bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IMPACT OF LOGISTICS ON THE FINANCIAL RESULTS OF THE COMPANY
Authors:   Odessa National Maritime University, Navrozova Yuliia
Published: April 2022

The purpose of the article is to assess the impact of logistics decisions on the company's financial results. To achieve the goal in the course of the study, the follo-wing tasks were set and solved: logistics costs were analyzed by their structure, financial results of leading Ukrainian logistics companies, it was proposed to evaluate the effectiveness of logistics solutions using return on assets (ROA) and return on investment (ROI) indicators, and a factorial analysis of ROA and ROI according to the Dupont model.Global logistics costs exceeded 9,3 trillion USD. Ukraine has a high value of 18%, which characterizes the logistics system negatively. The most significant logistics costs are associated with transportation (60% in 2020), inventory costs (23%) and warehousing (11%).The Ukrainian logistics market leaders in terms of gross income are DP Kuehne & Nagel, DP DSV Logistics and DP FM Logistic Ukraine.The financial aspects of making management decisions by logistics companies are maximizing net profit, positive cash flow, improving the use of fixed and working capital.Without reducing the importance and role of the profit indicator, we note that it can often be more effective to use investments, borrowed capital in order to increase the turnover of investments (capital) and, as a result, to increase profitability.It is also recommended to assess the impact of logistics on the company's perfor-mance using the return on assets (ROA) and return on investment (ROI) indicators.In terms of ROA, among the analyzed companies, the leaders were DP Kuehne & Nagel with an indicator of 25,2% and DP Logistic Plus with a value of 20,8%. Interes-tingly, at the same time, LLC Zammler Ukraine (18,12%) was the leader in terms of pro-fitability of sales, and SE DSV Logistics (5,71) in terms of asset turnover ratio.It is advisable to supplement the analysis with factor analysis, that is, an assessment of the influence of factors on the profitability of assets.It is advisable to supplement the analysis with factor analysis, that is, an asses-sment of the influence of factors of return onsales and asset turnover on the return on assets.Keywords:logistics costs, logistics company, profit, return on assets, return on investment.
MODERN FACTORS OF IMPACT ON THE PORT INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT
Authors:   Odessa National Maritime University, Shcherbyna Veronika , Gis Sergey ,   Odessa National Maritime University
Published: April 2022

Modern trends in the development of the world transport market and the port industry necessitate the acceleration of Ukrainian sea trade ports development taking into account the modern role of port activities for the national economy and the processes of integration into the world economic system.Currently, the port industry is undergoing significant changes under the influence of vari-ous factors, which is characterized by constant changes in maritime trade and logistics supply chains, market conditions, etc. If earlier the changes in the port industry were mainly technologi-cal, in recent years the changes taking place at the port enterprises cover all spheres of their func-tioning.The port sector faces not only the immediate challenges posed by the COVID-2019 pan-demic, but other factors that have a long-term impact on the industry, ranging from changes in supply chains and globalization to changes in the way port businesses are managed and in cargo handling technologies, and also increasing trends in greening and digitalization of port activities.Changes in the traditional activities of port enterprises are associated with a whole range of demographic, technological and environmental factors that form a number of important trends. As port authorities, port operators, regulators and other stakeholders are involved in adding value to the port, they need to understand what changes are taking place in the port industry today and what the implications are.The article researches the factors influencing the development of the port industry in modern conditions in the world and in Ukraine, identifies the main problems and directions for the further development of port enterprises.In modern conditions, there have been significant changes in the Ukrainian port industry, which manifested itself in the transformation of seaports − in fact, they have become waters and specialized areas, rather than state-owned enterprises, as before. A new concept of «port operator» has emerged, which equates public and private stevedoring companies. In addition, the port industry of both Ukraine and the world is influenced by various external factors that deter-mine the further direction of port enterprises development and the industry as a whole.Keywords: port industry, COVID-19 pandemic, globalization, logistics, consolidation, digi-talization.
ЕКОНОМІЧНА БЕЗПЕКА ПІДПРИЄМСТВА ЯК ФАКТОР ЗАБЕЗПЕЧЕННЯ ЕФЕКТИВНОСТІ ЗОВНІШНЬОЕКОНОМІЧНОЇ ДІЯЛЬНОСТІ
Authors:   Flight Academy of the National Aviation University, Bondar Iuliia , Doroshenko Tatiana ,   Flight Academy of the National Aviation University
Published: April 2022

