bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of hepatitis C among haemodialysis patients in a tertiary care hospital in South India
Authors: Madhavan Anitha , Sachu Arun , Balakrishnan Anu Kumar , Vasudevan Anu , Balakrishnan Sobha , Vasudevapanicker Jayalakshmi
Published: December 2020

Background and Objectives: Hepatitis C is the most common hepatotropic viral infection that affects patients on mainte- nance hemodialysis. Most of the laboratories in India depend on HCV antibody detection by ELISA. PCR based studies on detection of HCV RNA among haemodialysis patients are very scanty in India. The current study was undertaken to find the prevalence of HCV among haemodialysis patients by ELISA and PCR.
Materials and Methods: This prospective study was conducted from January to May 2018 in a total of 100 samples. Patients more than 18 years of age, who had undergone at least 15 sessions of dialysis were enrolled in the study. All samples were screened for HCV antibody by ELISA and HCV RNA by PCR. Data regarding age and gender of the patients, history of blood transfusion, duration of hemodialysis, total bilirubin levels were collected from medical records.
Results: Among the 100 samples, only one was positive for HCV antibody by ELISA. Eight samples were positive for HCV RNA by PCR. In this study 62.5% of the HCV positives had a previous history of blood transfusion. Duration of dialysis was more among the HCV positive group but there was no statistical significance.
Conclusion: This is the first study from the southern state of Kerala in India showing the prevalence of HCV among hemo- dialysis patients by PCR. Our study showed an overall HCV prevalence of 8% by PCR. All the PCR positive samples were negative by 3rd generation ELISA which is an alarming finding and further justifies the need for PCR for detecting HCV.
Altered severity of the current SARS-CoV-2 in the Kurdistan region of Iraq
Authors: Hussein Safin , Qurbani Karzan , Hamzah Haider , Motevaseli Elahe
Published: December 2020

The article's abstract is not available.
Impact of Chronic Cadmium Exposure on the Nephrotoxicity Sensitivity of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Adja Julien N’Guessan Assue , Arsène Adon Mousan , KONAN Kouassi Martin , Joseph Djaman Allico , Mireille Dosso
Published: December 2020

The present study aimed to assess the role of subchronic cadmium exposure in the development of diabetic nephropathy. Diabetic rats induced by streptozotocin (STZ + Cd) and normal non-diabetic rats (Cd) were exposed to cadmium sulphate in drinking water at a dose of 200 mg / l for 30 days. After 30 days of cadmium poisoning, blood and tissue samples were taken to determine markers of kidney function (urea, uric acid, creatinine, total protein and inorganic ions) and for the achievement histological couples. Cadmium poisoning resulted in an increase in relative kidney weights and a change in biochemical parameters in serum. Histopathological examination of the kidneys revealed degeneration and necrosis of the renal tubules and shrinking of the glomeruli in rats poisoned with Cd. However, our results showed that diabetic rats induced by streptozotocin are more sensitive to nephrotoxicity of cadmium than rats normal. our results suggest that cadmium may be a factor in the development of diabetic nephropathy.
Embarazo posterior a lipoabdominoplastia de plicatura transversa, sin disección supraumbilical, liposucción irrestricta, neoumbilicoplastia y colocación baja de la cicatriz (TULUA): reporte de caso y revisión de la literatura
Authors: Villegas-Alzate Francisco Javier , Villegas-Mesa José Daniel
Published: December 2020

Objetivo: reportar el caso de una gestante con antecedente de abdominoplastia con plicatura transversa (transverse plication lipoabdominoplasty, undermining halted at umbilicus, liposuction without restrictions, umbilicoplasty with a skin graft, and low transverse scar localization - TULUA) y revisar la literatura disponible en torno al efecto que produce la abdominoplastia sobre el embarazo y el impacto de la gestación sobre el resultado estético en una paciente con esta intervención. Materiales y métodos: se reporta el caso de una mujer de 23 años, en estado de gestación, con antecedente de abdominoplastia ocho meses antes de su embarazo. Se realizó una búsqueda de la literatura en Medline vía PubMed, Cochrane library, SciELO, LILACS, BVS y Google Scholar, sin restricción por tipo de idioma o fecha de publicación. Se incluyeron estudios de cualquier diseño, incluyendo reporte de casos. Se excluyeron capítulos de libro y guías de práctica clínica. Resultados: la búsqueda identificó 1.158 estudios, de los cuales 13 cumplieron los criterios de inclusión y de exclusión, estos fueron series o reportes de caso, para un total de 111 pacientes. No se encontraron reportes de TULUA antes de embarazo. El rango de edad al momento del parto fue de 19 a 37 años y todos los neonatos fueron a término con peso adecuado para la edad gestacional. Once estudios describieron la vía de parto, siete por cesárea y cuatro por vía vaginal; dos estudios reportaron el desarrollo de prolapso cervical uterino, uno de ellos a las 15 semanas de gestación y otro al momento del trabajo de parto; tres pacientes experimentaron deficiente bloqueo nervioso en la pared abdominal durante la cesárea. En lo que respecta a los resultados estéticos después del parto, la literatura es limitada a la hora de describir una posible recidiva de laxitud cutánea o diástasis. No obstante, dos reportes de caso señalaron un resultado estético satisfactorio. Conclusión: la literatura sobre embarazo posterior a una abdominoplastia es escasa y se limita a reportes de caso. La abdominoplastia podría incrementar la frecuencia de prolapso cervical y de cesárea, sin que se conozca con precisión el impacto de la intervención sobre los resultados perinatales. La reparación de la pared abdominal aparentemente se mantiene. Se requieren más estudios que aborden el resultado perinatal en mujeres con abdominoplastia y el impacto de la gestación sobre los resultados de la intervención.
A Method for Assessing Manufacturability of Products Using Semantic Models in Digital Manufacturing
Authors: Grigoriev S.N. , Dolgov V.A. , Rakhmilevich E.G.
Published: December 2020

