bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The text segmentation by neural networks of image segmentation.
Authors:   Central Research Institute of Armaments and Military Equipment of Armed Forces of Ukraine., V Slyusar
Published: March 2024

The article highlights the importance of text segmentation in the field of natural language processing (NLP), especially in light of the development of large language models such as GPT-4. It discusses the use of specialized segmentation neural networks for various tasks, such as processing passport data and other documents, and points out the possibility of integrating these technologies into mobile applications. The use of neural network architectures, geared towards image processing, for text segmentation is considered. The study describes the application of networks such as PSPNet, U-Net, and U-Net++ for processing textual data, with an emphasis on adapting these networks to text tasks and evaluating their effectiveness. The potential of the multimodal capabilities of modern neural networks and the need for further research in this field are emphasized.
Political Elites And Society: Development Efforts and Increasing Community Participation in Sekapuk Village Tourism Development during the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ozi Setiadi
Published: March 2024

Political elites have a role in exploring the potential and improving the community's economy. This study aims to discuss the role of village political elites in increasing development and community participation, especially Selo Tirto Giri (Setigi) tourism. As well as knowing the impact of Setigi tourism for the community during the Covid-19 pandemic. The research method in this research is qualitative with descriptive analysis. Data obtained through direct observation and literature study. This study proves that the village political elite, through democratic principles, invites the community to participate in the development of Setigi tourism. Efforts to increase community participation are carried out by inviting them to become Taplus Invest investors in the form of saving Rp. 8,000 per day until Rp. 2,400,000 is collected, which is converted into one share certificate. The Sekapuk Village Government also invites the community directly in dredging garbage in the limestone hills for 1 year. The existence of Setigi tourism is an alternative source of income for the community in addition to their main livelihood. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Setigi tourism also experienced a decline in visitors, but was still able to survive.
Kampanye di Masa Pandemi COVID-19 dalam Kontestasi Pemilihan Walikota Surabaya Tahun 2020
Authors: Widiyana Alivia
Published: March 2024

Penelitian ini mengkaji tentang kampanye politik yang dijalankan oleh Pasangan Eri Cahyadi – Armudji dalam kontestasi Pemilihan Walikota Surabaya Tahun 2020. Pilkada Serentak pada tahun 2020 merupakan agenda politik yang pertama kali diselenggarakan di tengah bencana non-alam yakni COVID-19. Komunikasi politik memegang peranan penting dalam mengantarkan Eri Cahyadi – Armudji untuk merebut kursi kepemimpinan. Keseriusan dalam menggunakan komunikasi politik terlihat dari strategi kampanye yang berhasil dijalankan melalui cara segmentasi, branding, dan positioning. KPU-RI memberikan batasan-batasan kampanye di masa pandemi untuk meminimalisir penyebaran virus COVID-19, sehingga Eri Cahyadi – Armudji menggunakan komunikasi massa sebagai penopang popularitasnya. Selain itu, penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis strategi kampanye politik dan efektivitas kampanye politik Eri Cahyadi – Armudji yang dilaksanakan di masa pandemi COVID-19. Metode penelitian ini menggunakan penelitian kualitatif dengan analisis deskriptif. Teknik pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan wawancara dan dokumentasi, dan untuk teknik analisis data menggunakan reduksi data, penyajian data, penarikan kesimpulan serta keabsahan data. Teori yang digunakan dalam melihat fenomena yang terjadi pada saat kampanye adalah komunikasi politik dan kampanye politik. Hasil dari penelitian ini adalah keberhasilan Eri Cahyadi – Armudji dalam merebut kursi kepemimpinan dipengaruhi oleh beberapa faktor, diantaranya: (1) kekuatan seorang figur atau kekuatan politik kekerabatan yang didapatkan dari Tri Rismaharini yang sangat berpengaruh dalam proses kampanye yang dijalankan sebagai branding dan positioningnya; (2) partai pengusung calon Walikota, dimana Eri Cahyadi – Armudji diusung oleh PDIP yang dimana partai tersebut sangat mendominasi kekuatan politik di Kota Surabaya. Kampanye Eri Cahyadi – Armudji dapat dikatakan efektif karena menggunakan komunikasi politik sebagai acuan yaitu komunikasi interpersonal dan komunikasi massa. Hal itu terlihat ketika melakukan blusukan, menjalankan kampanye akbar serta memanfaatkan media massa maupun media sosial
Rekonsiliasi Arab Saudi dan Iran dalam Perspektif Konstruktivisme
Authors: Musofa Ahmad Zainal
Published: March 2024

Abstract
This article describes the reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran that recently occurred. This study aims to explore more deeply related to how the relationship between Saudi Arabia and Iran is post-reconciliation. Then, revealing China's interests as an actor mediating Saudi-Iran. The writer uses constructivism theory as a tool to analyze the discussion. Then the author uses a qualitative type method with a literature study approach. This research concludes that reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran through Chinese mediation succeeded in reuniting the two countries which were often involved in tensions for a long time. This reconciliation also has an impact on the political constellation in the Middle East where countries in alliance with Saudi and Iran will be softer towards countries that are considered enemies. Then, China has an interest in increasing its economic sector in the Middle East such as the BRI policy, especially with Saudi-Iran. Then China expects maximum support from Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries in international forums. Furthermore, China seeks to compete with the United States as a threat in the field of security through its presence in the Middle East as a party capable of giving hope for peace..
Effects of plant-derived smoke, karrikin, and salinity stress on Prunus armeniaca cv. Şalak seeds and seedlings: A morphological, biochemical, and molecular approach
Authors: KEMEÇ HÜRKAN Yasemin , AKI Cüneyt
Published: March 2024

