bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beneficial effect of 4% Ta addition on the corrosion mitigation of Ti–12% Zr alloy after different immersion times in 3.5% NaCl solutions
Authors: Sherif El-Sayed M.
Published: May 2024

The recent study reports the fabrication and corrosion behavior of two Ti alloys, 88% Ti–12% Zr and 84% Ti–12% Zr–4% Ta, in 3.5% NaCl electrolyte. These alloys were manufactured using powder metallurgy, where the powders were mixed, ball milled, and sintered. The corrosion behavior of these alloys was examined using various electrochemical and spectroscopic tests. Cyclic polarization experiments indicated that adding 4% Ta reduces corrosion of the TiZr alloy by suppressing anodic dissolution, resulting in a lower corrosion rate. The Nyquist and Bode impedance spectra for the tested alloys revealed that the presence of 4% Ta within TiZr alloy highly decreases the corrosion by increasing the impedance of the interface, the maximum degree of phase angle, and polarization resistance. The chronoamperometric current measured at −0.10 V (Ag/AgCl) proved that the presence of 4% Ta powerfully alleviates both uniform and pitting corrosion for TiZr alloy by lowering the obtained absolute currents. The surface investigation using scanning electron microscopy confirmed the homogeneity of the surfaces. The elemental analysis performed on the surface using energy dispersive spectroscopy revealed that the surface of TiZr alloy forms a top film including different oxides such as TiO2 and ZrO2, and for TiZrTa alloy, the surface has TiO2 + ZrO2 plus TaO2. Experiments demonstrated that Ta has the ability to increase the corrosion passivation of TiZr alloy.
Differential effects of choline on TLR2/4 mediated signaling through possible regulation of Toll-interacting protein in hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines
Authors: Baris Elif , Demir Ayse Banu
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Toll-like receptor (TLR) mediated inflammatory status plays an important role in development and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Toll-interacting protein (TOLLIP) has an inhibitory effect on TLR-mediated inflammatory signalling and expression profile of TOLLIP varies between malignancies including HCC. Cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAP) is an endogenous mechanism that controls inflammatory status via α7nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (α7nAChR). This study aims to investigate the effect of CAP-acting agent choline on TOLLIP and its related TLR-mediated inflammatory response in HCC cells with distinct differentiation stages.

Methods

The expression patterns of α7nAChR, TLR2/4, TOLLIP, IL6, NFkB genes were evaluated by RT-PCR and ELISA in the presence of choline, along with the real-time cell proliferation and migration in HEP3B and SNU449 HCC cell lines. The interaction between choline and TOLLIP assessed by using in-silico analyses.

Results

Choline downregulated TOLLIP in Hep3B and SNU449 cells. However, the expressions of α7nAChR, NF-κB, IL-6, TLR2 and TLR4 showed a decreased pattern in well differentiated HEP3B cells, while an increased pattern in poorly differentiated SNU449 cells.

Conclusions

Choline might exert differential effects in TLR2/4-dependent signalling based on the differentiation stages of the HCC cells, suggesting its potential therapeutic effects in earlier stages of HCC which might be result of its partial modulation of TOLLIP.
Divine Roots: The Etymology of Thoth
Authors: Cooper Julien
Published: May 2024

The names of gods are an important expression of the Egyptian experience of the divine. Understanding the etymology of divine names can give us insights into the conceptions of the oldest adherents of religious cults, allowing us to appreciate of the essence of the original deity. This analysis will propose an etymology for the name of the god Thoth and situate the god’s name in its proper lexical and theological context, relating the divine name Ḏḥw.ty to an Old Egyptian root for ‘bright’ or ‘white’ and thus lunar concepts. This etymology not only satisfactorily explains the lexical root and theology of Thoth but is also consistent with other patterns in Egyptian divine epithets and names. Using cognates from Afroasiatic languages, the analysis proves that there once existed an ancient lexical root ḏḥ(w) in Old Egyptian or ‘Pre-Old Egyptian’. This root also explains various other nouns in Egyptian such as a type of linen (ḏḥ), the metallic substances of tin (ḏḥ) and lead (ḏḥ.ty), as well as a word for ‘teeth’ (nḏḥ.yt). This analysis demonstrates that some gods’ names are to be found in lexical roots which become unproductive in later stages of the Egyptian lexicon.
Életminőség vizsgálata primer koronária intervencióra kerülő akut koronária szindrómás betegek körében
Authors:   ,   PTE ETK Egészségtudományi Doktori Iskola, Ahmann Mercedes Anna
Published: May 2024

