bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fifteen years of melanomatous meetings
Authors: Perasole Antonio , Massone Cesare
Published: March 2022

In 2019, as well as being my last year of service in the hospital, I thought that it would also be the last as the organizer of melanocyte meetings. So, I thought of organizing these meeting as traveling sessions. In February and in March we were hosted in Modena by Anna Maria Cesinaro, in April and May in Reggio Emilia by Simonetta Piana, then in Trento by Mattia Barbareschi [...].
Xiaochaihu Decoction in Diabetic Kidney Disease: A Study based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking Technology
Authors: Wang Ying , Zhou Xuefeng , Luo Minjing , Zhao Tingting , Li Ping
Published: March 2022

Abstract

Objective:

To explore the potential mechanism of Xiaochaihu decoction (XCHD) in the treatment of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) by network pharmacology and molecular docking technology.

Materials and Methods:

Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform was used to screen out main active components of XCHD. Gene names of target proteins were obtained with UniProt database. DKD targets were collected by GeneCard database, and common targets were selected through jvenn platform. STRING database was used to construct a protein-protein interaction network. Enrichment analysis was carried out through the Metascape platform. The “drug-component-target” and “component-target-KEGG pathway” networks were constructed using Cytoscape software. Molecular docking analysis was carried out with AutoDockTool software.

Results:

A total of 195 active components were obtained for XCHD. There were 238 corresponding targets and 128 common targets associated with DKD, and the core targets involved IL6, AKT1, VEGFA, TNF, TP53, PTGS2, and JUN. Gene ontology enrichment analysis revealed 2242 entries for biological processes, 82 entries for cellular components, and 166 items of molecular functions. A total of 333 signal pathways were screened by KEGG pathway enrichment analysis. Molecular docking showed that quercetin, baicalin, luteolin, and wogonin were tightly bound to the key target proteins of PTGS2 and AKT1.

Conclusions:

195 active components were screened from XCHD, among which 128 intersections with DKD were identified, and 333 signaling pathways were identified by KEGG pathway enrichment analysis. The key active components in XCHD, such as quercetin, baicalin, luteolin and wogonin, regulate multiple signaling pathways by acting on PTGS2, AKT1 and other targets, for anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, regulating cell factors, improving insulin resistance, and protecting renal function. This study provides a more in-depth scientific basis and research direction for the investigation on XCHD treatment of DKD.
Tangshen Formula Attenuates Renal Fibrosis by Downregulating Transforming Growth Factor β1/Smad3 and LncRNA-MEG3 in Rats with Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Zhou Xue-Feng , Wang Ying , Luo Min-Jing , Zhao Ting-Ting , Li Ping
Published: March 2022

Abstract

Background and Objective:

The traditional Chinese Tangshen formula (TSF) has been reported to ameliorate diabetic kidney disease (DKD) in humans and animals. However, the effect of TSF on renal fibrosis remains unclear. Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/Smad3 signaling and lncRNA MEG3 are important in renal fibrosis. In this study, we examined the therapeutic effect of TSF on renal fibrosis and explored whether it was related to the modulation of TGFβ1/Smad3 signaling and lncRNA MEG3 expression.

Materials and Methods:

Experiments were performed in rats in vivo and in the HK2 cells in vitro. DKD was induced in rats by uninephrectomy combined with a single streptozotocin injection. The HK2 cells were stimulated by high glucose (HG) to explore the mechanism of TSF effects in vitro.

Results:

TSF significantly attenuated renal injury by lowering proteinuria and renal histological damage in DKD rats. TSF reduced collagen deposition by decreasing the expression of the fibrotic indicators collagen I, collagen IV, and fibronectin at the protein and mRNA levels, which suggested that TSF ameliorated DKD by decreasing renal fibrosis. Furthermore, TSF decreased TGF-β1 expression and suppressed the levels of phosphorylated Smad3 and Smad2/3 in vivo. Moreover, TSF downregulated the lncRNA MEG3 level in DKD rats. TSF reversed the upregulation of collagen I and fibronectin expression and downregulated Smad2/3 phosphorylation in the HK2 cells stimulated with HG.

Conclusions:

TSF ameliorates renal fibrosis in rats with DKD by suppressing TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling and lncRNA MEG3 expression.
New Insights into the Immunity and Podocyte in Glomerular Health and Disease: From Pathogenesis to Therapy in Proteinuric Kidney Disease
Authors: Medina Rangel Paulina X , Priyadarshini Anupama , Tian Xuefei
Published: March 2022

Abstract

Evidence has been furnished that immune cells, and immune-podocytes interactions have increasingly become the focus of proteinuric kidney diseases, which affect millions of patients worldwide. Podocytes are highly specialized, terminally differentiated epithelial cells that wrap around the glomerulus to maintain the integrity of the glomerular filtration barrier. More recent studies demonstrate that podocytes express many elements of the innate and adaptive immune system including the complement components and receptors, through which podocytes can be involved in immune-mediated glomerular injuries and as a therapeutic target to alleviate the podocyte injury and progression to chronic kidney disease. The present review will shed light on recent findings, which have furthered our understanding of the immune mechanisms involved in podocyte injury, as well as the therapeutic implications in the treatment of immune-mediated glomerular injury.
Traditional Chinese Medicine in Ameliorating Diabetic Kidney Disease Via Modulating Gut Microbiota
Authors: Yang Yanan , Wu Chongming
Published: March 2022

