bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal variations of length, weight and condition of the Asian stinging catfish Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch, 1794) in the Ganges river (NW Bangladesh)
Authors: Parvin Most Farida , Hossain Md Yeamin , Rahman Md Ashekur , Sarmin Most Shakila , Ahmed Zoarder Faruque
Published: September 2021

The present study revealed on temporal variations of length, weight and condition of Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch, 1794) in the Ganges River, Northwestern Bangladesh. Total 1161 individuals of H. fossilis were caught by various habitual fishing gears such as seine net, cast net and gill net during January to December 2019. For every specimen, body weight (BW) was taken by digital balance to the accuracy of 0.01 g and total length (TL) was taken using a measuring board. Relative condition factor (KR) was assessed by KR = W/(a×Lb), where W is the BW in g, L is the TL in cm and a and b are length-weight relationships parameters. The value of KR ~ 1 specifies good health, >1 specifies over bodyweight as compared to length, whereas <1 suggests a fish in poor condition. The TL varied from 8.5-28.7 cm whereas the BW was 37.17–2250 g. The overall KR for H. fossilis was 0.99-1.06 in the Ganges River. The highest KR was observed in May while the lowest was in January. The KR was significantly correlated with BW in the Ganges River. The outcomes of the study will be helpful for future management of this fish in the Ganges river ecosystem as well as adjacent water bodies.

Res. Agric., Livest. Fish.8(2): 259-266, August 2021
Value addition of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus): Preparation of fillet and shelf-life assessment
Authors: Sarker Mukta , Hasan Md Mehedy , Hani Umme , Ahmad Md Foysal , Sayeed Md Abu , Jafor Bapary Mohammad Abu , Sumon Tofael Ahmed , Hussain Md Ashraf
Published: September 2021

Although tilapia is one of the most cultivated fish species in Bangladesh owing to its high growth rate, comparatively easy culture practices, higher survival rate and short culture period but low market preference marked it as a low-priced fish. Various approaches have been adopted to enhance consumer acceptability and ensure better use of tilapia, including the production of value-added products such as tilapia-prepared fillets, which attract increasing interest. Therefore, the current study was designed and carried out in order to prepare tilapia fillets and to estimate their shelf life at frozen (-18±20C) and refrigerated (4±10C) temperatures. Fillets were produced from tilapia collected from local fish markets of Sylhet city, Bangladesh with according to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) established by International Standards Organization (ISO) and packed in polyethylene bags. Proximate composition, total volatile base nitrogen (TVBN), peroxide value (PV), pH, total plate count (TPC) and sensory properties of fillets were analyzed to determine shelf-life. A portion of the fresh fillet sample was immediately analyzed and the remaining portions were preserved for up to 12 and 90 days at refrigerated and frozen storage temperatures, respectively. Results revealed that, at a definite interval of time, changes in the chemical, microbial and sensory attributes of tilapia fillets were found to be more pronounced in refrigerated storage conditions than fillets stored in frozen conditions. The shelf life of refrigerated and frozen tilapia fillet samples was 9 and at least 90 days, respectively, per the results of sensory, microbial and chemical evaluation.

Res. Agric., Livest. Fish.8(2): 231-240, August 2021
La responsabilidad social como herramienta de ventaja competitiva para las pequeñas y medianas empresas
Authors: Villacís-Pérez Wendy , Caiche-Morán Rudy
Published: September 2021

La siguiente investigación se apunta en identificar las definiciones claves de esta con un enfoque crítico, revisando las ventajas y desventajas del tipo de gestión empresarial.Las empresas al momento de implementar y diseñar las estrategias deben tener en cuenta los efectos externos sobre los aspectos sociales implicados en su actividad.Entonces, para explicar la ventaja competitiva que representa la Responsabilidad Social Empresarial, se lo determina como una forma de gestión que conduce a la redistribución del excedente de la empresa pequeña y mediana, en cómo realizar mejores asignaciones de sus recursos llevándolo a una mayor aceptación y con ello a un mejor posicionamiento.La Responsabilidad Social Empresarial (RSE) es una nueva visión de la gestión estratégica y de la ética corporativa de las organizaciones, donde el cambio tecnológico, económico y cultural, han terminado por redefinir la relación que éstas tienen con sus públicos y con el entorno. Considerando a las pequeñas y medianas empresas (PYMES) como un elemento trascendental en la economía y composición social, este trabajo revisa y analiza el rol que la RSE puede cumplir en la gestión de sus intangibles y en la producción de valor dentro de este tipo de formato empresarial.
Impacto de la imagen de tienda en la percepción del consumidor. Una aplicación en supermercados
Authors: Solórzano-Jaramillo Kelvin , Vicente-Ajila Cristian , Bonisoli Lorenzo , Burgos-Burgos John
Published: September 2021

El presente estudio explica la evaluación de los consumidores sobre el impacto que tiene la imagen de tienda a través de su percepción, el objetivo de la investigación se basa en examinar a través de un modelo investigativo la significancia relacional de las variables de estudio, la investigación utiliza una metodología cuantitativa con alcance correlación al, con una muestra de 265 clientes de supermercados. Como resultado de esta investigación realizada se pudieron obtener resultados muy favorables, que verifican los efectos que tienen los constructos entre sí, se obtuvo valoraciones significativas, concluyendo que la administración de la imagen de tienda está muy bien gestionada por parte de los supermercados en la ciudad de Machala.
Influencia de la responsabilidad social corporativa en el desempeño de los gobiernos parroquiales rurales de la provincia de Tungurahua
Authors: Moposita-Guangashi Miguel , Tapia-Panchi Evelyn , León-Saltos Amparito
Published: September 2021