The efficiency of machine-building production is largely determined by the development time of new types of high-tech products and their modifications. In these conditions, the time of evaluating product manufacturability at the manufacturing planning stage is crucial. As this evaluation requires processing a substantial amount of information, the process becomes very time consuming. This problem can be resolved through automation. To increase automation of the manufacturability assessment, a method based on a three-stage algorithm for analyzing the availability of design and technological solutions with the production and technological capabilities of the enterprise is developed. The proposed algorithm allows step-by-step identification of structural and technological problems of product manufacturing at a specific enterprise and creation of possible solutions while simultaneously managing modifications of the product and the production system of the enterprise. The method can also be used for identification and exclusion from further analysis of enterprises that require vast investments to prepare and master manufacturing of a product or its components. This will significantly shorten the development time of new types of high-tech products and their modifications.
The Influence of the Initial Contour Parameters on the Contact Ratio of Involute Gearings
Authors: Timofeev B.P. , Tran Minh Huan
Published: December 2020

Previously, GOST 13755–81 specified a unified standard initial contour, i.e. the tool rack teeth profile. The rolling method was dominant; a family of surfaces was enveloped by tools in the process of form-generation of involute gears. The effectiveness of such standardization was enhanced by the widespread large-scale and mass production. Recently, changes in the nature and technology of production have led to a significant expansion of possible standard initial contours and their parameters. In many cases, manufacturers reject the enveloping method as well as the involute engagement in general. However, the contour parameters are still the foundation of the standard Cylindrical Involute External Gearing. Calculation of Geometry. Thus, even with the complete rejection of the initial contour, its effect on the gearing quality, namely on the contact ratio, remains unchanged. The transverse contact ratio is the ratio of the length of the engagement line segment to the normal pitch equal to the pitch of the base circumference of the pinion. In this study, dependencies of the transverse contact ratio on the number of pinion teeth, speed ratio, pressure angle and addendum coefficient are obtained. The results obtained can be used to select the initial contour parameters that provide the required traverse contact ratio, making the enveloping method and the initial contour (tool rack) redundant. It is established that the optimum transverse contact ratio equals 2. However, to compensate for manufacturing and assembly errors, the values of the number of pinion teeth, speed ratio, pressure angle and addendum coefficient should be selected so as to slightly exceed the above-mentioned transverse contact ratio.
Omics sciences potential on bioprospecting of biological control microbial agents: the case of the Mexican agro-biotechnology
Authors: Córdova-Albores Liliana Carolina , Zelaya-Molina Lily Xochilt , Ávila-Alistac Norma , Valenzuela-Ruíz Valeria , Cortés-Martínez Nelly Ethel , Parra-Cota Fannie Isela , Burgos-Canul Yamily Yazmin , Chávez-Díaz Ismael Fernando , Fajardo-Franco Marja Liza , De los Santos-Villalobos Sergio
Published: December 2020

Actualmente, los estudios sobre agentes de control biológico de origen microbiano (ACB-M) generalmente están enfocados en la caracterización taxonómica mediante el uso de marcadores moleculares convencionales y en evaluar la capacidad antagónica/mecanismos de acción in vitro, en invernadero y eventualmente bajo condiciones de campo. Los ACB-M se centran principalmente en cepas de Trichoderma, Paecilomyces, Beauveria, Pseudomonas y Bacillus. Aunque la investigación en México en este campo ha sido muy activa en los últimos años, el desarrollo e innovación de una mayor diversidad de bioplaguicidas registrados y comercializados puede ser potenciada. En este contexto, el uso de técnicas vanguardistas en la era de las ciencias ómicas (genómica, transcriptómica, y metabolómica) enfocadas a la correcta afiliación taxonómica de los ACB-M y en el estudio de mecanismos de acción y comportamiento agroecológico es determinante para la bioprospección y uso extensivo de estos ACB-M de manera eficaz, biosegura y costo-efectiva. En el marco de la celebración internacional de la sanidad vegetal, la presente revisión analiza críticamente el estado del conocimiento y de aquellos aspectos que limitan la bioprospección y el uso extensivo de ACB-M con énfasis en México, desde la aplicación de las ciencias ómicas para la identificación, selección y estudio de los mecanismos de acción de dichos agentes hasta la difusión y socialización del conocimiento científico generado. Se pretende promover la reflexión sobre este campo del conocimiento e incentivar la nueva generación ACB-M con una visión holística y sistémica en beneficio de una agricultura sustentable y resiliente.
Faith and Revolution: The Case of Islamic Resurgence by Said Nursi in Turkey
Authors: Mohammad Qaisar
Published: December 2020