Abstract

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD), a major microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus, has become the second cause of end-stage renal disease enhancing the mortality rate of diabetes. However, there are still few treatment approaches to combat it. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been applied for a long time to treat DKD. However, there is a lack of research on how does TCM plays the role in treating DKD due to the complex of composition of TCM. In recent decade, gut microbiota is increasingly recognized for its contributions to host health, and the occurrence of gut-kidney axis also attracts many interests about microbiota in kidney injury. Some of the studies have already revealed that TCM can alleviate the symptoms of DKD through regulating gut microbiota and ameliorate a vicious circle caused by imbalance of gut-kidney axis. However, the problems of which specific species mediates the efficacy of TCM and how gut microbiota influences the process of DKD are urgent to solve. Therefore, this review systematically summarized the application of TCM and the importance of gut microbiota in DKD. More importantly, the review provided a new insight to find biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment of DKD. In future study, targeted manipulation of the gut microbiota will be progressively recognized as a way to enhance human health.
Prognostication of the Last Days of Life
Authors: Mori Masanori , Morita Tatsuya , Bruera Eduardo , Hui David
Published: March 2022

Accurate prediction of impending death (i.e., last few days of life) is essential for terminally-ill cancer patients and their families. International guidelines state that clinicians should identify patients with impending death, communicate the prognosis with patients and families, help them with their end-of-life decision-making, and provide sufficient symptom palliation. Over the past decade, several national and international studies have been conducted that systematically investigated signs and symptoms of impending death as well as how to communicate such a prognosis effectively with patients and families. In this article, we summarize the current evidence on prognostication and communication regarding the last days of life of patients with cancer, and future directions of clinical research.
Homological mirror symmetry for invertible polynomials in two variables
Authors: Habermann Matthew
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we give a proof of homological mirror symmetry for two variable invertible polynomials, where the symmetry group on the B-side is taken to be maximal. The proof involves an explicit gluing construction of the Milnor fibres, and, as an application, we prove derived equivalences between certain nodal stacky curves, some of whose irreducible components have non-trivial generic stabiliser.
Approaches for Simulation Model Reuse in Systems Design — A Review
Authors: Hussain Mohammad , Masoudi Nafiseh , Mocko Gregory , Paredis Chris
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we review the literature related to the reuse of computer-based simulation models in the context of systems design.

Models are used to capture aspects of existing or envisioned systems and are simulated to predict the behavior of these systems. However, developing such models from scratch requires significant time and effort. Researchers have recognized that the time and effort can be reduced if existing models or model components are reused, leading to the study of model reusability. In this paper, we review the tasks necessary to retrieve and reuse model components from repositories, and to prepare new models and model components such that they are more amenable for future reuse.

Model reuse can be significantly enhanced by carefully characterizing the model, and capturing its meaning and intent so that potential users can determine whether the model meets their needs. Traditionally, the meaning and intent of models has been captured in textual documentation, but more recently, semantically rich, axiomatized approaches using model characteristics based on ontologies have been introduced that enable algorithmic support for the identification, discovery, and reuse of models. Researchers have also recognized that the opportunity for reuse significantly increases when models are modularized into composable model components. While many repositories and frameworks for modular modeling have been recently developed, it is important to recognize that without considerable forethought in terms of model architecture, model composability often remains elusive.

Even when models are well-characterized and organized in a repository, model users need to perform several tasks before they can successfully reuse these models and components for a specific analysis scenario. These tasks include searching, optionally adapting, composing, integrating and validating models and model components. We will review the literature on each of these tasks and focus on identifying opportunities for further improvement of model reuse support frameworks.
Lap Time Optimization and Path Following Control for 4WS & 4WID Autonomous Vehicle
Authors: Sun Yiwen , Li Runfeng , Lu Ziwang , Tian Guangyu
Published: March 2022

In contrast to a normal vehicle, a 4-wheel steer (4WS) and 4-wheel independent drive (4WID) vehicle provides more flexibilities in vehicle dynamic control and better handling performance, since both the steer angle and drive torque of each wheel can be controlled. However, for motorsports, how much lap time can be improved with such a vehicle is a problem few discussed. So, this paper focuses on the racing line optimization and lap time improvement for a 4WS &4WID vehicle. First, we optimize the racing line and lap time of three given circuits with the genetic algorithm (GA) and interior-point method, and several objective functions are compared. Next, to evaluate the lap time improvement of 4WS & 4WID, a detailed vehicle dynamic model of our 4WS & 4WID platform vehicle is built in Carsim. To follow the racing line, a path following controller which contains a PID speed controller and a model predictive control (MPC) yaw rate controller is built. Moreover, a sliding mode (SMC) 4WS controller is designed to adjust the steer angle of wheels, meanwhile another SMC direct yaw moment (DYC) controller is proposed to track the target yaw rate and allocate the wheel torque considering the appropriate usage of tire friction. Results have demonstrated that the optimized racing line and lap time have tolerable error (<3%), and the proposed 4WS & 4WID method can reduce 3% of the lap time by enlarging the G-G diagram.
Post-processing Improvement of Lock-in Thermography Study of MCM-L for Better Hidden Defect Localization
Authors: Stoynova Anna , Bonev Borislav
Published: March 2022

