bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Human Rights View of Maritime Piracy Law: Exploring the Gulf of Guinea
Authors: Abudu Ramat Tobi
Published: September 2021

As a result of pirates’ unique modus operandi in the Gulf of Guinea (GoG), the current approach to counter-piracy is mainly securitised and repressive. This approach follows the international provisions on piracy framed based on the customary international law categorising pirates as “enemy of mankind”; which, considering the vicious nature of the crime, is quite justified. Moreover, the increase in piracy activities at sea within the GoG is foreseeable considering the economic recession faced by countries within the region due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This prediction calls for the strengthening of law enforcement operations at sea, which must be justifiable in international human rights law in order to ensure the protection of all persons. Thus, reviewing the current piracy laws and their coherence with international human rights law is a requisite. This paper recognises the repressive counter-piracy approach’s success, but takes a glance from a human rights lens, which raises questions relating to “lawfulness”. Consequently, this paper builds on the existing literature criticising the repressive policy towards countering piracy in the GoG. It also advances the research probing the alignment of counter-piracy operations with human rights obligations. This paper additionally takes it a step further by evaluating the piracy laws in the GoG and their alignment with human rights provisions. These findings set a new course towards a more sustainable approach to countering piracy in the GoG, balancing rights and security approaches towards ensuring the protection of lives at sea.
Identity and Representation: Does ‘Name’ Matter As An Element of Statehood?
Authors: Ahmed Kawser
Published: September 2021

No state is born sans a name. The widely accepted view is that a state comprises its population, the geographical territory, the ruling government and capacity to enter into relations with other states. This paper argues that in addition to these traditionally recognised requirements, the name of a state, as the most suitable signifier of its identity, deserves to be recognised as an element of statehood. The reason for establishing a state is to create conditions as well as justification for exercising sovereign power, which ipso facto requires manifestation of its identity. This expected function seems impracticable at least in an international setting if a state does not have any name at all. The name of a state serves as the most efficacious vehicle for manifesting its identity as a legal entity. Moreover, practices concerning the name and naming of the prospective states show that it has been regarded as a crucial desideratum by the actors concerned in the course of attainment of statehood.
The method of valorisation of trees according to their biocenotic values
Authors: Ozimkowska Lidia , Wojtatowicz Jerzy
Published: September 2021

The article presents a method of tree valorisation according to their biocenotic values. Three categories of descriptive and numerical evaluation of the biocenotic value of a tree were proposed. They result from individual features, connections to the immediate surroundings and location in regard to the discussed object and neighbouring ecosystems. The sum of points obtained by a tree in the three categories is the basis for qualifying to one of the biocenotic value groups.
Considerando os Quilombos Editoriais, é possível falar em "ilustração afro-brasileira"?
Authors: Gomes Josias , Jesus Rodrigo , Jesus Rodrigo
Published: September 2021

Este artigo apresenta excertos da pesquisa em andamento que visa construir uma discussão sobre a ilustração na produção editorial entendida como literatura afro-brasileira (livro). A partir do questionamento de Imaginário, Literatura, Educação e Artes Visuais, principalmente, indagamos sobre a classificação de ilustrações afro-brasileiras no acervo dos Quilombos Editoriais (RODRIGUES e OLIVEIRA, 2017). Tomamos como fundamentação teórica inicial, a fim de construir argumentos para interpelar a ilustração e, também, a ação do artista ao fazê-lo, o conceito de identidades (HALL, 2001), entre-lugares e performatividade (BHABHA, 1998), imaginário (CASTORIADIS, 1982), memória (TEDESCO, 2014), Arte Afro-brasileira (CONDURU, 2007), acervos como arquivos violados (MELENDI, 2015), análise de imagens compreendendo a técnica, composição, poética e as possibilidades de fruição a partir dos discursos visual, político e do imaginário do artista (BLEIKER, 2005). Tendo como objetivo a identificação e verificação das ilustrações nas principais publicações do acervo das editoras selecionadas.
Developing Core Outcome Sets (COS) and Core Outcome Measures Sets (COMS) in Cosmetic Gynecological Interventions: Protocol for a Development and Usability Study
Authors: Doumouchtsis Stergios K , Nama Vivek , Falconi Gabriele , Rada Maria Patricia , Manonai Jittima , Iancu George , Haddad Jorge Milhem , Betschart Cornelia
Published: September 2021

Background

Studies evaluating cosmetic gynecological interventions have followed variable methodology and reported a diversity of outcomes. Such variations limit the comparability of studies and the value of research-based evidence. The development of core outcome sets (COS) and core outcome measures sets (COMS) would help address these issues, ensuring a minimum of outcomes important to all stakeholders, primarily women requesting or having experienced cosmetic gynecological interventions.

Objective

This protocol describes the methods used in developing a COS and COMS for cosmetic gynecological interventions.

Methods

An international steering group within CHORUS, including health care professionals, researchers, and women with experience in cosmetic gynecological interventions from 4 continents, will guide the development of COS and COMS. Potential outcome measures and outcomes will be identified through comprehensive literature reviews. These potential COS and COMS will be entered into an international, multi-perspective web-based Delphi survey where Delphi participants judge which domains will be core. A priori thresholds for consensus will get established before each Delphi round. The Delphi survey results will be evaluated quantitatively and qualitatively in subsequent stakeholder group consensus meetings in the process of establishing “core” outcomes.