Bediuzzaman Said Nursi dedicated his life to the safeguarding and strengthening of faith in God, which for him was the most important issue of the time and was at the heart of religion and the societal system. He believed religious conviction faced severe and combined attacks and was being weakened by unreligious ideologies. Nursi sought to strengthen belief by transforming it from imitation to certainty. He maintained that to be occupied with the fundamentals of belief over and above everything was an absolute necessity and compelling need. This deﬁnition of the problem gave direction to his discourse, and in all his writings Nursi pursued the renewal, revival, and strengthening of the truths of creed, rather than trying to rebuild Islamic political authority and Islamic institutions or expounding Islamic Shariah rules. This is the most important single issue that distinguishes Nursi from his contemporaries. This paper, in this backdrop, anticipates to discuss the signiﬁcance of Nursi’s thoughts, teachings and also explains the importance of Nursi in the formation of ideology that helped the society of Turkey to neutralize anti-religious systems. The aim of this research paper is to explain Nursi’s contributions that proved him to be a faith revivalist and whose works are one of the most ubiquitous read materials in Turkey. This essay is primarily a theoretical one and the methodology adopted for this paper is analytical-historical and descriptive.
The Meaning of Hijrah among Niqobers in Social Media
Authors: Yurisa Penny Respati , Muassomah Muassomah , Abdullah Irwan
Published: December 2020

Hijrah conception has experienced a shift of meaning between its concept in the Prophet's era and today. Hijrah is often associated with the use of niqob and radicalism. By wearing niqob as a means of hijrah, someone does not merely modify her fashion, but also her behavior. There is also an assumption that those who are not wearing niqob have yet to hijrah. This research aims to ﬁnd out the concept of hijrah for women with niqob, including the background and the inﬂuence of the concept of hijrah on their religiosity. This study employs a descriptive qualitative research method. The data were collected from chats in a Niqober group, in which a discussion on hijrah was conducted. The conversations were captured, selected, sorted, classiﬁed, and displayed in tables. Then, the data were analyzed descriptively and iteratively. The results of this study indicate that today, hijrah has three concepts: a change in circumstance, a change in behavior, and a change in fashion. Wearing a niqob, as a form of hijrah, is inﬂuenced by some factors, such as the factors of partner, family, and environment. The concept of hijrah for Niqobers inﬂuences the meaning in religion. First, hijrah is symbolized with the use of niqob. Second, a woman who does hijrah by wearing niqob is considered to be radical. Third, hijrah using niqob means following the Arabic culture. This study suggests conducting an education related to the concept of hijrah that are believed by the Niqobers. To use niqob does not only mean hijrah, but also it is the Prophet's sunnah, and it is not obligated. Therefore, it cannot be assumed that women who do not wear niqob have yet to commit hijrah.
XENOPERICARDIUM IN CONGENITAL AND ACQUIRED DIAPHRAGMATIC HERNIA IN CHILDREN
Authors: Sokolov Yu. Yu. , Khaspekov D. V. , Topilin O. G. , Ayrapetyan M. I. , Efremenkov A. M.
Published: December 2020

A surgical management of extensive diaphragmatic defects is an actual problem in pediatric thoracic surgery. Despite of a large number of existing diaphragmatic prostheses, the search for an ideal plastic material is still going on. Material and methods. The authors analyze the effectiveness of xenopericardium in 15 children, aged 2 days - 17 years, with extensive diaphragmatic defects. Congenital hernia was in 8 (53.3%) patients, recurrence of congenital hernia - in 4 (26.7%) children, acquired hernia - in 3 (20.0%) children. The thoracoscopic approach was applied in 10 (66.7%) patients, thoracotomy - in 2 (13.3%) patients, laparotomy - in 3 (20.0%). Results. Diaphragmatic integrity was restored in all operated children. There were no any relapse of diaphragmatic hernia at the late postoperative period. There were no any xenopericardium rejection either. The article describes two clinical observations. In the first case, a 15-years-old girl with an extensive defect in her left dome of the diaphragm after the resection of lower lobe in the left lung and the diaphragmatic dome because of alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma had retoracotomy on the left and prosthetics of the diaphragm with a xenopericardium plate. In the second case, a thoracoscopic plastic surgery on the diaphragmatic dome with a xenopericardium plate was made in a newborn baby with aplasia of the right diaphragm on the 3rd day of his life. A long-lasting effect was obtained in both cases. Conclusions. Diaphragmatic plasty with xenopericardium can be successfully applied in children with extensive congenital and acquired diaphragmatic defects. The surgical technique with xenopericardium is possible both in open surgeries and in thoracoscopic interventions.
EFFICIENCY OF THE ENDOSOPIC CORRECTION OF HIGH-GRADE VESICOURETERAL REFLUX IN CHILDREN
Authors: Zorkin S. N. , Shakhnovsky D. S. , Turov F. O. , Galuzinskaya A. T. , Dyakonova E. Yu.
Published: December 2020