This paper examines the impact of post-processing of lock-in thermographic measurement data on the ability to detect and characterize in terms of geometric dimensions and location of specific types of defects in MCM-L. A thermal 3D model of a test specimen with hidden artificial defects is used and simulated lock-in thermography measurement is performed. Qualitative and quantitative assessment was performed of the correct detection and geometric dimensions characterization of the defects. The Shape Difference (SD) criteria was defined and used for qualitative and quantitative assessment of the confidence detection and characterization of defects in MCM-L. A Window Sliding Offset (WSO) approach is performed as method for improvement of the defects characterization quality. This study revel that providing information on the depth and shape of defects through the combined use of infrared thermography measurement and 3D thermal modeling can be used to determine the desired confidence levels of defects detection.
A Detailed FEM Study on the Vibro-acoustic Behaviour of Crash and Splash Musical Cymbals
Authors: Kaselouris Evaggelos , Alexandraki Chrisoyla , Bakarezos Makis , Tatarakis Michael , Papadogiannis Nektarios A. , Dimitriou Vasilis
Published: March 2022

Advanced numerical simulations, that include modal and frequency response function finite element analysis, frequency domain and time domain finite element method – boundary element method analysis, are performed to study the vibro-acoustic behaviour of crash and splash musical cymbals. The results of the modal analysis agree well with experimental measurements found in literature. The frequency domain and time domain coupled finite – boundary element method simulations, despite their high computational resources and time demands, are used for the crucial comparison of the velocity spectrograms on the cymbal to the radiated sound pressure spectrograms in the air. The computational analysis results show that the splash cymbal is characterized by a faster decay and a higher frequency content compared to the crash cymbal. The advanced multiphysics vibro-acoustic simulations that correlate the displacements and velocities of the vibrated structure with the radiated sound pressure results demonstrate the future capability to synthesize the sounds of cymbal music instruments.
Factors Determining Adoption of Bhoochetana Scheme by Farmers in Rainfed Agriculture of Karnataka: A Probit Analysis
Authors: S Sagar
Published: March 2022

The government of Karnataka has, over the decades, intervened in agriculture production through schemesto enhance the productivity of farm activities, sustainability and food security to increase the socio-economic standards of farmers. One of such efforts is the Bhoochetana scheme through which micronutrients are supplied to farmers to enhance the fertility of the soil to ensure productivity of farm land. This study, therefore, sought to examine the extent and factors that influenced the adoption of the Bhoochetana scheme by farmers in Kalaburagi district of Karnataka, which is one of the major rainfed district having 9,74,000 hectares of area under rainfed agriculture in the state. Data was obtained randomly from a sample of 120 farmers consisting of 60 Bhoochetana beneficiaries and equal number of non-beneficiaries using a well-structured schedule which was analyzed by using descriptive statistics and Probit model. The results of the econometric model revealed that the probability of application of Bhoochetana inputs increases significantly with an increase in education-level, access to credit and extension services but decreases with the age of farmers. Based on the findings, it is recommended that the Bhoochetana scheme should be widely publicized by the government to promote adoption. Along with, extension services must be enhanced to ensure that all farmers get appropriate and sufficient information on improved production practices and new innovations in agriculture in order to improve the productivity of rainfed agriculture in the state.
Efectos adversos del uso de levotiroxina como adelgazante
Authors: Dutan Amy Andrea Armijos
Published: March 2022

La levotiroxina (L-T4) es el medicamento utilizado en todo el mundo en la terapia de reemplazo para pacientes con hipotiroidismo, siendo el tercer medicamento más común dispensado en los Estados Unidos en los últimos años. L-T4 también se usa como terapia supresiva después de la extirpación quirúrgica de cáncer de tiroides y para el tratamiento de pacientes con bocio nodular para detener su crecimiento, aunque este uso aún se debate.
Comité de seguridad del paciente: creado y liderado por instrumentadores quirurgicos
Authors: Gallo Silvana
Published: March 2022