The article proves that the importance of foreign economic activity for domestic enterprises and the need to ensure their economic security determine the urgency of the transition to security-oriented management of foreign economic activity. The essence of the concept of «economic security» is analyzed and it is determined that it is a rather broad concept that should be considered as a process of more efficient use of its production and economic resources and entrepreneurial capabilities. set goals and objectives in accordance with his chosen development stra-tegy. The level of economic security of the enterprise is studied and it is determined that it depends on how effectively its management and specialists will be able to avoid possible threats and eliminate the harmful effects of certain negative components of the external and internal environment. It is determined that the purpose of economic security of the enterprise is to guarantee its stable and most efficient operation in the present and high potential for future development. The mechanism of economic security management, which depends on the scope of the enterprise, providing corporate resources and opportunities to implement basic measures to maintain its proper level as a whole and its main structural elements, as well as the mechanism of economic security of foreign economic activity is an effective element of economic security. The list of tools (models) for ensu-ring the economic security of foreign economic activity, which relate to the mechanism of economic security management of foreign economic activity of the enterprise. The place of economic security of entrepreneurship in the security system of the national economy is determined.It should be noted that the universal tools to ensure a high level of economic security of the enterprise include: organizational and managerial measures, technical support, control and systematic monitoring of indicators of its individual structural elements and economic security of the enterprise as a whole. Keywords: enterprise management, economic security, foreign economic activity, instruments of the mechanism of economic security, models.
IMMUNOMODULATORY EFFECT OF INDONESIAN PROPOLIS IN PREGNANT MICE: A PRELIMINARY RESULT
Authors: Fikri Al Mukhlas , Sulaeman Ahmad , Marliyati Sri Anna , Fahrudin Mokhamad , Handharyani Ekowati
Published: April 2022

Propolis has been widely accepted to exhibit immunomodulatory activity. However, the activity during pregnancy has not been investigated yet. This study was a preliminary study that aimed to analyze the effect of several types of Indonesian propolis on the histological changes of maternal mice spleen. A total of 25 pregnant mice were divided into 5 groups, control (1% Tween 80) group, low (380 mg/kg) and high dose (1400 mg/kg) ethanol extract of South Sulawesi propolis groups, and low (380 mg/kg) and high dose (1400 mg/kg) water extract of Banten propolis groups. Propolis samples were administered daily during pregnancy. At day 18 of gestation, the mice were sacrificed to obtain spleen which was used for histological evaluation using hematoxylin and eosin staining. The number and diameter of white pulp were observed under the 10x magnifying of microscope. The results showed that all propolis extracts at low dose significantly increased the number of white pulp (p < 0.05). However, an increase in the diameter was found not significant in all propolis administered groups. This study suggests that Indonesian propolis may modulate maternal immune system.
Effect of silica on the mechanical properties of palm kernel shell based automotive brake pad
Authors: Adetunji Olayide R. , Adedayo Ayodele M. , Ismailia Salami O. , Dairo Olawale U. , Okediran Iliyas K. , Adesusi Olanrewaju M.
Published: April 2022

This research investigated the role of silica on palm kernel shell (PKS) as friction lining materials in automotive brake pad production. The friction materials were crushed, milled and sieved into four different particle sizes of 100, 150, 200 and 350 µm. The formulations weight percentages employed included Resin (20%), steel slag (15%) and carbon black (5%) while palm kernel shell and silica were varied for each particle size. Individual formulation was mixed for about 10 minutes until formation of homogeneous mixture.  Homogeneous formulation A, B, C and D respectively, was compacted into mould and later sintered at 150 oC for 10 minutes in electric furnace and subsequently treated to enhance quality. Produced samples were characterized and evaluated for surface hardness (SH), compressive strength (CS), flame resistance (FR), oil absorption (OA), water absorption (WA) and wear rate (WR). The particles were also characterized using Scanning Electron Microscope. The results revealed that sample D had highest SH and CS values of 105.5 Brinell hardness number (BHN) and 115.2 N/mm2 respectively with decreasing values as particle size increases. FR decreased from samples A to D, and also decreased as particle size increased. Deductively, Sample B with the sieved grade of 100 µm was the best with SH as 99.14 BHN, CS as 105.6 N/mm2, WR as 4.15%, FR as 38.98%, and WA rate as 4.26 % and CF as 0.45 and OA rate as 0.381%. Conclusively, this research developed a high quality eco-friendly PKS particle composite for the production of brake pad.
Mini cold storage using the parabolic solar trough: An appropriate technology for perishable agricultural product
Authors: Yadav Janella Siddhartha , Shirisha Korakana , Rao Chinthada Manikanteswar
Published: April 2022

Limited storage of perishable agricultural products is a common problem for small-scale farmers. Therefore, our approach for this problem is to develop a low operating cost mini cold storage using solar energy. The integration of solar thermal energy with vapor absorption refrigeration systems was studied. In vapor absorption systems, heat energy is taken as the source of input energy and the performance characteristics depend on heat energy supplied and pump work used. The novelty of our project is that it uses a parabolic solar heat collector to run a vapor absorption refrigeration system using heat energy extracted from solar energy. In this cyclic process, the refrigerating effect is produced. By utilizing this mini cold storage system, tomatoes can be stored for four weeks whereas, with room temperature storage, it only lasts one week. This appropriate technology promises small-scale farmers to keep their perishable agricultural products for several weeks without additional storage costs.
Alternative fuels for transportation sector in Indonesia
Authors: Setiyo Muji
Published: April 2022