Introduction. The endoscopic correction of vesicoureteral reflux in children has become a basic treatment technique. Its effectiveness in the low-grade reflux is high. High-grade refluxes are an indication for antireflux reconstructive plastic surgery. The article analyzes outomes of endoscopic treatment of patients with high-grade retrograde urine reflux. Material and methods. A total number of 307 patients (409 ureters) with IV-V grade of vesicoureteral reflux were treated. 156 girls and 151 boys, aged 4 months - 12 years, had the endoscopic correction with Dextranomer and Copolymer of Polyacrylic Polyvinyl Alcohol (PPC). The renal parenchyma damage was assessed with DMSA scan; urinary tract infection - with clinical and laboratory findings (febrile temperature and bacteriuria). Outcomes of treatment were evaluated with micurating cystography performed six months later. It revealed either no reflux or its lower grade - grade one. Average follow-up period was 5. 5 years. Results. The effectiveness of endoscopic correction of vesicoureteral reflux after the first injection was 68.7%. The second injection was effective in 48.9%. Febrile urinary tract infection after the treatment went down up to 6.2%. Marked bacteriuria remained high - 55.3%. Renal parenchyma structural and functional damage was noted in 38.9% of older children; mild and moderate degrees of damage prevailed (45.6% and 40.8%, respectively). Conclusion. The endoscopic correction of high-grade vesicoureteral reflux is recommended as the first line treatment for retrograde urine reflux. This technique is highly effective and minimally invasive.
A LAPAROSCOPIC ACCESS IN THE SURGICAL TREATMENT OF CHILDREN WITH SOLID PSEUDOPAPILLARY TUMORS OF THE PANCREAS
Authors: Kerimov P. A. , Kazantsev A. P. , Rybakova D. V. , Rubansky M. A. , Rubanskaya M. V. , Temnyy A. S. , Komarov I. G. , Bliznyukov O. P. , Matinyan N. V. , Sagoyan G. B. , Varfolomeeva S. R.
Published: December 2020

Introduction. Solid-pseudopapillary tumors (SPT) of the pancreas are rare, not exceeding 1-2% of all exocrine pancreatic tumors. Treatment of patients with this pathology consists of the radical removal of the tumor which has to a favorable prognosis of the disease. If the tumor is localized only in the pancreas tail or in the body with invasion into the tail, distal subtotal splenopreserving or distal splenopreserving pancreatic resections are performed. Objective. To demonstrate potentials of laparoscopic access in the surgical treatment of children with SPT. Material and methods. The article discusses 9 patients with diagnosed SPT who had the abovementioned surgical interventions via laparoscopic access . Discussion. The researchers demonstrated that pancreatic resections can be performed laparoscopically. Conclusions. The laparoscopic access is a priority for distal, distal subtotal pancreatic resections. It reduces surgical time, minimizes surgical trauma, accelerates patients’ rehabilitation , improves cosmetic effects as well as makes hospital stay shorter. In addition, it does not worsen immediate and long-term outcomes of the treatment.
Geographical Distribution and Risk Factors of Low Birth Weight in Nigeria
Authors: Adeleke Richard , Osayomi Tolulope , Iyanda Ayodeji E.
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

Low birth weight (LBW) directly or indirectly accounts for 60% to 80% of all neonatal deaths globally, and it has become an issue of serious health concern with Nigeria with one of the highest infant mortality rates (74/1,000) in the world. Despite the severe health impact, little is understood on the geographical differences in maternal socioeconomic and environmental factors that affect LBW across the states in Nigeria.

METHOD

Using the spatial epidemiological approach, this study examined the geographical variations in LBW and associated risk factors in Nigeria with the aid of spatial statistics.

RESULTS

There was a regional LBW corridor in the extreme north with Yobe state with the highest prevalence rate. Maternal educational attainment and acute maternal malnutrition explained 65.4% (ordinary least squares model) and 70.5% (spatial error model, SEM) of the variation in the geographical pattern of LBW.

CONCLUSION

LBW remains an issue of serious health concern in Nigeria. The finding of this study would shed more light on the spatial epidemiology of LBW in Nigeria and also guide public health programs in curtailing the high prevalence rate of LBW.

RECOMMENDATIONS

The study recommends health education on nutrition in pregnancy and the need to improve health literacy among women so as to check the high LBW prevalence.
Factors Associated With a Trusting Relationship Between Pregnant and Postpartum Women With Substance Use Disorders and Maternity Nurses
Authors: Renbarger Kalyn M. , Moorman Margaret , Latham-Mintus Kenzie , Shieh Carol , Draucker Claire
Published: December 2020

Trusting relationships between pregnant and postpartum women with substance use disorders (SUDs) and maternity nurses can improve health outcomes for women and their infants. This study was conducted to identify factors associated with the formation of trust in these nurse–patient relationships. Using a qualitative description approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 women who used substances during pregnancy and 15 maternity nurses. The narratives were analyzed with standard content analytic techniques. Findings revealed that six characteristics of nurses and five characteristics of women fostered or hindered the formation of trusting relationships. The characteristics of the maternity nurses were (a) interpersonal connections, (b) demeanor toward women, (c) ways of providing care, (d) approaches to providing information, (e) attitudes toward substance use, and (f) addiction expertise. The characteristics of the women were (a) engagement with nurses, (b) demeanor toward nurses, (c) attitudes toward care, (d) investment in recovery, and (e) ways of interacting with infant. The characteristics provide a framework by which maternity nurses can examine their attitudes and behaviors toward women with SUDs and inform the development of strategies to enhance their practice with this population.
Is the Concept of Midwifery Abdication Evident in Australian Case Law? A Systematic Review of Legal Literature, Court/Tribunal Decisions, and Coronial Findings
Authors: Jefford Elaine , Nolan Samantha J. , Jomeen Julie
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

This review builds upon previous work exploring the concept of Midwifery Abdication, within the national midwifery literature. This article focuses on Australian legal literature, court/tribunal decisions and coronial or coroner's court findings.

