) a sulcus lateral to the glenoid fossa and, (6) a lingual foramen for the articular artery situated entirely on the surangular. The phylogenetic analyses findD. levantinicumdeeply nested inside the Diplocynodontinae subfamily. After the disappearance of the Paratethyan influence (Solenovian regional stage) in the Upper Thrace Basin this species has roamed during the late Oligocene extensive freshwater lake and swamp ecosystems represented by the Maritsa Formation.Diplocynodon levantinicumrepresents the only nominalDiplocynodontaxon of late Oligocene (Chattian) age.
Long-term monitoring projects of Brazilian marine and coastal ecosystems
Authors: Cordeiro Cesar A.M.M. , Aued Anaide W. , Barros Francisco , Bastos Alex C. , Bender Mariana , Mendes Thiago C. , Creed Joel C. , Cruz Igor C.S. , Dias Murilo S. , Fernandes Lohengrin D.A. , Coutinho Ricardo , Gonçalves José E.A. , Floeter Sergio R. , Mello-Fonseca Juliana , Freire Andrea S. , Gherardi Douglas F.M. , Gomes Luiz E.O. , Lacerda Fabíola , Martins Rodrigo L. , Longo Guilherme O. , Mazzuco Ana Carolina , Menezes Rafael , Muelbert José H. , Paranhos Rodolfo , Quimbayo Juan P. , Valentin Jean L. , Ferreira Carlos E.L.
Published: November 2022

Biodiversity assessment is a mandatory task for sustainable and adaptive management for the next decade, and long-term ecological monitoring programs are a cornerstone for understanding changes in ecosystems. The Brazilian Long-Term Ecological Research Program (PELD) is an integrated effort model supported by public funds that finance ecological studies at 34 locations. By interviewing and compiling data from project coordinators, we assessed monitoring efforts, targeting biological groups and scientific production from nine PELD projects encompassing coastal lagoons to mesophotic reefs and oceanic islands. Reef environments and fish groups were the most often studied within the long-term projects. PELD projects covered priority areas for conservation but missed sensitive areas close to large cities, as well as underrepresenting ecosystems on the North and Northeast Brazilian coast. Long-term monitoring projects in marine and coastal environments in Brazil are recent (<5 years), not yet integrated as a network, but scientifically productive with considerable relevance for academic and human resources training. Scientific production increased exponentially with project age, despite interruption and shortage of funding during their history. From our diagnosis, we recommend some actions to fill in observed gaps, such as: enhancing projects’ collaboration and integration; focusing on priority regions for new projects; broadening the scope of monitored variables; and, maintenance of funding for existing projects.
Using search trends to analyze web-based users’ behavior profiles connected with COVID-19 in mainland China: infodemiology study based on hot words and Baidu Index
Authors: Jiang Shuai , You Changqiao , Zhang Sheng , Chen Fenglin , Peng Guo , Liu Jiajie , Xie Daolong , Li Yongliang , Guo Xinhong
Published: November 2022

Background

Mainland China, the world’s most populous region, experienced a large-scale coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Existing infodemiology studies have primarily concentrated on the prospective surveillance of confirmed cases or symptoms which met the criterion for investigators; nevertheless, the actual impact regarding COVID-19 on the public and subsequent attitudes of different groups towards the COVID-19 epidemic were neglected.

Methods

This study aimed to examine the public web-based search trends and behavior patterns related to COVID-19 outbreaks in mainland China by using hot words and Baidu Index (BI). The initial hot words (the high-frequency words on the Internet) and the epidemic data (2019/12/01–2021/11/30) were mined from infodemiology platforms. The final hot words table was established by two-rounds of hot words screening and double-level hot words classification. Temporal distribution and demographic portraits of COVID-19 were queried by search trends service supplied from BI to perform the correlation analysis. Further, we used the parameter estimation to quantitatively forecast the geographical distribution of COVID-19 in the future.