Only a few countries in the world have rich energy resources like Indonesia which owns practically all-natural energy resources, including biological resources. Japan, a country renowned for its technological advancements, lacks sufficient land to cultivate crops used as raw materials for biofuels. Several countries near the north pole, do not expose to sunlight throughout the year like Indonesia, which impacted to development of solar energy to provide electricity. Therefore, this short article reviews the three main energy sources available in Indonesia for the transportation sector, which include: natural gas and coal as new energy sources; natural energy for electricity and hydrogen supply, and energy from biological sources.
Designing A National Model of Medical Facilities Fair Distribution for Iranian Social Security Organization
Authors: Nasiripour Amir Ashkan , Naelbafroui Ebrahim , Komeili Ali , Riahi Leila , Hajinabi Kamran
Published: April 2022

Background: Fair Distribution of Medical Facilities is one of the most critical issues affecting economic and health indicators. Due to the significant role of ISSO in meeting the medical needs and its high coverage (almost 42%) in Iran, we aimed to identify the factors influencing medical facilities' fair distribution in the ISSO. Materials and Methods: This applied study was conducted as a descriptive study in the ISSO in 2018. Variables affecting medical facilities distribution were elicited from the literature review and through an interview with 16 experts who were occupied in the healthcare management field. Then, a Likert scale-based questionnaire with 56 items in 7 sections was developed. Questionnaires were distributed among 456 person received questionnaires, and 415 responded to all questions. All participants were experts in the healthcare section of the ISSO all over the country. Data were analyzed via exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis and structural equations using SPSS 23 and AMOS-24 software. Results: By exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, seven main factors (demographic factors, geographical factors, functional factors, structural factors, humanistic factors, economic factors, and Contract parties factors) were identified as critical factors affecting medical facilities distribution. Each aspect included many components. AMOS software showed the significance of variables by P-value and critical ratio (CR) indices to analyze the conceptual model of the research. Function factors with standard coefficients of 0.85 had the most, and economic factors with a standard coefficient of 0.53 had a minor effect on the distribution of medical facilities in the ISSO. Conclusion: To have a more efficient medical facilities distribution in the ISSO must consider all identified factors, special attention should be given to the maximum use of available medical facilities. Furthermore, more attention should be paid to distributing human resources, finance, and medical equipment.
Male homosexual trainee students vigilated in a Center of Childhood Education
Authors: Graupe Mareli Eliane , Pereira Josilaine Antunes , Locks Geraldo Augusto
Published: April 2022

In this paper, we analyzed the discourse of homosexual trainee students, in a Center of Childhood Education, in Brazil. Theoretical references, in the field of educational studies, gender and diversity, were used to execute the investigation. It is a qualitative research based on the method of case study. We verified that in this context, the presence of homosexuals pressure the relations of gender in the field of childhood education, challenging the deconstruction of models of men who are not able to take care of children. It is considered important the discussion about gender, teaching and sexual diversity, both in the initial education as in the in-service training of the professionals working in this area, looking forward to the paradigm of an inclusive, democratic and citizen education.
Cryptography as an educational tool in counting techniques for high school
Authors: Vidal Sávia Cristina , Capri Maria da Rosa , Romão Estaner Claro
Published: April 2022

This paper aims to analyze the feasibility of implementing a didactic sequence for the teaching and learning process of Combinatorial Analysis, using Cryptography as an educational tool for High School. For this, a project was applied in the second semester of 2017, lasting 26 class hours, in a class of the 2nd year of high school, composed of 22 students from a public school in the interior of São Paulo State - Brazil. This teaching proposal appropriated Didactic Engineering as a Research methodology, which enabled the development of a didactic sequence. This in turn was divided into six steps, which approached counting techniques, without the use of formulas, through the encryption of binary numbers, Caesar's code and the encryption present in the film: The Da Vinci Code. This study was exposed by students participating in the project at the school's Science Fair. In order to analyze the learning evolution of the participating students, a pre-test and a post-test were applied, which presented a satisfactory evolution in the students learning. It was also possible to realize, during the project application, the improvement and development of the skills of: teamwork, self-confidence, oratory, time management and autonomy in the pursuit of knowledge.
Innovation and intellectual property system
Authors: Silva Marina Bezerra da , Camargo Maria Emília , Santana José Ricardo de
Published: April 2022

Developing a resilient infrastructure, inclusive and sustainable industrialization and fostering innovation correspond to one of the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations (SDG/UN), notably the ninth. However, meeting this result, in the case of developing countries such as Brazil, seems complex, demanding a review of the organization of industrial and innovation systems. Based on that, this study analyzes the panorama of Science, Technology and Innovation in Brazil (ST&I), through indicators. Then, a conceptual framework is presented with suggestions for planning and organizing an innovation and intellectual property system. The analysis of the country's indicators revealed some important challenges in the area of ST&I, such as the need to improve the financing process and better adhesion of national companies to the system of protection of their intellectual property. Additionally, the framework presented a series of suggestive actions for the system's actors, based on 05 main functions: Regulatory, Coordination, Protection of Intellectual Property, Promotion and Production and Operationalization of Knowledge.
Perception of Health Care Workers Regarding Ludic Activities in Pediatric Hospitals
Authors: Lima Antonio José Araújo , Chahini Thelma Helena Costa
Published: April 2022