La experiencia que se presenta, proviene de uno de los 33 hospitales públicos  del Gobierno de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires, convocados a capacitarse en la temática de Seguridad del Paciente,   describe la iniciativa y gestión de los Instrumentadores Quirúrgicos, quiénes no suelen ocupar posiciones centrales de liderazgo en Comités o Auditorías relacionadas al tema en la República Argentina. La Seguridad del Paciente forma parte de la gestión de calidad en salud. No existe calidad sin seguridad del paciente y dicha gestión se basa en el cumplimiento de estándares planificados y conducidos por líderes formados en el tema. La gestión de calidad se enriquece y toma fluidez al tomar en cuenta el importante concepto de “calidad con calidez”. La necesidad de alcanzar las metas internacionales de seguridad del paciente, es disparadora de una gestión multidisciplinaria, a fin de adaptar las organizaciones a una nueva cultura de seguridad. Si bien dicha necesidad es especialmente visible en la gestión privada, abrir y plantear la cultura de seguridad del paciente en las instituciones públicas, requiere de una gestión delineada por procesos administrativos complejos, el consenso de múltiples sectores con criterios amparados constantemente en limitaciones por carencias de recursos, en algunos casos influenciados por mitos y el crecimiento se ve parcialmente condicionado por el momento político vigente. El foco más importante sigue estando en la capacitación, como en todas las instancias de instrucción de las profesiones relacionadas a la medicina, siendo este factor el mayor consumidor de tiempo que condiciona la disponibilidad a trabajar en el diseño de guías de práctica clínica, protocolos, normas de procedimiento, el reporte de eventos adversos, y trigger tools. Es importante analizar la formación de los líderes, sus iniciativas y perseverancia. Ellos  encuentran como  gran dificultad  la falta de tiempo protegido para asistir a entrenamientos en el horario de trabajo y les resulta muy difícil, reservar un espacio para capacitarse. En lineas generales esto se debe al pluriempleo. La creación y progreso de un Comité que llegue a implementar las medidas en un hospital, forman parte de la iniciativa de la Dirección y su traslado a los distintos jefes de Departamento siempre siguiendo una línea jerárquica. Seguridad del paciente, es además una disciplina de incumbencia del   Comité de Calidad. La situación que presenta este artículo, se llevó a cabo invirtiendo todos estos códigos de trabajo.
Vitiligo: estudo da fisiopatologia e da resposta imunológica
Authors: Gripp Mariana Silva de Muzio , Santos Mateus Carrijo , Melo Ana Clara Abrahão , Magalhães Yaêko Matuda , Queiroz Hugo França , Carioca Marcus D'Lucca , Barbaresco Otávio Lopes , Marques Pacheco Lucivânia
Published: March 2022

O Vitiligo é uma micropigmentação dos tecidos cutâneos ocasionada pela destruição dos melanócitos, que afeta aproximadamente 1% da população mundial. A etiologia é desconhecida, mas existem teorias que explicam a situação: imunológica, citotóxica e neural. A principal evidência está relacionada aos aspectos imunológicos. Objetivo: Apresentar a fisiopatologia do vitiligo e explorar o mecanismo de resposta do sistema imunológico do doente. Metodologia: Foi realizado um levantamento bibliográfico nas bases SciELO, Google Acadêmico e Lilac’s, entre 2008-2014, com os descritores vitiligo, tratamento, diagnóstico, despigmentação, melanina, autoimune, fisiopatologia, imunologia e humanos e, após aplicados critérios de inclusão e exclusão foram selecionadas 4 pesquisas. Resultados: A análise dos artigos evidenciou que a causa está relacionada, principalmente, com fatores genéticos, autoimunes, bioquímicos, virais e ambientais. Apontou, também, que 20 a 30% dos pacientes com vitiligo têm ocorrências familiares positivas para a doença. Além disso, há relação entre a despigmentação da pele com a presença de anticorpos específicos no soro sanguíneo, sendo eles: tireóide peroxidase em maior prevalência que os anticorpos anti-nucleares. Conclusão: A causa mais aceita está relacionada à resposta imunológica. Porém, há necessidade de incremento de novos artigos relacionados à fisiopatologia, visto que o número encontrado foi escasso.
Fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento de Doença de Parkinson e o impacto do diagnóstico na qualidade de vida dos pacientes.
Authors: Pacheco Lucivânia Marques , Alves Sacramento Campideli Vasconcelos Claudia , Nassar Modesto Fernanda , Carneiro Da Cunha Martins Gabriela Carneiro Da Cunha Martins , De Freitas Dyna Isadora De Freitas Dyna , De Freitas Dyna Isadora De Freitas Dyna , Rodrigues Iara Guimarães , Fernanda Costa Dalla Mutta Resende Camila , Cristian de Souza Herbert
Published: March 2022

INTRODUÇÃO: O Parkinson é uma doença neurodegenerativa, que acarreta alterações motoras promovendo distúrbios no estado físico, mental, emocional e socioeconômico, ocasionando uma piora na qualidade de vida (QV). OBJETIVO: Descrever o impacto do diagnóstico de Parkinson na QV, reconhecendo a importância da família e da necessidade de intervenção dos profissionais de saúde. METODOLOGIA: É uma revisão de literatura, com busca nas bases de dados: Scielo, Pubmed, BVS, CAPES e Google Acadêmico. Utilizando os descritores: “Doença de Parkinson” AND “ Qualidade de Vida” AND “Parkinson disease” (anos 2005–2020). DISCUSSÃO: Apesar de ser reconhecida por seus sintomas motores, que levam a quedas e a instabilidade postural, os aspectos não-motores são de igual importância. O parkinsoniano leva uma vida sedentária, promovendo um decréscimo das condições funcionais pulmonares. Além disso, sofrem uma desarmonia no processo de fonação, comprometendo a sua comunicação. Transtornos depressivos também são muito frequentes e comprometem as atividades de vida diária do parkinsoniano. CONCLUSÃO: Parkinson afeta não somente o físico, mas o psicológico e o social do indivíduo, comprometendo a QV. Dessa forma, existe a necessidade de profissionais como fonoaudiólogos, fisioterapeutas, educador físico e psicólogos darem suporte técnico e uma boa qualidade de vida para o parkinsoniano e sua família.
The Relationship between Organizational Justice, Organizational Trust, and Organizational Citizenship Behavior: A Case Study of the Employees of the Karabuk University
Authors: Alhamad Akram M. , Hammoodi Aljanabi Bassam Riyadh , Hameed Almaali Athraa Abdulkareem
Published: March 2022