There is great interest in developing strategies to reduce the detrimental effects of salinity stress to improve plant growth and yield. The effects of plant-derived smoke on seed germination and plant growth, depending on concentration and time, are widely known. Although it has been suggested that plant-derived smoke and Karrikin (KAR1) tolerate the harmful effects of abiotic stress in plants, there is a lack of comprehensive information on biochemical and molecular changes related to KAR1 and smoke water (SW) in plants. Here we extensively compared the effects of SW and KAR1 on seed germination and morphology. Here we comprehensively compared the effects of SW and KAR1 on seed germination and morphological, biochemical, and molecular changes observable in the examined seeds. Moreover, we also showed that it regulated the expression of some genes encoding antioxidant enzymes in apricot seedlings (Prunus armeniaca L.) exposed to salinity stress (100 mM NaCl). Morphologically, we observed more adverse effects with decreased concentration in the SW treatment and increased concentration in the KAR1 treatment. The data revealed that SW (1:1000 v/v) and KAR1 (1µM) increased the expression levels of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) genes in the samples taken from the apricot seedlings treated with salt at hours 3, 6 and 9. This increase varies in SW and KAR1 depending on time. When the biochemical results were examined, it was seen that the application of SW and KAR1 to the seedlings under salinity stress led to a significant decrease in the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) content. We can assert that SW is more effective than KAR1 on TBARS content. Morphological, molecular, and biochemical results revealed enhanced germination, growth, gene expression, and TBARS content in apricot seeds and seedlings exposed to SW and KAR1. This data may be applicable to more comprehensive trials.
An analysis of predatory bugs (Orius spp., Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) and pest insects on some crop plants: Their distributions, abundance and population developments
Authors: ATAKAN Ekrem
Published: March 2024

Seasonal distributions and population dynamics of predatory bugs, Orius (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) species with some harmful insects in crop plants in 2019-2020 Turkey were investigated in Turkey. A total of four Orius species were identified, these are; Orius laevigatus,(Fieber) Orius niger (Wollf) Orius albidipennis (Reuter) and Orius vicinus (Ribaut). The most common species was O. laevigatus, constituting 78.36% of the total adult individuals. Both O. laevigatus and O. niger were relatively more abundant on broad beans and beans than those numbers found in fruit trees and field crops. Very few Orius individuals were recorded on the fruit trees. Orius and thrips individuals were collected mainly from the flowers of the plants, and their population patterns depended on the flowering phenology patterns of the plants. Orius individuals were recorded together with the pest thrips on plants particularly summer and winter vegetables sampled. The total prey (thrips, aphids and leafhoppers) numbers per Orius were lower on broad bean and bean plants. Finally, the number of prey per Orius was 5.83 in the broad bean and 14.33 in the bean plant, indicating thrips in particular had high predation risks due to Orius attacks in these two plant species.
Potential of Purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) in Phytoremediation: A Study on the Bioaccumulation and Bio-Transfer of Cadmium, Nickel, and Copper in Contaminated Soils
Authors: ERKOÇ Havva Aybike , ÇOLAK ESETLİLİ Bihter
Published: March 2024

As industrial and agricultural activities intensify and technology rapidly advances, soil pollution has escalated to alarming levels. The increasing contamination of agricultural areas and the crops cultivated therein has emerged as a significant contemporary issue. Phytoremediation, the use of plants to remove pollutants, is a promising method for mitigating soil heavy metal contamination.
This study investigates the bioaccumulation capacity of purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.), a potential phytoremediator, in soils artificially contaminated with cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), and copper (Cu). Purslane was cultivated under controlled conditions with varying doses of Cd, Ni, and Cu. After 55 days, the plants were harvested and analysed for heavy metal concentrations in their roots, stems, and leaves. Results demonstrated a direct correlation between environmental heavy metal concentration and plant heavy metal content, with the most significant accumulation occurring in the roots. Leaf chlorophyll content was adversely affected by increased Cd, Ni, and Cu applications. The highest Cu, Ni, and Cd contents were found in the roots at 140 mg kg-1 Cu, 80 mg kg-1 Ni, and 20 mg kg-1 Cd applications, respectively. The bio-transfer coefficient (BTC), a measure of heavy metal transport from the root region to the leaves, was calculated. The BTC values ranged from 0.84-1.09 for Cu, 0.39-0.84 for Ni, and >1 for Cd at the Control and 5 mg Cd kg-1 treatments.
These findings suggest that purslane has potential for phytoremediation of heavy metal-contaminated soils, although the bioaccumulation and bio-transfer of heavy metals are dependent on the specific metal and its concentration in the soil. The study also highlights the potential risks associated with the consumption of plants grown in heavy metal-contaminated soils, as heavy metals can accumulate in different plant tissues, potentially entering the food chain.
Toxicity of Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulfonate to Larvae of Tarek, Alburnus tarichi
Authors: KANKAYA Ertuğrul , ATICI Ataman Altuğ
Published: March 2024