Infant hospitalization is a difficult process for a developing child because it is related to a series of losses and trauma. In this sense, ludic treatment contributes to ease hospital permanence, thus favoring child development and, in certain aspects, even the cure. The sense of life finitude afflicts the child, the family, and those that accompany it during hospitalization. In this context, the perceptions of workers composing the multidisciplinary health care team regarding the application of ludic activities in pediatric public hospitals in São Luís/MA were investigated. Therefore, a descriptive exploratory research was carried out in two hospitals that had a pediatric treatment macrostructure within their functional dependencies with all medical and complementary specialties available for the infant public, thus comprising a multidisciplinary health team. Participants comprised 8 workers (2 doctors, 2 nurses, 2 psychologists and 2 occupational therapists), including 6 women and 2 men with an average of 6 years of professional experience in pediatric hospitals. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. Results indicated that ludic activities are relevant for children socialization and integration in the hospitalization reality. The health care workers from the multidisciplinary health team emphasize that ludic such activities in pediatric hospitals contribute to the child’s health recovery and therefore to the pathology treatment.
CORRELATION BETWEEN SCIENTIFIC PRODUCTION, R&D, INNOVATION AND PATENTS IN THE FUNCTIONAL FOOD SCENARIO
Authors: Meneses Thiago Silva Conceição , Meneses Michele Santos , Santos Taís Letícia de Oliveira , Luiza Araújo Tavares da Silva Flávia , Antonio Belmino dos Santos João , Uchôa Fábio Oliveira , Oliveira Juliana Maria Freitas de , Silva Souza Diego
Published: April 2022

Patent filing is considered an index of a country's industrial development, it contributes to the strengthening of research, innovation and production of technological knowledge, that is, patents are considered relevant indicators to assess the country's ability to transform scientific knowledge into products or technological innovations. Thus, the study aimed to investigate whether scientific advancement, R&D and innovation in research institutions or companies are linked to the evolution of the quantity of patent filings in the area of functional food production. The methodology had a descriptive and quantitative nature, in relation to the study variables, they were obtained as follows: a) Patent variable was obtained from Espacenet; b) Scientific articles obtained from the Web of Science (WOS) database; c) The data on the variables (Innovation Index) were obtained by accessing the countryeconomy.com website; d) The variables (Manufactured Value Added, R&D, High Technology Exports) obtained from The World Bank DATA database. The data collection of the variables began in January/2021 and ended on March 22, 2021. To identify the correlation of these variables, Spearman's correlation coefficient was used, and for a better interpretation of the data and answers, the research hypotheses were analyzed from the scatter plot using the logarithmic transformation of the patent variable. The results and discussion showed a weak correlation ρ = 0.3038 between scientific production (articles) x patent filing aimed at the production of functional foods; positive correlation and a moderate degree (ρ = 0.6413) regarding investments in research and development x patent filing and a positive and weak correlation (ρ = 0.2903) regarding the innovation index x quantitative patents. In the final considerations, it is essential that governments provide the right and necessary incentives to foster the development and dissemination of ideas by the private sector whose objective is to promote a political, economic and institutional environment that encourages companies to invest in science, technology, R&D, intellectual property and innovation.
FREE SOFTWARE
Authors: Borges Toni A. R.
Published: April 2022

Technological advances are present in different segments of society and, in education, social transformations are consolidated as an important element for technical, human and political development, for that, it is necessary to dialogue with technologies that converge to the same look, in this sense. , Free Software represents an advance in this perception of collaborative movement, acting as a link to a scenario that represents the sum of all knowledge in the teaching versus learning relationship. This model used in Free Software, which prioritizes the subject in the construction of knowledge, constitutes an important ally for the consolidation of the elements present in the spaces of education, whether due to the cultural diversity resulting from the existing relations between the production communities, whether by the amount of existing technological resources in the different areas of knowledge and for the different levels of education. The graphic representation, supported by the theory of networks, about the existing relationships between the different areas of knowledge and the various levels of education on the quantity of software cataloged in the database of the Blog Software Livre na Educação (BSLE) of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), although not exhausted by the present study, presents itself as an important analysis tool for discussions that dialogue with this theme, and which aims, in addition to bringing the reader closer to the theme, a computational model on the elements present in these relationships, contributing to the analysis of potentialities and specific needs in each area, especially in the educational context.
Hospital effluent care with ozone for inactivation of potentially pathogenic bacteria
Authors: Oliveira Martha Naves de , Kozusny-Andreani Dora Inés , Ramos Rogério Rodrigo
Published: April 2022

