bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Critical Service-Learning Supports Social Justice and Civic Engagement Orientations in College Students
Authors: Saavedra Jean Abigail , Ruiz Lizette , Alcalá Lucía
Published: June 2023

Service-learning is a high-impact practice that increases students’ engagement with class material and the community. However, a critical lens is needed to strengthen students’ understanding of and commitment to social justice. This mixed-method study examined the impact of a critical service-learning approach, which integrated critical curricula with thirty hours of service to community organizations, on undergraduate students’ orientations towards social justice and civic engagement. Statistical analyses suggested significant differences in social dominance orientation and orientations to civic engagement over time and across three psychology classes using critical service-learning, critical curriculum, and traditional approaches. Qualitative findings from critical service-learning students’ class reflection assignments support a proposed model for the development of a social justice orientation among college students. Over the course of the semester, students shifted from considering social justice as an unobtainable, abstract concept to identifying strategies and expressing willingness to engage in behaviors that lead to social change. This study highlights the potential for critical service-learning to enhance student learning and meet the community’s needs with an awareness of power dynamics and the systemic nature of oppression.
Frontière de préhistorique·s ou frontière de préhistorien·ne·s : quid des litho-espaces durant la transition Pléistocène-Holocène en France centrale ?
Authors: Gibaud Alix , Delvigne Vincent , Langlais Mathieu , Bracco Jean-Pierre
Published: June 2023

Résumé. Les questionnements abordés dans cet article portent sur l’homogénéité et les relations spatiales entre l’ensemble belloisien et le Laborien. Nous avons pris pour cadre géographique d’étude, la (réputée) marge méridionale du Belloisien : la France centrale. Cet espace est jalonné par plusieurs gisements clés de la transition Pléistocène-Holocène, notamment Muides-sur-Loire, Champ-Chalatras et le Cuze de Sainte-Anastasie. C’est à travers l’étude de l’industrie lithique de ces trois sites que nous questionnons les réseaux de relations à l’extrême fin du Paléolithique. Cet espace est également situé à l’écart des grandes dynamiques de recherche universitaire. Il nous faut donc interroger la notion de frontière à travers l’œil du « préhistorique » ou du « préhistoriens », suivant une analyse pétrotechno-typologique. Les résultats mettent en évidence une fréquentation de gîtes communs et une gestion économique des matériaux parfois semblables entre les trois sites étudiés. Ce réseau de relations complexes met en exergue la porosité entre les appellations préhistoriennes. De plus, l’identification de savoir-faire laboriens, à partir de silicites du sud du Bassin parisien, ainsi que la circulation de grands supports laminaires au sein de sites laborien, confirme cette perméabilité. Ces premières observations alimentent l’hypothèse d’une imbrication d’un sous-système technique belloisien à une tradition plus large : le Laborien.
“Doubt No More”: Two Sizes Fit All
Authors: Murphy Kenneth M
Published: June 2023

This Pillars of Immunology article is a commentary on “Differing lymphokine profiles of functional subsets of human CD4 and CD8 T cell clones,” a pivotal article written by P. Salgame, J. S. Abrams, C. Clayberger, H. Goldstein, J. Convit, R. L. Modlin, and B. R. Bloom, and published in Science, in 1991. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.254.5029.279.
Comparing actual transpiration fluxes as measured at leaf-scale and calculated by a physically based agro-hydrological model
Authors: Sobhani Ameneh , Hassan Shawkat B.M. , Dragonetti Giovanna , Balestrini Raffaella , Centritto Mauro , Coppola Antonio , Comegna Alessandro
Published: June 2023

The main purpose of this paper is to compare the actual transpiration rates from tomato crop, as measured at leaf scale and estimated by a macroscopic approach in an agro-hydrological model, named FLOWS-HAGES, under variable soil properties and water availability. To this aim, sixteen plots were cultivated with tomatoes in Metaponto, Southern Italy. Soil hydraulic properties (SHP) were obtained using a fast in-situ characterization method. Leaf-area index (LAI) was measured using a leaf-area meter. SHP and LAI were then used in the physically-based FLOWS-HAGES which allowed calculating the macroscopic transpiration rates, Ta,m. Single-leaf transpiration rates, Ta,l, and stomatal conductance, gs,l, were measured in situ. For comparing with Ta,m, gs,l was upscaled by Big-Leaf approach to canopy scale stomatal conductance, gs,c, which was applied to Penman-Monteith model to obtain the canopy-scale transpiration, Ta,c. Finally, multiple linear regression (MLR) was used to find the statistical relationship between Ta,m and Ta,c, and the SHP and gs,c. Results showed that the macroscopic approach smooths the spatial variability of transpiration rates. Ta,c increased with the saturated water content, θs, and the slope of the water retention curve, n, while Ta,m decreased with increasing θs and n. MLR improved significantly by introducing gs,c to predict Ta,m.
Pancycle Aortic Incompetence and Double Alternans in Pediatric Heart Failure
Authors: Bhargava Devarakonda Venkata , Gopalakrishnan Arun , Nair Krishna Kumar Mohanan , Dharan Baiju S. , Sivasubramonian Sivasankaran , Tharakan Jaganmohan
Published: June 2023

A 12-year-old boy presented with bicuspid aortic valve, severe aortic regurgitation, and dilated dysfunctional left ventricle in heart failure. He underwent aortic valve replacement with a 23 mm TTK Chitra heart valve prosthesis (tilting disk). He was gradually weaned off milrinone and noradrenaline in the intensive care. Echocardiography showed severe left ventricular dysfunction with an ejection fraction of 24%. The radial pulse was regular and of normal volume but exactly half that of the heart rate. Evaluation of the rhythm and echocardiography revealed an interesting hemodynamic phenomenon with double alternans.
Use of Pre-Operative Hemoglobin A1c to Predict Early Post-Operative Renal Failure and Infection Risks in Patients who are not Diabetics and Undergoing Elective off Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
Authors: Madhu M , Patni Ankita
Published: June 2023

Background:

Recent studies have indicated that patients, both with and without diabetes with an increased HbA1c, have a higher rate of adverse outcomes following cardiac surgeries. Our study is focused on to evaluate the prognostic impact of admission value of HbA1c in non-diabetic patients for postoperative renal failure and infections.