Világszerte a vezető halálokok között szerepelnek a kardiovaszkuláris (CV) megbetegedések. Az Egészségügyi Világszervezet 2021-ben publikált adatai szerint a kardiovaszkuláris betegségek a legelső haláloki tényezők világszerte. Ugyanezen évben a becslések szerint 17.5 millióan haltak meg kardiovaszkuláris betegségekben, amely az összhalálozás 31%-át jelentette. Tudományos célkitűzés Az akut koronária szindróma igen gyakran kutatott terület. Az invazív kardiológia, a gyógyszeres terápia modernizációja és a digitalizáció ellenére, a mortalitási mutatók nem változnak számottevően. Ezért is tartottuk fontosnak, hogy néhány új szempontból vizsgáljuk az ACS morbiditása és mortalitása hátterében álló okokat. Vizsgálatunk négy síkon folyt. Anyag és módszer 1. Prospektív vizsgálatot végeztünk 2018 májusa és 2019 májusa között párhuzamosan a Pécsi Szívgyógyászati Klinikán és az iraki Al-Nasiriyah Szívközpontban. A vizsgálatban 164 ACS beteg vett részt, 64 magyar és 100 iraki. Az adatgyűjtés módszere dokumentumelemzés és a kérdőív elemzés volt. 2. Prospektív vizsgálatot végeztük a Pécsi Tudományegyetem Szívgyógyászati Klinikáján 2017 január és 2017 március között. A vizsgálatban 44 ACS-es beteg vett részt. 3. Retrospektív vizsgálatunk során a magyarországi Pécsi Tudományegyetem Sürgősségi Betegellátó Osztály által rögzített adatokból dolgoztunk.
12 hetes homokon végzett edzés hatása különböző biomechanikai és funkcionális paraméterekre diabéteszes perifériás neuropátiában szenvedő betegekben
Authors:   ,   PTE ETK Egészségtudományi Doktori Iskola, Prókai Judit Andrea
Published: May 2024

A diabéteszes perifériás neuropátia (DPN) és ennek kapcsán progresszívan jelentkező korlátozottságok nagymértékben rontják a betegek mindennapos tevékenységeinek elvégzését, életszínvonalának minőségét. Eddigi tanulmányok bizonyítják a különböző edzésintervenciók hatékonyságát DPN-ben szenvedő cukorbetegek esetében. A szilárd felületek használatával kapcsolatban azonban számos káros hatásról is beszámoltak már korábban. Kutatásunkban 11 DPN beteg vett részt. Első vizsgálatunkban a mindennapi tevékenységeket befolyásoló, motoros diszfunkciók kialakulásában szerepet játszó antropometriai és biomechanikai tényezőket vizsgáltuk. Eredményeink szerint a testtömeg és a bokaízület plantarflexor izmainak relatív erőszintje összefüggésbe hozható az egyensúlyozó képességgel, valamint a bokaízület plantarflexor izmainak ereje és dorsalflexor izmainak relatív ereje a járásképességgel. Vizsgáltuk továbbá egy új, instabil felületen (homokon) végzett edzés biomechanikai és funkcionális paraméterekre gyakorolt hatásait. Az intervenciós időszakban a plantarflexió csúcsnyomatéka jelentősen javult, míg a dorsalflexió nyomatéka változatlan maradt. A bokaízület plantar- és dorsalflexiós mozgásterjedelme szignifikánsan nőtt. A medialis -és lateralis gastrocnemius izmok elektromos aktivitása dorsalflexió során nőtt, az egyensúlyozó képesség mértéke szintén nőtt, a Timed up and go teszt befejezéséhez szükséges idő pedig jelentősen csökkent. Végül vizsgáltuk a mérések által kapott kvantitatív eredményeknek a DPN betegek mindennapos fizikai -és sport tevékenységeire gyakorolt hatásait is.
Physiological and Locomotor Profiling Enables to Differentiate Between Sprinters, 400-m Runners, and Middle-Distance Runners
Authors: Thron Maximiliane , Woll Alexander , Doller Lukas , Quittmann Oliver Jan , Härtel Sascha , Ruf Ludwig , Altmann Stefan
Published: May 2024

Thron, M, Woll, A, Doller, L, Quittmann, OJ, Härtel, S, Ruf, L, and Altmann, S. Physiological and locomotor profiling enables to differentiate between sprinters, 400-m runners, and middle-distance runners. J Strength Cond Res 38(8): 1419–1427, 2024—Different approaches exist for characterizing athletes, e.g., physiological and locomotor profiling. The aims of this study were to generate and compare physiological and locomotor profiles of male and female runners and to evaluate relationships between the different approaches. Thirty-four highly trained adolescent and young adult female and male athletes (n = 11 sprinters; n = 11,400-m runners; n = 12 middle-distance runners) performed two 100-m sprints on a running track to determine maximal sprinting speed (MSS) and maximal lactate accumulation rate (ċLamax). A cardiopulmonary exercise test was performed on a treadmill to determine maximal aerobic speed (MAS) and maximal oxygen uptake (V̇o
2max). Anaerobic speed reserve (ASR) was calculated as the difference between MSS and MAS. Group comparisons were conducted with a 2-way ANOVA (discipline × sex; p < 0.05) and Bonferroni post hoc tests and Cohen's d as effect size. Parameters were correlated by Pearson's correlation coefficients. Maximal aerobic speed and V̇o
2max were higher in 400-m and middle-distance runners compared with sprinters (p ≤ 0.02; −2.24 ≤ d ≤ −1.29). Maximal sprinting speed and ċLamax were higher in sprinters and 400-m runners compared with middle-distance runners (0.03 ≤ p ≤ 0.28; 0.73 ≤ d ≤ 1.23). Anaerobic speed reserve was highest in sprinters and lowest in middle-distance runners (p ≤ 0.03; 1.24 ≤ d ≤ 2.79). High correlations were found between ASR and MAS, MSS, and ċLamax (p < 0.01; −0.55 ≤ r ≤ 0.91) and between ċLamax and MSS (p < 0.01; r = 0.74). Our results indicate that athletes of different sprinting and running disciplines show differing physiological and locomotor profiles, and that the parameters of these approaches are related to each other. This can be of interest for assessing strengths and weaknesses (e.g., for talent identification) or training prescription in these disciplines.
BLOCKCHAIN
Authors: De Farias Claudio Miceli , Strauss Edilberto , Junior Manoel Villas Bôas , Dos Santos Lucimara Oliveira
Published: May 2024