La práctica de la Responsabilidad Social Corporativa (RSC) se considera como un factor importante para las organizaciones, especialmente para aquellas que se encuentran en el sector de los servicios públicos. El objetivo de esta investigación es identificar las características que la comunidad percibe que deben cumplir los gobiernos parroquiales rurales como parte de su RSC, el método empleado es cuantitativo de alcance descriptivo, se realizó el análisis de fiabilidad en el Alfa de Cronbach de 0,986 al instrumento de 24 ítems que se aplicó en 38 instituciones de los Gobiernos Autónomos Descentralizados del área rural, los resultados encontrados demuestran que existe una relación alta p>0.8 entre el grado de conocimiento de RSC en los integrantes de los GAD rurales para guiar sus actividades, planificación y ejecución de los programas y proyectos socioeconómicos.
Pengaruh Mikoriza dan Mikroba Pelarut Fosfat Terhadap Serapan P dan Pertumbuhan dan Produksi Kacang Hijau (Vigna radiata L.) Pada Bekas Lahan Sawah
Authors: Lubis Nursiani
Published: September 2021

Kacang hijau merupakan salah satu tanaman pangan sumber protein nabati. Kacang hijau (Vigna radiata L.)  termasuk komoditas tanaman kacang-kacangan yang umumnya ditanam di lahan kering. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui respon pertumbuhan dan produksi kacang hijau dengan memanfaatkan Mikroba Pelarut Fosfat dan Mikoriza pada bekas lahan sawah. Penelitian ini merupakan rancangan eksperimental yang menggunakan metode Rancangan Acak Kelompok (RAK) faktorial dengan menggunakan 2 faktor dengan 3 ulangan. Faktor I : Aplikasi Mikoriza (M) M0 : Tanpa mikoriza (0 g/tanaman) M1 : 5 g/tanaman M2 : 10 g/tanaman M3 : 15 g/tanaman. Faktor II : Aplikasi Mikroba Pelarut Fosfat (P) P0 : Tanpa mikroba pelarut fosfat P1 : Penicillium sp Mursala 20 mL/tanaman P2 : Penicillium sp Lab 20 mL/tanaman. Peubah Amatan yang dilakukan dalam penelitian ini adalah Rasio Tajuk Akar, Serapan Hara P, Persentase Polong Bernas dan Bobot 100 biji / tanaman. Hasil dari penelitian ini menujukkan bahwa Aplikasi mikoriza 15 g/tanaman merupakan dosis terbaik untuk meningkatkan serapan P (2,74 mg/tanaman) dan produksi kacang hijau. Interaksi antara mikoriza 15 g/tanaman dan Penicillium sp Mursala meningkatkan serapan P (3,20 mg/tanaman) dan produksi kacang hijau. Interaksi mikoriza 15 g/tanaman dan Penicillium sp Mursala menghasilkan bobot 100 biji/tanaman sebesar 6,67 g/tanaman
Pengembangan Gamifikasi pada Perangkat Smartphone Android untuk Pembelajaran Mahasiswa Jurusan Manajemen Informatika
Authors: Sayekti Imanaji Hari
Published: September 2021

Internet of Thing (IoT) dalam revolusi industri ke-4 berdampak pada kehidupan sehari-hari baik terkait produk teknologi yang dihasilkan maupun perilaku para pengguana dalam menyikapi perubahan. Lekatnya keterikatan mereka dengan smartphone merupakan bukti ketergantungan mereka terhadap teknologi saat ini. Dari fenomena inilah muncul sebuah ide untuk menggabungkan antara game dan pembelajaran, sehingga mahasiswa dapat termotivasi untuk belajar tanpa merasa terbebani. Inilah gamifikasi yang dapat menjadi salah satu solusi untuk mentransformasikan pembelajaran. Dari masalah tersebut dibuatlah penelitian untuk mengembagkan sebuah aplikasi pembelajaran bernama AMIK PGRI Kebumen Quiz yang mengimplementasikan fitur-fitur gamifikasi. Secara teknis aplikasi dikembangkan dengan metode pengembangan prototype namun secara desain pengalaman aplikasi berpedoman pada model pengembangan player experience design process.  Proses ini memungkinkan setiap versi dari aplikasi dapat ditinjau dengan pengguna untuk menghasilkan persyaratan dalam pembuatan versi berikutnya. Proses ini diulang sampai semua fungsionalitas selesai dikembangkan. Setiap siklus pengembangan memberikan pengguna kesempatan untuk memberikan umpan balik, memperbaiki persyaratan, dan kemajuan. Hasil dari pengujian didapatkan semua fungsionalitas yang terdapat di aplikasi prototype satu telah diperbaiki dan pada prototype ke-2 telah berjalan dengan baik serta bisa diterima oleh keseluruhan pengguna meskipun dengan sedikit perbaikan lagi yang akan dilakukan pada siklus pengembangan selanjutnya.
Implementasi Metode Naïve Bayes pada Sistem Rekomendasi Pembelian Mobil pada PT. Honda Prospect Motor
Authors: Guntara Alvin Syahputra
Published: September 2021