Linear alkyl benzene sulfonate is a group of anionic detergents widely used in domestic and industrial applications. It causes adverse effects by mixing with aquatic environments. Chemicals mixed with aquatic environments affect fauna and flora at different levels. This study was carried out to determine the toxicity of linear alkyl benzene sulfonate on the larvae of tarek living in the Van Lake basin, which has economic and ecological value. The chemical was administered at concentrations of 0.0, 0.6, 1.2, 1.8, 2.4, 3.0 mg L-1 in the acute test and 1.2, 2.4 mg L-1 in the chronic test. Tests were carried out using 100 larvae in each group. Bioassay were carried out at a mean temperature of 20.9 ± 0.4 °C. A median lethal concentration of 4.883 (4.099‒6.482) mg L-1 at 96 hours was calculated for the larvae. It was determined that glutathione content, superoxide dismutase and glutathione S-transferase activity decreased significantly at 1.2 mg L-1 and increased significantly at 2.4 mg L-1 compared to control. It was observed that the malondialdehyde content increased significantly depending on the increase in chemical concentration. Linear alkyl benzene sulfonate is toxic to tarek larvae in terms of measured biochemical parameters.
Hemp seed priming via different agents to alleviate temperature stress
Authors: Day Sibel , Koçak Nilüfer , Önol Burak
Published: March 2024

Soil temperature is an important factor in seed germination especially low soil temperature causes retarded and unsynchronized germination, emergence and seedling growth. These issues are causing the seedlings vulnerable to diseases and weed infestation during stand establishment of hemp. This study includes different seed priming agents (water, -0.8 MPa PEG 6000, 50 mMol thiamine and 10 mMol mannitol). These priming agents were controlled under different temperatures (10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 °C) to evaluate their potential for promoting germination and seedling growth. Results revealed that seed treatment gave accelerated mean germination time, increase emergence percentage at lower temperatures. Seed pre-treatments also promoted shoot length in all temperatures. However root length promoting effects of seed pre-treatments were more evident at 10, 15 and 20 °C. Seedling fresh and dry weight reached maximum values at 20 °C with water, thiamine and mannitol treatments. Chlorophyll and leaf proline content reached their higher values at 20, 25 and 30 °C. Overcoming temperature stress and promoting germination is important for hemp development. It was concluded that hemp seeds primed with water, thiamine, and mannitol had the highest biomass values for low, optimum, and high temperatures in this paper that makes these seed treatments suitable for hemp plants that could come across low or high temperatures during germination and early growth stages.
Crowding-out effect between income policies and public services budgets in OECD countries
Authors: Botelho Luciano Henrique Fialho , Costa Thiago de Melo Teixeira da , Louzano João Paulo de Oliveira , Lelis Davi Augusto Santana de
Published: March 2024

Challenges such as globalization and the digital economy are affecting the labor market and causing social exclusion. Thus, the relevance of income policies, which are responsible for the citizens’ financial security, is understood. This study aimed to evaluate the budget expansion of income policies between 1970 and 2019 and verify if there is a crowding-out effect between their budget and public services from 2000 to 2019 in OECD countries. The theoretical framework addressed the welfare state, income policies, budget disputes and austerity, and the crowding-out and crowding-in (complementarity) effects. Methodologically, descriptive and graphical analyses, correlation analyses, Granger causality tests, and GMM system short panel regression were used. The results indicated an expansion of income policy budgets, emphasizing investments in social security and pension systems. Also, a mixed relationship was observed between the acceptance of the crowding-out hypothesis and income policies and public services, with a tendency to exclude public services for expansion in income policies. Limitations were observed due to the lack of some data from the broad database used.
Potential of intraductal contact lithotripsy with oral cholangioscopy in the treatment of ”complex” choledocholithiasis
Authors: Budzinsky S. A. , Anishchenko M. A. , Shapovalyants S. G. , Vorobyova E. A. , Platonova E. N. , Fedorov E. D. , Melnikova A. S.
Published: March 2024

Aim. To evaluate the efficacy of various methods of intraductal contact lithotripsy in “complex” choledocholithiasis.

   Materials and methods. From January 2018 to July 2023, 40 patients underwent intraductal contact lithotripsy with oral transpapillary cholangioscopy. Indications for the procedure included failure of mechanical lithotripsy in large choledocholithiasis in 37 patients (92.5 %), impaction of the gallstone during conventional lithoextraction, narrow pancreatic part of common bile duct, intrahepatic localization of gallstones. Contact electrohydraulic lithotripsy was performed in 10 patients (25 %), laser fragmentation by holmium laser in 15 patients (37.5 %), and new thuliumlaser – in 15 patients (37.5 %).

   Results. The overall efficacy of contact lithotripsy methods comprised 90%. Laser methods demonstrated comparable results: the overall success rate of lithotripsy with holmium laser accounted for 93.3 %, and with thulium laser – 90 %. Complete sanitation after the first intervention with holmium lithotripsy was achieved in 92.9 % of patients, with thulium laser – in 88.9 %. The efficacy of electrohydraulic lithotripsy was lower: the overall success rate comprised86.7 %, and the success rate after the first procedure accounted for 61.5 % of patients. The average number of interventions required to achieve complete sanitation of the bile ducts amounted to 1.07 for holmium laser lithotripsy,1.1 for thulium laser, and 1.6 for electrohydraulic lithotripsy. In 1 case (2.5 %), perforation of the wall of the common bile duct was noted during the extraction of stone fragments. The complication was corrected during retrograde intervention. No fatal outcomes reported.