A gestão do fluxo de caixa é um componente vital para o sucesso de qualquer organização. A complexidade dos fluxos financeiros, a necessidade de monitoramento constante e a mitigação de riscos associados tornam a gestão de fluxo de caixa um desafio gerencial para gestores financeiros. No contexto de uma economia cada vez mais digital e globalizada, a aplicação de blockchain na gestão de fluxo de caixa emerge como um tópico de pesquisa relevante e uma solução transformadora para enfrentar os desafios da gestão financeira moderna. Esta pesquisa se concentra em analisar como a tecnologia blockchain pode ser aplicada para melhorar a gestão de fluxo de caixa, oferecendo um panorama abrangente dos benefícios e desafios associados a essa abordagem inovadora.
CLUSTERIZAÇÃO DE ASSÉDIO MORAL E SEXUAL NOS JOGOS ONLINE
Authors: Junior Manoel Villas Bôas , Strauss Edilberto , De Mello Agatha Pequeno , De Carvalho Ana Caroline Torres
Published: May 2024

Desde os primórdios dos consoles de videogame em 1983, os jogos multiplayer online têm testemunhado um notável avanço tecnológico e transformações culturais. Com a ascensão da internet, esses jogos se tornaram significativamente mais interativos, permitindo aos jogadores estabelecer conexões virtuais. No entanto, apesar dos esforços pela igualdade de gênero, as mulheres continuam sendo alvo de violência masculina, inclusive nos ambientes virtuais. Este estudo investigou o assédio moral e sexual durante partidas de jogos online. Um questionário online foi distribuído em redes sociais para jogadores frequentes de games online. A análise comparativa revelou que o assédio é mais prevalente contra mulheres. A utilização de métodos de clusterização e métricas específicas proporcionou uma compreensão objetiva do fenômeno. Em suma, os resultados confirmam que o assédio, tanto moral quanto sexual, é uma realidade nos jogos multiplayer online, afetando desproporcionalmente o gênero feminino. Essas descobertas ressaltam a urgência de medidas preventivas e educacionais para fomentar um ambiente inclusivo e respeitoso nos jogos online, promovendo o bem-estar de todos os jogadores.
Fine-Tuning Amyloid Precursor Protein Expression through Nonsense-Mediated mRNA Decay
Authors: Rahmati Maryam , Chebli Jasmine , Kumar Banote Rakesh , Roselli Sandra , Agholme Lotta , Zetterberg Henrik , Abramsson Alexandra
Published: May 2024

Studies on genetic robustness recently revealed transcriptional adaptation (TA) as a mechanism by which an organism can compensate for genetic mutations through activation of homologous genes. Here, we discovered that genetic mutations, introducing a premature termination codon (PTC) in the amyloid precursor protein-b (appb) gene, activated TA of two otherappfamily members,appaand amyloid precursor-like protein-2 (aplp2), in zebrafish. The observed transcriptional response ofappaandaplp2required degradation of mutant mRNA and did not depend on Appb protein level. Furthermore, TA between amyloid precursor protein (APP) family members was observed in human neuronal progenitor cells; however, compensation was only present during early neuronal differentiation and could not be detected in a more differentiated neuronal stage or adult zebrafish brain. Using knockdown and chemical inhibition, we showed that nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) is involved in degradation of mutant mRNA and that Upf1 and Upf2, key proteins in the NMD pathway, regulate the endogenous transcript levels ofappa,appb,aplp1, andaplp2. In conclusion, our results suggest that the expression level of App family members is regulated by the NMD pathway and that mutations destabilizingapp/APPmRNA can induce genetic compensation by other family members through TA in both zebrafish and human neuronal progenitors.
MousiPLIER: A Mouse Pathway-Level Information Extractor Model
Authors: Zhang Shuo , Heil Benjamin J. , Mao Weiguang , Chikina Maria , Greene Casey S. , Heller Elizabeth A.
Published: May 2024

High-throughput gene expression profiling measures individual gene expression across conditions. However, genes are regulated in complex networks, not as individual entities, limiting the interpretability of gene expression data. Machine learning models that incorporate prior biological knowledge are a powerful tool to extract meaningful biology from gene expression data. Pathway-level information extractor (PLIER) is an unsupervised machine learning method that defines biological pathways by leveraging the vast amount of published transcriptomic data. PLIER converts gene expression data into known pathway gene sets, termed latent variables (LVs), to substantially reduce data dimensionality and improve interpretability. In the current study, we trained the first mouse PLIER model on 190,111 mouse brain RNA-sequencing samples, the greatest amount of training data ever used by PLIER. We then validated the mousiPLIER approach in a study of microglia and astrocyte gene expression across mouse brain aging. mousiPLIER identified biological pathways that are significantly associated with aging, including one latent variable (LV41) corresponding to striatal signal. To gain further insight into the genes contained in LV41, we performedk-means clustering on the training data to identify studies that respond strongly to LV41. We found that the variable was relevant to striatum and aging across the scientific literature. Finally, we built a Web server (http://mousiplier.greenelab.com/) for users to easily explore the learned latent variables. Taken together, this study defines mousiPLIER as a method to uncover meaningful biological processes in mouse brain transcriptomic studies.
Characterizations of semigroups by their linear Diophantine anti-fuzzy bi-ideals
Authors: Al-Kaseasbeh S. , Al Tahan M.
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this paper is to introduce linear Diophantine anti-fuzzification of algebraic structures. In this regard, we define linear Diophantine anti-fuzzy (LDAF) substructures of a semigroup and discuss some of its properties. Moreover, we characterize semigroups in terms of LDAF-ideals and LDAF-bi-ideals. Finally, we apply the linear Diophantine anti-fuzzification to groups and find a relationship between LDAF-subgroups of a group and its LDF-subgroups.
Temperature-Dependent Storage Stability and Shelf-Life Assessment Of Palmyra Blended Beverage
Authors: Behera Saloman , Nayak Binata , Parida Shweta
Published: May 2024