OBJECTIVE

To explore Midwifery Abdication and whether it is evident within Australian caselaw.

DATA SOURCES

Australian Legal literature, coronial findings, and court/tribunal decisions reported by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency, during 2005–2020.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

1,246 cases were located using the presented search terms. Use of exclusion criteria resulted in the inclusion of 41 cases.

METHODS

While there are no validated tools to appraise caselaw, this review followed a robust protocol that guides the preparation and reporting of systematic reviews. Midwifery Abdication was identified using previously validated, interrelated constructs.

RESULTS

Midwifery Abdication occurred in 41 cases; that included one or more previously identified constructs. In line with the associated integrative review, a midwife's professional identity, environmental hierarchy and associated culture of social obedience are all shown to act as influencing factors in Midwifery Abdication.

LIMITATIONS

Rigorous and reproducible processes were used; however, limited search functionality of some data sources may have resulted in inadvertent omission of cases. While this review relates to case law in one high-income country it provides a platform for further international research.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS OF KEY FINDINGS

Acknowledging Midwifery Abdication in Australian caselaw may serve to strengthen the midwifery voice and encourage an enhanced educational and reflective focus on midwifery philosophy and decision-making. Midwifery education must empower midwives to embrace their autonomous status while enhancing their abilities to optimize informed decision-making within a woman-centered midwifery philosophy.
Feminizing legal profesion in Santa Rosa: preliminary approach from gender perspective
Authors:   Universidad Nacional de La Pampa. Facultad de Ciencias Económicas y Jurídicas, Bustos Guadalupe ,   Argentina
Published: December 2020

The present work is part of the research project “Legal professions: impact of gender relations, family roles and care in the strategies of professional integration of lawyers in Santa Rosa”, whose purpose is to make an approximation of the positions that the women lawyers of Santa Rosa (La Pampa) occupy, in the professional work areas of the legal field, and observe how gender and family roles and care responsibilities affect their professional career. It will reflect on the relationship between the training of legal operators in higher education (HE), their professional practices and the re/production of gender stereotypes, since there is still a general collective imaginary that preserves the traditional model of femininity, by which differentiated conceptions of the characteristics and capacities of women and men are imposed on subjectivities. This imaginary acts in the lives of women inside and outside the universities in the form of discrimination, and the subjectivities constructed under these gender differential patterns are what ultimately shape the professional practice of law. The legal profession is conquered by stereotypes and differential gender relations that harm women, and despite the fact that the field of legal university study has been feminized, as well as public and private professional practice, there are still inequalities in the ways in which the legal profession is exercised by men and women. Therefore, it becomes necessary to make a critical theoretical reflection of the process of labor insertion of women lawyers and the relationship between profession, gender, family relations and care of the city of Santa Rosa, this work responding to the dual purpose of evidencing, while promoting the denaturation of gender segregation and inequalities against women.
Application of social networks in the process of recruiting and selecting personnel in the SME sector of Villavicencio, Colombia
Authors:   Corporación Universitaria Minuto de Dios, Villavicencio, Meta, Colombia, Osorio Perdomo Robert
Published: December 2020

Product of the imminent revolution and technological innovation of the era, as well as the constant reinvention of the human talent management processes, the use of Social Networks has taken an important place in the recruitment and selection processes, allowing the location of best candidates and making them part of the growth processes of organizations. This article aims to show the level of appropriation of this strategy in small and medium enterprises –SME– in the city of Villavicencio. For this, the information provided by 60 SME companies was used, through a census study, applying a survey model in collaborators of the managerial level of Human Resources of the organizations. The results obtained allowed detailed description, analysis and contributions to be made in the processes of the use and application of social networks in the recruitment and selection process.
The Impact of Virtual Writing Tutor on Writing Skills and Attitudes of Omani College Students
Authors: Al Badi Amal Aamir , Osman Mohamed El Tahir , M. Al-Mekhlafi Abdo,
Published: December 2020

The present study aimed to examine the impact of Virtual Writing Tutor (VWT) software on the academic writing skills of Year 1 Omani EFL students in the College of Applied Science, (CAS)-Sohar and their attitudes towards using VWT software to enhance their academic writing skills. The sample consisted of 35 students in the control group and 35 in the experimental group (Total N= 70) who were enrolled in the English for Academic Purposes (ENAP1002) course at CAS-Sohar. The data collection tools included pre-test and post-test for the two groups, and attitude scale for the experimental group. The findings of the study showed a positive large effect size (Cohen’s d = 0.88) of VWT on writing skills. In addition, Year 1 students in the experimental group enjoyed using the VWT software and found it beneficial and helpful in checking the accuracy of their essays including spelling, punctuation, grammar and vocabulary. In light of the research findings, implications and recommendations for future research were outlined.
PERIODE PEMBUNGAAN DAN PEMBUAHAN NYAMPLUNG (Calophyllum inophyllum) PADA TEGAKAN BENIH PROVENAN DI WONOGIRI
Authors: Widyarini Eritrina , Hasna Tri Maria , Adinugraha Hamdan Adma , Leksono Budi ,   Balai Besar Penelitian dan Pengembangan Bioteknologi dan Pemuliaan Tanaman Hutan
Published: December 2020