   Conclusion. Intraductal contact lithotripsy proved to be highly effective and safe. Laser methods demonstrate certain advantages over electrohydraulic lithotripsy.
Features of laparoscopic liver resection training after mastering of robot-assisted technology
Authors: Kovalenko D. E. , Efanov M. G.
Published: March 2024

Aim. To estimate the learning curve for laparoscopic liver resections performed by a surgeon experienced in robot-assisted liver resections using the CUSUM method.

   Materials and methods. The study involved a retrospective analysis of the results of laparoscopic liver resections for malignant and benign neoplasms performed from 2015 to December 2020 and robot-assisted liver resections from 2010 to 2020. The author evaluated the learning curve for laparoscopic liver resections of a surgeon who had mastered robot-assisted resections of high difficulty. Selecting the boundaries between training periods according to the obtained CUSUM graphs was determined by critical changes in the resection difficulty score (IWATE and IMM), duration of surgery, blood loss, and incidence of postoperative complications. Major perioperative events were compared between the laparoscopic and robot-assisted resection groups in each of the training periods.

   Results. 174 laparoscopic and 57 robot-assisted liver resections were performed. The duration of the first training period comprised 11 robot-assisted resections and 20 laparoscopic resections, the second period – 16 and 20, the third period – 30 and 134, accordingly. In the second period, the resection difficulty score increased significantly for both groups, while the amount of blood loss, the incidence of postoperative complications, and the duration of hospital treatment did not differ significantly. In the second training period, the duration of surgery was significantly longer in both groups.

   Conclusion. Studying the dynamics of surgical difficulty using the CUSUM method is considered to be a reliable, controlled way to estimate the learning curve for liver resection. Completing the learning curve for robot-assisted liver resections reduces the duration of the learning curve for laparoscopic resections compared to published data of other authors.
Laser lithotripsy for pancreatic duct stones
Authors: Nevmerzhitskiy N. V. , Rogal M. L. , Yartsev P. A. , Teterin Yu. S. , Sen’kovskiy E. D. , Levkina E. V. , Kochetkov D. O.
Published: March 2024

Aim. To confirm the possibility of minimally-invasive laser procedure for fragmentation of stones in the pancreatic duct following the results of laboratory experiments and medical practice.

   Materials and methods. A fully functional hardware complex consisting of a pulsed laser unit, video endoscopic system and cooling system was created for experimental stone fragmentation in laboratory. The experiments involved microscopic video registration of the fragmentation process, pressure and temperature measurement in the stone area. Pancreatic stones, human and artificial gallstones as well as porcine pancreas were used in the experiments; the gastrointestinal tract was made of silicone, the pancreas was made of gelatin aqueous solution jelly. In clinical practice, a patient with lithiasis of Wirsung's duct was assigned to ultrasound and CT, then endoscopic papillosphincterotomy, endoscopic pancreatoscopy, laser lithotripsy and lithoextraction, pancreatic duct stenting. The procedures involved a laser unit, videoduodenoscope, catheter and their video systems.

   Results. The laboratory experiments established that effective and safe laser fragmentation of stones from 4 × 7 mm into 0.1–2 mm occurs in the flowing fluid in front of the stone at 1 μs laser pulse duration, 5–15 Hz frequency and 120–150 mJ laser energy. After laser fragmentation of the stone in a patient with virsungolithiasis and removal of fragments from the duct, the patient was discharged from the hospital on the 12th day due to improvement of healthcondition.

   Conclusion. The possibility of minimally-invasive fragmentation of stones in the pancreatic duct by laser lithotripsy has been proved.
Effects of Soil Compaction on Vegetation and Soil Physicochemical Properties in Recreational Areas: A Case Study of Kastamonu
Authors: Savacı Gamze , Abokdar Khalid Mohamed M.
Published: March 2024

Aim of study: This study investigated the possible effects of soil penetration resistance on soil properties and tree physiology in recreational area soils.

Area of study: It was studied in Açık Maslak and Kadıdağı recreational areas in Kastamonu.

Material and methods: Some soil properties were determined in 395 soil samples from park, road, control, and picnic areas in each recreational area. At 61 points, soil penetration resistance was measured with a penetrometer. Some physiological properties were determined in fresh needle samples of 42 trees.

Main results: Soil penetration resistance in the control ranges from 1.6 MPa to 2.1 MPa, with medium compaction, while in other-use areas with high compaction ranged from 2.03 MPa to 3.75 MPa. The soil penetration resistance linearly decreased with increasing organic matter and permeability values. In contrast, the soil penetration resistance increased linearly with increasing soil bulk density. Additionally, the effects of all of tree’s physiological properties on soil penetration resistance were not found to be statistically significant (P>0.05).

Research highlights: Depending on soil use, it was observed that soil penetration resistance was less effective for organic matter, permeability, bulk density and soil moisture content. However, some chemical compounds in trees did not show a significant trend in soil penetration resistance. Our findings show that moderate to high compaction in recreational area soils often significantly affects visitor density or trampling by visitors, which can lead to soil degradation
Effect of Treatment Time on Deep Eutectic Solvent Treatment of Scots Pine Wood
Authors: Gülsoy Sezgin Koray , Kilic Ayben
Published: March 2024

Aim of study: The influence of the treatment time (1 hour, 2 hours, and 3 hours) on the deep eutectic solvent (DES) treatment of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) wood is investigated in this study.

Area of the study: Determination of DES performance on the Scots pine wood chemical structure.