Nutraceuticals added ready to serve blended beverages was prepared from tender palmyra pulp and the storage study of the developed beverages was carried out in this research. Blended beverage was prepared by blending the tender palmyra pulp along with green chilly pulp and ginger extract. For each treatment the final TSS was adjusted to 12 °Brix (as per optimization) in the blended juice. After the finalization of the juice blend, the pasteurized juice was further packed with preservatives such as potassium meta-bisulphite and sodium benzoate at 300ppm. The Palmyra blended juice was stored under ambient (30±5 °C) and refrigerated condition (4±1 °C) in glass bottles. The effect of preservative treatment and storage condition on quality parameters during storage of PBJ was investigated for a period of 180 days. The quality parameters considered under study were biochemical, phytochemical, sensory and microbiological property. The palmyra blended juice with sodium benzoate performed best under both ambient and refrigerated storage conditions up to 90 and 180 days respectively.
HerbaVisionNet: Optimized CNN And Resnet50v2 Model For Enhanced Medicinal Plant Identification And Application Design
Authors: Goyal Harshit , Garg Bindu , Goyal Ashok Kumar
Published: May 2024

Addressing the escalating demand for medicinal plants, this study undertakes the critical task of establishing an efficient identification system. Employing Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) with ResNet50v2 architecture, the project endeavours to develop a robust model capable of classifying 30 distinct medicinal plant types from high-resolution images. This classification relies on the precision of feature extraction to ensure accurate identification. Notably, the dataset used is meticulously curated to ensure its adaptability to the diverse botanical characteristics inherent in medicinal plants. Central to achieving high accuracy is the ResNet50v2 model, which forms the cornerstone of the project. Integrated into a real-time web application implemented with Flask, this model facilitates swift and accessible plant identification for various users, including researchers, herbalists, and enthusiasts. The study underscores the efficacy of deep learning algorithms in medicinal plant identification, showcasing remarkable accuracy and reliability in classification tasks. Beyond mere identification, the model demonstrates an ability to precisely categorize plant species, thereby bridging the gap between identification and exploration. This precision is underscored by an exceptional 99% accuracy rate in distinguishing between 30 medicinal plant species, attributed to meticulous model training with a diverse, high-resolution dataset capturing intricate plant features. Continual efforts are directed towards expanding the dataset to encompass variations in real-world scenarios. Strategies to address class imbalance through oversampling techniques and class weight adjustments are being rigorously pursued. Additionally, the model undergoes refinement through fine-tuning its architecture and integrating advanced data augmentation techniques. The research significantly contributes to the broader field of AI applications in sustainable practices, particularly in the conservation of medicinal plant resources. Serving as a potent tool for accurate identification, it holds promising implications for future advancements in deep learning and botanical research.
Quality Characterization of Groundwater for Human Consumption using Water Quality Index for Gandhinagar District, Gujarat
Authors: Joshi Darshna B. , Patel Yogesh S.
Published: May 2024

As we know, Water is an important parameter for survival of biotic component. Current analysis deals with ground water characteristic of Gandhinagar District, Gujarat.  The properties of water and the water quality index are closely related. It is a number between 1 and 100 that represents the overall water quality at a specific location and time based on different water quality attributes. Better water quality is demonstrated by a lower water quality index. The land use pattern and waste disposal system have the most impacts on groundwater quality. The word "water quality" refers to the physical, chemical, or biological properties of the water. This was discovered by the collection of 50 groundwater samples from various locations across Gandhinagar and the comprehensive physicochemical examination of each sample. The following 10 factors have been taken into account when calculating the WQI.: PH, Sodium (Na+) , Total Hardness(CaCO3), Calcium, Magnesium, Chloride, Fluorides, Iron, Nitrate and Sulphate(SO4). The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS, 2012) has been taken into account when determining whether groundwater is fit for drinking and for calculating WQI. Understanding the structure and operation of a specific water body may be aided by the physicochemical investigation. For the Gandhinagar District, the WQI was determined to be within the advised ranges, and all significant villages have values that fall into the Good category for water quality (B grade).
Synergic Effects of Recycled Concrete Aggregate and Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR) Latex on Mechanical Properties of Concrete
Authors: . Shafiullah , Bilal Hamid , Qadeer Abdul , Usman Arif , Khan Adnan , Akhtar Naheed
Published: May 2024