Materials and Methods:

Plasma HbA1c levels were collected from 200 consecutive nondiabetic patients who got admitted for elective off pump coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) procedure over a 2-year period under two groups, Group A whose HbA1c was < 6% at admission and Group B whose HbA1c was ≥6% and ≤6.4% at admission. After surgery, patients were followed up to see if they have got infection or renal failure as postoperative complication. Student’s unpaired t test was used to test the significance of difference between the quantitative variables, Yate’s and Fisher’s chi square tests were used for qualitative variables.

Results:

We found early postoperative renal failure in 14 (3/96 in Group A and 11/104 in Group B) out of 200 patients (7%) and infection in 21 (8/96 in Group A and 13/104 in Group B) out of 200 patients (10.5%). After data analysis, it was noted that there is a positive correlation between HbA1c and postoperative renal failure (P = 0.0213) whereas no association was found between HbA1c and postoperative infections (P = 0.175) in patients undergoing off-pump CABG surgery.

Conclusion:

In patients without diabetes, a plasma HbA1c ≥6% was a significant independent predictor for early postoperative renal failure.
Triglyceride-Glucose Index as an Alternative Tool for Identifying Prediabetes and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Chowdhury Sumon Rahman , Siddiki Amam Zonaed , Kamrul-Hasan A. B. M.
Published: June 2023

Background and Objectives:

The triglyceride glucose (TyG) index has emerged as a cheaper alternative to hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and Homeostasis Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) for diagnosing prediabetes and insulin resistance (IR), respectively. This study evaluated the utility of the TyG index as a marker of prediabetes and IR compared to HbA1c and HOMA-IR in Bangladeshi adults.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional comparative study evaluated 100 prediabetics and 100 age-sex-matched normoglycemic subjects attending the outpatient department of Chittagong Diabetic General Hospital between October 2021 to September 2022. Anthropometric data were collected; laboratory data included oral glucose tolerance test, HbA1c, fasting triglyceride, serum insulin, and HOMA-IR. Comparative analyses were done between the TyG Index and HbA1c and HOMA-IR with the receiver operator characteristics (ROC) curves. Results: The areas under the curves (AUC) for diagnosing prediabetes for HbA1c and TyG Index were 0.923 (P < 0.001) and 0.874 (P < 0.001), respectively; TyG Index is comparable to HbA1c (P = 0.062). TyG Index >4.762 had 84.5% sensitivity and 80.5% specificity for diagnosing prediabetes. The AUC for the TyG index for IR was 0.792 (P < 0.001); TyG Index >4.762 had 84.5% sensitivity and 46.8% specificity for diagnosing IR. The Pearson correlation coefficients between the various anthropometric measurements related to IR with TyG Index and HOMA-IR demonstrate a highly significant difference in weight (0.186 vs. 0.154) in favor of the TyG index (P < 0.01). It also shows a significant difference (P < 0.05) in body mass index (0.421 vs. 0.372), waist circumference (0.286 vs. 0.253), and waist-to-height ratio (0.392 vs. 0.333) in favor of the TyG index.

Conclusion:

The TyG index is a reliable surrogate marker for IR and comparable to HbA1c for identifying prediabetes. Hence, it can be used as an alternative screening tool for diagnosing prediabetes and IR.
Incidence of Orthodontic Bracket Detachment and Associated Factors among Individuals Undergoing Orthodontic Treatment
Authors: Urala Arun S. , Sathyamoorthy Hrishikesh , Pentapati Kalyana Chakravarthy
Published: June 2023

Objective:

The objective of this study is to evaluate the incidence of orthodontic bracket detachment (OBD) and associated factors among individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional study among the individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment at our center. We included participants aged 18 and above who underwent orthodontic treatment for at least 6 months or more and those willing to participate. We excluded participants whose orthodontic treatment started elsewhere and participants with syndromes. A specially designed self-administered questionnaire in English was developed, which included information on age, sex, education, duration of orthodontic treatment, number of orthodontic brackets detached, frequency, and reasons. Personality Inventory for DSM-5 Brief Form (PID-5-BF) for adults was used to evaluate the personality traits of the participant.

Results:

One hundred and thirty-four individuals completed this study, of which 43.3% were males (mean age: 21.29 ± 3.23). The incidence of OBD was 32.1%. The mean duration of the treatment was significantly higher among those with OBD than those without OBD (P = 0.007). However, there were no significant differences in the mean domain scores and total scores of PID-5-BF between the individuals with or without OBD. It was seen that the duration of orthodontic treatment was significantly associated with OBD (odds ratio = 1.07; 95% confidence interval = 1.02–1.12).