Nyamplung (Calophyllum inophyllum) is a potential type of non-timber forest product (NTFP) with high oil yield which is useful as an alternative renewable energy sources and herbal medicine-cosmetics. Result of population selection level in Java Island have been used to build Provenan Seed Stand (PSS) nyamplung in KHDTK Wonogiri (Central Java) as an improved seed source with high oil yield and fruit productivity. Seed become nyamplung part that is used as oil raw material which is strongly influenced by flowering and fruiting period. Information on flowering fruiting ability and period is needed to support the availability of raw materials in a sustainable supply for the nyamplung oil industry. Seed become nyamplung part that is used as oil raw material which is strongly influenced by flowering and fruiting period. Information on flowering fruiting ability and period is needed to support the availability of raw materials in a sustainable supply for the nyamplung oil industry. Observation of flowering and fruiting period focused on 465 individual trees in nyamplung PSS at KHDTK Wonogiri through monthly monitoring by calculated flowering fruiting individual tree during 5 years (2014-2018). The results showed that the flowering period of nyamplung in TBP Wonogiri varied during 2014-2018. Flowering and fruiting occurs almost throughout the year. However, the peak of flowering and fruiting occurs mostly in March-August (end of the rainy season to the middle of dry season). In general, the trend of flowering and fertilization increased in 2014-2016, then decreased in 2017-2018, which is thought to be influenced by the higher canopy density. The environmental factor that most influences flowering is number of rainy days, while fertilization of TBP was strongly influenced by temperature. The management of TBP require future action such: second thinning, top pruning, application of fertilizers and hormones to stimulate flowering, and further detailed observations of flowering fruiting stage and its interaction with microclimate.
PERTUMBUHAN STEK BATANG GMELINA ARBOREA HASIL KOLEKSI DARI LIMA POPULASI SEBARAN DI INDONESIA
Authors:   Balai Besar Penelitian dan Pengembangan Bioteknologi dan Pemuliaan Tanaman Hutan, Adinugraha Hamdan Adma , Setiadi Dedi , Naibini Arnoldus ,   Intitut Pertanian (INTAN), Nyuwito Nyuwito
Published: December 2020

his studywas conducted to determine the effect of plant material origin and size of cuttings on the growth ability of Gmelina. arborea stem cuttings in the nursery. The study was arranged in a randomized factorial pattern design, consisting of two factors, namely the length of the cuttings (L1 = 20 cm and L2 = 30 cm) and the cuttings size factor (small diameter class/D1 = <1.25 cm, medium/D2 = 1.25 –2.50 cm and large/D3 => 2.50 cm). Each treatment used 5 stem cuttings and repeated in 3 times, which are grouped based on their origin population namely Bantul/P1, Bogor/P2, Lampung/P3,Bondowoso/P4 and Lombok/P5. The observations showed the survival percentage was 83.12% and the rooting percentage was 78.23% which was influenced by the length and diameter of the stem cuttings. The growth of shoots (number, length and diameter) and the number of shoot nodes and leaf were affected by the interaction of origin of the population and the length and diameter of the stem cuttings.Applying stem cutting method is very potential to produce planting stock of Gmelina arbore. Stem cuttings which has a biger size showed better grow of stem cuttings.
OPTIMASI DETEKSI GEN PADA Stelechocarpus burahol (Bl.) Hook.f. & Th. MENGGUNAKAN DIRECT KIR PCR
Authors:   Universitas Tidar, Wahyudiningsih Tri Suwarni , Sartika Dian ,   Universitas Gadjah mada
Published: December 2020

DNA isolation and purification in the conventional Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) process require reagents that are toxic, more costly and time consuming, and contamination. S. burahol leaves contain phenolics, flavonoids, and terpenoids which can interfere with DNA isolation. The use of direct PCR kits can detect genes without DNA extraction.The objective of study was to determinethe method of gene detection ofStelechocarpus buraholusing directPCRkit.In each location, one tree was taken as a source of leaf samples from Garut, Purwodadi Botanical Gardens, Kyai Langgeng Gardens, Yogyakarta Palace, Turi Sleman, Wanagama, Karanganyar, and South Kalimantan, except Bogor Botanical Gardens, two trees were taken. The primers used for the trials were ITS 1F primers and 4R primers. In the sequencing stage, PCR product samples of 40 -50 μl that showed positive results were detected by electrophoresis. The PCR product was measuredat ± 750 bp from ten samples. Direct PCR kits can be used for S. buraholgene detection, time and energy efficient, only requires a small amount of tissue, and reduces contamination due to DNA extraction. Direct PCR kits can be an effective method that can be utilized to detect target genesfor large populations.
Socio Demographic Factors and Work Performance of Forest Workers in Cajuput Leaf Harvesting at RPH Nglipar, KPH Yogyakarta
Authors:   Universitas Gadjah Mada, Septiana Ratih
Published: December 2020