Results

The final English-Chinese bilingual table was established including six domains and 32 subordinate hot words. According to the temporal distribution of domains and subordinate hot words in 2020 and 2021, the peaks of searching subordinate hot words and COVID-19 outbreak periods had significant temporal correlation and the subordinate hot words in COVID-19 Related and Territory domains were reliable for COVID-19 surveillance. Gender distribution results showed that Territory domain (the male proportion: 67.69%; standard deviation (SD): 5.88%) and Symptoms/Symptom and Public Health (the female proportion: 57.95%, 56.61%; SD: 0, 9.06%) domains were searched more by male and female groups respectively. The results of age distribution of hot words showed that people aged 20–50 (middle-aged people) had a higher online search intensity, and the group of 20–29, 30–39 years old focused more on Media and Symptoms/Symptom (proportion: 45.43%, 51.66%; SD: 15.37%, 16.59%) domains respectively. Finally, based on frequency rankings of searching hot words and confirmed cases in Mainland China, the epidemic situation of provinces and Chinese administrative divisions were divided into 5 levels of early-warning regions. Central, East and South China regions would be impacted again by the COVID-19 in the future.
Diagnostic Performance of MRI in Acute Appendicitis in Adult Population: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Choubey Amit Kumar , Kumar Sourabh , Julmaria Sunil , Singh Suyash
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Acute appendicitis is the most common cause of acute abdomen requiring surgical intervention. The diagnosis of acute appendicitis is primarily clinical which is based upon various signs and symptoms and blood tests. Although the sensitivity of clinical evaluation is high but specificity is very low and requires further evaluation by imaging prior to surgery to avoid unnecessary negative appendectomy. In view of these, current practices involves use of imaging to diagnose acute appendicitis. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an imaging test that can be used to diagnose appendicitis but still not the modality of choice. Computed Tomography (CT) is the modality of choice but causes radiation hazards. MRI is an alternative cross-sectional modality with no radiation issues. Aim: To evaluate the diagnostic performance of MRI in clinically suspected cases of acute appendicitis. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 84 clinically suspected cases of appendicitis from September 2020 to November 2021 in a Central Government Hospital Jammu, India. Patients diagnosed as suspected acute appendicitis by surgical specialist underwent MRI abdomen as first line of investigation. Positive cases underwent laparoscopic evaluation followed by laparoscopic appendectomy and histopathological evaluation. The final diagnosis of histopathology report taken as gold standard for evaluation of diagnostic performance of MRI in which sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, Positive Predictive Value (PPV) and Negative Predictive Value (NPV) of MRI for appendicitis was calculated by using STATA Texas (Version 16) statistical analysis software. Results: Out of 84 patients, 70 were males with mean age of 26.66±6.9 years while 14 were females with mean age of 31.2±6.34 years. The sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, PPV and NPV of MRI for appendicitis is 96.9%, 90%, 9.69, 0.03, 96.9% and 90% respectively at 95% confidence interval. There is a strong agreement between MRI and histopathological findings with kappa value of 0.87 (p-value<0.0001). Conclusion: MRI has high sensitivity and specificity for acute appendicitis and has potential to become modality of choice to diagnose acute appendicitis.
Drug Storage and Self-medication Practices in Kashmir, India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Tabassum Rehana , Hussain Syed Sajad , Arif Sajad Hussain
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Among the various potential health risks, selfmedication and inappropriate storage of medicines at home are found to be very important. Inappropriate storage conditions and irrational use of medication without medical consultation may result in serious health problems. Worldwide there has been an increase in the self-medication rate, which can lead to waste of resources and serious adverse reactions. Aim: To assess the practice of self-medication and household storage of medicines amongst the study population. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional and questionnaire based study conducted in the southern district of Kashmir, India for a period of six months with effect from 1st September 2021 till 28th February 2022. A total of 471 households were included and interviewed to determine the practice of home storage of medicines and self-medication pattern. Quantitative data was presented as means and standard deviation (mean±SD) and qualitative data as frequency and 95% Confidence Interval (CI). Results: Almost three quarters of the households were having monthly income of less than 20,000 INR whereas 219 (46.50%) of them were illiterate. Proton pump inhibitors, minerals and vitamins, antibiotics and analgesics were the most common medicines stored at home. Drawer was the most common place used for storage of medicines whereas the refrigerator was used in less than 1% of cases for the same. Solid dosage forms were mostly used by the householders and the injectables were least used for house hold storage purposes. Conclusion: The study revealed that the studied householders stored large amount of medicines in homes, often under inappropriate storage conditions. There is a need for better public knowledge and information about the risks of reuse of prescription medications.
Effect of Stress in Muscle Function between Sedentary and Physically Active Adults using Mosso’s Ergograph: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Rani S Vimala , Bhavani R Leela , Sasikumar S
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Skeletal muscle is essentially involved in body movement. Structured physical activity refines the physical and mental well-being and it is viewed as one of the important factor which influences the skeletal muscle activity. Stress hormones causes metabolism of muscle proteins thereby reduces the muscle strength. Aim: To demonstrate the effect of stress in muscle function between sedentary and physically active adults. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was done amid of 100 (inactive) sedentary and 100 exercising (physically active) adults in Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Tamil Nadu for a duration of four months (January – April 2022). Total 200 male subjects (100 sedentary and 100 physically active adults) between age group 25-30 years were included in this study. Muscle function (work done) was studied using Mosso’s ergograph. Perceived stress score was analysed by Cohen’s perceived stress scale questionnaire. Work done by muscle and stress score was correlated. Pearson’s and Chi-square test were used to assess the correlation between work done by muscle and stress score. Result: Work done by physically active adults was more. The effect of stress in reducing the muscle strength was comparatively lesser in physically active adults. There was a negative correlation found between work done by muscle and stress score among sedentary adults (r=0.011, r=-0.432, r=-0.835) and also among physically active adults (r=1.524, r=- 0.012, r=-0.035) with statistically significant (p-value<0.05). Conclusion: Amount of work done in physically active adults was more as compared to sedentary adults. Perceived stress had a negative effect on the muscle strength (work done) of the young adults. Exercise reduces the stress and improves the work done level of muscle.
Efficacy of Gentamicin versus Chlorhexidine as a Sole Prophylactic Oral Decontaminant in Reducing the Incidence of Ventilator Associated Pneumonia: A Randomised Clinical Study
Authors: Yadav Matendra Singh , Singh Vipin Kumar , Singh DK
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Ventilator Associated Pneumonia (VAP) is the second most common nosocomial infection. Aspiration of bacteria from the upper digestive tract is important in the pathogenesis of this infection. Oral decontamination using antiseptic like chlorhexidine reduces the incidence of VAP but not mortality. There is conflicting results about oral decontamination with antibiotics in preventing VAP, some suggesting benefit and others showing no benefit. Aim: To use two different prophylactic oral decontaminant, gentamicin and chlorhexidine, to compare the incidence of VAP, prevalence of bacterial flora, duration of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) stay, and mortality. Materials and Methods: The present study was a randomised, clinical study conducted at Sir Sunder Lal Hospital, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India from January 2017 to December 2018. Patients intubated within 24 hours of admission and who needed mechanical ventilation with an expected duration of more than 48 hours were included. All the adult patients between age group 18-50 years were included in study. Patients were randomised to receive either Topical Antimicrobial Prophylaxis (TAP) with 2% gentamicin (Group G) or to 2% chlorhexidine (Group C). Patients were followed until extubation or death. Sequential cultures from endotracheal tube were sent on days 3,7,14, and 21, and for oropharyngeal swab culture were sent on days 0, 3,7,14 and 21. VAP was diagnosed with the help of Clinical Pulmonary Infection Score (CPIS). Results: Out of 151 patients, 82 patients were placed in group G (2% gentamicin) and 69 in group C (2% chlorhexidine). On follow-up of various interval among both the groups, CPIS increased with ICU stay but incidence of VAP was comparable between the groups (50% vs 71%, p=0.009). Pseudomonas was found to be most prevalent bacteria among both the groups. Discharge rate from ICU was higher in group G (54.9%) than group C (52.2%) (p-value=0.744). The mortality rate was higher in the group C (43.9%) than group G (44.9%) (p-value=0.744). Conclusion: Prophylactic oral-decontamination with gentamicin or chlorhexidine does not reduce incidence of VAP and outcome among ICU patients. Gentamicin could be a better option for patients on ventilator because it may lead to less colonisation of Pseudomonas in oral cavity along with lower CPIS in the later stages of VAP.
Environmental Disclosure Practices and Sustainable Performance of Quoted Manufacturing Companies in Nigeria
Authors: Ogunode O. A. , Adegbie F. F.
Published: November 2022