Conclusion:

Our study showed that the treatment duration was higher among individuals with OBD.
International Thymic Malignancy Interest Group Classification – The Future of Mediastinal Mass Evaluation using Multidetector Computed Tomography
Authors: Bhansali Pratik Jayprakash , Mishra Gaurav Vedprakash , Parihar Pratapsingh H. , Unadkat Bhavik Sunit , Kabra Ruchita
Published: June 2023

Background:

The diagnosis of mediastinal masses is a demanding task as it is like Pandora’s box with diverse masses. Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT), along with intravenous contrast, is the diagnostic technique of choice to diagnose mediastinal masses. Hence, the International Thymic Malignancy Interest Group (ITMIG) uses MDCT as a gold standard for defining mediastinal compartments.

Aim and Objectives:

The purpose of this study was to ascertain characteristics, the accurate extension of mediastinal masses, and its distribution according to classification by ITMIG and to correlate the fine-needle aspiration cytology/biopsy diagnosis to the findings of the computed tomography (CT) scan where ever possible.

Materials and Methods:

The present study was conducted at the Radiodiagnosis Department of AVBRH, a Teaching Hospital of DMIHER, Sawangi (Meghe) Wardha. It was a prospective cross-sectional study. A purposive convenience sampling method was used with a sample size of 100 participants needed for 2 years.

Results:

In the study population, the predominant (63%) participants were male, and the remaining 37 (37.00%) participants were female. Fifteen (15.00%) lesions were in prevascular, 55 (55.00%) were in visceral, 15 (15.00%) were in paravertebral, 8 (8.00%) involved Prevascular + Visceral, 7 (7.00%) lesions involved all three compartments, i.e., Prevascular + Visceral + Paravertebral localization. In the present study, in 94.73% of the masses, the same diagnosis was made by both CT and holoprosencephaly. In 5.27% of the masses, the diagnosis was different. The total diagnostic accuracy was 100% (95% confidence interval 93.73%–100%).

Conclusion:

CT has a cardinal part in the assessment of different masses in the mediastinum in regards to their characterization, distribution, and distinguishing malignant and benign lesions. The novel mediastinal division system introduced by ITMIG is intended to facilitate uniform communication between health-care professionals and radiologists at cross-sectional imaging.
Evaluation of Educational Program of Doctor of Medicine (MD - Radiology) and Diploma in Medical Radio-Diagnosis in Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, A Constituent Unit of Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences (Deemed to be University), Sawangi (Meghe), Wardha
Authors: Mishra Gaurav Vedprakash , Dhok Archana , Singh Rohan Kumar , Patwa Prerna Anup
Published: June 2023

Background:

Evaluation is a systematic determination of a subject’s merit, worth, and significance, using criteria governed by a set of standards. It can assist an organization, program, project, or any other intervention or initiative to assess any aim, reliable concept/proposal, or any alternative, to help in decision-making; or to ascertain the degree of achievement or value in regard to the aim and objectives and results of any such action that has been completed.

Materials and Methods:

In a sample of 30 with a break up of 19 learners and 11 faculty, a standard curriculum questionnaire (Annexure-II) for ascertaining the “Relevance, Efficiency, Effectiveness, Impact and Sustainability” vide Danish International Development Agency guidelines generated by Development Assessment Committee of Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development the educational process in MD Radiodiagnosis and Diploma in Medical Radiodiagnosis (DMRD) educational program was given to the participating learners and members of the teaching staff to evaluate the “process” of the said educational programs. The participants will be divided into three groups, namely Group-1 (Neutral Opinion), Group-2 (Agreeing and Strongly Agreeing Opinion) and Group-3 (Disagreeing and Strongly Disagreeing opinion). Further, the participants will be required to rate their satisfaction level on a rating scale of 10.

Results:

Response evaluation of MD Radiodiagnosis group showed significantly higher level of satisfaction in terms of relevance, effectiveness, and efficiency of the curriculum. Response evaluation of DMRD group showed similar results. In comparison of both groups, the level of satisfaction with respect to MD Radiodiagnosis program quantitatively was greater as compared to DMRD program.

Conclusion:

The evaluation and the obtained results therein were with reference to “process” of the academic program namely MD Radiodiagnosis and DMRD respectively. The evaluation of “product” part could not be included in the study.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Synovial Diseases of Knee
Authors: Kolluru A. B. Revanth , Gautam Amol Anantrao , Garg Shreya , Tamboli Asif I.
Published: June 2023

A specialized tissue called synovium lines the body’s tendons, bursae, and synovial joints. It is affected by various localized or systemic disorders. These are classified into inflammatory, infectious, degenerative, traumatic, hemorrhagic, and neoplastic. Synovial damage leads to irreversible joint destruction. Imaging plays an important role in the early detection of the disease entity and enables for proper treatment. This article focuses on magnetic resonance imaging of synovial diseases pertaining to knee – (1) infective synovitis; (2) rheumatoid synovitis; (3) pigmented villonodular synovitis; (4) lipoma arborescens; (5) synovial hemangioma; and (6) synovial sarcoma.
Antibiotic Treatment Duration for Bloodstream Infections in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Fahad Buskandar , Abdulrahman Al-Fares , Nick Daneman , Robert Fowler
Published: June 2023

Context:

Antibiotic treatment duration for bloodstream infections (BSIs) is an area of controversy and uncertainty.

Aims:

Our objective was to assess antibiotic treatment duration practices for critically ill patients with BSIs in Kuwait.

Subjects and Methods:

A survey consisting of clinical scenarios followed by questions about recommended antibiotic treatment duration for each scenario was sent to Kuwaiti infectious diseases, critical care specialists, and anesthetists with critical care experience.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Descriptive analysis (medians and interquartile ranges) and Kruskal–Wallis test were used for statistical analysis.