Cajuput leaf harvesting is a technical forest activity of non-timber forest products. The productivity of cajuput leaf harvesting is strongly influenced by aspects of human resource capacity and biophysical aspects. This study aims to identify the socio-demographic conditions of forest workers in cajuput leaves harvesting and to analyze the standards performance of harvesting in FMU Yogyakarta. A survey of 100 samples of workers were used to determine socio-demographic characteristics, while in-depth observations were made on 3 workers with different characteristics to determine work performance. The socio-demographic conditions of workers in the cajuput leaf harvesting are seen from eight characteristics, namely age, gender, education, number of dependents, livelihoods, and land ownership. Workers have an average age of 58 years old and are male. The level of education possessed by workers is dominated by graduating from elementary school (SD) by 64 %. The average number of dependents per worker household is 4 people, with the main livelihood being farmers. The average land ownership of workers in cajuput leaf harvesting is 0.17 ha. The work performance of harvesting for normal people in the FMU Yogyakarta is 72.23 kg / hour.
4.1 Science/fiction
Authors: Porter Ryan
Published: December 2020

Reflecting about 4.1. Science/Fiction (2013).
Hydrostructural Pedology, Culmination of the Systemic Approach of the Natural Environment
Authors: Braudeau Erik , Mohtar Rabi H.
Published: December 2020

The subject of this article is the dynamics of water in a soil pedostructure sample whose internal environment is subjected to a potential gradient created by the departure of water through surface evaporation. This work refers entirely to the results and conclusions of a fundamental theoretical study focused on the molecular thermodynamic equilibrium of the two aqueous phases of the soil pedostructure. The new concepts and descriptive variables of the hydro-thermodynamic equilibrium state of the soil medium, which have been established at the molecular level of the fluid phases of the pedostructure (water and air) in a previous article, are recalled here in the systemic paradigm of hydrostructural pedology. They allow access to the molecular description of water migration in the soil and go beyond the classical mono-scale description of soil water dynamics. We obtain a hydro-thermodynamic description of the soil's pedostructure at different hydro-functional scale levels including those relating to the water molecule and its atoms. The experimental results show a perfect agreement with the theory, validating at the same time the systemic approach which was the framework.
The Moderating Effects of Institutional Qualities and Energy Use on the Economic Output
Authors: Zakari Abdulrasheed , Toplak Jurij
Published: December 2020

Energy and institutional quality are two factors that determine economic output, but these two factors are often neglected in the search for economic output. Therefore, this study examines the relative importance of energy use and its interaction with institutional quality for economic output. We employ a robust econometric estimation technique on a panel sample of 21 African countries between 2002-2019. Our results show that energy use is significant and negatively related to economic output while moderating terms of institutional quality are significantly associated with economic output, but the direction of the association depends on the specific quality. We find the moderating term control of corruption and government effectiveness to be negative and significantly associated with economic output, whilst political stability, regulatory quality, rule of laws, voice, and accountability positively impact. Our results imply that improved economic output is possible when there are specific institutional strategies.
Towards a Biomanufactory on Mars
Authors: Berliner Aaron , Hilzinger Jacob M. , Abel Anthony J. , McNulty Matthew , Makrygiorgos George , Averesch Nils J.H. , Sen Gupta Soumyajit , Benvenuti Alexander , Caddell Daniel , Cestellos-Blanco Stefano , Doloman Anna , Friedline Skyler , Ho Desiree , Gu Wenyu , Hill Avery , Kusuma Paul , Lipsky Isaac , Mirkovic Mia , Meraz Jorge , Pane Vince , Sander Kyle B. , Shi Fengzhe , Skerker Jeffrey M. , Styer Alexander , Valgardson Kyle , Wetmore Kelly , Woo Sung-Geun , Xiong Yongao , Yates Kevin , Zhang Cindy , Zhen Shuyang , Bugbee Bruce , Coleman-Derr Devin , Mesbah Ali , Nandi Somen , Waymouth Robert W. , Yang Peidong , Criddle Craig S. , McDonald Karen A. , Menezes Amor A. , Seefeldt Lance C. , Clark Douglas S. , Arkin Adam P.
Published: December 2020

A crewed mission to and from Mars may include an exciting array of enabling biotechnologies that leverage inherent mass, power, and volume advantages over traditional abiotic approaches. In this perspective, we articulate the scientific and engineering goals and constraints, along with example systems, that guide the design of a surface biomanufactory. Extending past arguments for exploiting stand-alone elements of biology, we argue for an integrated biomanufacturing plant replete with modules for microbial \textit{in situ} resource utilization, production, and recycling of food, pharmaceuticals, and biomaterials required for sustaining future intrepid astronauts. We also discuss aspirational technology trends in each of these target areas in the context of human and robotic exploration missions in the coming century.
Assessing Face Validity of the Hexcom Model for Capturing Complexity in the Clinical Practice: A Delphi Study
Authors: Busquet-Duran Xavier , Jiménez-Zafra Eva Maria , Tura-Poma Magda , Bosch-de la Rosa Olga , Moragas-Roca Anna , Martín Moreno Susana , Martínez-Losada Emilio , Crespo-Ramírez Silvia , Lestón-Lado Lola , Salamero-Tura Núria , Llobera-Estrany Joana , Oriol-Peregrina Núria , Moreno-Gabriel Eduardo , Manresa-Domínguez Josep Maria , Torán-Monserrat Pere
Published: December 2020