Results

Dissemination and implementation of the resulting COS and COMS within an international context will be promoted and reviewed.

Conclusions

This protocol presents the steps in developing a COS and COMS for cosmetic gynecological interventions. Embedding the COS and COMS for cosmetic gynecological interventions within future clinical trials, systematic reviews, and practice guidelines could contribute to enhancing the value of research and improving overall patient care.

Trial Registration

Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials (COMET) 1592; https://tinyurl.com/n8faysuh

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/28032
Global Research on Coronaviruses: Metadata-Based Analysis for Public Health Policies
Authors: Warin Thierry
Published: September 2021

Background

Within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, this paper suggests a data science strategy for analyzing global research on coronaviruses. The application of reproducible research principles founded on text-as-data information, open science, the dissemination of scientific data, and easy access to scientific production may aid public health in the fight against the virus.

Objective

The primary goal of this paper was to use global research on coronaviruses to identify critical elements that can help inform public health policy decisions. We present a data science framework to assist policy makers in implementing cutting-edge data science techniques for the purpose of developing evidence-based public health policies.

Methods

We used the EpiBibR (epidemiology-based bibliography for R) package to gain access to coronavirus research documents worldwide (N=121,231) and their associated metadata. To analyze these data, we first employed a theoretical framework to group the findings into three categories: conceptual, intellectual, and social. Second, we mapped the results of our analysis in these three dimensions using machine learning techniques (ie, natural language processing) and social network analysis.

Results

Our findings, firstly, were methodological in nature. They demonstrated the potential for the proposed data science framework to be applied to public health policies. Additionally, our findings indicated that the United States and China were the primary contributors to global coronavirus research during the study period. They also demonstrated that India and Europe were significant contributors, albeit in a secondary position. University collaborations in this domain were strong between the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, confirming the country-level findings.

Conclusions

Our findings argue for a data-driven approach to public health policy, particularly when efficient and relevant research is required. Text mining techniques can assist policy makers in calculating evidence-based indices and informing their decision-making process regarding specific actions necessary for effective health responses.
Patients’ Perspectives on the Usability of a Blended Approach to an Integrated Intervention for Patients With Medically Unexplained Physical Symptoms: Mixed Methods Study (Preprint)
Authors: Toonders Suze Adriana Johanna , van Westrienen Paula Elisabeth , Konings Sophie , Nieboer Marianne E , Veenhof Cindy , Pisters Martijn F
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND

Medically unexplained physical symptoms are physical symptoms, such as pain, fatigue, and dizziness, that persist for more than a few weeks and cannot be explained after adequate medical examination. Treatment for preventing the chronicity of symptoms is recommended. A promising approach is identifying patients who are at risk and subsequently offering a blended care intervention that focuses on promoting self-management while using eHealth as a supportive tool. When these interventions match with a patient’s expectations, their effectiveness grows.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to obtain more insights into usability from the patient perspective to improve future interventions.

METHODS

A mixed methods design (ie, the use of qualitative and quantitative data) was used. Through semistructured interviews, in-depth insights were gained into patients’ perspectives on usability. The analysis process was continuous and iterative. Data were synthesized and categorized into different themes. The System Usability Scale, which measures the usability of a system, was used to compare participants that found usability to be low, medium, or high. This study was approved by the Medical Ethical Committee Utrecht (approval number: 17-391/C).

RESULTS

Saturation was reached after interviewing 13 participants. The following four themes emerged from the interviews: motivations and expectations prior to participating in the program, the applicability of e-coaching, the role of health care professionals, and the integrated design of the blended approach.

CONCLUSIONS

The successful implementation of integrated blended care interventions based on patients’ perspectives requires matching treatments to patients’ individual situations and motivations. Furthermore, personalizing the relative frequency of face-to-face appointments and e-coaching can improve usability.
Web-Based Software Tools for Systematic Literature Review in Medicine: Systematic Search and Feature Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Cowie Kathryn , Rahmatullah Asad , Hardy Nicole , Holub Karl , Kallmes Kevin
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND

Systematic reviews (SRs) are central to evaluating therapies but have high costs in terms of both time and money. Many software tools exist to assist with SRs, but most tools do not support the full process, and transparency and replicability of SR depend on performing and presenting evidence according to established best practices.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to provide a basis for comparing and selecting between web-based software tools that support SR, by conducting a feature-by-feature comparison of SR tools.

METHODS

We searched for SR tools by reviewing any such tool listed in the SR Toolbox, previous reviews of SR tools, and qualitative Google searching. We included all SR tools that were currently functional and required no coding, and excluded reference managers, desktop applications, and statistical software. The list of features to assess was populated by combining all features assessed in 4 previous reviews of SR tools; we also added 5 features (manual addition, screening automation, dual extraction, living review, and public outputs) that were independently noted as best practices or enhancements of transparency and replicability. Then, 2 reviewers assigned binary present or absent assessments to all SR tools with respect to all features, and a third reviewer adjudicated all disagreements.