Results:

The survey response rate was 68% (112/164). The median (interquartile range [IQR]) ranges for antibiotic duration recommendations were similar for each bacteremic syndrome: central line-associated BSIs, 10 days (7–14); pneumonia, 10 days (7–14); urinary tract infection, 10 days (7–14); intra-abdominal infection, 10 days (7–14); and skin and soft-tissue infection, 10 days (7–14). The median (IQR) antibiotic durations for the following bacteria were as follows: Staphylococcus aureus, 14 days (10–14); extended-spectrum beta-lactamase Escherichia coli, 10 days (7–14); multidrug-resistant (MDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 14 days (10–14); MDR Acinetobacter baumannii, 14 days (10–14); vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecalis, 14 days (10–14); carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae, 14 days (10–14); and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, 7 days (7–10). For all infectious syndromes and individual organisms, duration responses often followed discrete choices of 5, 7, 10, and 14 days. Prolonging antibiotic therapy for immunocompromised patients was favored among 70% of respondents.

Conclusions:

This survey demonstrates practice variation in treating BSIs and supports the need for adequately powered randomized controlled trials assessing optimal antibiotic duration for various bacteremic syndromes, pathogens, and resistance patterns.
Effects of Different Regimens of Sedation on Mechanically Ventilated Patients
Authors: Badr Usama , El-Din Fouad Rida Hossam , Elmorsy Amr Abdallah
Published: June 2023

Background:

Up to one-third of intensive care unit (ICU) patients worldwide undergo mechanical ventilation. These patients frequently require analgesics and sedatives-potent medications with clear benefits and significant side effects.

Objective:

The current study intended to assess the effects of application of different regimens of sedation on mechanically ventilated patients regarding the length of ventilator days, length of hospital stay, multiple organ dysfunctions, ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), and mortality.

Methods:

One hundred adult patients who are intubated for any cause and attached to mechanical ventilation for more than 24 h will be included in this study. Drugs used for sedation were propofol and midazolam. Patients underwent history taking, clinical examination, laboratory investigations, chest X-ray, and electrocardiogram on admission.

Results:

At the end of this study, it was found that there was a significant increase in the sedation holiday group (Group II) over the no sedation group (Group I) regarding multiple organ dysfunction score, VAP, ventilator days, ICU stay, and hospital stay but there was no significant difference between both groups regarding mortality, spontaneous breathing trials, Glasgow Coma Scale, and complete blood count.

Conclusions:

Our results demonstrate that the use of sedatives can cause prolongation in the duration of mechanical ventilation, length of stay in the ICU, and total length of hospital stay. In addition, there is an increased risk of morbidity and mortality. It is possible to use a strategy of no sedation for critically ill patients undergoing mechanical ventilation without fears of failure.
Functional Annotation and Gene Set Analysis of Gastric Cancer Risk Loci in a Korean Population
Authors: Pyun Hyojin , Gunathilake Madhawa , Lee Jeonghee , Choi Il Ju , Kim Young-Il , Sung Joohon , Kim Jeongseon
Published: June 2023

Purpose We aimed to identify the associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with gastric cancer (GC) risk by genome-wide association study (GWAS) and to explore the pathway enrichment of implicated genes and gene-sets with expression patterns.Materials and Methods The study population was comprised of 1,253 GC cases and 4,827 controls from National Cancer Center and an urban community of the Korean Genome Epidemiology Study and their genotyping was performed. SNPs were annotated, and mapped to genes to prioritize by three mapping approaches by functional mapping and annotation (FUMA). The gene-based analysis and gene-set analysis were conducted with full GWAS summary data using MAGMA. Gene-set pathway enrichment test with those prioritized genes were performed.Results In GWAS, rs2303771, a nonsynonymous variant of KLHDC4 gene was top SNP associated significantly with GC (odds ratio, 2.59; p=1.32×10–83). In post-GWAS, 71 genes were prioritized. In gene-based GWAS, seven genes were under significant p < 3.80×10–6 (0.05/13,114); DEFB108B had the lowest p=5.94×10–15, followed by FAM86C1 (p=1.74×10–14), PSCA (p=1.81×10–14), and KLHDC4 (p=5.00×10–10). In gene prioritizing, KLDHC4 was the only gene mapped with all three gene-mapping approaches. In pathway enrichment test with prioritized genes, FOLR2, PSCA, LY6K, LYPD2, and LY6E showed strong enrichment related to cellular component of membrane; a post-translation modification by synthesis of glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored proteins pathway.Conclusion While 37 SNPs were significantly associated with the risk of GC, genes involved in signaling pathways related to purine metabolism and GPI-anchored protein in cell membrane are pinpointed to be playing important role in GC.
Clinical Validation of the Unparalleled Sensitivity of the Novel Allele-Discriminating Priming System Technology–Based EGFR Mutation Assay in Patients with Operable Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Park Il-Hyun , Son Dae-Soon , Choi Yoon-La , Choi Ji-Hyeon , Park Ji-Eun , Jeon Yeong Jeong , Cho Minseob , Kim Hong Kwan , Choi Yong Soo , Shim Young Mog , Kang Jung Hee , Park Suzy , Lee Jinseon , Kim Sung-Hyun , Lee Byung-Chul , Kim Jhingook
Published: June 2023