Perkembangan kehidupan modern saat ini sudah sangat mudah dalam transportasi. Hal itu disebabkan karena semakin tingginya kemajuan teknologi. Maka dari itu transportasi semakin banyak yang bisa digunakan seperti sepeda motor, mobil, bus, kereta api, pesawat dan lainnya. PT Honda Prospect Motor merupakan agen tunggal pemegang merek mobil honda di Indonesia yang telah banyak merilis tipe-tipe mobil seperti SUV, MVP, sedan, city car, hatchback dan lainnya. Hal tersebut membuat calon-calon pembeli sulit dan bingung dalam menemukan mobil yang sesuai dengan kriteria mereka. Proses pembuatan sistem rekomendasi ini dilakukan dengan menggunakan aplikasi pemrograman Microsoft Visual Basic .Net 2008 dan mengintegrasikan metode Naïve Bayes Classifier kedalam rancangan programnya. Setelah dilakukan perancangan dan pembuatan kode program, maka dihasilkan sebuah sistem rekomendasi. Sistem yang dibangun memilikil output penilaian yang sama dengan perhitungan manual di Bab IV sehingga dapat dikatakan program ini berhasil. Kelebihan program ini yaitu dapat melakukan perhitungan Naïve Bayes dengan sangat cepat walaupun data yang diproses cukup banyak jumlahnya. Hasil pengujian menyimpulkan bahwa metode Naïve Bayes dapat menyediakan rekomendasi mobil yang sesuai dengan kriteria yang digunakan.
Rancang Bangun Sistem Informasi Persediaan Material Produksi dan Operasional
Authors: Sudradjat Budi
Published: September 2021

Sistem Persediaan merupakan satu kegiatan pengolahan data barang yang ada dalam suatu perusahaan. Sistem pengolahan data persediaan yang masih konvensional menyebabkan data belum terarsip secara optimal. Pengolahan data persediaan bisa dipermudah dengan mengembangkan Sistem Informasi Persediaan berbasis komputer untuk menghindari adanya overdemand dan oversupply. Sistem yang telah dihasilkan ini memberkan informasi tentang persediaan barang, dengan menampilkan fitur data barang.permintaan barang,kategori barang,stok minimum barang dan permintaan barang. Sistem informasi persediaan ini berbasis client-server dengan memanfaatkan teknologi Local Area Network (LAN)
Sistem Pendukung Keputusan Pemilihan Sekolah Pindahan Terbaik Dengan Metode MOORA Pada Dinas Pendidikan Medan Utara
Authors: Astuti Ermayanti
Published: September 2021

Perlunya sekolah menerapkan penerapan artikel untuk pemilihan sekolah pindahan terbaik bagi siswa SMA merupakan hal yang sangat patut untuk dipertimbangkan. Untuk memenuhi kebutuhan tersebut akan dilakukan penelitian yang akan mencari solusi dengan membuat dan mendukung keputusan suatu artikel ilmiah, serta dapat memberikan rekomendasi output pemilihan sekolah pindahan yang sesuai untuk siswa SMA. Pemilihan tersebut membutuhkan beberapa kriteria antara lain nilai ekonomi, kemampuan belajar, waktu, dan peralatan. Metode yang digunakan dalam membangun sistem pendukung keputusan sekolah transfer terbaik bagi siswa sekolah menengah adalah Metode Optimasi Multi-Objektif On The Basic Of Ratio Analyst (MOORA). Hasil akhir yang diperoleh dari penelitian ini merupakan hasil keputusan akhir yang dapat membantu proses pemilihan sekolah pindahan terbaik untuk siswa SMA karena solusi pengambilan keputusan ini memberikan keluaran berupa rekomendasi dari nilai alternatif terbesar hingga terkecil dengan kriteria. yang akan ditentukan melalui metode MOORA. Sehingga dapat menghasilkan keputusan yang terbaik dan tepat dalam pemilihan sekolah pindahan terbaik yang diharapkan untuk siswa SMA.
Sistem Informasi Pendaftaran Siswa Baru pada SMA Harapan Jaya Berbasis Web
Authors: Ripandi Mohamad , Hidayat Rachmat , Budiarti Yusnia
Published: September 2021

Sistem informasi pendaftaran berbasis web adalah salah satu proses pendaftaran calon siswa melalui halaman website yang menggunakan media internet yang bertujuan untuk mendaftarkan diri untuk menjadi siswa disekolah tersebut. Pada pendaftaran calon siswa di SMA Harpan Jaya masih menggunakan manual dengan memberikan formulir atau brosur kepada calon siswa. Pihak sekolah mendata calon siswa menggunakan Microsoft word, dengan menggunakan microsoft word masih banyak kecurangan atau kehilangan data. Dengan permasalahan diatas, penulis membuatkan Sistem Informasi Pendaftaran Berbasis Web untuk mempermudah pihak sekolah dan calon siswa untuk proses pendaftaran dan tidak ada lagi kecurangan data kehilangan data. Penulis membuat website menggunakan PHP dan MySQL dengan menggunakan model Prototype. Hasil penelitian ini adalah sistem informasi pendaftaran siswa baru pada SMA Harapan Jaya berbasis web dapat memberikan kemudahan dalam proses pendaftaran dan waktu agar tidak membuang waktu untuk datang ke sekolah.
The Effect of “Brexit” Uncertainty on The FTSE 100 Index and The UK Pound
Authors: McCann Rory , Broby Daniel
Published: September 2021

We investigate the impact of the uncertainty surrounding the United Kingdom’s proposed departure from the European Community (“Brexit”) on financial assets. We conduct an event study around the November 14th 2018 draft withdrawal agreement. Our motivation was that the economic impact of the various political permutations that persisted throughout the negotiation period were both measurable and distinct. The probability of each Brexit scenario that was discussed varied over the political discourse. Using opinion poll data we investigate the event impact on both the FTSE 100 and the UK Pound. We found that, in accordance with existing academic evidence, asset prices discounted the weighted probabilistic economic impact of likely outcomes. We observe, however, that this impact was not as immediate as theory suggests. Interestingly, currency markets had the greater sensitivity. Our conclusions have important implications for the pricing of country risk premia in general and the European Union in particular. Key takeaways: 1) Asset prices were slow to discount the weighted probabilistic economic impact of Brexit risk. 2) Currency markets had the greater sensitivity to changes in Brexit risk. 3) Country risk premia can be impacted by perceived changes in custom union.
Analysis of sex difference in the tubular reabsorption of lithium in rats
Authors: Uwai Yuichi , Yamaguchi Riku , Nabekura Tomohiro
Published: September 2021