RESULTS

Of the 53 SR tools found, 55% (29/53) were excluded, leaving 45% (24/53) for assessment. In total, 30 features were assessed across 6 classes, and the interobserver agreement was 86.46%. DistillerSR (Evidence Partners; 26/30, 87%), Nested Knowledge (Nested Knowledge; 25/30, 83%), and EPPI-Reviewer Web (EPPI-Centre; 24/30, 80%) support the most features followed by Giotto Compliance (Giotto Compliance; 23/30, 77%), LitStream (ICF), and SRDB.PRO (VTS Software). Fewer than half of all the features assessed are supported by 7 tools: RobotAnalyst (National Centre for Text Mining), SRDR (Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality), SyRF (Systematic Review Facility), Data Abstraction Assistant (Center for Evidence Synthesis in Health), SR Accelerator (Institute for Evidence-Based Healthcare), RobotReviewer (RobotReviewer), and COVID-NMA (COVID-NMA). Notably, of the 24 tools, only 10 (42%) support direct search, only 7 (29%) offer dual extraction, and only 13 (54%) offer living/updatable reviews.

CONCLUSIONS

DistillerSR, Nested Knowledge, and EPPI-Reviewer Web each offer a high density of SR-focused web-based tools. By transparent comparison and discussion regarding SR tool functionality, the medical community can both choose among existing software offerings and note the areas of growth needed, most notably in the support of living reviews.
Robotic-assisted total hip arthroplasty: an economic analysis
Authors: Pierce James , Needham Keith , Adams Chris , Coppolecchia Andrea , Lavernia Carlos
Published: September 2021

Aim:
To evaluate 90-day episode-of-care (EOC) resource consumption in robotic-assisted total hip arthroplasty (RATHA) versus manual total hip arthroplasty (mTHA).
Methods:
THA procedures were identified in Medicare 100% data. After propensity score matching 1:5, 938 RATHA and 4,670 mTHA cases were included. 90-day EOC cost, index costs, length of stay and post-index rehabilitation utilization were assessed.
Results:
RATHA patients were significantly less likely to have post-index inpatient rehabilitation or skilled nursing facility admissions and used fewer home health agency visits, compared with mTHA patients. Total 90-day EOC costs for RATHA patients were found to be US$785 less than those of mTHA patients (p = 0.0095).
Conclusion:
RATHA was associated with an overall lower 90-day EOC cost when compared with mTHA. The savings associated with RATHA were driven by reduced utilization and cost of post-index rehabilitation services.
Turnkey cleanroom complexes and engineering infrastructure. Professional experience of the company DEAXO in Russia
Authors: Chalmakoff R.
Published: September 2021

The development of "turnkey" cleanrooms is the contemporary task, in demand under the conditions of the growth both of Russian industry and the share of high-tech production, which requires complex solutions from the stage of design development to obtaining certification and post-launching service. DEAXO Company has been developing the advanced technological infrastructure of engineering systems and turnkey cleanroom complexes in Russia for more than 6 years. Within the most innovative, breakthrough fields of development of the national manufacture the company DEAXO creates and realizes exclusive smart solutions from the very idea of the project and the project negotiation till its launch and the further service of the advanced technological production facilities that meet all the requirements of the highest modern quality standards. The concern about professional skills of the employees and improvement of their engineering competences led to the creation of the training center where the new, ready to work in the DEAXO on the Russian market specialists are prepared. CEO of the company DEAXO René Chalmakoff shares the longstanding experience about working on the Russian and international market of semiconductor industry.
Квалификация и аттестация систем получения и распределения чистого пара
Authors: Мельник Д.П. , Рыбаков А.К. , Господинов А.В.
Published: September 2021

В статье рассматриваются технические детали проведения довольно сложной процедуры квалификации систем получения и распределения чистого пара. Представлен комплект приспособлений для квалификации систем чистого пара KIT ASEPTICA CLEAN STEAM.
Запись голографических дифракционных решеток с помощью импульсного лазера
Authors: Турухано Б.Г. , Турухано Н. , Турухано И.А.
Published: September 2021

В данной работе рассматривается устройство для записи голографических дифракционных решеток (ГДР) в импульсном лазере, которое позволяет повысить их точность и дифракционную эффективность для чего в интерферометре для записи решеток дополнительно введен второй источник когерентного излучения – импульсный лазер, расположенный на его входе и оптически связанный с ним. Это устраняет необходимость слежения за коррекциями во время засветки в силу малости величины длительности времени засветки. С этой целю в оптоэлектронную схему введен блок синхронизации, выход которого связан со вторым источником когерентного излучения импульсного действия, а вход с источником переменного напряжения оптоэлектронной схемы.
MATCHING DIFFICULTIES: BELARUS IS PREPARING TO THE 5G NETWORKS DEPLOYMENT
Authors: Ivashkin A.
Published: September 2021

Today, many countries around the world are actively building fifth generation mobile networks (5G/IMT-2020). The magazine Last Mile asked the director of the Republican unitary enterprise for supervision on telecommunications "BelGIE" of the Republic of Belarus (hereinafter: State Enterprise "BelGIE") A.A. Ivashkin about the situation with the implementation of the 5G network in the Republic of Belarus.
МИРОВОЙ ЦИФРОВОЙ РИНГ: КТО ПОБЕДИТ? ЧАСТЬ 5. КОМАНДЫ ВЫСШЕЙ ЛИГИ
Authors: Шульцева В.
Published: September 2021