Purpose Recently, we developed allele-discriminating priming system (ADPS) technology. This method increases the sensitivity of conventional quantitative polymerase chain reaction up to 100 folds, with limit of detection, 0.01%, with reinforced specificity. This prospective study aimed to develop and validate the accuracy of ADPS epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) Mutation Test Kit using clinical specimens.Materials and Methods In total 189 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor tissues resected from patients with non–small cell lung cancer were used to perform a comparative evaluation of the ADPS EGFR Mutation Test Kit versus the cobas EGFR Mutation Test v2, which is the current gold standard. When the two methods had inconsistent results, next-generation sequencing–based CancerSCAN was utilized as a referee.Results The overall agreement of the two methods was 97.4% (93.9%-99.1%); the positive percent agreement, 95.0% (88.7%-98.4%); and the negative percent agreement, 100.0% (95.9%-100.0%). EGFR mutations were detected at a frequency of 50.3% using the ADPS EGFR Mutation Test Kit and 52.9% using the cobas EGFR Mutation Test v2. There were 10 discrepant mutation calls between the two methods. CancerSCAN reproduced eight ADPS results. In two cases, mutant allele fraction was ultra-low at 0.02% and 0.06%, which are significantly below the limit of detection of the cobas assay and CancerSCAN. Based on the EGFR genotyping by ADPS, the treatment options could be switched in five patients.Conclusion The highly sensitive and specific ADPS EGFR Mutation Test Kit would be useful in detecting the patients who have lung cancer with EGFR mutation, and can benefit from the EGFR targeted therapy.
A gradient flow approach to the Boltzmann equation
Authors: Erbar Matthias
Published: June 2023

We show that the spatially homogeneous Boltzmann equation evolves as the gradient flow of the entropy with respect to a suitable geometry on the space of probability measures which takes the collision process into account. This gradient flow structure allows to give a new proof for the convergence of Kac’s random walk to the homogeneous Boltzmann equation, exploiting the stability of gradient flows.
On Korpelevich’s extragradient algorithm
Authors: Pischke Nicholas
Published: June 2023

We provide quantitative results on the convergence of the extragradient algorithm of Korpelevich in the form of a computable and highly uniform rate of metastability (in the sense of T. Tao) as well as, under a general metric regularity assumption in the sense of U. Kohlenbach, G. López-Acedo and A. Nicolae, even in the form of a rate of convergence.
Sociodemographics, Clinical Factors, and Biological Factors Associated with Loiasis in Endemic Onchocerciasis Areas in Southern Gabon
Authors: Moutongo Mouandza Reinne , Mourou Jean Romain , Moutombi Ditombi Bridy , Roger Sibi Matotou Hadry , Ekomi Bernadette , Bouyou-Akotet Marielle Karine , Mawili-Mboumba Denise Patricia
Published: June 2023

To implement the appropriate strategies for scale-up interventions to eliminate onchocerciasis without severe adverse events, clinical and biological factors associated with loiasis were analyzed in onchocerciasis-endemic areas. Blood was collected from volunteers after examination by a physician. Detection of microfilariae and measurement of Ov16 IgG4 were performed using direct microscopic examination of blood and onchocerciasis rapid test detection, respectively. Areas with sporadic, hypoendemic, and hyperendemic onchocerciasis endemicity were found. Participants with microfilaremia were considered microfilaremic, and those without microfilaremia were seen as amicrofilaremic. Of the 471 study participants, 40.5% (n = 191) had microfilariae. Among them, Mansonella spp. was the most common (78.2%, n = 147), followed by Loa loa (41.4%, n = 79). The association between the two species represented 18.3% (n = 35). The specific immunoglobulins of Onchocerca volvulus were detected in 24.2% of participants (n = 87/359). Overall prevalence of L. loa was 16.8%. Hypermicrofilaremia was found in 3% (N = 14), and one participant had more than 30,000 microfilaremiae per milliliter. The frequency of L. loa did not vary according to the level of onchocerciasis transmission. Pruritus was the most common clinical sign (60.5%, n = 285) reported, mainly in microfilaremic participants (72.2%, n = 138/191). The prevalence of L. loa microfilaria in the study population was below the threshold at risk for the occurrence of serious side effects due to ivermectin. Clinical manifestations frequently observed could be exacerbated by microfilaremia in areas where onchocerciasis transmission is high.
Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction for Detection of Mycobacterium leprae DNA in Tissue Specimens from Patients with Leprosy
Authors: Sarath Indukumari M. , Joseph Noyal Mariya , Jamir Imola
Published: June 2023

In leprosy, early diagnosis is crucial to prevent transmission and onset of disabilities of the disease. The purpose of this study was to determine usefulness of quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in clinically diagnosed cases of leprosy. Thirty-two leprosy cases were included. The real-time PCR was performed using commercial kit targeting Mycobacterium leprae–specific insertion sequence element. The slit skin smear was positive in two (22.2%) borderline tuberculoid (BT) patients, five (83.3%) borderline lepromatous (BL) patients, and seven (50%) lepromatous leprosy (LL). The positivity of quantitative real-time PCR in BT, BL, LL, and pure neuritic leprosy were 77.8%, 83.3%, 100%, and 33.3%, respectively. Using histopathology as the gold standard, sensitivity of quantitative real-time PCR was 93.1%, and specificity was 100%. The DNA load was higher in LL (3,854.29/106 cells), followed by BL (140.37/106 cells), and BT (2.69/106 cells). Because of the high sensitivity and specificity of real-time PCR, our study strongly suggests the use of real-time PCR as a diagnostic tool for leprosy.
The Thermal Analysis of Plaster with Waste Expanded Polystyrene Gypsum and Resin
Authors: BİÇER Ayşe
Published: June 2023