Lithium is used in the treatment of bipolar disorder. We previously demonstrated that two types of transporters mediate the tubular reabsorption of lithium in rats, and suggested that sodium-dependent phosphate transporters play a role in lithium reabsorption with high affinity. In the present study, we examined sex differences in lithium reabsorption in rats. When lithium chloride was infused at 60 µg/min, creatinine clearance and the renal clearance of lithium were lower, and the plasma concentration of lithium was higher in female rats. These values reflected the higher fractional reabsorption of lithium in female rats. In rats infused with lithium chloride at 6 µg/min, the pharmacokinetic parameters of lithium examined were all similar in both sexes. The fractional reabsorption of lithium was decreased by foscarnet, a representative inhibitor of sodium-dependent phosphate transporters, in male and female rats when lithium chloride was infused at the low rate. Among the candidate transporters mediating lithium reabsorption examined herein, the mRNA expression of only PiT2, a sodium-dependent phosphate transporter, exhibited sexual dimorphism. The present results demonstrated sex differences in the tubular reabsorption of lithium with low affinity in rats.
The Role of AMPK/mTOR Signaling Pathway in Anticancer Activity of Metformin
Authors: Chomanicova Nikola , Gazova Andrea , Adamickova Adriana , Valaskova Simona , Kyselovic Jan
Published: September 2021

Metformin (MTF) is a widely used drug for the treatment of diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2) and frequently used as an adjuvant therapy for polycystic ovarian syndrome, metabolic syndrome, and in some cases also tuberculosis. Its protective effect on the cardiovascular system has also been described. Recently, MTF was subjected to various analyzes and studies that showed its beneficial effects in cancer treatment such as reducing cancer cell proliferation, reducing tumor growth, inducing apoptosis, reducing cancer risk in diabetic patients, or reducing likelihood of relapse. One of the MTF’s mechanisms of action is the activation of adenosine-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Several studies have shown that AMPK/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway has anticancer effect in vivo and in vitro. The aim of this review is to present the anticancer activity of MTF highlighting the importance of the AMPK/mTOR pathway in the cancer process.
Portal hypertension is the main driver of liver stiffness in advanced liver cirrhosis
Authors: Lunova Mariia , Frankova Sona , Gottfriedova Halima , Senkerikova Renata , Neroldova Magdalena , Kovac Jozef , Kieslichova Eva , Lanska Vera , Sticova Eva , Spicak Julius , Jirsa Milan , Sperl Jan
Published: September 2021

Liver stiffness (LS) is a novel non-invasive parameter widely used in clinical hepatology. LS correlates with liver fibrosis stage in non-cirrhotic patients. In cirrhotic patients it also shows good correlation with Hepatic Venous Pressure Gradient (HVPG). Our aim was to assess the contribution of liver fibrosis and portal hypertension to LS in patients with advanced liver cirrhosis. Eighty-one liver transplant candidates with liver cirrhosis of various aetiologies underwent direct HVPG and LS measurement by 2D shear-wave elastography (Aixplorer Multiwave, Supersonic Imagine, France). Liver collagen content was assessed in the explanted liver as collagen proportionate area (CPA) and hydroxyproline content (HP). The studied cohort included predominantly patients with Child-Pugh class B and C (63/81, 77.8 %), minority of patients were Child-Pugh A (18/81, 22.2 %). LS showed the best correlation with HVPG (r=0.719, p<0.001), correlation of LS with CPA (r=0.441, p<0.001) and HP/Amino Acids (r=0.414, p< 0.001) was weaker. Both variables expressing liver collagen content showed good correlation with each other (r=0.574, p<0.001). Multiple linear regression identified the strongest association between LS and HVPG (p<0.0001) and weaker association of LS with CPA (p = 0.01883). Stepwise modelling showed minimal increase in r2 after addition of CPA to HVPG (0.5073 vs. 0.5513). The derived formula expressing LS value formation is: LS=2.48 + (1.29 x HVPG) + (0.26 x CPA). We conclude that LS is determined predominantly by HVPG in patients with advanced liver cirrhosis whereas contribution of liver collagen content is relatively low.
Activation of peripheral opioid κ1 receptor prevents cardiac reperfusion injury
Authors: Popov Sergey V. , Mukhomedzyanov Alexander V. , Tsibulnikov Sergey Y. , Khaliulin Igor , Oeltgen Peter R. , Rajendra Prasad N. , Maslov Leonid N.
Published: September 2021