Material and methods: Choline chloride (ChCl) and lactic acid (LA) mixture with molar ratio of 1:10 (w:w) was used as a DES solvent. Treatments were carried out in an autoclave at 121 °C. The effects of DES treatment on the properties of wood and lignin samples of Scots pine were determined according to the relevant standards.

Main results: The delignification ratio, lignin purity, and lignin yield in the 3h-treated sample were determined to be 79.78%, 86.43%, and 82.48%, respectively. The crystallinity index (CrI) was increased from 55.87% to 71.58% with 3 h DES treatment. Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis results showed that the surface area of the sample increased with 3-h DES treatment (from 3.095 m2/g to 3.621 m2/g). The 1-hour DES-treated sample yielded the lightest colored lignin (L*: 71.62).

Research highlights: Treatment time of Scots pine wood during DES treatment has a significant effect on the wood and lignin properties
Nursing Intervention of Red Ginger Warm Compress To Reduce Pain Levels In The Elderly
Authors: Hartoyo Erlinawati Dewi
Published: March 2024

Background: Gout arthritis or often known by the public as uric acid is a degenerative problem that attacks the joints and is most often found in society, especially in the elderly. Often found complaints of joint pain in gout sufferers, the way to deal with pain is by warm compresses of red ginger. The goal is to reduce pain and improve blood circulation. Methods: Case study by providing nursing care to Mrs.S who is 60 years old with complaints of joint pain. Results: Based on a case study conducted by the author for 7 days, joint pain due to increased uric acid was reduced from pain scale 5 to scale 1. Conclusion: Giving red ginger warm compresses regularly can inhibit prostaglandin synthesis so as to reduce joint pain or tension muscle because it contains olerasin, namely gingerol, zingeron and shogaol.
Nursing Entrepreneurship Opportunities Through Sartika Products (Innovative Injection Sards) To Prevent Hospitalization In Children By Using Flannel Fabric Waste
Authors: Dewi Prischa Amelliana , Puspita Asih Purwandari Wahyoe , Zahra Mutiara Alya , Sari Dina P , Putri Dinda Adiningsih , Rahmawati Astri
Published: March 2024

Pediatric hospitalization is a medical experience that is often necessary, but can have a significant impact on children. In these situations, children are exposed to unfamiliar environments and medical procedures that may be frightening, including the use of needles. In addition, traumatic or painful experiences with needles during hospitalization can trigger the development of needle phobia in children. These phobias can impact their physical and mental well-being, interfere with medical care, and increase anxiety. innovative health product innovation injectable gloves (sartika) to prevent hospitalization in children by using flannel waste as a nursing entrepreneurship opportunity aimed at (1) overcoming the impact of hospitalization on sick children in hospitals/health centers/clinics, (2) as a medium for distraction/trauma healing so that children do not experience trauma after medical procedures (injections) because Sartika uses animated characters that are liked by children, (3) creates cheap, creative and innovative health products, (4) as one of the steps to preserve the environment through the use of 3R flannel waste (Reduce, Reuse and Recycle). Forms of entrepreneurial activity include the preparation, implementation, packaging and evaluation stages of Sartika products. Target The target users of Sartika's innovative products are pediatric patients in hospitals, health centers or clinics. The results of the activity show that the use of Sartika products has a positive impact on supporting the performance of medical staff (nurses) in hospitals during medical procedures (injections), child patients become more cooperative and children are distracted because Sartika products use animated characters that are liked by children, so that children do not experience trauma after medical procedures (injections). Community education based on a family approach is considered effective in overcoming the impact of hospitalization and trauma/phobia towards injection needles.
Kinetics, thermodynamics, and DFT studies of phenols oxidative coupling reactions with 4-amino-N, N-dimethylaniline
Authors: Ahmad Sirwan , Kareem Mohammad
Published: March 2024

A spectrophotometric method has been established for the reaction kinetics of phenol oxidative coupling with 4-amino-N, N-dimethylaniline in the presence of potassium dichromate as an oxidant to form C14H14N2O, known as phenol blue. Optimum conditions for the reaction were investigated: maximum wavelength (λ max), linear range, molar absorptivity, and stability constant. The kinetic models were applied to the reaction, indicating that it is a first-order reaction. The activation energy (Ea) and Arrhenius constant (A) were calculated from the Arrhenius equation as 14.89 kJ·mol−1 and 3.75 × 105 s-1 respectively. Thermodynamic parameters were ΔH* 12.37 Kj·mol−1, ΔG* 5.47 kJ·mol−1 and ΔS* 22.77 J·mol−1·K−1 at 30oC.. Results indicate that the formation of the product phenol blue is non-spontaneous and endothermic in nature. Density function theory (DFT) has been done for the comparison between experimental and theoretical results using the common 6-311G(d,p) basis set. The results are in good agreement with each other, proving the reliability of the method. Finally, some preliminary test has been performed to check possibility of the product as dye.
Nurses' Knowledge and Practice Regarding Burn Wound Dressing in Sulaimaniyah, Iraq
Authors: Karim Abubakr , Amen Muhammad
Published: March 2024

Background: Burn is a public health issue, and the disinfected practice plays an important role in caring for patients with burns to reduce infection faster, recover, and maintain the status.

 

Objectives: To assess nurses' knowledge and practice regarding burn wound dressing and utilizing aseptic techniques in dressing burn wounds.

 

Patients and Methods: The quantitative descriptive study using a non-probability convenience sample technique was used to recruit 45 nurses at Burn Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Hospital, Sulaimaniyah, Iraq, from April to September 2022. A questionnaire was used to collect nurses' sociodemographic characteristics and their knowledge, while an observational checklist was used to evaluate their practice regarding burn wound management.