This study investigated the physical properties of plaster or decorative materials made of waste expanded polystyrene (EPS) and pine tree resin (as a binder). Thirty-two samples were produced by adding waste EPS in 0-3mm and 0-6mm grain diameters in two groups and at 20-80% addition rates and resin at 0, 0.5, 1, and 2% of the dry mix weight. Density, thermal conductivity coefficient, and compressive reduced by 50.64%, 82.68%, and 84.91% in samples with a diameter of 0-3 mm. Density, thermal conductivity coefficient, and compressive reduced by 51.03%, 86.55%, and 84.13% in samples with a diameter of 0-6 mm. Density and thermal conductivity decreased by 13.32-10.42% and 25.37-22.41%, respectively, while compressive strength increased by 29.50-19.56% in samples with a diameter of 0-3 mm and 2% resin. Density and thermal conductivity decreased by 19.60-13.68% and 17.24-10.25%, respectively, while compressive strength increased by 16.27-8.85% in samples with a diameter of 0-6 mm and 2% resin. The results show that the samples can be used as interior plaster, insulation plaster, and decoration material due to their grooving and paint adherence properties. This plaster and decoration material can help us i) reduce heating and cooling energy, ii) reuse waste EPS and prevent environmental pollution, and iii) reduce building load in tall buildings.
PERSONEL GÜÇLENDİRME ve ÖRGÜTSEL BAĞLILIK ÜZERİNE BİR ARAŞTIRMA; ERZİNCAN BELEDİYESİ ÖRNEĞİ
Authors: CALAP Adil , ULUSOY Merve Gamze
Published: June 2023

Son yıllarda, işletmeler için en önemli rekabet avantajlarından biri insan kaynağıdır. İşletmeler, çalışanlarının işletmede kalmasını sağlamak ve onları geliştirerek daha verimli hale getirmek için çeşitli yatırımlar yapmaktadır. Bu yatırımlardan biri olan personel güçlendirme, çalışanların yaptıkları işlerine ve örgütlerine katkıda bulunmaları için gerekli araçları ve yetkileri almalarını sağlayarak işletmenin rekabet avantajını artırmayı hedefler. Güçlendirme, çalışanların yeteneklerini geliştirmek için eğitim, geliştirme, öğrenme ve deneyim kazanma gibi bazı fırsatlara yatırım yapmayı içerir. Bu yatırımlar; çalışanların işlerinde daha etkili olmalarını sağlamanın yanı sıra işletmenin performansını da arttırmaktadır. Genel olarak bakıldığında, çalışanların güçlendirilmesi, işletmelerin rekabet avantajını artırmak için önemli bir stratejidir. Ayrıca güçlendirme, çalışanların örgüte olan bağlılıklarını ve performanslarını artırırken, işletmenin de karlılığına katkıda bulunur. Bu çalışmada personel güçlendirme yaklaşımının örgütsel bağlılık ile ilişkisini ortaya koymak hedeflenmiştir. Bu amaçla; Erzincan Belediyesi’nde çalışan 350 personele, Spreitzer’in geliştirdiği “4 Boyutlu Personel Güçlendirme” ve Allen ve Meyer’in geliştirdiği “3 Boyutlu Örgütsel Bağlılık” ölçeklerini içeren anket çalışması uygulanmıştır. Personel güçlendirmenin örgütsel bağlılık üzerindeki etkisini incelemek için etki analizi (AMOS ile ölçüm modelinin ve yapısal modelin testi) yapılmıştır. Çalışmamızın sonuçları incelendiğinde; personel güçlendirmenin örgütsel bağlılık üzerinde anlamlı ve pozitif yönlü bir etkisi olduğu görülmektedir.
Inside Retirement Housing
Authors: Clark Sam
Published: June 2023

Through stories and visual vignettes, it presents a range of stakeholders involved in the design, construction, management and habitation of third-age housing in the UK, highlighting the importance of design decisions for the everyday lives of older people.
Effects of dietary guava leaf aqueous extract supplementation on growth, antioxidant capacity, and non-specific immunity in mud crab Scylla paramamosain
Authors: Yue Yan , Ma Hong-Ling , Cheng Chang-Hong , Liu Guang-Xin , Fan Si-Gang , Jiang Jian-Jun , Guo Zhi-Xun
Published: June 2023

Mud crab (Scylla paramamosain) fed five different diets with varying concentrations of guava leaf aqueous extract (0 mg·kg–1, 80 mg·kg–1, 160 mg·kg–1, 320 mg·kg–1, and 640 mg·kg–1) for 30 days. Mud crabs in the 320 mg·kg–1 guava-leaf extract groups outperformed the control group in terms of survival rates (SR), weight gain rates (WGR), and specific growth rates (SGR). When compared to the control group, mud crabs in the 320 mg·kg–1 guava-leaf extract groups had significantly higher levels of lipase (LPS), pepsin, lysozyme (LZM), superoxide dismutase (SOD), acid phosphatase (ACP), and glutathione (GSH) (P < 0.05). The amylase (AMS) activity was significantly decreased in all experimental groups (P < 0.05). Malondialdehyde (MDA) content in the hepatopancreas of mud crabs in the 160 mg·kg–1, 320 mg·kg–1, and 640 mg·kg–1 guava-leaf extract groups were significantly reduced compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Additionally, real-time PCR results illustrated that the expression levels of GPx3, CAT, and JNK were all considerably increased in the 80 mg·kg–1 guava-leaf extract groups compared to the control group (P < 0.05). In the 160 mg·kg–1, 320 mg·kg–1, and 320 mg·kg–1 guava-leaf extract groups, the expression levels of SOD genes were considerably greater than the control (P < 0.05), which was consistent with the level of SOD activity. GST and P53 gene expression levels were significantly up-regulated in the 80 mg·kg–1, 160 mg·kg–1, 320 mg·kg–1, and 640 mg·kg–1 guava-leaf extract groups compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Overall, the addition of 160 mg·kg–1-320 mg·kg–1 guava-leaf extract to the feed of Scylla paramamosain promoted growth, enhanced the activities of digestive and antioxidant enzymes, and strengthened immunity.
Institutional Quality, Employment, Trade Openness on Environment (Co2) Nexus From Top Co2 Producing Countries; Panel ARDL Approach
Authors: Tabassum Naveela , Rahman Saif Ur , Zafar Mahwish , Ghaffar Muniba
Published: June 2023