The role of opioid κ1 and κ2 receptors in reperfusion cardiac injury was studied. Male Wistar rats were subjected to a 45-min coronary artery occlusion followed by a 120-min reperfusion. Opioid κ receptor agonists were administered intravenously 5 min before the onset of reperfusion, while opioid receptor antagonists were given 10 min before reperfusion. The average value of the infarct size/area at risk (IS/AAR) ratio was 43 – 48 % in untreated rats. Administration of the opioid κ1 receptor agonist (-)-U-50,488 (1 mg/kg) limited the IS/AAR ratio by 42 %. Administration of the opioid κ receptor agonist ICI 199,441 (0.1 mg/kg) limited the IS/AAR ratio by 41 %. The non-selective opioid κ receptor agonist (+)-U-50,488 (1 mg/kg) with low affinity for opioid κ receptor, the peripherally acting opioid κ receptor agonist ICI 204,448 (4 mg/kg) and the selective opioid κ2 receptor agonist GR89696 (0.1 mg/kg) had no effect on the IS/AAR ratio. Pretreatment with naltrexone, the peripherally acting opioid receptor antagonist naloxone methiodide, or the selective opioid κ receptor antagonist nor-binaltorphimine completely abolished the infarct-reducing effect of (-)-U-50,488 and ICI 199,441. Pretreatment with the selective opioid δ receptor antagonist TIPP[ψ] and the selective opioid µ receptor antagonist CTAP did not alter the infarct reducing effect of (-)-U-50,488 and ICI 199,441. Our study is the first to demonstrate the following: (a) the activation of opioid κ2 receptor has no effect on cardiac tolerance to reperfusion; (b) peripheral opioid κ1 receptor stimulation prevents reperfusion cardiac injury; (c) ICI 199,441 administration resulted in an infarct-reducing effect at reperfusion; (e) bradycardia induced by opioid κ receptor antagonists is not dependent on the occupancy of opioid κ receptor.
Electroacupuncture inhibits the interaction between peripheral TRPV1 and P2X3 in rats with different pathological pain
Authors: Liu Yingjun , Du Junying , Fang Junfan , Xiang Xuaner , Xu Yingling , Wang Sisi , Sun Haiju , Fang Jianqiao
Published: September 2021

Chronic pain is regarded to be one of the common and refractory diseases to cure in the clinic. One hundred Hz electroacupuncture (EA) is commonly used for inflammatory pain and 2 Hz for neuropathic pain possibly by modulating the transient receptor potential vanilloid subtype 1 (TRPV1) or the purinergic P2X3 related pathways. To clarify the mechanism of EA under various conditions of pathological pain, rats received a subcutaneous administration of complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) for inflammatory pain and spared nerve injury (SNI) for neuropathic pain. The EA was performed at the bilateral ST36 and BL60 1 d after CFA or SNI being successfully established for 3 consecutive days. The mechanical hyperalgesia test was measured at baseline, 1 d after model establishment, 1 d and 3 d after EA. The co-expression changes, co-immunoprecipitation of TRPV1 and P2X3, and spontaneous pain behaviors (SPB) test were performed 3 d after EA stimulation. One hundred Hz EA or 2Hz EA stimulation could effectively down-regulate the hyperalgesia of CFA or SNI rats. The increased co-expression ratio between TRPV1 and P2X3 at the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) in two types of pain could be reduced by 100Hz or 2Hz EA intervention. While 100Hz or 2Hz EA was not able to eliminate the direct physical interaction between TRPV1 and P2X3. Moreover, EA could significantly inhibit the SPB induced by the co-activation of peripheral TRPV1 and P2X3. All results indicated that EA could significantly reduce the hyperalgesia and the SPB, which was partly related to inhibiting the co-expression and indirect interaction between peripheral TRPV1 and P2X3.
Riboflavin Recovery of Spermatogenic Dysfunction via a Dual Inhibition of Oxidative Changes and Regulation of the PINK1-Mediated Pathway in Arsenic-Injured Rat Model
Authors: Olfati Ali , Tvrda Eva
Published: September 2021

Arsenic trioxide (As2O3) poisoning and associated potential lesions are of a global concern. Inversely, riboflavin (vitamin B2) as a component of flavoproteins could play a vital role in the spermatogenic enzymatic reactions. Thus, this research aimed to explore potential beneficial roles of vitamin B2 during As2O3-injured-toxicity. Rats were randomly allocated into 4 groups (n=8/group) and challenged as follows (for 30 days continuously): Group 1 received normal saline, Group 2 was treated with 3 mg/l As2O3, Group 3 received 40 mg/l vitamin B2, Group 4 received 3 mg/l As2O3 + 40 mg/l vitamin B2. Both As2O3 and vitamin B2 were dissolved in deionized water. Malondialdehyde (MDA), Glutathione Peroxidase (GSH-Px), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), and Catalase (CAT) were assessed for the oxidative profile, while TAS (Total Antioxidative Status) levels were evaluated for the antioxidant system, in both serum and testicular tissue. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. The results show that As2O3 significantly decreased the body weight, testicular weight and testis volume, semen quality and testicular cell count (p<0.05). Furthermore, MDA content in the testicular tissue of the As2O3 group rats was significantly higher in comparison to the vehicle group (p<0.05). Likewise, TAS and the activities of GSH-Px, CAT and SOD were reduced (p<0.05) when compared to the control. As2O3 induced testicular damage and seminiferous tubular atrophy. Monodansylcadaverine assays mirrored the histopathology observations. Meanwhile, As2O3 upregulated the expression of mitophagy-related genes including PINK1, Parkin, USP8, LC3-I, Fis1 and Mfn2. The p38 gene, responsible to stress stimuli, was also upregulated by As2O3 administration. Meanwhile, exposure to Vitamin B2 led to a significant decrease of the expression levels of mitophagy related genes. Our study revealed that vitamin B2 supplementation protected testicular structures against As2O3-induced injury via a dual inhibition of oxidative changes and a regulation of the PINK1-mediated pathway.
Feature Analysis: A Method for Analyzing the Role of Ideology in App Design
Authors: Hasinoff Amy A. , Bivens Rena
Published: September 2021