These days Sustainable advancement is picking up notoriety all around the globe. To hold characteristic assets, reuse and reusing of development and annihilation squander is the clearest approach to achieve manageability in the development division. Presently, reused aggregate RA is been generating and CDW is its source. As of late, these squanders are reused in present day reusing offices, under great quality control arrangements which could prompt enhance its execution. An investigation is completed about the characteristics of Recycled Aggregate Concrete RAC by utilizing squashing and breaking of concrete waste got from various obliteration locales & junkyard. With the end goal to upgrade the characteristics of RAC there are a few additives called as super plasticizer which are adjoined with concrete. Fixings utilized in particularly this investigation were ordinary sand, common & reused aggregate & additive namely Styrene Butadiene Rubber latex (SBR). Those aggregates are acquired from various assets. Sum of 144 concrete molds in system of 4 collections was framed. Gatherings were structured in such a route along these lines, to the point that the impact of reused coarse aggregate (half, 75 percent, and 100 percent), cement dose and expansion of latex of SBR in factor amounts by the cement weight of (0.5 percent, l percent, 1.5 percent) ought to be appropriately decided. For compressive quality and rupture modulus MOR, tests were done. Prior to the tests performance in the research center a diminishing pattern of twenty five (25) percent in compressive quality was taken note. An impressive decrease was seen in the properties of RAC by utilizing 100% reused aggregate when contrasted with Natural Aggregate Concrete NAC. There was negligible change in Recycled Aggregate Concrete RAC made of 75 percent (%) NA and 25 percent (%) RCA. Yet, there was ideal properties differences of concrete ended with the blend of half NA and half RCA. It was seen in the outcomes that concrete squanders might be used in arrangement of concrete subsequent to reusing them which at that point can be utilized in many concrete structures.
The value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in cervical cancer assessed in comparison with magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Ignat Radu-Mihai , Fekete Zsolt , Csutak Csaba , Todor Nicolae , Ignat Florin Laurentiu , Ignat Patricia Delia , Badea Radu
Published: May 2024

Introduction. Currently, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most commonly used imaging method in the assessment of the loco-regional extension in cervical cancer. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (abbreviated CEUS) is being investigated as an alternative or complement to the MRI investigation.
Objectives. To evaluate the performance of CEUS in identifying loco-regional invasion of cervical cancer compared to MRI, considered the accepted reference standard.
Method. Sixty-one patients with histopathologically confirmed cervical cancer were investigated as part of the pre-treatment workup by CEUS and MRI. We calculated the accuracy and concordance of CEUS versus MRI for tumor invasion in the vagina, bladder, rectum, parametrium, and uterus. For the time-intensity curve associated parameters analyzed (TTPK, AUC, peak intensity, wash in and wash out gradient) we calculated sensitivity, specificity and threshold value of positivity, for tumor invasion at the above-mentioned sites, with graphical representation of the ROC (receiver operating characteristic) curve.
Results. CEUS was highly accurate in detecting bladder (93.4%, 95% CI: 87.2- 99.6) and uterine invasion (88.5%, 95% CI: 80.5-96.5). Substantial agreement between CEUS and MRI was observed for invasion in the uterine body (k=0.77, 95% CI: 0.56-0.98) and bladder (k=0.56, 95% CI: 0.35-0.77). ROC curve analysis for loco-regional invasions showed that the wash in gradient at a cut-off value of 2.23 had a sensitivity of 76% and a specificity of 67% in predicting uterine invasion.
Conclusions. Our results demonstrate high accuracy and good agreement between CEUS and MRI regarding especially uterine and bladder invasion. This imaging method could help select patients in early stages for fertility sparing surgery, and also be of use in cases in which early bladder invasion is suspected.
Lessons Learned at Community-University Institute for Social Research’s (CUISR)
Authors: Sanz Penelope C. , Findlay Isobel
Published: May 2024

The University of Saskatchewan’s Community-University Institute for Social Research (CUISR) is celebrating its 25th anniversary very soon. Engaged Scholar Journal’s Penelope Sanz sat down with Isobel Findlay, University co-director of CUISR since 2011, to revisit the vision its founders set out 25 years ago and reflect on its achievements. The institute was established to facilitate community-university partnerships to engage in relevant and collaborative social research to gain a deeper understanding of Saskatchewan’s communities and to reveal opportunities to improve community quality of life.
Physio-biochemical characteristics of Acrostichum aureum L. In the coir retting areas of Kadinamkulam Estuary, South India
Authors: Divakaran Sarasamma Jaya , S Aneesa , Sasidharan Sonu
Published: May 2024

The Kadinamkulam lake a temporary estuary lying in the southern part of Kerala, is the largest of its kind in Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala. Connected with the Anchuthengu kayal on the north and the Veli kayal on the south, the north and the Veli kayal on the south, the Kadinamkulam kayal remains connected with the Lakshadweep Sea for varying periods depending on rain fall and river discharge. Acrostichum aureum L. is only pteridophyte genus fern in the mangrove ecosystem of Indian coast. So the present study was conducted in the plant Acrostichum aureum L. identified in the selected stations of Kadinamkulam estuary. The major objective of the study is to assess the changes in the physiological and biochemical characteristics of the plant Acrostichum aureum L in coir retting areas. For this, surface water samples and plant samples were collected from the six selected stations of the coir retting areas and one station in the non-retting area of Kadinamkulam estuary. The results show reduction in leaf pigments, total proteins, carbohydrates in the Acrostichum aureum L. plants in polluted stations compared to that of control station/non retting area. The malondialdehyde, antioxidants and proline were increased in the Acrostichum aureum plants in retting stations and it vividly points out the stressful environment in the study area. It may be due to the presence of pollutants in the coir retting effluents and sewage disposed to this lake. The results of the study in lake water samples show that the values of some water quality parameters in coir retting areas were above the permissible limits of surface water quality standards.
The effect of knit structure on natural dyeing properties of cotton fabric
Authors: Koçak E Dilara , Ofluoğlu Tuğba , Çelikkanat Özlem Tektaş
Published: May 2024