С большой долей вероятности можно ожидать, что Samsung Electronics в ближайшей перспективе сумеет удержать высокий рейтинг на мировом hi-tech-Олимпе.
ТРУДНОСТИ СОПРЯЖЕНИЯ: БЕЛАРУСЬ ГОТОВИТСЯ К РАЗВЕРТЫВАНИЮ СЕТЕЙ 5G
Authors: Ивашкин А.
Published: September 2021

Сегодня многие страны мира активно строят сети мобильной связи пятого поколения (5G/IMT-2020). О ситуации с внедрением сети 5G в Республике Беларусь журнал "ПЕРВАЯ МИЛЯ" попросил рассказать директора Республиканского унитарного предприятия по надзору за электросвязью Республики Беларусь (далее – Государственного предприятия "БелГИЭ") А.А.Ивашкина.
Vertex cover and Edge vertex domination in trees
Authors: Senthilkumar B. , Naresh Kumar H. , Venkatakrishnan Y. B.
Published: September 2021

Let G = (V,E) be a simple graph. An edge e ∈ E(G) edge-vertex dominates a vertex v ∈ V (G) if e is incident with v or e is incident with a vertex adjacent to v. A subset D ⊆ E(G) is an edge-vertex dominating set of a graph G if every vertex of G is edge-vertex dominated by an edge of D. A vertex cover of G is a set C ⊆ V such that for each edge uv ∈ E at least one of u and v is in C. We characterize trees with edge-vertex domination number equals vertex covering number.
The distribution of zeros of solutions for a class of third order differential equation
Authors: Cesarano Clemente , Arahet Mohammed A. , Al-Shami Tareq M.
Published: September 2021

For third order linear differential equations of the form r(t)x'(t)''+ p(t)x'(t) + q(t)x(t) = 0; we will establish lower bounds for the distance between zeros of a solution and/or its derivatives. The main results will be proved by making use of Hardyís inequality, some generalizations of Opialís inequality and Boydís inequality.
Numerical Simulation of Airbag and Study on the Effect of Airbag Parameters on Head Injury Criteria
Authors: R Aakash
Published: September 2021

Abstract: In the case of an accident, inflatable restraints system plays a critical role in ensuring the safety of vehicle occupants. Frontal airbags have saved 44,869 lives, according to research conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).Finite element analysis is extremely important in the research and development of airbags in order to ensure optimum protection for occupant. In this work, we simulate a head impact test with a deploying airbag and investigate the airbag's parameters. The airbag's performance is directly influenced by the parameters of the cushion such as vent area and fabric elasticity. The FEM model is analysed to investigate the influence of airbag parameter, and the findings are utilised to determine an optimal value that may be employed in the construction of better occupant safety systems. Keywords: airbag, finite element method, occupant safety, frontal airbag, vent size, fabric elasticity, head injury criteria
JMASM 55: MATLAB Algorithms and Source Codes of 'cbnet' Function for Univariate Time Series Modeling with Neural Networks (MATLAB)
Authors: Bal Cagatay , Demir Serdar
Published: September 2021

Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) can be designed as a nonparametric tool for time series modeling. MATLAB serves as a powerful environment for ANN modeling. Although Neural Network Time Series Tool (ntstool) is useful for modeling time series, more detailed functions could be more useful in order to get more detailed and comprehensive analysis results. For these purposes, cbnet function with properties such as input lag generator, step-ahead forecaster, trial-error based network selection strategy, alternative network selection with various performance measure and global repetition feature to obtain more alternative network has been developed, and MATLAB algorithms and source codes has been introduced. A detailed comparison with the ntstool is carried out, showing that the cbnet function covers the shortcomings of ntstool.
STATISTICAL APPROACH IN DEVELOPING ALGORITHMS FOR RISK ANALYSIS OF SMALL INDUSTRIAL ENTERPRISES
Authors:   A.N. Shendalev Omsk State Transport University, Shendalev A.N. , Shendaleva O.A. ,   O.A. Shendaleva Omsk State Transport University
Published: September 2021

The article deals with the problem of reducing the technological risks of an enterprise. To solve the problem, a risk assessment model is proposed, based on the analysis of information about the time and operating conditions of operation of technical facilities. An algorithm for analyzing technological risks has been developed and recommendations for further operation of the facility have been formu-lated.
PROBLEMS OF ANALOG DEVICES CIRCUIT DESIGN BASED ON THE FUNCTIONAL-PARAMETRIC APPROACH
Authors:   G.B. Digo Institute of automation & control processes FEB RAS, Digo G.B. , Digo N.B. ,   N.B. Digo Institute of automation & control processes FEB RAS
Published: September 2021

The paper focuses on the problem of circuit design of analog technical devices and systems with due account of random processes of changing their parameters and reliability requirements. A functional-parametric approach is used, based on the computer modeling of the systems functioning and changes in their parameters; methods of optimal parametric synthesis under reliability criteria are used to solve it. The paper also discusses the problems caused by the lack of information about the patterns of ran-dom processes of parameter changes, the absence or lack information about disturbing influences, the effect of external factors on the processes within them. The possibility of applying search optimization algorithms that allow parallelization of computational processes, as well as the possibility of using evolutionary calculations with the probabilistic nature of the optimality criterion, the nonlinearity of the objective function and its restrictions are analyzed.
Quantitative phytochemical analysis of the fungus endophytic extracts isolated from Azadirachta indica using gas chromatography- flame ionization detector
Authors: Nwankwo Ogechukwu L. , Chukwuebuka Onwuzuluigbo C. , Collins Okeke O. , Samuel Bunu J. , Obasi Josephat C. , Iloh Ezinne S. , Nwankwo Emmanuel Okechukwu
Published: September 2021