Employees and institutions are being forced to evolve and innovate because of technology advancements, globalization, and increased competitive circumstances in the era we live in. Globalization and growing competition have prompted firms to make the most of their current financial and human resources and develop staff capabilities. Employees’ experience, creativity, understanding, and knowledge are regarded as essential competitive assets for organizations looking to boost their competitive potential, differentiate themselves from their rivals, and establish a common language across the firm. In this context, the human factor is seen as the most striking component of the employee/human resource when it comes to achieving the institution’s objectives. The fact that the human element of the employee/human resource behaves by organizational objectives is intimately linked to the organization’s high feeling of fairness. The term "organizational justice" refers to organizational members’ perspectives of interaction, distribution, function, and distribution within the organization. The idea of "justice" is one of the topics examined in human resource management, organizational psychology, and organizational behavior literature. The fact that the phenomenon of justice is a crucial aspect in the active fulfillment of institutions’ tasks underpins this.
Case Study of Furniture Manufacturing Companies
Authors: Amin Venkatesh S. , Kumar Anil
Published: March 2022

Purpose: This study encompasses four cases pertaining to furniture manufacturing industry in India. Manufacturing is essential for our nation and hence four companies are studied namely: Spacewood Pvt. Ltd, Choice Furntech LLP, Stanley Lifestyles Ltd, and VK Sofa Makers Pvt.Ltd. There are few similarities and associations with all four of these companies. This study also uncovers various aspects of minute details related to furniture pricing, customization, and unique selling proposition via segmentation/segments that they are operating in. The companies that are in study are basically seasoned and very strong fundamentally and operationally.
Design/Methodology/Approach: Observations and interactions/interviews with employees of all the four companies along with online databases were studied for finding similarities and dissimilarities in certain key variables and bring out the best variables/ practices that could be replicated by others.
Findings/ Results: This case study reviews the current situation of various customization processes through multiple variables in furniture manufacturing companies in India and the data is collected from interaction with employees, vendors, customers, company websites, scholarly literature, and internet sources for results that could have far reaching implications when compared to others abroad.
Originality: It is a study to find commonality or similarity[s] among these four companies with reference to VK Sofa makers for any future entrepreneurs to have a sustainable/ implementable business model that can grow rapidly by customization and superior service quality.
Type of Paper: Case Study based research analysis for knowing similarities among dissimilar companies of a same industry as well as to know the dissimilarities of similar nature companies in a given market space; hence the science and art of running these companies is the basis for this case study.
Prospects of Joint Venture in Local Road Bridge Construction of Nepal
Authors: Mishra A. K. , Singh Smita Sharma , Aithal P. S.
Published: March 2022

Purpose: The trend of forming a Joint Venture (JV) to enter into the bidding procedure is high in local road bridge construction (LRBC) in Nepal. As we know that the construction industry is complex, firms are facing a new type of problem in every next project. In such an unpredictable working environment working jointly with different firms is a challenge. So, this study was carried out to analyze the prospects of JV in LRBC in Nepal.
Design/Methodology/Approach: The study covers the bridges which are built by DoLIDAR under different projects. Various data collection tools were used for the study. Primary data were collected from a questionnaire survey, sample bridges of DoLIDAR, field observations, and focus group discussions. Secondary data were collected from reports, journals of previous studies, and trends of JV formation in international constructions. Strength Weakness Opportunity and Threat (SWOT) analysis based on a questionnaire survey was also carried out.
Findings/Result: It was also found that to fulfill the gap between the documentation and implementation of JV, a policy is required. As the client's intention for provision of JV is the actual requirement of the project, no to change the scope and scale of contractors so, JV must be formed and followed as per the requirement of the project. Joint ventures should make a detailed agreement among themselves clarifying the roles and responsibilities of each partner, usage of the resources, and the implementation of the project. For the proper management of JV, a management committee should be formed which shall manage the working team and resources suitably as per the requirement for the project. The presence of at least one partner from each partner in every meeting should be made mandatory by the client. A separate policy should be formulated focusing on detailed agreement clause, institutional arrangement for better functioning of JV. The database system of active contractors should be maintained by MoPIT which shall be used as a major tool while evaluating as well as awarding contracts.
Originality/Value: The scope of this study is to identify the practice and prospects of JV's in LRBC. It addresses the understanding of clients and contractors about the JV. The study area covers the bridges built by DoLIDAR funded by GoN, SDC, World Bank (WB), Asian Development Bank (ADB), etc. The study includes local bridges built in DRCN roads covering the Himalayan region, mountain region, and Terai region.
The study outcome is significant for the construction stakeholder to overcome the challenges of JV for taking the benefits of JV. The study is significant for policymakers for formulating policies to reduce the problems of JV.
Paper Type: Action Research
Effect of Storage Conditions on Qualities and Water Sorption Isotherm of Khanom La
Authors: Panyathitipong Woralak , Tempiam Sansanee , Suttha Walaiporn , Chomshome Nantawan , Masavang Supuksorn
Published: March 2022