Natural dyeing of textile materials is gaining popularity all over the world since natural dyes are mostly eco-friendly, less toxic, and less allergenic as compared with synthetic dyes. Although synthetic dyes offer a broad range of color and color fastness and bright hues, they are nonbiodegradable and carcinogenic compounds and cause water pollution as well as waste disposal problems. This study presents the natural dyeing of cotton knitted fabric with three different structures using R. cordifolia root extract as a natural dye. Knitted fabrics with three different structures, interlock (350 g/m2), single jersey (145 g/m2) and rib (135 g/m2), were produced and dyed with madder (Rubia Cordifolia) in the presence of tannic acid as a mordant. The dyed samples were evaluated in terms of color measurement results (CIE L*,a*, b*, C*, h0, DE) and color fastness properties.
Amphiphilic Compounds as Antihemolytic Agents: Problems and Prospects
Authors:   Institute for Problems of Cryobiology and Cryomedicine of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Chabanenko Olena , Yershova Natalia ,   Institute for Problems of Cryobiology and Cryomedicine of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Orlova Nataliia ,   Institute for Problems of Cryobiology and Cryomedicine of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Ukraine, Laptiy Olena ,   State Biotechnological University, Kharkiv, Ukraine, Shpakova Nataliia ,   Institute for Problems of Cryobiology and Cryomedicine of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Ukraine
Published: May 2024

In this research the effect of surface-active substances belonging to different classes of amphiphilic compounds (cationic trifluoperazine (TFP), anionic sodium decyl sulfate (C10) and nonionic decyl-β,D-glucopyranoside (DGP)) on the level of damage of human erythrocytes during posthypertonic shock (PHS) and glycerol removal from cells frozen to –196°C was study. All amphiphilic compounds in low concentrations (at which the antihemolytic activity is approximately 45% under the conditions of PHS cells) show the same efficiency when removing glycerol from thawed cells. It was established that among amphiphilic compounds in effective concentrations the maximum antihemolytic (AHmax) activity was shown by DGP (74%) during the removal of glycerol from thawed cells and C10 (74%) under conditions of PHS of erythrocytes, while the AHmax activity indicators of TFP were comparable in both cases. A feature of the effectiveness of C10 under the conditions of deglycerolization of cryopreserved erythrocytes is almost the same AH when used in both concentrations. The method of flow cytometry showed that the amount of annexin-labeled cells depended on the concentration of C10 both in physiological solution and under PHS conditions.
An Ethical Analysis of Therapy for Severe Congenital Kidney and Urinary Tract Anomalies
Authors: Claes Donna , Markham Kara B. , Cortezzo DonnaMaria E.
Published: May 2024

Technological advancements before and after delivery have greatly altered the counseling of pregnant patients facing a fetal diagnosis of severe oligohydramnios or anhydramnios secondary to congenital anomalies of the kidneys and urinary tract. Once considered a nearly uniformly lethal abnormality, long-term survival may now be possible secondary to prenatal innovations aimed at restoring the amniotic fluid volume and the availability of more advanced neonatal dialysis techniques. However, these available therapies are far from perfect. The procedures are onerous for pregnant patients without a guarantee of success, and families must prepare themselves for the complex life-long medical care that will be necessary for surviving individuals. Multidisciplinary counseling is imperative to help pregnant individuals understand the complexity of these conditions and assist them in exercising their right to informed decision-making. Moreover, as with any developing field of medicine, providers must contend with ethical questions related to the treatment options, including questions regarding patient-hood, distributive justice, and the blurred lines between research, innovation, and standard care. These ethical questions are best addressed in a multidisciplinary fashion with consideration of multiple points of view from various subspecialties. Only by seeing the entirety of the picture can we hope to best counsel patients about these highly complex situations and help navigate the most appropriate care path.
Project Spotlight: UHPC takes on heat, humidity of Malaysia bridge locale
Authors: Atkinson William
Published: May 2024

Precast concrete played an important role in the building of a major submersible ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) bridge in Perak, Malaysia. A number of options for the bridge superstructure mate¬rials were considered for the Lambor Bridge, including conventional concrete and structural steel; however, these were abandoned in favor of UHPC, which offered a number of benefits. Dura Technology was the precaster for the project.
Project Spotlight: Pedestrian, bike bridge at UC San Diego spans environmentally sensitive area
Authors: Atkinson William
Published: May 2024

The $10 million pedestrian and bicycle bridge serving the University of California San Diego Mesa Housing community was built to link the student housing area with a medical center complex and the campus. The bridge ended up spanning 485 ft (148 m) and features a 10 ft (3 m) wide bike lane and a 6 ft (1.8 m) wide pedestrian walkway. Precast concrete provided by Oldcastle was selected for the project.
Project Spotlight: Cobalt blue glazed brick highlights new 34-story Brooklyn tower
Authors: Atkinson William
Published: May 2024