Background information: The phytochemicals of endophytes have generated substantial interest in drug discovery programs because they offer the possibility of discovering new biologically active molecules. Objective: The objective of this study was to quantify and analyze the phytochemical profile of the fungus endophytic extracts isolated from Azadirachta indica leaves, which have been used ethnobotanically for treating malaria and bacterial infections. Methods: Endophytic fungi were isolated, solid-state fermentation of rice medium was performed, and secondary metabolites were extracted according to standard techniques. An analytical system that uses gas chromatography and flame ionization detection (GC-FID) was used to determine the phytochemical constituents contained in the endophytes. Results: The results of GC-FID analysis showed the presence of Ribalinidine, Naringenin, Sparteine, Phenol, Steroids, Kaempferol, Flavone, Oxalate, Catechin, Tannin, and Rutin at different concentrations. Conclusion: This study reveals the promising ability of the endophytic fungi of A. indica as a foundation of naturally occurring bioactive. The quantitative phytochemical assessment of the endophyte extracts from the leaves of A.indica showed that endophyte extracts from the plant are rich in both alkaloids and flavonoids (Phenolics).

Keywords: GC-FID, Phytochemical, Endophytes, Secondary metabolites, Fermentation.
CRISPR Therapeutics: New Emerging Developments and Clinical Applications
Authors: Aziz-Andersen Kaiser Jay
Published: September 2021

CRISPR gene editing is a genetic engineering technique applied in clinical applications in which the genomes of living organisms may be modified. It is based on the principles of the CRISPR-Cas9 antiviral defense system. It is based on delivering the Cas9 nuclease complexed with a synthetic guide RNA into a living organism cell and that organisms’s genome can be “cut” and –“paste” at a desired location, allowing existing genes to be modified for desired outcome (i.e., CRISPR for Precision Medicine). CRISPR gene editing harnesses the natural defense mechanisms of some bacteria to cut human DNA strands. Then the DNA strand either heals itself or injects a new piece of DNA to mend the gap. Studies have been reported in Lung Cancer diagnosis and treatments. CRISPR-based engineering techniques have been developed for T Cells and Stem cells applications (i.e. Gene Corrections in Hematopoietic Stem Cells for the Treatment of Blood and Immune System Diseases). Even though earlier CRISPR methodologies were used for performing simple DNA edits, recent applications include the ability to delete genes or insert genes, and edit regulatory regions in a wide range of cell types. The role of CRISPR in human therapeutics is currently focused on utilizing CRISPR techniques to perform either in vivo editing of human cells–everything from the head, eye all the way to neurons and liver cells--or performing ex vivo therapies. The FDA’s new genomic CRISPR technology based products approval process begins with review and evaluation of preclinical studies in order to establish and characterize the proposed product’s safety profile. New genomic products must be shown to be safe and effective for the FDA approval process. The sponsor of the new genomic product must show that the product is safe and effective in human subjects.1
Evaluation on In Vitro Blood Clot Dissolving Potential of Aqueous Extract of Sida acuta Burm. F. Leaves
Authors: Mishra Anita , Siddiqui Shadma , Tiwari Shreya
Published: September 2021

Clotting of blood is the vital processes and a perplexing interaction of various mechanisms of circulatory system due of failure of which is sometimes considered as a concern within the circulatory system causing acute myocardial or cerebral infarction which might cause demise. Sida acuta burm. f (Malvaceae) is abundantly growing small perennial shrub utilized by natives for diuretic, anthelmintic, calmative and wound healing properties, and are utilized in treating disorders like blood, bile, liver, nervous, urinary diseases and rheumatism. The present study was intended to evaluate the blood clot dissolving potential of Sida acuta leaf aqueous extract in vitro. The plant material as leaves were locally collected and subjected to phytochemical extraction with distilled water. The preliminary phytochemical tests total phenolic content was estimated by Folin-Ciocalteu’s method. In vitro thrombolytic activity of 3 different concentrations of aqueous extract was estimated on goat blood clot compared to the activity of streptokinase. The aqueous extract of S. acuta leaves  are reported to be rich in alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids and glycosides while the total phenolic content was estimated to be 17.48 % in extract which are mostly responsible for any pharmacological activity. Compared to the thrombolytic activity of standard streptokinase which was 73 %, the aqueous leaf extract of S. acuta displayed considerable blood clot dissolving activity at concentration 10 mg/100µl, 5.0 mg/100µl, and 2.5 mg/100µl as 41 %, 34 % and 12 % respectively. This property of plant extract is promising which could be could be exploited in development of new biopharmaceutical and therapeutic agents after stringent further physiological compatibility and in vivo pharmacological studies.

Keywords: Sida acuta, phytochemical extract, thrombolytic activity, streptokinase
Assessment of Disease Knowledge, Medication Adherence, HRQOL in COPD Patients at a South Indian Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Padmakar S. , Chakravarthy R.B. Purandhar , Karthik Prodduturu Sai , Charitha B.U. , Harini T. , Reddy P. Vijaya Narsimha
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive, life-threatening disease of the lungs, gradually causes breathlessness and predisposes to exacerbations and serious illness. The main objectives of the study are to evaluate disease knowledge, medication adherence, and health-related quality of life among COPD patients.