This research aimed to investigate the effects of atmospheric storage condition (at 0.33 and 0.75 water activity, aw) and storage time on the qualities of Khnom La. The sorption isotherm also was studied. The moisture content of Khanom La was adjusted using the saturated salt solution at different relative humidity levels. The sorption isotherm, hardness, color and peroxide values of Khanom La were then evaluated. The sorption isotherm data of Khanom La was fitted to BET and GAB models. The experimental result showed that monolayer values of the sample were in the range of 3.15 to 3.39 g water/ 100 g dry solids when its water activity was in the range of 0.11 to 0.84. Khanom La samples were stored in closed containers at an ambient temperature either at 0.33 and 0.75 aw for 35 days. Lightness and hardness of Khanom La decreased, while the redness yellowness and peroxide value of those desserts increased with storage time. The effects were more pronounced when samples were stored at 0.75 aw. The results indicated that crispy Khanom La might retain the desirable attributions during days of storage in a sealed container at low water activity.

HIGHLIGHTS

The major factors affecting the qualities and water sorption isotherm of Khanom La after frying are storage conditions (such as water activity of atmospheric storage environment and storage time)

The problem of fried products is the deterioration of oil over time during storage, involving a complex pattern of the peroxide and oxidation reactions which are related to their water activity

The hardness of Khanom La reduced, while the peroxide and chromatic values increased with an increase of water content more than the monolayer value of GAB fitting, indicating the degradation of products progressively during storage

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
Organic Manure in Conservation Agriculture: Perception, Reality and Interpretation
Authors: Bera Sreemoyee , Acharya S. K. , Kumar Prabhat , Chatterjee Riti , Mondal Kabita , Haque Monirul
Published: March 2022

The excessive reliance on chemical fertilizers and the negligence shown to the conservation and use of organic manures (OM) have led to the exhaustion of organic carbon level, soil moisture level, and retention of microorganism population in the soil. The present study reveals that the farmers merely have any perception or they are not technically aware of the importance of the application of OM into their farming for the restoration of ecological resilience. Elucidating the factors, impacts, and perceptions of farmers, fifty respondents have been selected from Dalilpur and Kastodanga village of Nadia district by systematic random sampling for the study. The responses are collected through a structured interview schedule.The study envisaged that the livestock count, size of homestead land, size of landholding, production of organic manure, education variables have been found to exert strong and determining contribution to the application of organic manure. The socialization of proper cognitive adoption of organic manure among the farmers for the restoration of ecological resilience and popularization of resource-saving agricultural crop production is the need of the hour.
Adaptation Methods Practiced by Farmers in Response to Perceived Climate Change in Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Vijayabhinandana B. , Asha R. , Kumar B. S. N. S. Gowtham
Published: March 2022

The study was aimed at analyzing adaptation methods practiced by farmers’ and determining factors for adoption to climate change in the Andhra Pradesh (Zone-1 and Zone-6). A cross sectional household survey (by employing structured interview schedule), participant observations and focused PRA were conducted to collect the information on adaptation methods being practiced by 320 randomly selected farmers. The study employed descriptive statistics to types of adaptation measures exercised to cope up with the risk of the change in climate. The study also employed the multinomial logit regression to analyze the determinants of adaptation method extracted. Factors such as age, education, number of crops cultivated, use of new technology, extension participation, contact and farmer’s commitment are the common determinants for adoption of practices.
Analysis of Marketing Facilities available for Tomato Growers of Haryana
Authors: Kumari Neelam , Chahal Pardeep Kumar , Malik Joginder Singh
Published: March 2022

Market plays crucial role in the economic life of farmers, and essential in the chain of commodity distribution. Postharvest losses in tomato are a matter of concern for all tomato growers, therefore a need for farmers to sell their produce instantly after harvesting is felt. Provision of better marketing facilities would assist in better handling of the produce and reduce storage losses, thereby offering higher and remunerative prices to the growers. The present study was conducted during 2020-21 in four districts of Haryana, namely Nuh, Sonipat, Gurugram and Palwal. The investigation was focused on the marketing facilities available for the farmers, their knowledge and adoption level regarding post-harvest management practices. A total sample of 160 respondents were selected and personally interviewed. The results indicated that farmers had medium degree of mass media exposure, extension contact and extension participation. To test the adequacy of sample, factor analysis using KMO and Bartlett’s test of sphericity was applied and yielded 10 factors and explaining a total of 69.58 per cent of the variance for the entire set of marketing facilities.
Analysis of Factors Affecting Social Media Utilization of Extension Agents
Authors: Shanmuka A. , Lenin V. , Sangeetha V. , Muralikrishnan L. , Ramasubramanian V. , Arora Alka
Published: March 2022