Hospital effluents are characterized as possible vehicles for the dissemination of numerous pathogenic microorganisms and other contaminants and, when left untreated, represent a potential risk to man and the environment. The objective of this research was to evaluate the presence of arable pathogenic microorganisms present and to verify the efficacy of ozone in the disinfection of effluents from a public hospital in the city of Uberlandia-MG. Hospital effluent collections were performed at two points, with a distance of 200 m: the first point, from the Emergency Room, wards, intensive care unit, surgical center and laboratory and the second point, hemodialysis, kitchen, laundry and clothing. Sampling was performed for three months. The samples were evaluated for the presence of total mesophiles, total and thermotolerant coliforms, Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. The effluent was treated with ozone for different periods of time. The presence of mesophiles, coliforms, Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. was verified in both effluents and in all months of evaluation. Ozone was effective in decontamination of hospital effluent, requiring 20 minutes to eliminate bacterial load.
PENGARUH MODEL PEMBELAJARAN TEAMS GROUP TOURNAMENT (TGT) DENGAN MENGGUNAKAN MEDIA TEKA-TEKI SILANG (TTS) TERHADAP HASIL BELAJAR SISWA KELAS XI IPA SMA MUHAMMADIYAH BATAM
Authors: Sari Nurhaty Purnama , Della Sahika , Agustina Fenny
Published: April 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk melihat Pengaruh Model Pembelajaran Team Games Tournament (TGT) Menggunakan Media Teka-Teki Silang Terhadap Hasil Belajar Siswa. Jenis penelitian ini pre eksperimen. Bentuk desain yaitu the one group pretest posttest desain. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah  hanya kelas XI IPA, sampel penelitian menggunakan teknik sampling jenuh. Teknik penggumpulan data menggunakan soal objektif pilihan berganda sebelum pembelajaran dimulai dan berakhirnya proses pembelajaran. Uji prasyarat analisis dilakukan dengan uji normalitas dan uji homogenitas. Uji normalitas menggunaka uji kolmogorov smirnov yang diperoleh data berdistribusi normal asymp.sig (2-tailed) 0,193 > 0,05. Uji homogenitas menunjukkan data homogen karena nilai signifikan 0,086 > 0,05. Setelah itu dilanjutkan dengan uji prasayat paired t-test dengan nilai sig.(2-tailed) 0,000<0,05 sehingga Ho ditolak dan Ha diterima. Berdasarkan hasil uji hipotesis dapat disimpulkan terdapat pengaruh penggunaan model pembelajaran team games tournament (TGT) menggunakan media teka-teki silang terhadap hasil belajar siswa kelas XI IPA SMA Muhammadiyah Batam.
Qatar: Evidence of the Palaeolithic Earliest People Revealed
Authors: Julie Scott-Jackson
Published: April 2022

Qatar: Evidence of the Palaeolithic Earliest People Revealed, with full text in both English and Arabic, tells the story of the long and difficult search to discover the identity of the first people to inhabit the sovereign State of Qatar, which is situated on a peninsula, that extends into the Arabian Gulf. The book synthesises the results of extensive fieldwork by the PADMAC Unit with the many diverse historical records and reports of investigations, beginning with Holgar Kapel’s, in the early 1950s.

The archaeology of the State of Qatar is an important part of the cultural heritage of the world. The loss of archaeological sites to urban and industrial development since the 1950s has been inevitable but the loss of over 30 years of Palaeolithic research in Qatar, an area of prehistoric significance, as a result of academic dissension, is certainly regrettable. The work of the PADMAC Unit in Qatar now marks the end of this Palaeolithic research hiatus.
Acute Venom Toxicity Determinations for Five Iranian Vipers and a Scorpion
Authors:   Department of Basic Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. Mashhad, Iran., Fathi Behrooz , Younesi Fatemeh ,   Department of Basic Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. Mashhad, Iran., Salami Fatemeh ,   Department of Basic Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. Mashhad, Iran.
Published: April 2022