Methodology: A Hospital-based, single-entered prospective observational study was conducted at a government general hospital, Andhra Pradesh. India after ethical committee approval. This study was conducted for 6 months with a sample size of 80 patients.

Results: According to our study, the majority of the patients 36 (45%) don’t have disease knowledge, where a few numbers of patients 7 (8.75%) is having disease knowledge as per BCKQ score values. 11.25% of patients have the lowest MMAS scores whereas 58.75% were found to have higher MMAS scores and 37.5% of total patients have higher CAT scores, and 12.5% of patients have lower CAT scores.

Conclusion: We found that majority of the patients have poor disease knowledge, lower adherence to medication regimens, and substandard HRQOL.

Keywords: COPD knowledge, medication adherence, and HRQOL.
Laurus nobilis L., (Habb-ul-Ghar), A Review on Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Ethnomedicinal Uses
Authors: USMANI QAMRUL ISMAM , AHMAD ALTAF , JAMALDEEN FATHIMA NAIROZA
Published: September 2021

Habb-ul-Ghar (Laurus nobilis L., fruit) is used in the Unani and other traditional systems of medicine since ancient times. It has been also used in culinary and pharmaceutical industries. Various phytoconstituents were isolated from laurel fruit, like monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, fatty acids, flavonoids, phenolic acid, and some minerals. Many pharmacological studies have been carried out to explore its anti-oxidant, antimicrobial, antiproliferative, antinociceptive, and anti-inflammatory activities. This review will provide a comprehensive overview only about fruit of Laurus nobilis with special reference to Unani medicine.

Keywords: Habb ul Ghar; Laurus nobilis; Laurel fruit; Unani medicine
A Review on Some Medicinal Plants of North- East India Region Used in the Treatment of Central Nervous System Disorders
Authors: NATH VENESSA , BURAGOHAIN PARISHMITA , SHARMA HEMANTA KUMAR
Published: September 2021

Background: Central nervous system (CNS) disorders are a group of neurological disorders concerned with behaviour, coordination and functioning of the brain and the spinal cord. The CNS is the site of processing various informations. It interprets and evaluates the information and as result, the CNS responds accordingly and controls the body. Any defects or disorders of the Central nervous system may cause degeneration of the organs and tissues associated with it, loss of coordination, paralysis, etc. These disorders may be hereditary or due to injuries to the brain and spinal cord. Although, these disorders are being cured with medicaments, many plant species are also seen to be effective in its treatment. Objective: the main objective of this article is to underline the potentials and the needs for the documentation of the ecological knowledge of herbal medicines of the north east India region, necessary for the greater well-being of mankind in the prevention and cure of CNS disorders. Methods: an extensive literature survey was carried out through various databases like Google Scholar, Pubmed, Sciencedirect etc to support this review. All the collected information was analyzed accordingly and the plants were enlisted based on the classes of CNS disorders for which they are used. Result and discussion: from the survey of the database being collected, it was found that many traditional and local plants of the northeast India region are therapeutically effective in the treatment and cure of many Central nervous system disorders. Conclusion:-It is now an accepted fact that many traditional plants found in the Northeast India have been acceptable within the human body and hence these can be used to replace many expensive medications available in the market.

Keywords:  Medicinal plants; Central Nervous System; CNS disorders; Northeast India; Plant extract
Food Allergies and Homoeopathy- A Narrative Review
Authors: Shinde Vaishali H. , Bawaskar Ramesh , Muraleedharan K.C.
Published: September 2021

Abstract

Allergy, formally called type I (or immediate) hypersensitivity  is one of four or more forms of hypersensitivity manifesting in various forms like, Atopic eczema, Allergic urticaria, Allergic rhinitis, Allergic asthma, , Food allergy,  etc.  The growing incidence of Food allergy needs attention since its burden is mainly on children and adolescents. Various factors has been attributed to the growing incidence of food allergy such as food habits, cooking habits, cultural differences, various developmental parameters and exchange of food products. The World Allergy Organization has estimated 220 to 550 million people suffering from food allergy with a large chunk of population from the developed countries. No concrete data is available on status of food allergy in India though some sporadic research has been published. In spite of diligent research worldwide, an effective mechanism to cure this condition has not been evolved till today. Since effectiveness of homeopathy has been proved in various allergy conditions, the modality of using the same has been explored in this article.

 

Key words: Food allergy, Homoeopathy, Type I hypersensitivity
Eficacia y seguridad del rituximab en el tratamiento de la esclerosis múltiple: una postura racional en el contexto colombiano
Authors: Navas Carlos Alberto , Ramírez Sergio Francisco , Becerra Gina Paola , Mendivelso Duarte Fredy Orlando , Low Padilla Eduardo , Yomayusa González Nancy
Published: September 2021

INTRODUCCIÓN:
La esclerosis múltiple es una enfermedad neuroinflamatoria, crónica, degenerativa e incurable, asociada a pérdida neuronal, grados crecientes de discapacidad y deterioro cognoscitivo. Su manejo conlleva grandes costos para los sistemas de salud y la sociedad en general.

OBJETIVO:
Evaluar la eficacia y la seguridad del uso del rituximab en el manejo de la esclerosis múltiple.

MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS:
Revisión de la literatura y evaluación de la tecnología en salud tipo mini-HTA en red colaborativa con el Comité de Esclerosis Múltiple de la Asociación Colombiana de Neurología y el Instituto Global de Excelencia Clínica.

RESULTADOS:
Se identificaron 27 referencias de texto completo para el análisis de la seguridad y la eficacia del rituximab en el manejo de la esclerosis múltiple. Se utilizaron análisis de costos, indicadores epidemiológicos y estudios pivótales de rituximab.

CONCLUSIÓN:
La evidencia analizada confirma que la terapia con rituximab es efectiva y segura en el manejo de las formas de esclerosis múltiple remitente-recurrente (EMRR) y esclerosis múltiple primaria-progresiva (EMPP), con menor tasa de eventos adversos y tasas de interrupción o abandono del tratamiento más bajas que otras terapias modificadoras de la enfermedad (TME).
Impact and prospects of water conservation on fish habitat and advances of ecobiology operation in Yangtze River, China: A review
Authors:   College of Water Conservancy and Ecological Engineering, Nanchang Institute of Technology, Nanchang-330 099, China, Zhang J. , Zhang Y. ,   College of Water Conservancy and Ecological Engineering, Nanchang Institute of Technology, Nanchang-330 099, China, Feng Y. ,   College of Water Conservancy and Ecological Engineering, Nanchang Institute of Technology, Nanchang-330 099, China, Yan R. ,   College of Water Conservancy and Ecological Engineering, Nanchang Institute of Technology, Nanchang-330 099, China, Shi Y. ,   College of Water Conservancy and Ecological Engineering, Nanchang Institute of Technology, Nanchang-330 099, China, Zhang Y. ,   College of Water Conservancy and Ecological Engineering, Nanchang Institute of Technology, Nanchang-330 099, China, Ji Y. ,   College of Water Conservancy and Ecological Engineering, Nanchang Institute of Technology, Nanchang-330 099, China
Published: September 2021

Yangtze River, the longest river in Asia, provides 40 percent of freshwater in China and plays an important role in ecological biodiversity. However, this ecosystem has been deteriorated by the continuously construction of reservoirs and hydropower stations. Many investigations have been carried for the biodiversity, hydrological indicators, and species distribution along Yangtze River caused by dam construction. As a result, the ecological operation has been gradually applied to mitigate the negative effects of water conservancy projects. In order to well know recent advances in the study of fish habitat in the Yangtze River Basin, 424 original papers published from 2000 to 2020 using bibliometrics were compiled in this research to analyze the developing trends including topics, data, and research status. The results of literature statistics showed that the related research fields on the effects of the reservoir on hydrological indicators mainly focused on negative impact caused by hydrological changes, water temperature effect, and sediment variation. In the studies on the habitats of fish, the four major Chinese carps and Chinese sturgeon were the main objects of concern, in which multi-objective joint operation, cascade reservoir operation, and model coupling have been widely adapted.
Estudo imuno-histoquímico comparativo entre ameloblastomas e folículos periocoronários
Authors: Luz Joana Santos da , Barbachan João Jorge Diniz , Rados Pantelis Varvaki
Published: September 2021

The aim of this work is to observe the distribution of keratin (ck) and vimentin (vim), staining according ABC sistem, in 10 dental folides and 10 ameloblastomas, fixed in formol 10% and embedded in paraffin, and try to find relation between normal and tumoral cells. In general, the cells showed the same behavior to antibodies against ck and vim. But the epithelial cells of dental folicles and ameloblastomas showed a different pattem against ck.
Percepción del Ruido Ambiental en Pobladores de Cercado de Ica, Perú
Authors: Massa-Palacios Luis , Cusi-Palomino Rosalio , Álvaro-Huillcara Mirna
Published: September 2021

Introducción: la contaminación sónica, como parte de la contaminación ambiental, tiene características muy específicas que la diferencian de otros tipos de contaminación; a pesar de su riesgo no adopta la apropiada atención. Objetivo: obtener la percepción de los habitantes del cercado de Ica, en Perú, sobre el ruido ambiental. Materiales y métodos: se realizó con un enfoque cuantitativo, mediante la aplicación de una encuesta estructurada a una muestra de 383 personas de ambos sexos con edades comprendidas entre 18 y 60 años y nivel socioeconómico medio – bajo – pobreza. Se aplicó un instrumento de recolección de información basado en una encuesta, mediante un cuestionario con preguntas de respuestas dicotómicas (SI, NO), con preguntas sobre: cómo perciben el ruido, si sufrían molestias por el ruido y si se toman medidas para mitigar el efecto del ruido. Además, se midió el nivel de ruido en el día entre las 9:00 a. m. y 3:00 p. m, mediante un sonómetro. Resultados: se obtuvo que el nivel de ruido excede el límite máximo para zonas urbanas según la legislación peruana (>60 dB) y todos los grupos etarios estudiados, manifiestan percibir dicho ruido. Conclusiones: los que mayormente perciben el ruido son los ancianos y personas con menor nivel de escolaridad, así como los que han vivido en la zona por más de 5 años. Por otro lado, los jóvenes percibieron mayores molestias y los adultos son los que mayores medidas mitigatorias toman para minimizar los efectos del ruido.
Desarrollo Sostenible en Empresas Colombianas. Propuesta de evaluación a partir de los niveles de alcance
Authors: Trujillo-Quintero Hernán Felipe , Losada-Cubillos Jhon Jairo , Sánchez-Quiñonez Edith Patricia , Vanegas-Rivera Luis Fernando
Published: September 2021