Capturing complexity is both a conceptual and a practical challenge in palliative care. The HexCom model has proved to be an instrument with strong reliability and valid for describing the needs and strengths of patients in home care. In order to explore whether it is also perceived to be helpful in enhancing coordinated and patient-centered care at a practical level, a methodological study was carried out to assess the face validity of the model. Particularly, a Delphi method involving a group of 15 experts representing the full spectrum of healthcare professionals involved in palliative care was carried out. The results show that there is a high level of agreement, with a Content Validity Index-Item greater than 0.92 both with regard to the complexity model and the HexCom-Red, HexCom-Basic and HexCom-Clin instruments, and higher than 0.85 regarding the HexCom-Figure and the HexCom-Patient instruments. This consensus confirms that the HexCom model and the different instruments that are derived from it are valued as useful tools for a broad range of healthcare professional in coordinately capturing of complexity in healthcare practice.
Marketing the Resilient City Image for Sustainable Development. Examples from Rotterdam and Thessaloniki
Authors: Metaxas Theodore , Psarropoulou Stella
Published: December 2020

The focus of this study is to identify whether resilience and sustainable development can be used as an image for strategic planning of the city marketing. Resilience is about building and planning for future proof the cities. How urban challenges and crisis have the lowest impact and the maximum of bounce back and evolution. Resilience is part of the sustainable development. Thus, it is important for the decision-makers to define the mission on their strategic planning in a holistically way taking into consideration the basic assets of a city, the environment, the economy and the society and how can all of them can be combined to marketing the city and take into consideration the internal and external environment. As the past few years’ city marketing has become an important tool for the urban development. The main goal is to show how city marketing can be applied on a city that tries to be more resilient and more sustainable by using strategic urban planning to set the vision, to identify the challenges and the problematic areas and to set new goals and objectives in order to plan and build to future proof the complexity of an urban system. For answering the questions of this article we use two case studies Rotterdam (Netherlands) and Thessaloniki (Greece), using a literature review and researches conducted alongside with a benchmarking of their resilient strategies as both of the cities are members of the Resilient Cities Network. From a different perspective of resilient thinking, both of the cities have managed to use resilience as a marketing image for further sustainable development.
Adaptive Design of Formworks for Building Renovation Considering the Sustainability of Construction in Bim Environment – Case Study
Authors: Mésároš Peter , Spišáková Marcela , Mandičák Tomáš , Čabala Jozef , Oravec Milan
Published: December 2020

Progressive technologies and practices are shifting the possibilities of building design and improving work efficiency. Constantly changing site conditions require different procedures and designs that take into account these changing conditions, whether it is a design solution, a change in environmental conditions, or just sustainability factors. Adaptive building design offers opportunities to cope with changing factors to achieve the highest possible level of building quality. This case study deals with the topic of adaptive formwork design for building renovation, taking into account sustainability. Aim of the article is an investigation and demonstration of the building information modelling (BIM) environment used for the adaptive design of formwork elements for the building renovation in the context of sustainability. The object of the case study is a building in the center of Kosice, Slovakia. BIM environment allows prompt and correct adaptation of the formwork design to changing conditions of lighting, ventilation, heating and temperature during the design of the building.
Utility of Whole-Exome Sequencing in Pediatric and Medical Diagnosis
Authors: Fareed Mohd , Sharma Varun , Singh Hemender
Published: December 2020

Genetic disorders are preeminent determinants of infant mortality. The inherited pediatric-onset genetic disorders have consequential stress on child growth and development: several congenital, complex and rare disorders with indistinguishable clinical symptoms where diagnosis always remains a challenging task. Traditional diagnosis methods include biochemical tests followed by chromosomal microarray and sequencing of a single gene or panel of genes. These methods had several limitations, but with the advent of whole-exome sequencing (WES), genetic testing has become cost-effective and transformative. Exome sequencing has been known for its effectiveness, which appropriately elucidates and distinguishes the heterogeneous disorders to avoid misdiagnosis and decode the underlying genetic alterations. WES has led to discovering genes and genomic variants in a broad spectrum of diseases, including autism, epilepsy, congenital heart diseases, neurodevelopmental diseases, cancer, nephrotic disorders, neural tube defects and fetal structural anomalies. WES is significant in producing immense genomic biomarkers that can be made as appropriate pharmacogenomic targets for drug therapy. In this article, we analyze the recent exploration of WES technology to revolutionize not only the process of genetic variation and disease detection but also the convention of preventative and targeted drug discovery.
Modern mission design with the high inclined orbit formation using gravity assists: main methods
Authors:   Keldysh Institute of Applied Mathematics, Russian Academy of Science, Borovin Gennady Konstantinovich , Grushevskii Alexey Vasilyevich , Tuchin Andrey Georgievich , Tuchin Denis Andreevich
Published: December 2020

An effective space exploration is impossible without gravity assists (GA) using. Their application relaxes the constraints imposed on the space mission scenarios by the characteristic velocity budgets being realized at the current stage of development of space technology. A significant change in the inclinations of operational spacecraft (SC) orbits in flight aimed at studying the inner heliosphere from out-of ecliptic positions (the ESA “Solar Orbiter” mission, Russian “Interheliozond”) is needed to accomplish some prospective space missions. Low-cost tours for the high inclined orbit formation in the Solar system with use of gravity assists near its planets (Earth and Venus) with the full ephemeris using are considered. The limited dynamic possibilities of using gravity maneuvers require their repeated performance. Based on the formalization of the search for the GA- timetables with subsequent adaptive involvement of a large number of options, a high-precision algorithm for synthesizing chains of increasing gravity assists was built. Its use leads to a significant inclination change of the research SC's orbit without significant fuel consumption during a reasonable flight time.