This paper examined the linkage between environmental disclosure practices and sustainable performance with particular reference to listed manufacturing companies operating in Nigeria. The study utilized the ex-post facto research design for its investigation while a sample of forty-eight (48) listed manufacturing firms were purposively selected out of sixty-seven (67) quoted manufacturing firms listed as at December, 2020. The study found that while environmental disclosures (EDD) exhibited a negative effect on Returns on Assets (ROA), Debt to Assets Ratio (DTA) and Market Price per Share (MPS) of the sampled firms, Social Disclosures (SDD), firm size and firm age exerted significant positive influence on sustainable performance of manufacturing firms. This implied that mere adherence to environmental disclosures is insufficient to affect the volume and direction of performance of manufacturing entities. On the contrary, social disclosures involving extensive social engagements and execution of corporate social responsibility initiatives positively impacts and drives sustainable performance of manufacturing companies in Nigeria. The study therefore recommended that management of manufacturing companies must take necessary steps to improve their levels of social engagements with their respective host communities with a view to improving their overall performance in a sustainable way.
A Study on Farmers Knowledge and Challenges with Direct Seeded Rice under the Rice-Wheat Cropping System in Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Meena Kamlesh , Srivastava Rajneesh , Tiwari Ajay , Kumar Ajay , Singh Anup Pratap , Singh Neeraj , Behera T. K.
Published: November 2022