Introducción: Se evidencia un incremento de estrategias y acciones de las organizaciones, a nivel mundial, que se relacionan con el Desarrollo Sostenible (DS) y la Responsabilidad Social Empresarial (RSE), pero para Colombia no hay evidencia que las acciones sean efectivas. Objetivo: El artículo plantea una propuesta de evaluación de las acciones que realizan empresas dentro del DS para identificar causas y planear mejores estrategias. Materiales y métodos: Se propone una evaluación de las acciones con niveles de alcance, usando la Encuesta de Responsabilidad Social Empresaria en Colombia. Resultados: Los hallazgos evidencian que más de la mitad de las empresas no realizan acciones en el marco del DS y las que sí reportan, concentran sus acciones en estrategias que no atienden los impactos de sus operaciones, presentándo un efecto salto. Conclusión: Se requiere un mayor esfuerzo para que la gestión de las organizaciones productivas inicien un proceso de reconocimiento de impactos socio-ambientales y definan estrategias para atenderlos.
Evaluación de Ulex Europaeus (FABACEAE) como Coagulante Natural para el Tratamiento del Agua
Authors: Santana Javier Enrique , Puerta-Monsalve Astrid Lili , González Valery Tatiana
Published: September 2021

Introducción: El Ulex europaeus es un arbusto leñoso perteneciente a la familia FABACEAE de las leguminosas, conocida en idioma inglés como Gorse y en Colombia con el nombre de retamo espinoso. Esta planta perenne, oportunista y de espinosa ramificación, presenta un alto potencial invasivo que se adapta muy bien a ecosistemas modificados (Beltrán y Barrera, 2014), ocasionando graves impactos ambientales y desequilibrio ecosistémico (Amaya-Villarreal y Rengifo, 2010). Objetivo: Evaluar el Ulex europaeus como alternativa de coagulante natural para el tratamiento del agua. Materiales y Métodos: Metodológicamente se preparó una solución con Ulex europaeus al 1 %, suministrada en dosificaciones de 3, 6, 9, 12 y 15 mL y 3 (tres) niveles pH 5, 7 y 9 , siguiendo la técnica de coagulación-floculación mediante la prueba de test de jarras con un nivel de confianza del 95 % (α=0.05). Resultados: Como resultado, se obtuvo que esta planta posee propiedades coagulantes y que, a diferentes dosificaciones y niveles de pH, se logran alcanzar eficiencias de remoción de turbidez del 40 % (pH 3 y dosificación de solución coagulante de 6 mL). Conclusiones: De esta manera, se concluye que hay una relación directa entre el pH inicial de la muestra y el volumen de dosificación de la solución coagulante los cuales inciden en las eficiencias de remoción de turbidez.
La Economía Circular y los Sistemas de Control de Calidad de Procesos y Productos
Authors: Solís-Muñoz Daniela , Cogollo-Flórez Juan M.
Published: September 2021

El cuidado del medioambiente ha adquirido un creciente interés académico y empresarial debido a los efectos de la contaminación y la inadecuada gestión de los residuos. La Economía Circular (EC) surge como una estrategia para combatir estas repercusiones y cambiar de un modelo lineal a uno circular, con la intención de cerrar ciclos y que la mayoría de los residuos vuelvan a la etapa de producción. Por otro lado, el control de calidad puede ayudar a las empresas a alcanzar la circularidad deseada y garantizar la estabilidad en el logro de sus objetivos de EC usando herramientas adecuadas. El objetivo de este artículo es analizar las prácticas de EC en el contexto de los sistemas de control de calidad de procesos y productos mediante un análisis bibliométrico y taxonómico. Los resultados muestran que han aumentado el interés investigativo y los aportes en la temática en los últimos cuatro años y que los países con más participación son Italia, España y China. La mayoría de los aportes son prácticos, con propuestas de estrategias enfocadas en empresas o procesos. Según los enfoques, se concluye que los autores tienen un gran interés en aportar modelos de negocios, marcos y estrategias para ayudar a las empresas a abordar prácticas de EC para procesos y productos.
Dynamics of seminal fluid replenishment after mating
Authors: Kortsmit Yvonne , Mariën Janine , Koene Joris , Nakadera Yumi
Published: September 2021

Seminal fluid proteins (SFPs) play vital roles for optimizing
reproductive success in diverse animals. Underlining their significance,
SFP production and transfer are highly plastic, e.g., depending on the
presence of rivals or mating status of partners. However, surprisingly
little is known about replenishing SFPs after mating. It is especially
relevant in multiple mating species, as they would continuously produce
and use SFPs throughout their reproductive life. Here we examined the
expression pattern of SFP genes after mating in the great pond snail,
Lymnaea stagnalis. Our results show that three out of the six SFP genes
investigated here were up-regulated after mating, indicating that L.
stagnalis replenishes seminal fluid in a protein-specific manner. In
addition, we suggest that SFP replenishment is plastic depending on the
mating history of female-acting snails. Our results shed light on
unexplored aspects of SFP replenishment, thereby expanding the
understanding of reproductive strategies in animals.