Cobalt blue glazed brick on precast concrete spandrels from the precast concrete producer, Architectural Precast Innovations Inc. of Middleburg, Pa., gives One Willoughby Square in downtown Brooklyn, N.Y., a distinctive, high-end look.
Project Spotlight: New technology used to create patterns in concrete for high school field house
Authors: Atkinson William
Published: May 2024

For Maine West High School’s new field house in Des Plaines, Ill., Mid-States Concrete Industries used Graphic Concrete technology to create a one-of-a-kind design.
Implementasi Manajemen Riayah dalam Meningkatkan Kenyamanan Jamaah
Authors: Nurhayati Nurhayati , Rahman Arif , Setiawan Asep Iwan
Published: May 2024

This study aims to find out the riot planning at the Cipaganti Grand Mosque in increasing the comfort of pilgrims, to find out the application of riayah at the Cipaganti Great Mosque in increasing the comfort of worshipers, to find out the evaluation of riayah at the Cipaganti Great Mosque in increasing the comfort of worshipers. This study uses the descriptive method with a qualitative approach. The techniques in collecting data through observation, interviews and documentation studies as evidence of riayah's management in an effort to improve the comfort of pilgrims at the Cipaganti Grand Mosque. Based on the results of research conducted at the Cipaganti Grand Mosque from the implementation of riayah management in improving the comfort of pilgrims it can be concluded: First, that the planning of riayah in the Great Mosque of Cipaganti formulates work programs, facilities, and physical maintenance of the mosque. Second, that implementation means that whatever has been formulated must be implemented. Where in making work programs in accordance with the standards of mosque management so that the physical maintenance of the mosque can be directed and run in accordance with expectations and goals, namely to foster a sense of comfort towards worshipers. Third, that evaluation is a corrective action if the results are not as expected. So in this case the evaluation can be done in the short and long term.
Implementasi Fungsi Pengorganisasian Pondok Pesantren Dalam Meningkatkan Kualitas Santri
Authors: Nurhasanah Elin , Abidin Yusuf Zaenal , Sanusi Irfan
Published: May 2024

This study aims to analyze the determination of santri activities and human resources, design and development, placement and assignment and delegation of authority at the Al-Ma'munul Hamiddiyah Islamic Boarding School to produce quality students. The method used in this research is descriptive method with a qualitative approach through field observations, interviews, documentation studies and literature studies which are then compiled and classified according to the data that the author needs. The results of the research at the Al-Ma'munul Hamiddiyah Islamic Boarding School were that the determination of the activities of the students and human resources for the board was determined by the pesantren leadership, the kiai council, the teacher council, and the santri council and adjusted to the needs of the students. The design and development is carried out by analyzing the needs of the pesantren in order to adapt to the times through experience and comparative studies. Placement and assignments are determined by the leadership, board and Ex-Officio based on predetermined criteria, this is done so that the elected administrators are able to guide and direct the students. The delegation of authority to each individual / management is adjusted to the main duties and functions of each position of each santri.
Manajemen Strategis Pendayagunaan Zakat BAZNAS Jawa Barat terhadap Kesejahteraan Mustahik
Authors: Fitriani Kulsum , Machendrawaty Nanih , Sadiah Dewi
Published: May 2024

This study aims to determine the strategic management of zakat utilization on the welfare of mustahik in BAZNAS, West Java Province. The method used in this research is a descriptive method with a qualitative approach. The results show that environmental observations have been carried out to maximize strengths and take advantage of existing opportunities and minimize weaknesses and threats so that utilization has an impact on the welfare of the mustahik. Strategy Formulation, namely the formulation of a vision, goals, strategies, and policies that are formed systematically. Strategy implementation with five major programs that are made in a mature and professional manner. Evaluation and Control Strategy by conducting regular evaluations so that program control can be carried out properly according to procedures. BAZNAS West Java Province has carried out strategic management well and has been able to show success in the welfare of mustahiq.
Perencanaan Strategis Lembaga Amil Zakat Al-Kahfi Peduli dalam Meningkatkan Kualitas Daya Saing
Authors: Syafitri Asri , Abidin Yusuf Zaenal , Yaya Yaya
Published: May 2024

This research aims to know strategic intent, strategic mission, and strategic flexibility applied in the LAZ Al-Kahfi Peduli society’s in improving its competitiveness qualities. This type of research is qualitative with a descriptive approach. Data collection methods are regenerated by observation, interviews, and associated literature studies. Research shows that strategic planning has succesfully achieved prime Al-Kahfi Peduli’s competitiveness quality.
Implementasi Pengorganisasian untuk Meningkatkan Kinerja Amil Pelaksana di BAZNAS Kabupaten Cirebon
Authors: Sunengsih Sunengsih , Sarbini Ahmad , Rahmawaty Indira Sabet
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this study was to determine the mechanism of division of tasks, departmentalization, management hierarchy levels, communication channels, committee functions, management spans and the role of informal groups in improving the performance of the implementing amyl. The method used is descriptive, qualitative method. The results of this study indicate that the division of labor is carried out by grouping amyl into five departments. The level of the hierarchy is very clear. Communication goes well through their respective channels. The committee's function in helping realize the BAZNAS program has been carried out well. The management span is a wide management span. The role of informal groups is to create a positive work atmosphere. So, the implementation of organizing to improve the performance of the implementing amil at BAZNAS Cirebon Regency has been implemented well.
Peran Kepemimpinan Kepala Kantor Urusan Agama dalam Meningkatkan Kedisiplinan Pegawai di Kecamatan Sumberjaya
Authors: Kurniawan Eki , Sanusi Irfan , Herman Herman
Published: May 2024