Digitalization of communication networks through social media platforms is the most important tool to increase the reach and impact of agricultural advisory services. A profound need to study the extent of usage of social media by extension agents and factors influencing its usage was felt and to analyze the extent of usage, a composite index was developed during 2021 by using seven sub-indices that had a Cronbach alpha value of 0.903. To study the extent of usage 160 extension agents through a proportionate random sampling method were selected from Andhra Pradesh where the majority of the extension agents had a medium extent of usage which accounts for 44.37 per cent. Based on the correlational analysis it is found that innovative proneness (p<0.05), scientific orientation, job perception, technology management orientation, information management orientation, orientation towards extension service profession have a significant and positive correlation with the extent of usage of social media at 0.01 level of significance. Based on stepwise regression analysis it revealed that five variables were a good fit with an R-square of 35.7 per cent. The findings may help in framing a social media-led extension strategy by extension organizations and government bodies to reach the grassroots of the rural communities.
Effectiveness of Personal versus Online Extension Methods in Disseminating Knowledge on Household Waste Management
Authors: Ginwal Priyanka , Sharma Preeti
Published: March 2022

The article highlights the effectiveness of personal and online extension methods for disseminating knowledge on household waste management. A pre-test, post-test experimental design was used for the study. Thirty women, each from five randomly selected urban localities of Ludhiana district of Punjab were selected for the study, making a total of 150 respondents as the sample size. Of the five urban localities, four localities were randomly chosen for the experiment and one locality was chosen as the control group. Data was collected using a structured interview schedule consisting of a self-designed knowledge test on household waste management. Findings revealed that all the selected extension methods were effective in disseminating knowledge to the respondents. The most effective extension method was personal contact + print material followed by video conferencing + ICT based messages, video conferencing, and personal contact method. One way ANOVA revealed significant differences in gain in knowledge by the respondents of the study groups’ p < 0.001. Post-hoc analysis further revealed that the effect of both personal and online extension methods when supplemented with educational materials and when used solo, had statistically similar effects on gain in knowledge.
Morphometric analysis provides evidence for two traditionally defined species of the Tillandsia erubescens complex (Bromeliaceae)
Authors: Martínez-García Ana L. , Hornung-Leoni Claudia T. , Goyenechea Mayer Goyenechea Irene , Bueno-Villegas Julian , Granados Mendoza Carolina
Published: March 2022

Background and aims – A linear morphometric analysis of three taxa of the Tillandsia erubescens complex, composed of T. erubescens var. arroyoensis, T. erubescens var. erubescens, and T. erubescens var. patentibracteata, is presented to evaluate their circumscription. Additionally, their taxonomic rank as varieties or species is discussed considering the obtained results. Geographic distribution, the influence of climate, elevation, and geographic distance on morphological differences between the taxonomic entities is explored.Material and methods – Of a total of 110 herbarium specimens reviewed, 44 were measured. These were previously identified as T. erubescens var. arroyoensis, T. erubescens var. erubescens, or T. erubescens var. patentibracteata. Factor and cluster analyses were performed using 16 quantitative morphological characters. The resulting groups were considered as taxonomic entities supported by morphometric characters, and species distributions were plotted against Mexican biogeographic provinces. A single Mantel test was performed to evaluate the correlation between morphology and climatic variables, elevation, and geographic distance.Key results – The specimens referred to as T. erubescens var. arroyoensis were separated morphometrically from the other two varieties. The most important characters to differentiate T. erubescens var. arroyoensis from T. erubescens var. erubescens were total size, width and length of the leaf sheath and leaf blade, and the number of flowers. The non-overlapping geographical distribution of T. erubescens var. arroyoensis and T. erubescens var. erubescens supports their recognition as independent taxonomic entities. Our study did not support the separation between T. erubescens var. erubescens and T. erubescens var. patentibracteata, which is also reflected by their overlapping geographic distributions. Both precipitation and geographic distance were correlated with the morphological differences among the species.Conclusion – Our morphometric and geographical distribution study supports the recognition of T. arroyoensis and T. erubescens as different species, while no evidence was found to maintain T. erubescens var. erubescens and T. erubescens var. patentibracteata as different taxonomic entities. We provide a set of morphological characters that can be used to distinguish between T. arroyoensis and T. erubescens, including the leaf sheath and leaf blade width, and the number of flowers. Morphological characters agree with the geographic distribution of the studied taxa.
The Right of the Parent to Return to its Country of Origin in the Light of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction and the European Convention on the Protection of Human Rights
Authors: Stanivuković Maja , Djajić Sanja
Published: March 2022

This article examines the right of return to the country of origin of a parent who has been granted the rights of custody over a child in the country in which that parent and the child temporarily reside. A legal obstacle to realization of the right of return of the parent to its country of origin exists in the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction which is often applied mechanically and works to prevent the parent from relocating with the child. Case law of the European Court of Human Rights and the Constitutional Court of Serbia provides guidelines for interpretation of the Hague Abduction Convention in quite frequent situations when a parent who is a primary caregiver acts as an abductor. The standard of the best interest of the child can overcome the tension between the right of parent to return and the Hague Abduction Convention.
Analysis of the Implementation of the Law on Prevention of Domestic Violence
Authors: Kolarić Dragana , Marković Saša
Published: March 2022

In this paper we examine data related to the implementation of the Law on Prevention of Domestic Violence, between 2018 and 2020, provided by the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Serbia, the Public Prosecutor’s Office, and the courts.