Many apps are designed to solve a problem or accomplish a task, such as managing a health condition, creating a to-do-list, or finding work. The solutions that app developers offer reflects how they believe that users and other stakeholders understand the problem. Each individual developer may have different ideas but analyzing many apps together can reveal the average or typical ways that developers in the set think about the problems that their apps are designed to solve. Building on content analysis, interface analysis, the concept of affordances, and speculative design, this article offers a new method that we call “feature analysis” to analyze what a set of apps designed to solve the same problem can tell us about the relationship between app design and ideology. By counting and classifying the features in a set of apps, feature analysis enables researchers to systematically answer questions about how app developers’ design choices reflect existing cultural norms, assumptions, and ideologies.
Impact of Nutrient Load Coming From Göksu River on the Northeastern Mediterranean
Authors: KILIÇ Ece , YÜCEL Nebil
Published: September 2021

Even though North-Eastern Mediterranean (NE Med) is classified as oligotrophic, inshore areas are highly eutrophic due to the discharge of silicate and nitrate-rich surface waters. Aim of this study was to investigate the nutrient load coming from the Göksu River and to estimate its impact on the river domain using satellite images. Monthly, average nitrite (NO2), nitrate (NO3), ammonium (NH4) and phosphate (PO4) load found to be varying between 0.07-31.2 ton/month, 15-1226 ton/month, 0.5-539 ton/month, 1-267 ton/month, respectively. Satellite images showed that surface chlorophyll–a (chl-a) in the river downstream had an increase in both winter and spring seasons as a result of intense precipitation; while, primary production at the offshore regions was mainly impacted by winter mixing and summer stratification. The highest chl-a concentration was observed at the river impacted zone and decreased by more than two folds at the offshore regions. Increased NO3 load observed during winter and spring leads to phytoplankton blooms in the river downstream. The high P content of Göksu River surface waters has increased the productivity at all seasons. As a consequence, correlation analysis showed significant relationship between surface chl-a concentration and PO4-NO3 load.
Yesus Sebagai Yang Sulung Lebih Utama Dari Yang Diciptakan
Authors: Siahaan Yosef Yunandow
Published: September 2021

Throughout the history of the church, from the early Church to the present, Christology has become the main topic of discussion, and it has often led to debates and even polemics for both the Church and those outside the church. The point of a long debate in the field of Christology is about Jesus as a creator or only as a creation. This study investigates this by using theological research, this study uses the exegesis method. The text that will be executed to provide evidence that Jesus was the Creator or creation is Colossians 1:15-20. Jehovah's Witnesses say that this text shows that Jesus was God's First creation. Whereas true Christians actually view this text as saying that Jesus is the Creator. The research used the exegesis method. The results show that Christ is the agent of creation. In building the understanding of the eldest word (Prototokos), it is not allowed to use the isolated text method. There are at least 2 meanings of this word, the first literal meaning is as the first born according to the order of time, and the second, the figurative meaning The eldest means the main, superior. Of course when looking at the context in Colossians 1:16-17, then Christ is not the first born according to chronological order, and comes from creation. Rather, He is the Creator, so it is not surprising that He is supreme or superior to all creation.

Abstrak Indonesia

Sepanjang sejarah gereja mulai dari Gereja mula-mula hingga kini Kristologi menjadi topik utama diskusi bahkan tak jarang menimbulkan perdebatan bahkan polemik baik bagi Gereja maupun kalangan di luar gereja. Yang menjadi titik perdebatan panjang dalam bidang Kristologi adalah Mengenai Yesus sebagai pencipta ataukah hanya sebagai ciptaan. Penelitian ini menyelidiki hal tersebut dengan menggunakan penelitian Teologi, penelitian ini menggunakan metode eksegesis. Teks yang akan dieksegesa guna untuk memberikan bukti Yesus adalah Pencipa atau ciptaan adalah Kolose 1:15-20. Saksi-saksi Yehuwa mengatakan bahwa teks ini menunjukkan bahwa Yesus adalah ciptaan Pertama dari Allah. Sedangkan Kristen sejati justru memandang teks ini mengatakan bahwa Yesus adalah Pencipta. Penelitian menggunakan metode eksegesis. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan Kristus adalah pelaku penciptaan. Dalam membangun pemahaman kata yang Sulung (Prototokos), tidak boleh menggunakan metode teks terisolasi. Paling tidak ada 2 makna dari kata ini, yang pertama makna literal adalah sebagai yang lahir pertama menurut urutan waktu, dan yang kedua, makna figuratif Yang sulung berarti yang utama, unggul. Tentu ketika melihat konteks dalam Kolose 1:16-17, maka Kristus bukanlah sang pertama lahir menurut urutan waktu, dan berasal dari ciptaan. Melainkan Ia adalah Pencipta, sehingga tidak mengherankan bahwa Ia adalah yang utama atau paling unggul di atas segala ciptaan.
Impacts of Ethanol Production and Drying Conditions on the Chemical, Physical, and Flowability Properties of Distillers Dried Grains With Solubles
Authors: Rosentrater Kurt A. , Zhang Yanhong , Wrenn Brian
Published: September 2021

The production of corn-based ethanol in the U.S. has dramatically increasied in recent years, and consequently so has the quantity of coproduct feed ingredients generated from this segment of the grain processing industry. These streams are almost exclusively utilized as livestock feed, which partially offsets the need for corn in feed rations, but other value-added applications do exist. Because of its use as an animal feed, considerable research has been conducted into the nutritional properties, but to a lesser extent the physical and flowability properties of commercially-produced distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS). There can be occasions when the quality of coproducts is not consistent. Thus questions regarding the influence of processing operations on the resulting coproduct characteristics must be examined. The objective of this research was to conduct extensive physical and flowability property analyses on DDGS samples which were produced under varying conditions in a pilot plant-scale ethanol plant, in order to investigate the effects of various manufacturing operations (specifically ethanol production and drying conditions) on the resulting properties of the DDGS. Using various laboratory methods, a variety of properties, including bulk density and angle of repose, were determined. DDGS fat content was highly correlated with aerated and packed bulk densities, which indicates that fat level plays a key role in flowability behavior. Future studies should examine this potential relationship in more depth, especially as the industry has moved to fat reduction via oil separation processes.
Developing Cost-Effective and High-Speed 40 Gbps FSO Systems Incorporating Wavelength and Spatial Diversity Techniques
Authors: Modalavalasa Satish Kumar , Miglani Rajan , Chaudhary Sushank , Tubbal Faisel , Raad Raad
Published: September 2021