Aim: To create awareness among the farmers about Direct seeded rice (DSR) which is resource-intensive technology to create a substitute of rice planting in Rice wheat cropping system.

Study Design: Survey method.

Place and Duration of Study: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (ICAR-IIVR) conducted training programs on dry-direct seeded of rice amongst the farming community in Deoria District, Uttar Pradesh, from Kharif 2010 to 2019.

Methodology: The study area of this new technology was undertaken by using a comprehensive questionnaire through a field survey of farmers who had adopted DSR during 2010 to 2019 in five blocks viz. Bhatparrani, Bhatni, Bankata, Salempur and Lar. Five villages were selected from each block and 6 dry-direct seeded of rice practicing farmers were selected purposively for this study.

Results: The research found that the majority of the respondents agreed that the potential advantages of direct seeded of rice technology must include cost savings (97.33 percent) followed by 96 percent of respondents are agreed that no need of puddling in direct seeded of rice technology followed by no need of seed bed preparation (94.66 percent) and 94 percent respondents are agreed with  direct seeded of rice being a water wise technology, provides the solution, direct seeded of rice saves labor as it avoids nursery raising, uprooting seedlings, transplanting, and puddling (92 percent); 91.33 percent of respondents agreed that the total variable costs of rice were lower in  direct seeded of rice (DSR) than in puddled transplanted rice (PTR). The main technical challenges most respondents experienced weed management is major problem 93.33 percent, Non availability of the quality seed and drill machine for direct sowing of rice (89.33 percent). The most effective training and educational barriers were a Lack of communication between the farming communities by the mass media agencies (82 percent), lack of awareness of the farming community regarding calibration of direct seeded of rice machine (74.66 percent). Lack of the cooperation between fellow farming community to share their experiences on direct seeded of rice (88 percent), community pressure (72.66 percent), higher cost of seed drill machine (79.33 percent) and Lack of awareness of farmer about minor adjustments of machine (85.33 percent) were also mentioned as significant constraints under the categories of socio-psychological economic and extension, respectively.

Conclusion: Direct seeded of rice is a desirable choice when the future of rice production is in jeopardy due to worldwide water constraint and rising labour costs.
Tax Policy and Financial Access: Implications for Entrepreneurial Intention and Entrepreneurial Behavior Among Generation Z
Authors: Asmoro Priandhita Sukowidyanti , Aini Edlyn Khurotul , Nurlaily Ferina
Published: November 2022

This study develops a framework based on the Theory of Planned Behavior and focuses on perceived behavioral control. The Theory of Planned Behavior is extended in this research by proposing that tax policy and financial access are predictors of Generation Z's entrepreneurial intention and behavior. Based on the researcher's knowledge, tax policy and financial access have never been studied concurrently for their impact on entrepreneurial behavior in Indonesia. The model was tested empirically on 500 entrepreneurial students from four public universities in Indonesia. Questionnaire surveys were administered to respondents identified using the random purposive sampling technique. Primary data were processed according to path analysis procedures using SPSS 25. The Theory of Planned Behavior is supported by the seven hypotheses stated in this study. Tax policies and financial access directly affect entrepreneurial intentions and entrepreneurial behavior. Entrepreneurial intentions can also mediate the impact of tax policy and financial access on entrepreneurial behavior.
The Impact of Corporate Governance Quality on Principal-Agent and Principal-Principal Conflict in Indonesia
Authors: Salim Sandra , Lioe Jessica , Harianto Sandy , Adelina Yang Elvi
Published: November 2022