This study aims to examine the impact of Institutional quality, Employment, and trade openness on the environment (CO2 emission in metric tonnes) for the period between 2002 and 2021, using data from the top ten CO2-producing nations (China, United States, India, Russia, Japan, Germany, Iran, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia). We employ the panel-based Auto Regressive Distributive Lags (ARDL) model that includes a unit root test to examine the stationarity properties of the data. The findings shows that the Employment and Trade openness are at level of first difference and other Institutional Quality was on level which shows the mixed stream results. The long run equation regressors indicated that the environment (CO2) has been affected due to all other predictors trade openness, employment labor and institutional quality.  After finding substantial cointegration, the long-term and short-term ARDL coefficients for the models are estimated. The model has negative and statistically significant lagged Error Correction Term indicating an extremely stable long-run link between attributes. In long run & short run the panel ARDL results shows that Institutional Quality has the significant impact on CO2 emissions as and when institutional quality improves CO2 emission diminishes and the other variables Employment and Trade openness has significant impact on CO2 environment. The results are more important for policy makers in setting up policies to protect environment.
A Taxonomy for Generative Adversarial Networks in Dynamic Adaptive Streaming Over HTTP
Authors:   Department of Computing and Information Technology, the University of the West Indies, St Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago, W.I., Khan Koffka
Published: June 2023

Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) have emerged as a powerful tool in the field of Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP (DASH) to enhance various aspects of video streaming. This paper presents a taxonomy that categorizes the applications and techniques of GANs in the context of DASH. The taxonomy covers several key dimensions, including video generation, compression, quality enhancement, bandwidth adaptation, dynamic bitrate streaming, and cross-modal applications. Within each dimension, specific subcategories are identified to capture the diverse applications of GANs in DASH. Additionally, evaluation metrics for assessing the quality and effectiveness of GAN-based approaches are discussed. The taxonomy serves as a comprehensive framework to understand and organize the different ways in which GANs can be utilized to improve the streaming experience in DASH. By providing an organized structure, this taxonomy facilitates better understanding, comparison, and exploration of GAN-based approaches in DASH and enables researchers and practitioners to identify areas for further research and development.
De-Westernisation of Islamic Education Perspective Syed Muhammad Naquib Al-Attas
Authors:   UIN Prof. KH Saifuddin Zuhri Purwokerto, Hanif Muh. , Fian Khafifatul ,   UIN Prof. KH Saifuddin Zuhri Purwokerto
Published: June 2023

This study aims to determine Syed Muhammad Naquib Al-Attas' understanding of the de-westernization of Islamic education. This type of research is library research through data collection techniques by tracing sources from articles, books or other sourcesrelevant to the topic of discussion. After the data is collected, the researcher analyzes it descriptively and concludes. The study results show that many problems are still encountered, especially in the scope of Islamic education, which include unclear curriculum, low quality of educators, high cost of education, and other problems. In addition, learning activities still tend to be based on memorization rather than understanding a meaning. This is where the meaning of the de-westernization of education emerges. From the problems, teaching and learning activities are only limited to theory without practice, making it easier for students to be contaminated with Western culture. According to Syed Muhammad Naquib Al-Attas, in his thoughts regarding the concept of ta’dib, he explained the need for instilling morals from educators to students. Thus, learning is based on how to practice theory so that each student can understand behavior between good and bad.
Correlation of Web-Based Learning Media to Students' Knowledge in Kala Ii Time of Childbirth Diii Midwifery
Authors:   DIII Midwifery Study Program, Sipatokkong Mambo Bone University, Indonesia, Rahman Nursyahraeni Madika , Isnaeny Isnaeny ,   DIII Midwifery Study Program at Sheikh Yusuf Al-Makassari University, Gowa, Indonesia
Published: June 2023

The advantages offered by computer and internet technology are not only in the speed of obtaining the information that has been provided but also in multimedia facilities that can make learning more interesting, visual, interactive and fun so that it will foster students' motivation and interest in learning. This study aims to determine the relationship between web-based learning media and knowledge of the second stage of labor in DIII midwifery students. This study used an analytic descriptive method with a cross sectional design. The population in this study The population in this study were all female D-III Midwifery Institute of Bone Science and Health. The number of samples in this study amounted to 32 people with a sampling techniqueusing non-probability sampling with purposive sampling technique. From the results of the analysis using the chi square test. The results of the research on the relationship of web-based learning media to knowledge of the second stage of labor are classified as good, as evidenced by the results of the questionnaire distributed to 32 respondents. The average score calculation of the questionnaire is 87. 18 which are categorized as good. there is a relationship between web-based learning media on knowledge of the second stage of labor in DIII midwifery students indicated by the presence of t count > t table (0.480> 0.297) and a significance of 0.01 <0.05, so that Ha is accepted and Ho is rejected.
Evaluation of Serological and Molecular Detection Methods for HBV and its Associated Risk Factors among General Population in the Province of Babil/ Iraq
Authors:   Department of clinical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology, Al-Qasim Green University, Iraq., Abbas Maha Diekan , Al-Mansoori Abbas K ,   Department of Genetic Engineering, Faculty of Biotechnology, Al-Qasim Green University, Iraq, Faraj Zahraa Adnan ,   Department of clinical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology, Al-Qasim Green University, Iraq, Hossain Ahmed Obaid ,   Department of clinical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology, Al-Qasim Green University, Iraq
Published: June 2023