 

Results: The mean age of participants was 40.8±6.7, most of whom were Nursing Institute graduates (86.7%). The mean score of experience as a nurse and in burn units were 16.1±5.6 and 14.8±4.9, respectively, and most of them (91.1%) had good knowledge regarding burn wound management. The proportion of satisfactory practice levels regarding preparation, procedure of burn wound dressing and general practice were 64.4%, 68.9%, and 66.7%, respectively. The proportion of regular introducing self, explaining the procedure, hand hygiene before the process, and documentation were zero.

 

Conclusions: The nurses' knowledge of burn wound management was good, and most had satisfactory overall wound dressing practice. However, introducing themselves, explaining the procedure, hand washing, and documentation were the weakest aspects of the practice.
Evidence for Holocene Earthquakes along the Húsavík-Flatey Fault in North Iceland: Implications for the Seismic Behavior of Oceanic Transform Faults
Authors: Matrau Rémi , Klinger Yann , Thorðarson Thorvaldur , Guðmundsdóttir Esther R. , Avşar Ulas , Parisi Laura , Fittipaldi Margherita , Jónsson Sigurjón
Published: March 2024

Understanding the long-term seismic behavior of oceanic transform faults is challenging because their location underwater generally prevents the use of classical paleoseismological techniques. The Húsavík-Flatey fault (HFF) in northern Iceland, however, is a partially emerged oceanic transform fault accommodating 6–9 mm/yr of deformation, offering a unique opportunity to apply classic inland paleoseismic methods to decipher the Holocene earthquake history of an oceanic transform fault. We excavated three fault-orthogonal paleoseismic trenches at two locations on the HFF and identified nine surface rupturing earthquakes in the last 6–8 ka. We observe little to no deformation associated with the most recent large earthquakes of 1872 (Mw ∼6.5) and the penultimate earthquake in 1755 (Mw ∼7), suggesting that these earthquakes may have occurred mainly offshore, ruptured a fault strand not sampled here, or that their magnitudes may have been overestimated. From our observations, we estimate a return time of 600 ± 200 yr for the largest earthquakes on the HFF (Mw 7.2–7.3), and we suggest that the known historical earthquakes are likely not representative of the largest possible earthquakes on the fault. Furthermore, our observations suggest a quasi-periodic behavior and support the quasi-repeating earthquake sequences observed from instrumental earthquake catalogs on several oceanic transform faults.
Elaboración de néctar a base de Quito Quito (Solanum quitoense Lam.) con pulpa y pectina extraída de la cáscara del Mango Serrano (Mangifera indica L.)
Authors: Daza Lorenzo Camila , Gamarra García Marcelo , Andrés-Mendoza Melina , Paucar Gressy Mancilla , Bravo Romaina Milagros , Chamorro Gómez Ruth Esther
Published: March 2024

La investigación se centró en la elaboración de néctar a base de Quito Quito con pulpa y pectina extraída a partir de la cáscara de Mango Serrano, con la previa caracterización fisicoquímica de la pulpa y cáscara del Mango Serrano, en la que se encontró diferencias significativas en pH, acidez y solidos solubles totales. A partir de la cáscara seca del Mango Serrano se extrajo la pectina mediante el método acuoso, posteriormente se caracterizó el peso equivalente (1250), contenido de metoxilo (9,34), ácido anhidro urónico (67,11), grado de esterificación (79,01), capacidad, estabilidad emulsionante (364%; 21,53%), y espumante (1,35%; 1%). Se observó una mayor retención en agua (34,04 g/g) que en aceite (19 g/g). También se analizaron características proximales como humedad (9,95%), cenizas (4,87%) y actividad de agua (0,508); en características bioactivas se evaluó las proteínas (74,47 mg BSAE/100g), clorofila a (2,86 µg Ch-a/g) y b (2,51 µg Ch-b/g) y carotenoides totales (67,12 µg C x+c/g). Posteriormente, se elaboró el néctar en T1 (70% Mango Serrano y 30% Quito Quito); T2 (50% Mango Serrano y 50% Quito Quito) y T3 (30% Mango Serrano y 70% Quito Quito) y se evaluó la aceptabilidad mediante 35 panelistas no entrenados, considerando el color, olor, sabor y textura, cuyo resultado del análisis de varianza no paramétrico el T3 fue el mejor aceptado y al cuál se evaluó características físicas como viscosidad en cP (151,84) y color considerando L* (33,92), a* (5,26) b* (21,76), demostrando así la influencia de añadidura de la pectina extraída en sus propiedades.
Optimization of the Domain Size in Stressed Liquid Crystals
Authors: Emelyanenko Alexander V. , Shmeliova Dina V.
Published: March 2024