This study analyzes the effect of corporate governance (CG) quality on principal-agent (PA) and principal-principal (PP) conflict in Indonesia while also controlling for potential endogeneity through the use of two-stage least squares (2SLS) regression. The results for PA conflict (measured by operating expense ratio and asset utilization ratio) are consistent with the notion that better CG quality leads to a lower level of PA conflict. However, the result for PP conflict is inconclusive. While a higher CG quality is positively related to a higher dividend payout ratio, which indicates a lower PP conflict level, CG quality does not have any significant effect on wedge (difference between cash flow and control right). Moreover, further robustness tests showed that different aspects of CG have different effects on PA and PP conflict. Better CSR has a significant effect on reducing PA and PP conflict. Meanwhile, asset utilization ratio and dividend payout ratio increase due to board efficiency, internal control management, and board remuneration. Furthermore, better internal control management also leads to a lower operating expense ratio, while board remuneration reduces wedge. Interestingly, we find no significant relationship between shareholders' relation and all PA and PP conflict measures.
Atuação do Programa de Extensão “Centro Colaborador de Alimentação e Nutrição Escolar – CECANE-UNIRIO” durante a pandemia pela Covid-19
Authors: Pereira Alessandra da Silva , Coutinho Laura Buarque Goulart , Prata Leticia Mesquita , Queiroz Gabriela de Andrade Cruz , Oliveira Ana Carolina Veiga de , Azevedo Ana Beatriz , Santos Simone Souza dos , Nascimento Livia , Pfaltzgraff Erika , Anesclar Thais Gohenrig , Santos Claudia Roberta Bocca dos , Serra Giane Moliari Amaral , Lima Elaine Cristina de Souza , Rodrigues Maria de Lourdes , Souza Thais Salema Nogueira de , Mocellin Michel Carlos
Published: November 2022

A pandemia do novo coronavírus levou a necessidade de adaptações na execução do Programa Nacional de Alimentação Escolar (PNAE). Nesse sentido, o Fundo Nacional de Desenvolvimento para Educação (FNDE) por meio de leis e normativas, autorizou a distribuição de kits de gêneros alimentícios de modo a assegurar a Segurança Alimentar e Nutricional (SAN) e o Direito Humano à Alimentação Adequada (DHAA) ao alunado. Dessa forma, considerando os desafios impostos pela Covid-19, o presente artigo tem como objetivo mostrar as modificações para o cumprimento do PNAE e as ações do CECANE-UNIRIO durante este período. As atividades de formação para atores sociais, assim como a assessoria e o monitoramento às Entidades Executoras (EEx) ocorreram de maneira remota, da mesma maneira que outras atividades nas quais o programa de extensão esteve envolvido para além do plano de trabalho. De modo geral, as atividades desenvolvidas disseminaram conhecimento para a comunidade como um todo.
Orphan receptor GPR50 attenuates inflammation and insulin signaling in 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes
Authors: Yao Zhenyu , Meng Jun , Long Jing , Li Long , Qiu Weicong , Li Cairong , Zhang Jian V. , Ren Pei‐Gen
Published: November 2022

Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is characterized by insulin secretion deficiencies and systemic insulin resistance (IR) in adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and the liver. Although the mechanism of T2DM is not yet fully known, inflammation and insulin resistance play a central role in the pathogenesis of T2DM. G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) are involved in endocrine and metabolic processes as well as many other physiological processes. GPR50 (G protein‐coupled receptor 50) is an orphan GPCR that shares the highest sequence homology with melatonin receptors. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of GPR50 on inflammation and insulin resistance in 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes. GPR50 expression was observed to be significantly increased in the adipose tissue of obese T2DM mice, while GPR50 deficiency increased inflammation in 3T3‐L1 cells and induced the phosphorylation of AKT and insulin receptor substrate (IRS) 1. Furthermore, GPR50 knockout in the 3T3‐L1 cell line suppressed PPAR‐γ expression. These data suggest that GPR50 can attenuate inflammatory levels and regulate insulin signaling in adipocytes. Furthermore, the effects are mediated through the regulation of the IRS1/AKT signaling pathway and PPAR‐γ expression.