The purpose of writing this journal is to find out how the leadership role of the Head of the Sumberjaya Religious Affairs Office is. This study uses a descriptive method and a qualitative approach. From the results of research on the leadership role of the Head of the Office of Religious Affairs in improving employee discipline, it is known that the leadership style applied by the Head of the Office of Religious Affairs in Sumberjaya District is a bureaucratic, participatory, delegative and free-control leadership style. The leadership function is implemented optimally and the process of moving employees (actuating) is carried out by coordinating, providing motivation, creating good communication and providing guidance. The presence of the Head of the Office of Religious Affairs is able to improve the discipline of his employees.
Strategi Pondok Pesantren Attaqwa Bekasi dalam Membentuk Santri yang Berakhlak
Authors: Nurazijah Nurazijah , Rahmawaty Indira Sabet
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this study is to find out how the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of  Attaqwa Putra Islamic Boarding School is to achieve its goals. The method used is descriptive with  qualitative approach so that the author can find out information by describing and describing strategic management at the Attaqwa Putra Islamic Boarding School. Data collection techniques used are observation, interviews and documentation. The results showed the Attaqwa Putra Islamic Boarding School modern Islamic boarding school implements strategic management system in which there  strategy formulation process, the formulation  carried out by observing from the external and internal environment to determine the program from the vision, mission, goals and set targets. In the implementation process, Attaqwa Putra Islamic Boarding School applies in daily life 24 hours when students run into teachers, classmates, and peers, they must greet, reprimand, and shake hands. And the evaluation applied by the Attaqwa Putra Islamic Boarding School to monitor the activities of the students directly or through the administrators of the Attaqwa Islamic Boarding School.
Manajemen Pemberdayaan Zakat dan Implikasinya terhadap Aspek Sosio Ekonomi dalam Kesejahtraan Umat
Authors: Rustandi Ridwan , Abidin Yusuf Zaenal , Rahman Arif , Yuliani Yuliani
Published: May 2024

The welfare of the people in the Islamic perspective includes material, moral, and spiritual welfare. This view is in line with human nature which is holistic in nature which has implications for the socio-economic system of society which cannot be separated from all Islamic teachings in an integral and comprehensive manner. To realize this welfare, efforts are needed, one of which is through empowerment and professional zakat management. Through professional management, zakat is a potential source of funds that can be used to achieve general welfare for the whole community in Indonesia. Good and professional zakat management using modern management principles is expected to increase the dignity of the Islamic community from underprivileged conditions, as well as escape the trap of poverty and economic backwardness. Management of zakat empowerment can be manifested as well-organized zakat management activities which consist of planning, organizing, implementing, and controlling or supervising carried out to achieve the goal of utilizing the potential of zakat that has not been maximized in Indonesia through the utilization of human resources and other resources which ultimately have an impact on the socio-economic aspects of the welfare of the people.
Akuntansi Keuangan Masjid dalam Meningkatkan Kesejahteraan Jama’ah di Masjid Al-Yaqin Kabupaten Sukabumi
Authors: Triutami Annisa Dwi , Machendrawaty Nanih , Aripudin Acep
Published: May 2024

Mosque Financial Accounting ideally uses accounting standards for use in statements of financial position at the end of the period, statements of profit and loss and other comprehensive income during the period, reports of changes in equity during the period, statements of cash flows, notes to financial statement. The purpose of this writing is to find out the general description of mosque management at Al-Yaqin Mosque, and to find out the implications of this management for professional mosque financial management. The purpose of this research is to find out the Management of Al-Yaqin Mosque. Based on data techniques processed descriptive research method with a qualitative approach. The results of this study reveal that the management of the mosque has been managed quite well with the sources of funds obtained by the Al-Yaqin Sukabumi mosque coming from infaq, alms, charity boxes, rice sales collected by the congregation and donors, so that the welfare of the congregation can be created. The financial management of the Al-Yaqin Mosque is presented very simply and refers to the financial reports of the mosque in general. Al-Yaqin Mosque has not implemented a financial management system according to Statement of Accounting Standards No. 1 (PSAK 1).
From Pen to Pixel
Authors: Cardwell Ramsey , Naismith Ben , Burstein Jill , Nydick Steven , Goodwin Sarah , Verardi Anthony
Published: May 2024

The use of digital technologies in higher education is continually increasing, leading to changes in language use and presumably altering the language skills needed for academic studies. However, scores from high-stakes English language proficiency (ELP) tests used in postsecondary admissions only ensure the prerequisite level of traditional English skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking). Such tests generally do not directly assess technology-mediated language skills (e.g., using online dictionaries and communicating via text message) that likely facilitate successful degree completion for international students. We present results from a needs analysis survey to re-evaluate the English-medium postsecondary linguistic landscape (i.e., update the target language use domain description), to inform ELP admissions tests. We specifically investigate international student (n = 379) and disciplinary instructor (n = 427) perceptions of the importance and frequency of technology-mediated language skills. Results show that student and instructor responses differ on certain technology-mediated skills, such as typing on a smartphone, underscoring the need to consider diverse perspectives in domain analysis research. Findings may inform how digital ELP admissions tests are developed, and how English for academic purposes curricula are designed, in order to better align test/classroom tasks with the academic language skills postsecondary students need.