Free-space optical (FSO) communication systems are being anticipated to offer promising alternatives to existing radio networks in delivering high-speed data access to end-users. Ease of installation, robust features, and cost-effective operation have been the hallmark of FSO systems, and these features will play an obvious role in deciding the ways in which futuristic smart communication models will operate. Despite these arrays of features, FSO links suffer severe performance degradation due to channel-induced impairments caused by atmospheric effects such as rain, haze, and fog. In this work, we have investigated and compared the performance of 40 Gbps FSO links for different channel conditions ranging from clear weather to severe attenuation by incorporating spatial and wavelength diversity as performance booster techniques. The use of an erbium-doped fiber amplifier (EDFA) with FSO links has also been proposed here. Using performance metrics like bit error rate (BER) and eye patterns, it has been found that the use of EDFA not only helps in compensating for the link losses but also aids in realizing an all-optical processing based last-mile access system. The proposed FSO system will be capable of bridging the existing backbone fiber networks with end-users with minimal changes to the existing hardware regime, thereby proving to be extremely cost-effective in sharp contrast to radio-frequency generations which require major infrastructure overhaul.
In-Wheel Two-Speed AMT with Selectable One-Way Clutch for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Meng Dele , Wang Fei , Wang Yuhai , Gao Bingzhao
Published: September 2021

To improve the efficiency of the electric vehicle (EV) drive systems and EV performance, the use of multi-speed transmissions and distributed drives has been studied extensively. In addition, to develop efficient and compact drive systems, new clutch solutions are needed. In this paper, we propose an in-wheel two-speed automatic mechanical transmission (IW-AMT) with a selectable one-way clutch (SOWC). The IW-AMT consists of a high-speed motor and a mechanical shift actuator, and it can realize shifting without power interruption, thus effectively reducing the unsprung mass and the technical specifications of the motor. We established a virtual prototype model of the IW-AMT to show the shifting process and evaluate the quality of shifting. The simulation results of the upshifting process indicated that the vehicle torque and velocity changed smoothly, and the maximum jerk is less than 10 m/s3. Furthermore, to improve the jerk induced by the downshifting process, we analyzed the momentary state of the SOWC struts that are dropped and attempted to improve the jerk from two aspects: improving the wet multi-plate clutch (WMPC) combination curve and improving the SOWC structure. The results indicated that the downshift-induced jerk can be reduced to 13 m/s3.
Effects of Cultivation Management on Pearl Millet Yield and Growth Differed with Rainfall Conditions in a Seasonal Wetland of Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Hirooka Yoshihiro , Awala Simon K. , Hove Kudakwashe , Nanhapo Pamwenafye I. , Iijima Morio
Published: September 2021

The production of pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.Br.) is important in Namibia, in sub-Saharan Africa, owing to the prevailing low precipitation conditions. Most fields supporting crop production in northern Namibia are located in a network of seasonal wetlands. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of ridging and fertilizer application on the yield and the growth of pearl millet in the seasonal wetlands under different rainfall conditions. The study was conducted for two years (2017–2018) in the experimental fields in northern Namibia, and yield, yield components, and growth parameters were evaluated in relation to the application of different fertilizers (manure and mineral) with and without ridge-furrows. Manure fertilizer application presented the highest yield in 2018, whereas mineral fertilizer application showed the highest yield in 2017. The proportion of rainfall was the highest during the mid-growth period in 2017, and the reproductive stage in 2018. Thus, pearl millet plants under manure fertilization overcame damage resulting from waterlogging stress during the seed setting stage by improving the soil and plant nutrient conditions. In contrast, the plants under mineral fertilization were more tolerant to large amounts of rain during the mid-growth period. In this study, yield was mainly determined by total dry weight, and it was closely related to panicle density in both years. Therefore, we concluded that fertilizer application, including additional fertilizer based on the growth diagnostic, could be important for improving crop production in seasonal wetlands.
The Research of Standardized Protocols for Dog Involvement in Animal-Assisted Therapy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Santaniello Antonio , Garzillo Susanne , Cristiano Serena , Fioretti Alessandro , Menna Lucia Francesca
Published: September 2021

Dogs are considered the most important species involved in animal-assisted therapy (AAT), and the scientific literature focuses on the benefits linked to the involvement of dogs in various therapeutic areas. In this study, we carried out a systematic review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, exploring the scientific literature from the last 5 years (2016–2021) on three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) to highlight the characteristics of the dogs involved in AATs. Based on the scientific literature relevant to such dogs, we considered different parameters (i.e., number, age, sex, breed, temperament, methods of choice and training, health status, research goals, and activities with dogs) to include studies in our paper. After screening 4331 papers identified on the searched databases, we selected 38 articles that met the inclusion criteria. Analysis of the included articles showed that the characteristics of the dogs were neglected. Our findings indicated a lack of information about the dogs, as well as the absence of standardized and univocal criteria for dog selection, training programs, and health protocols.
Effects of Intensive and Semi-Intensive Production on Sheep Milk Chemical Composition, Physicochemical Characteristics, Fatty Acid Profile, and Nutritional Indices
Authors: Kasapidou Eleni , Basdagianni Zoitsa , Papadopoulos Vasileios , Karaiskou Chrysoula , Kesidis Anastasios , Tsiotsias Arsenios
Published: September 2021