The positive effects of the implementation of the Law on Prevention of Domestic Violence should be preventive – reducing incidents, reducing the number of crimes, raising awareness regarding the reporting of violence, better cooperation between state authorities in prevention and suppression of domestic violence, more consistent implementation of provisions of other laws directed at fighting domestic violence.

It has been noted that the competent state authorities implement legal provisions unequally, which causes the victims of domestic violence not to have the same possibilities in exercising their right to protection. A key cause of this issue has been varying practices by competent authorities in fighting domestic violence.
PIDANA PELAYANAN MASYARAKAT SEBAGAI ALTERNATIF BENTUK PIDANA DALAM MEWUJUDKAN PEMBARUAN HUKUM PIDANA ANAK
Authors: Sudarno
Published: March 2022

The community service punishment was important to adopt as the alternative for the punishment form in the realization of the innovation of the child punishment law in Indonesia based on the arguments of: the Conformity of the Idea of the Community Service Punishment with the Restorative Judiciary Concept, the Conformity of the Idea of  the Community Service Punishment with the Theory of the Punishment individualization, the Conformity of the Idea of the Community Service Punishment with the Trend of the International World Development, and the Conformity of the Idea of the Community Service Punishment with the Aims of the Condemnation and the Development of the Child Criminals.
Community based pathways to the prevention of gender based violence in mining communities
Authors:   , Magwegwe Everjoy
Published: March 2022

Cases of gender-based violence are on the increase in mining-communities in Zimbabwe. Gender-based violence has been identified as a major impediment to achieving gender equality and overall sustainable development. Strategies for addressing gender-based violence face particular challenges in mining areas where, for most women, there is little or no access to safe shelters, counselling services, or the judicial system. The Government of Zimbabwe and civil society policy and programmatic efforts to reduce GBV have largely been ineffective for the country as a whole, let alone for marginalised, closed communities such as mining communities. The study was limited to Makusha, a mining community in Shurugwi (Zimbabwe), where mine workers from different mining companies are resident. Several scholars have noted that community-driven initiatives tend to be more effective in reducing GBV. In light of the foregoing, the study sought to develop community-based pathways to the prevention of GBV in a mining community in Zimbabwe. The study integrates the Social Learning Theory, propounded by Akers (1998), to understand the individual, and the Ecological Model as away of scrutinising human development by looking at the individual being, the surrounding environment, and the relationship between the two. Allport's Contact Theory (1954), which states that bringing people together from different background or groups has the ablity to reduce prejudice, and the study are anchored on the Conflict Transformation Theory, which hypothesises that methods for transforming social conflicts need to be produced within their context and be considerate of local conditions.
DENİZ YETKİ ALANLARININ SINIRLANDIRILMASINDA DOĞU AKDENİZ ADALARI
Authors: SALİ Ömer Miraç
Published: March 2022

Denizlerden faydalanma imkanlarının gelişmesiyle, denizlerin kullanımı hususunda kıyıdaş devletler arasındaki ihtilaflar da artmıştır. İhtilaflar, devletlerin kendi aralarında yaptığı anlaşmalarla çözülmüştür. Devletlerin kendi aralarında geliştirdiği çözümler, zamanla, çok taraflı uluslararası sözleşmeler ve Uluslararası Adalet Divan’ınca kaynak olarak kullanılmıştır. Deniz alanlarının sınırlandırılması kriterleri, adaların varlığı halinde, önem kazanmaktadır. Uluslararası yargı mercilerince, deniz alanlarının sınırlandırılmasında, adalarının konumu ve yapısı dikkate alınarak, adalara tam etki verilmesi, sınırlı etki verilmesi, hiç etki verilmemesi yahut adaların çevrelenmesi durumları değerlendirilmektedir. Burada gözden kaçırılmaması gereken husus, adalara tanınacak etkilerin hakça ilkelere göre yapılmasıdır. Uluslararası Adalet Divanı ve diğer uluslararası mahkemeler, adalara verilecek etkiyi belirlerken; orantılılık, açık denizlere erişimin kesilmemesi ve ilgili koşulların önemleri nispetinde ele alınması ilkelerini sıklıkla kullanmaktadır. Çalışmamızda, deniz yetki alanlarının sınırlandırılmasında genel yaklaşımlar ile adaların sınırlandırmada etkisi ele alınmış ve Doğu Akdeniz’deki Yunanistan'a ait adalardan kaynaklanan Türkiye/Yunanistan ihtilafı, bu ilkeler çerçevesinde değerlendirilmiştir.