In Babylon Governorate, the frequency of viral hepatitis B in the general population was evaluated. A total of 354 members of the general community with ages ranging from <15 to >45 and a mean of 38.64 years old were randomly selected for the study and tested for anti-HBsAg, HBc IgM and Viral load. The findings of the current study showed a prevalence rate of 3.95% of HBV in the general population where fourteen samples had positive HBsAg while the highest risk of infection (5.6%) was found for individuals older than 45Yrs. According to gender, males were more likely to be infected than females (10:4 vs. (71:4:28.6), respectively. For the residency status, the rate of infection was 2:1 for the total of (14) positive anti-HBsAg, of which nine were in rural areas and five of them were in urban areas. Compared to anti-HBsAg, which was obtained by an ELISA test, the diagnostic marker anti-HBc IgM was more consistent with the viral load/Ml of HBV determined by RT-PCR.
Oversight Working Group Policy (Pokjawas) Internal Madrasah Increase Quality Islamic Education in the District Banjarnegara
Authors:   UIN Prof. KH Saifuddin Zuhri Purwokerto, Jalan Ahmad Yani No 40A, Purwokerto, Banyumas Regency, Central Java, Indonesia, Wahyudi Slamet , Saputro Budiyono ,   UIN Prof. KH Saifuddin Zuhri Purwokerto, Jalan Ahmad Yani No 40A, Purwokerto, Banyumas Regency, Central Java, Indonesia, Asdlori Asdlori ,   UIN Prof. KH Saifuddin Zuhri Purwokerto, Jalan Ahmad Yani No 40A, Purwokerto, Banyumas Regency, Central Java, Indonesia, Sunhaji Sunhaji ,   UIN Prof. KH Saifuddin Zuhri Purwokerto, Jalan Ahmad Yani No 40A, Purwokerto, Banyumas Regency, Central Java, Indonesia
Published: June 2023

Madrasah Aliyah is institution education characteristic general typical of Islam. Islamic Religious Education in madrasas is faced with various problems from various parties, especially those related to educational materials, as well as the low quality of human resources. Supervisors have roles and responsibilities and full authority to carry out education, assessment, technical and administrative guidance in educational units, as well as increase quality education. The focus of this paper is policy Group Work Superintendent (POKJAWAS) madrasah in increase quality Islamic education. For That methodology used in study this use methodology qualitative with type study studies case. Data collection techniques are carried out with method observation, interview depth, and documentation. On research this used technique data analysis in the form of analysis interactive. This model consists on three component that is data reduction, data presentation, and withdrawal conclusion. Research results this is Policy POKJAWAS madrasah in increase quality Islamic education in Banjarnegara Regency in the form of policies are long-term, policies period medium, and policy period short.
Analysis of Budgetary Slack Trigger in Government Institutions (Case Study at Bureau X Ministry of Y)
Authors:   Faculty of Economics and Business, Brawijaya University Jl. MT. Haryono No. 165 Malang, 65145, Indonesia, Purwandari Aanisah Kusdinar , Adib Noval ,   Faculty of Economics and Business, Brawijaya University Jl. MT. Haryono No. 165 Malang, 65145, Indonesia, Amirya Mirna ,   Faculty of Economics and Business, Brawijaya University Jl. MT. Haryono No. 165 Malang, 65145, Indonesia
Published: June 2023

This study aims to determine the causes of budgetary slack and the impact it has on government agencies so that in the future a policy can be developed that can reduce the occurrence of Revenue and expenditure budgetary slack . This research is a qualitative research using the case study method. Data collection was carried out by means of interviews, observation, and documentation at Bureau X Ministry of Y. The results of this study indicated that budgetary slack occurred due to: first, receivables that were not included in the calculation of revenue targets, second, time constraints in preparing the budget, third, changes in government policies that creating uncertainty in the implementation of work, fourthly limited human resources, fifthly dynamics in budget execution, and sixthly there is performance appraisal. In this case, it was found that the impact arising from budgetary slack was the potential for inefficient spending and a lack of motivation to achieve the revenue target as indicated by the presence of receivables. The strategy implemented to reduce budgetary slack is the existence of guidelines in preparing the budget, setting priority scales in spending, employee participation in preparing the budget, and the existence of budget research and reviews.
Context in Discourse Analysis of Indonesian Colonial Texts
Authors:   University of Hasanuddin, Makassar, Indonesia, Latjuba Ade Yolanda
Published: June 2023

Discourses are defined as ideas conveyed by humans through language using a series of sentences in a co-text and context. Co-text is the cohesive and coherent relationship between a series of written words, phrases, sentences, in a paragraph. Generally, the contexts are understood more broadly even beyond the boundaries of language, therefore, it is considered non- linguistic. It is also the circumstances behind an idea used as a reference for understanding language expression. In colonial discourse, ideas are conveyed through narrative texts which express the real situation and time of the existing reality. Similarly, the use of discourse markers in the form of words, phrases, or sentences also represents the condition of the real context that is socio- historical and socio-cultural. This article, therefore, discusses the concept of context in texts with the application of colonial discourse projected from Indies Literary.