Dairy sheep farming is a vital sector of the agricultural economy in Greece. Information on the effect of the farming system on sheep milk characteristics is critical for producing dairy products with improved nutritional value according to the current guidelines for healthy food consumption. This study aimed to investigate the basic composition, physicochemical characteristics, fatty acid composition, and nutritional indices of milk produced in intensive and semi-intensive sheep farms. Bulk tank milk samples from 20 intensive and 20 semi-intensive sheep farms were examined. Sheep in the intensive farms were kept indoors and were fed with roughage, silage, and concentrates. Sheep in the semi-intensive farms were kept indoors during the night and were moved to the pastures during the day. Sheep were fed with roughage, silage, and concentrates in combination with grazing. Milk composition and somatic cell count were determined with automatic analyzers. The physicochemical characteristics were determined with standard laboratory methods. The fatty acid composition was analyzed by gas chromatography. The farming system did not affect milk chemical composition and physicochemical characteristics. However, milk fatty acid composition and nutritional value were significantly improved in milk from farms using the semi-intensive production system, and this favorable effect was attributed to the inclusion of pasture in sheep diet.
Antioxidant Activity and Polyphenols Characterization of Four Monovarietal Grape Pomaces from Salento (Apulia, Italy)
Authors: Negro Carmine , Aprile Alessio , Luvisi Andrea , De Bellis Luigi , Miceli Antonio
Published: September 2021

The wine industry annually produces millions of tons of by-products rich in polyphenolic compounds that can be reused as secondary raw material in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. The purpose of this work was to describe the presence of nutraceutical compounds and to evaluate the antioxidant activity of pomaces from three Apulian (South Italy, Italy) grape varieties (Negroamaro, Malvasia di Lecce and Primitivo) and to compare them with one of the most cultivated wines in Europe (Cabernet Sauvignon). The main classes of polyphenolic substances were characterized via high performance liquid chromatography/diode array detector/mass spectrometer time of flight (HPLC/DAD/TOF) and the antioxidant activity was evaluated with three different methods. The four investigated grape marcs have shown different polyphenols and antioxidant activities. Primitivo marc showed the higher antioxidant activity due to the excellent level of polyphenols, followed by the Negroamaro cultivar. In addition, marcs from traditional Apulian vines showed higher antioxidant activities than Cabernet Sauvignon because of an elevated level of active polyphenolic substances such as catechin, epicatechin, quercetin and its derivatives.
In Vivo Brain GSH: MRS Methods and Clinical Applications
Authors: Bottino Francesca , Lucignani Martina , Napolitano Antonio , Dellepiane Francesco , Visconti Emiliano , Rossi Espagnet Maria Camilla , Pasquini Luca
Published: September 2021

Glutathione (GSH) is an important antioxidant implicated in several physiological functions, including the oxidation−reduction reaction balance and brain antioxidant defense against endogenous and exogenous toxic agents. Altered brain GSH levels may reflect inflammatory processes associated with several neurologic disorders. An accurate and reliable estimation of cerebral GSH concentrations could give a clear and thorough understanding of its metabolism within the brain, thus providing a valuable benchmark for clinical applications. In this context, we aimed to provide an overview of the different magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) technologies introduced for in vivo human brain GSH quantification both in healthy control (HC) volunteers and in subjects affected by different neurological disorders (e.g., brain tumors, and psychiatric and degenerative disorders). Additionally, we aimed to provide an exhaustive list of normal GSH concentrations within different brain areas. The definition of standard reference values for different brain areas could lead to a better interpretation of the altered GSH levels recorded in subjects with neurological disorders, with insights into the possible role of GSH as a biomarker and therapeutic target.
Plasma Concentrations and Maternal-Umbilical Cord Plasma Ratios of the Six Most Prevalent Carotenoids across Five Groups of Birth Gestational Age
Authors: McConnell Chelsey , Thoene Melissa , Van Ormer Matthew , Furtado Jeremy D. , Korade Zeljka , Genaro-Mattos Thiago C. , Hanson Corrine , Anderson-Berry Ann
Published: September 2021

Carotenoids are antioxidant nutrients with the potential to provide protection against oxidative stress. Plasma carotenoid concentrations are lower in newborn infants compared to their mothers; however, limited information is available regarding how concentrations differ by gestational age. The objective of this research is to assess maternal and umbilical cord plasma carotenoid concentrations and maternal-umbilical cord plasma ratios across five groups of birth gestational age. Mother-infant dyads were enrolled at delivery for collection of maternal and umbilical cord blood. Plasma carotenoids were analyzed by HPLC and LC-MS/MS. Birth gestational age was categorized into five groups, and the Kruskal–Wallis test compared carotenoid concentrations and maternal-umbilical cord plasma ratios between these groups. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. 370 mother-infant dyads were included, with most infants delivered at early term (20.3%) or term (64.6%). Though maternal plasma concentrations increased with birth gestational age, we observed less variability in umbilical cord plasma concentrations, thus the maternal-umbilical cord plasma ratio also increased with birth CGA groups for lutein + zeaxanthin (p = 0.008), β-cryptoxanthin (p = 0.027), α-carotene (p = 0.030); β-carotene approached significance (p = 0.056). Additional research is needed to determine if carotenoid concentrations were physiologic to varying gestational ages or if they were impacted by factors associated with preterm birth.