Background: Poisoning due to the bites and stings of venomous snakes and scorpions is a neglected public health problem, particularly in rural areas. Poor health facilities and inadequate knowledge of health care personnel are the major factors that result in envenomated human victims not receiving adequate care and medical attention. There is a great need for up-to-date and effective healthcare knowledge and awareness of the potency and lethality of venomous creatures in Iran. Assessment of the potency, acute toxicity, and lethal effects of venomous creatures come from a variety of specific tests, such as the 50% median lethal dose (LD50) and ample animal experimentations. Methods: In the present study, using modified Reed-Muench method, the LD0, LD50, and LD100 values of the venoms from five Iranian vipers and one scorpion were determined. The studied venomous creatures were: Macrovipera lebetina, Vipera albicornuta, Vipera raddei, Caucasicus intemedius agkistrodon, Montivipera latifii, and one scorpion Hemiscorpius lepturus. The venoms were injected in Albino mice (n=204) intraperitoneally, and their toxicities determined. Results: The results revealed that the LD50 values of the above-mentioned creatures were 3.87, 2.05, 1.63, 1.45, 0.84, and 6.33 mg/kg, respectively. Among the vipers, M. latifii had the most potent venom while M. lebetina’s venom had the lowest toxicity. Conclusion: Theoretically, the determined LD50 values provide for objective comparisons of the toxicity among of the venoms. However, comparison becomes complicated due to variations in the venoms’ LD50. Further, based on the venoms’ toxicity levels, H. lepturus’ venom caused the lowest toxicity in the Albino mice.
The Oxidative Stress of Mercaptan Odorant Due to Occupational Exposure: Adverse Effects on the Cholinergic System
Authors:   Department of Occupational Health, Engineering and Safety, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran., Zendehdel Rezvan , Ghoreyshi Shirin Seyed ,   Department of Occupational Health, Engineering and Safety, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran., Rajabi Fatemeh ,   Department of Occupational Health, Engineering and Safety, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran., Amini Zohreh ,   Department of Research and Development, Chaharmahal & Bakhtiyari Province Gas Company, Shahr-e-kord, Iran., Mahdian Dehkordi Majid ,   Department of Research and Development, Chaharmahal & Bakhtiyari Province Gas Company, Shahr-e-kord, Iran., Nouri Parkestani Hakimeh ,   Department of Research and Development, Chaharmahal & Bakhtiyari Province Gas Company, Shahr-e-kord, Iran.
Published: April 2022

Background: Tert-butyl mercaptan is one of the frequently used odorants derived from natural gases. It has been declared as a health hazard by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the USA. There is not much information available about the mercaptans long-term toxicity secondary to occupational exposure. This study was conducted to evaluate the oxidative stress caused by mercaptan odorant. Methods: The inhalation exposure of 80 maintenance workers in a gas industry was evaluated, using NIOSH 2542 and samples analyzed by gas chromatography mass spectroscopy. Also, the administrative staff were selected as the unexposed workers with matching age and work experience compared to the exposed subjects. The lipid peroxidation and ferric reducing plasma ability (FRAP), was evaluated as oxidative stress biomarkers. The acetylcholinesterase activity was also assessed for the neurological risks. Results: The tert-butyl mercaptan exposure was evaluated at average 0.01 ppm (0.005 to 0.15 ppm). There was oxidative stress in maintenance workers along with a significant increase in the lipid peroxidation, and a decrease in FRAP level (P=0.0001). The acetyl cholinesterase activity was decreased in over half of the exposed subjects, and correlated significantly with the tert-butyl mercaptan level (r=-0.4, P=0.026). Conclusion: There was a correlation between the inhibition of acetyl cholinesterase activity and the induction of oxidative stress. Based on the findings, the chronic occupational exposure to tert-butyl mercaptan was identified as a health hazard. Therefore, specific health care strategies should be developed to minimize the toxic effect of this chemical.
Sambucus Nigra Synergizes Cisplatin to Improve Apoptosis and Metabolic Disorders, and Reduce Drug Resistance in Two Human Breast Cancer Cell Lines
Authors:   Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran., Roshankhah Shiva , Ghanbari Ali ,   epartment of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran., Salahshoor Mohammad Reza ,   Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran., Esmaeli Mojtaba ,   Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
Published: April 2022

Background: Despite modern developments in its management, still major concerns remain about drug resistance in chemotherapy. Natural adjuvants combined with chemotherapy might be the answer. We examined the anti-cancer, anti-proliferative and synergistic effects of Sambucus nigra extract with cisplatin chemotherapy (CDDP) on MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 human cancer cell lines. Methods: MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines were cultured in DMEM culture media, containing 10% FBS and 100 U/ml penicillin/streptomycin. The anti-proliferative activity of SNA, CDDP and their synergic doses were determined using MTT method. Next, the apoptotic, metabolic, and cellular resistance gene expressions were measured through real-time quantitative PCR technique. To show the apoptosis effects and to diagnose cellular damages, an annexin V/propidium iodide (AV/PI) kit and malondialdehyde level were performed, respectively. Results: The synergic doses of SNA and CDDP in MCF-7 were 1.25µM CDDP+1.25µM SNA and on MDA-MB-231 was 2.5µM CDDP+2.5µM SNA. The results of real-time PCR showed that SNA induced apoptosis, disrupted metabolic pathways and reduced cellular drug resistance. In addition, the combination of SNA with CDDP compared with CDDP alone was able to change the expression of these genes and increase the rate of MDA and apoptosis generation (P<0.05). Conclusion: The outcomes of this investigation indicate that SNA, as a herbal supplement, may be a candidate for increasing the effect of CDDP therapy in the treatment of breast cancers. This synergy was not estrogen-dependent in the MDA-MB-231 cells, promoted apoptosis, cell damages, disorders of metabolism, and reduced the drug resistance in the cancer cells.
Involvement of Mice Hippocampus Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor in Diazinon-induced Depressive Behavior in Mice
Authors:   Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran., Aliomrani Mehdi , Mesripour Azadeh ,   Isfahan Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran., Daneshseta Tannaz ,   Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
Published: April 2022