The distributions of orientational and translational order parameters in liquid crystal polymer composites are studied using the methods of molecular-statistical physics. A model is considered in which the composite consists of liquid crystal (LC) domains separated by flat polymer sheets. The perturbation of the orientational and translational order parameters, which is caused by an arbitrary flat polymer sheet in a planar LC layer, is estimated. The effective distance over which this disturbance propagates is estimated. It is shown that it is proportional to the square root of the splay elastic constant of LC. It has been shown that in certain temperature ranges the polymer can induce a more ordered liquid crystal phase near itself (smectic phase inside of nematic phase and nematic phase – inside of isotropic liquid phase). In this case, the orientational order parameter of LC near the polymer can be significantly higher than far from it, and the “perturbation” of the order parameters can propagate over a distance of up to several micrometers with a sharp peak at a distance of the order of one micrometer. Based on the original theory, the methods have been proposed for optimizing the sizes of domains in stressed liquid crystals obtained by mechanical treatment in liquid crystal polymer composites.
Non-Newtonian Flow of Structured Systems. XXXVIII. Viscosity of a Suspension of Spherical Particles with Electrostatic Stabilization
Authors: Vekovishchev Mikhail P. , Kirsanov Evgeniy A.
Published: March 2024

The structural rheological model is used to describe the flow of the aqueous styrene/acrylate suspension obtained by copolymerization of acrylic acid esters with styrene, whose particles have a double electric layer. It is assumed that there are large repulsive forces between the suspension particles, which prevent the particle aggregation. The theoretical analysis of viscosity curves and flow curves for the suspension of charged polymer particles at different concentrations and radii of the particles is presented. The generalized flow equation was used to approximate the flow curves at the separate areas of high and low shear rates. It is shown that the behavior of the generalized flow equation coefficients is consistent with the structural rheological model.
A rare case of gastric perforation caused by Candida infection
Authors: Thakor Mrugen , Chawla Subhash , Utaal Maneshwar Singh , De Rijuta , Ramnani Sakshi , Adlakha Dakshita
Published: March 2024

Fungi are usually a rare cause of gastric perforation (about 0.65%), with most cases of gastric perforation occurring as complications of peptic ulcer disease (PUD), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and gastric neoplasms. Here, we report the case of a 60-year-old male who presented to our hospital with severe epigastric pain, multiple episodes of vomiting and no history of PUD, NSAIDs use or gastric neoplasm. Exploratory laparotomy revealed a pre-pyloric gastric perforation which was repaired with modified graham’s patch repair. Histopathological examination of the gastric perforation edge biopsy revealed an intense Candida colonization invading and destroying the gastric wall. Intra-operative fluid sends for culture and sensitivity also revealed growth of candida species. He was subsequently treated with fluconazole antifungal and discharged home after an uneventful postoperative period.
A review on stereomicroscope
Authors: Muthanandam Sivaramakrishnan , A Ijjas Fahi , Santhadevy A , Suganya R , N Vezhavendhan , G Umamaheswari
Published: March 2024

The specimens are frequently observed utilizing a magnifying tool and the naked eye during the grossing method. The stereomicroscope is a vital instrument for viewing a variety of specimens and enables us to effectively analyse the specimen's surface attributes In order to assess the stereomicroscope's effectiveness in grossing and histological diagnosis, it is essential to assess its role in macroscopic examination along with its effectiveness in examining the specimen's surface characteristics.
Об источниках и формах внутриличностных конфликтов студентов-психологов на этапах обучения в вузе
Authors: Bashkin Mikhail V. , Bakhvalova Olga A.
Published: March 2024

The article reveals certain aspects of the problem of psychological well-being of students. Using the example of psychology students, the phenomenon of intrapersonal conflict is considered as one of the factors influencing the effectiveness of educational activities at a university. The authors present the results of a study of the specifics of intrapersonal conflicts among psychology students and the characteristics of their transformation of intrapersonal conflicts at the stages of studying at a university. The frequency of occurrence of intrapersonal conflicts among students in various spheres of life was determined. The dynamics of development of the studied type of intrapersonal conflicts of students has been revealed. The individual personality traits of students associated with their intrapersonal conflicts are described.
Casos de meningite em Uberaba de 2007 a 2021: análise epidemiológica e proposta de intervenção.
Authors: Borges Lucas Paniago , Samora Rafael Assis , Okada Letícia Martins , Oliveira Stefan Vilges de
Published: March 2024

Introdução: A meningite é uma inflamação grave que pode gerar várias complicações, podendo levar, até mesmo, ao óbito. Por isso, o presente estudo teve com motivação a análise da situação epidemiológica da doença no município de Uberaba, no período de 2007 a 2021, e a identificação de fatores que contribuem para o aumento da taxa de letalidade, traçando, dessa forma, um projeto de intervenção com medidas estratégicas que melhorem a sobrevida do paciente acometido. Métodos: Estudo epidemiológico descritivo e quantitativo baseado nos casos de meningite em Uberaba, Minas Gerais, no período de 2007 a 2021. Para isso foi utilizado dados coletados no Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação. A proposta de intervenção foi subsidiada por uma revisão sistemática da literatura nas bases de Google Scholar, Scopus, Pubmed, BVS e Scielo. Resultados: Foram notificados um total de 930 casos de meningite em Uberaba entre os anos de 2007 e 2021 o qual teve uma frequência de meningite asséptica (41,1%), responsável por 53,7% dos óbitos, seguida de meningite por outra etiologia ou não especificada (39,2%). Predominou o grupo masculino (60,54%), branco (47,63%) e faixa etária infantil do 1 aos 9 anos (25,81%) e adulta dos 20 aos 59 anos (44,09%). A revisão sistemática da literatura evidenciou medidas de intervenção direcionadas ao diagnóstico precoce da meningite. Discussão:   A elevada taxa de letalidade, sobretudo por meningite asséptica, pode ser associada ao diagnóstico errôneo e tardio, o que implica em um tratamento retardatário e ineficaz. Além disso, a falta de instrumentos de diagnósticos praticamente instantâneos, como a Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase, ocasiona atrasos na terapia do paciente acometido. Tais achados presentes no estudo lançam mão de uma maior capacitação dos profissionais e do emprego de técnicas moleculares diagnósticas mais avançadas para diagnóstico oportuno.
Expression of Heat Shock Protein 70 (HSP70) and Astacin Genes of Strongyloides stercoralis as well as HSP70 and HSP17.1 Genes of S. ratti in Adult and Larval Stages of S. stercoralis
Authors: Alipour Maryam , Masoori Leila , Gholami Mohammad Davoodzadeh , Khoshmirsafa Majid , Razmjou Elham , Jalallou Nahid , Jafarian Farzane , Falak Reza , Meamar Ahmad Reza
Published: March 2024