Background: Diazinon (Dzn), an Organophosphorus (OP) pesticide, is extensively used in agriculture. Acetylcholinesterase inhibition is linked to OP toxicity, and there are major mental health concerns associated with the use of pesticides. The objective of this study was to assess the depressive behavior in an animal model following their exposure to Dzn and the effect on the Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) as a critical neurotropic factor. Methods: Male Swiss mice (N=42; 25±3g each) were used and their behaviors were eamined on including the locomotor, Forced Swimming (FST), and Sucrose Preference (SP) tests. These tests were performed the day after a single daily Dzn administration by gavage (2.5-20 mg/kg). Specific animal groups were exposed to Dzn daily (2.5-10 mg/kg) for 14 days, and a test was performed on days 7 and 15. Results: Following the acute exposure to Dzn, the animals’ locomotor activity did not change significantly. During the FST, Dzn at 20 mg/kg significantly increased the animals’ immobility time, indicating despair behavior. Imipramine, injected intraperitoneally at 10 mg/kg, did not cause the depressive behavior. The subacute exposure to Dzn induced less locomotor activity than that of the controls. The 7-day exposure to Dzn at 10 mg/kg significantly prolonged the immobility period compared to that of the controls. The 14-day Dzn exposure at 2.5, 5, or 10 mg/kg increased the immobility time significantly compared to that of the controls. None of the treatment groups showed SP, clearly showing animal anhedonia. The BDNF levels significantly decreased not only by subacute exposures to Dzn but also following a single exposure to this this pesticide. Conclusion: The acute and subacute exposure to Dzn induced depressive behavior and increased the BDNF levels in the hippocampus of Swiss male mice following exposure to Dzn at varying doses of 2.5, 5, or 10 mg/kg.
Protective Effect of Trehalose Against H2O2-induced Cytotoxicity and Oxidative Stress in PC-12 Cell Line and the Role of Heat Shock Protein-27
Authors:   Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran., Norouzi Akram , Ziamajidi Nasrin ,   Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran., Sadeghi Asieh ,   Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran., Nazari-Robati Mahdieh ,   Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
Published: April 2022

Background: Oxidative stress has been shown to be an important factor, which plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders. Heat Shock Protein-27 (HSP-27) has been implicated in antioxidant responses against oxidative stress. Trehalose is a natural disaccharide widely used in a variety of food products with demonstrated protective effects against several neurodegenerative diseases. This study investigated the effects of trehalose on antioxidant responses, and the gene expressions for HSP-27 and caspase-3 against hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) induced oxidative injury in PC-12 cell line. Methods: The PC-12 cells were treated with various concentrations of H2O2 and trehalose for 24hr. The cell viability was assessed, using MTT and Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) release assays. Moreover, the activity of Catalase (CAT) and Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) enzymes, and the Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were determined. In addition, the levels of HSP-27 and caspase-3 gene expressions were measured. Results: The results indicated that the pretreatment with trehalose increased cell survival against the H2O2-induced oxidative injury. Furthermore, trehalose elevated the CAT and GPx activities and reduced MDA levels compared to that of control group (P˂0.05). Moreover, trehalose upregulated the HSP-27 gene expression, while reducing the expression of caspase-3 gene compared to that of the untreated cells (P˂0.05). All of these biochemical changes were found to be dose-dependent for trehalose. Conclusion: Based on the study findings, trehalose had the capacity to attenuate the oxidative stress and cell injury. Therefore, trehalose may be suggested as a therapeutic agent to treat neurodegenerative disorders caused by oxidative stress damages.
Efficacy and Toxicity Studies of Oxytetracycline-loaded Calcium Carbonate Nanoparticles in Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis Infected BALB/C Mice
Authors:   Department of Veterinary Preclinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia., Banke Idris Sherifat , Abdul Kadir Arifah ,   Department of Veterinary Preclinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia., Firdaos Abdullah Jesse Faez ,   Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia., Ramanoon Siti-Zubaidah ,   Department of Farm and Exotic Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia., Abdul Basit Muhammad ,   Department of Veterinary Preclinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia., Zackariah Abubakar Muhammad Zuki ,   Department of Veterinary Preclinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia.
Published: April 2022

Background: Caseous Lymphadenitis (CLA) is an important bacterial disease in goats, caused by Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis. The disease is highly prevalent worldwide and causes significant economic losses to the cattle industry. Currently, the treatment of this disease with antibiotics remains largely unsuccessful due to the nature of the bacteria and the resultant resistance to the drugs. Methods: Thirty apparently healthy female BALB/c mice, aged 5-6 weeks old were used to assess the efficacy of oxytetracycline loaded in calcium carbonate nanoparticle (OTC-CS-CaCO3NP) and toxicity of calcium carbonate nanoparticle (CS-CaCO3NP). The mice were randomly divided into five groups of six each and were exposed to the following treatments: Group 1: received sterile distilled water; Group 2: received 0.2 ml C. pseudotuberculosis; Group 3: received 0.2 ml C. pseudotuberculosis and 10mg/kg OTC; Group 4: was given 0.2 ml C. pseudotuberculosis and 10mg/kg OTC-CS-CaCO3NP; and Group 5: was administered 20mg/kg CS-CaCO3NP. Results: The clinical signs of infection with C. pseudotuberculosis in the mice were significantly reduced after treatment with OTC-CS-CaCO3NP. The haematology results showed an insignificant reduction in the mean RBC count, Hb and haematocrit levels in Group 2 (infected controls) compared to the mice treated with oxytetracycline loaded nanoparticles. The biochemical analyses revealed no significant changes among the treatment groups. No histopathological lesions were found in the organs of the mice, treated with 20mg/kg CS-CaCO3NP, suggesting the absence of toxicity in vivo. Conclusion: The results from this study indicate the potentials of OTC-CS-CaCO3NP as becoming a nano-antibiotic formulation for the treatment of caseous lymphadenitis infection in mice.
Protective Role of Adansonia digitata Extract Against Glyphosate-induced Hepatorenal Toxicity in Adult Male Wistar Rats
Authors:   Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria., Terna Ini Addai , Makena Wusa ,   Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria., Usman Ibe Michael ,   Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Bushenyi, Uganda., Aminu Aisha ,   Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, Kaduna State University, Kaduna, Nigeria., Gadzama Madu Nom ,   Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria.
Published: April 2022

Background: Glyphosate is the most widely used herbicide, and it poses numerous health risks to the environment and living organisms. This study aimed at assessing the protective role of Adansonia digitata (A. digitata) on glyphosate-induced hepatorenal toxicity in a Wistar rat model. Methods: Twenty-five rats were randomly divided into five groups of five animals each. The first group did not receive glyphosate and served as the control group. The second group received a single daily dose of only glyphosate (375 mg/kg). The treatment groups 3 and 4 were given a single daily dose of glyphosate (375 mg/kg) together with 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg of A. digitata extract, respectively. Group 5 was administered glyphosate (375 mg/kg) with Ascorbic Acid (200 mg/kg) as a comparison. At the conclusion of the study, blood serum samples from the rats were used for biochemical analysis. Then, the liver and kidneys were removed for histological examinations. Results: In comparison to the control rats in group I, those in group 2 that were given glyphosate had increased liver enzymes biomarkers, urea, creatinine and malondialdehyde levels, but their superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase levels decreased (P<0.05). Groups 3 and 4 rats that received fruits of A. digitata did not show the upsurge of liver enzymes biomarkers creatinine, urea and malondialdehyde. Furthermore, the extract of the fruits increased endogenous antioxidant biomarkers. A. digitata protected the glomeruli from degeneration and prevented histological liver steatosis. Conclusion: This study’s findings suggest that the pre-treatment of rats with A. digitata extract provides a hepatorenal protective effect against glyphosate toxicity.
Research on the Training Mode of Business Administration Talents Based on "Excellence Plan"
Authors: Jingjing Liu
Published: April 2022

With the gradual advancement of China’s educational reform, China’s higher education has changed from elite education to mass education, which leads to a series of problems. In order to improve the quality of business administration education in colleges and universities, change the talent training mode and train outstanding business administration talents, this paper takes the business administration major in Anhui University of Finance and Economics as an example, puts forward the main problems existing in its training mode, and puts forward corresponding solutions.
Invisible Influence of Deities on the Culture, Art, and Lifestyle in Mangrove Forest Settlements: The Curious Case of Bonbibi
Authors: Md. Nadimuddaula Md. Nadimuddaula
Published: April 2022

Stories in paintings are not only creative imaginations but often are reflections of life. Since religion and culture are two pivotal parts of human evolution, art and literature are intertwined with these two aspects of life. If we look back in history, we would observe that the Renaissance period remarkably brought and celebrated religion and religious figures in arts. This paper explores the deep convergence among art, life, religion, and culture in the settlements of the South Coastal belt of Bangladesh. This work at first brings out how religious beliefs and disbeliefs have shaped culture and art in the region. The work secondly traces the influence of culture and art in the daily lives of the people. Findings suggest that people living in coastal area have strengthened their courage based on religious beliefs, and mythical beliefs of Bonbibi (Forest Goddess), which is reflected via diverse worship-artwork and the cultural aesthetics that belongs to society. Religious beliefs also assist people to follow social standards, as a result of which a variety of laws and regulations, cultural ideals, and appropriate infrastructure for living in society are developed. Belief in Bonbibi, on the other hand, provides coastal people the bravery to roam around in everyday life and contributes to the development of culture.