Background: Uncovering the roles and characteristics of pathogenesis-related molecules can help us develop novel management methods in parasitology. In this study, we studied the expression levels of Strongyloides stercoralis heat shock protein70 (HSP70) (Sst-hsp-70) and astacin (Sst-ast) as pathogenesis-related genes as well as the expression of S. ratti HSP70 and HSP17.1 (Sra-hsp-70, Sra-hsp-17.1) in the larvae and adult stages of S. stercoralis.
Methods: A hyperinfection isolate of S. stercoralis from Gilan Province, northern Iran was cultivated on nutrient agar. After a couple of days, parasites in different stages of life were collected, and total RNA was extracted. The expression levels of astacin and HSP genes were compared by real-time PCR.
Results: Statistically higher expression levels of Sst-ast, Sst-hsp-70, and Sra-hsp-70 genes in L3 larvae than in adults were observed. However, the expression level of Sra-hsp-17.1 was non-significantly lower in the larval stage than in adult worms.
Conclusion: Higher expression levels of Sst-ast, Sst-hsp-70, and Sra-hsp-70 genes in the larval stages of S. stercoralis suggest the potential role of these enzymes in parasite cutaneous invasion and pathogenesis. However, higher expression of Sra-hsp-17.1 in adult forms is probably involved in resistance and survival mechanisms. The similarity in gene expression between S. stercoralis and S. ratti can provide helpful hints to better understand strongyloidiasis from various perspectives, including pathogenesis, proper diagnosis, and targeted treatment.
Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) Clinical Presentation, Laboratory Findings, Treatment Options and Outcome
Authors: Khodabandeh Mahmoud , Moradian Elham , Sarvari Maedeh , Khiabani Mahsa Soti
Published: March 2024

Background: Black disease, also known as visceral leishmaniasis (VL), is a parasitic illness caused by various Leishmania species. The risk of morbidity and mortality increases with delayed diagnosis and treatment. Early VL diagnosis and fast appropriate treatment are critical issues in endemic areas.  
Methods: This study was a retrospective cross-sectional study to investigate the diagnostic and therapeutic course of patients admitted with the diagnosis of VL in the Children's Medical Center (CMC) Hospital, Tehran, Iran. All cases of VL in patients under the age of 18 hospitalized between the years 2012 to 2022 were enrolled.
Results: Twenty-seven patients were enrolled with an average age of 28.13 months with the majority of females (51.8%). Common clinical signs were fever (96.2%) and splenomegaly (92.59%). However, lymphadenopathy was rare. The largest number of patients was from Tehran Province, followed by Ardabil, Khuzestan, Gilan, and Alborz provinces. The most common hematological abnormalities were anemia (85.1%) and thrombocytopenia (44.4%). In accordance with the treatment strategy, liposomal amphotericin B and amphotericin B deoxycholate were given to 11 and 5 patients, respectively. Eleven of them received glucantime. The average length of hospitalization for liposomal amphotericin B was 15.36 ± 12.49 days. In comparison with glucantime (18.38 ±10.26 days) and amphotericin B deoxycholate (20.20± 6.18 days), liposomal amphotericin B group hospitalization was shorter than others were.
Conclusion: VL should be included in the differential diagnosis of any child who presents with fever, splenomegaly, and anemia. Concerning the treatment strategy in this study, liposomal amphotericin B had more efficiency and shorter hospitalization duration.
Development of Low-Serum Culture Media for the in Vitro Cultivation of Theileria annulata S15 Cell Line
Authors: Habibi Gholamreza , Afshari Asghar , Shahedi Amin , Hashemlou Mousa , Es-Haghi Ali , Mehrabadi Mohamad Hosein Fallah , Fathi Saeid
Published: March 2024

Background: The production of bovine theileriosis vaccine involves in vitro cultivation of Theileria annulata schizont-infected cell lines. Fetal bovine serum (FBS) is commonly used in animal cell culture, including the Theileria cell line. However, we aimed to reduce the amount of serum needed for cell culture by modifying the Stoker culture medium with supplements such as excretion factor and serum substitutes.  
Methods: To evaluate the effectiveness of these modifications, techniques such as cell counting, cell viability assays, and genomic analysis were employed in the Parasitic Vaccines Production Department of Razi institute of Iran, from 2020 to 2022.  Statistical analysis was used to compare the results of different experimental conditions.  
Results: The three experimental media were as effective as the commonly used 10% Stoker medium in supporting the growth and viability of cells.
Conclusion: The significant reduction in the required amount of serum and the remarkable cell growth achieved by using defined serum replacements for the production of cell culture media is a significant step towards the preparation of a proper cell culture medium for the production of bovine Theileriosis vaccine.