bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Literary discourse at the crossroads of digital references: A socio-discursive approach
Authors: Eljattari Belkacem , Aboukhousa Heba Ahmed , Sáenz Juan José , Majeed Ayad Abdul
Published: November 2024

The proliferation of digital literary discourse has led to a competitive, and often times antagonistic, relationship between this new form and its traditional paper-based counterpart. The success of this new critical literary media has come as a result of major global changes to social consciousness and societal pressures to utilize communication systems that can keep pace with the speed of social action. Discussions on the legitimacy of digital literary discourse are often limited by the use of conciliatory debates that merely present moderate viewpoints. This research addresses the issue using a socio-discursive lens, focusing on a critical exploration of the underlying reasoning for the technological wariness of paper-based literary practitioners. Contrary to the views of many traditionalists, digital literature does not derive its discursive identity, nor its legitimacy, from a combative relationship with paper-based criticism. Instead, this analysis indicates that the use of digital media marks a significant turning point in the institution of literary discourse, formed as a response to shifting individual and collective needs of an accelerating pace of life. Therefore, digital literary discourse is not simply a form or idea that can be accepted or rejected. Rather, it is a forced formation of a new and constantly evolving expressive and inferential space, created by the combination of existing and innovative media, producing new meanings that were impossible to generate under the dominance of old media.
Factors affecting the decision to use chatbots in e-banking services of GenZ customers in Vietnam
Authors: Thanh Nguyen Phuc Quy , Linh Chau Dinh
Published: November 2024

This article aims to measure and identify the factors influencing the decision to use Chatbot in e-banking services for GenZ customers in Vietnam through 292 customers. Testing methods: Cronbach’s Alpha trust factor, EFA discovery factor analysis, and regression analysis have shown that 07 factors directly affect GenZ’s decision to use Chatbot. Those factors include (1) Customer attitude; (2) Useful perception; (3) Perception of ease of use; (4) Behavioral control perception; (5) Risk perception; (6) Subjective norms and (7) Trust. On that basis, the article has set out management implications for Vietnamese commercial banks to approach and increase the decision of customers aged 18–24 years in Vietnam.
Effects of dietary cellulose on clinical and gut microbiota recovery in dogs with uncomplicated acute diarrhea: a randomized prospective clinical trial
Authors: Holz Mara , Fritz Julia , Suchodolski Jan S. , Werner Melanie , Unterer Stefan
Published: November 2024

OBJECTIVE

To assess the impact of dietary fiber supplementation with cellulose on clinical course, fecal consistency, and intestinal microbiota composition in dogs with uncomplicated acute diarrhea (AD).

METHODS

From September 2022 to November 2023, a total of 19 dogs presenting with uncomplicated AD were included in this prospective, randomized, and double-blinded clinical trial. The time to resolution of diarrhea was evaluated via owner surveys and a fecal scoring chart. The client-owned dogs were randomly assigned to a cellulose group (CG) or control group. The intestinal microbiota was analyzed via quantitative PCR.

RESULTS

A marginally significant, faster improvement in stool consistency on day 1 was observed in the CG (P = .09). All dogs improved clinically, with a median recovery time of 3.0 days in the CG and 3.2 days in the control group (range, 1 to 6 days in both groups). There was no significant difference regarding the Canine Acute Diarrhea Severity index or composition of the intestinal microbiota during the study.

CONCLUSIONS

All dogs with uncomplicated AD exhibited rapid clinical improvement and recovery of the core intestinal microbiota within the first few days. Cellulose improved the fecal consistency in a subset of dogs, and intestinal dysbiosis was mild and self-limiting.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The administration of dietary cellulose has the potential to accelerate improvements of stool consistency. Mild changes in pathobionts, such as an increased amount of Clostridium perfringens, are self-limiting; thus, antibiotic intervention is not warranted.
Impact of Organisational Innovation on Sustainable Competitive Advantage of Manufacturing Firms in Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: SULAIMON Abdul-Hameed Adeola , ONYEMAOBI Chinenye Anthonia , EBEGBETALE Christopher Idemudia , GBADAMOSI Taofeek Olalekan , FAJIMOLU Oladimeji Charles
Published: November 2024

The increased level of competition in the current business climate required the implementation of processes and systems to guarantee a sustainable organisational competitive advantage for the benefit of stakeholders. This research evaluates the association between product innovation and manufacturing firms’ sustainable competitive advantage, determine the effect of process innovation on manufacturing firms’ sustainable competitive advantage, examine the influence of administrative innovation on manufacturing firms’ sustainable competitive advantage and ascertain the joint relationship between product, process, and administrative innovation on manufacturing firms’ sustainable competitive advantage. Descriptive research design was adopted and a sample size of 131 manufacturing firms was used for the analysis. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analysed using regression analysis with the aid of SPSS Version 25. The findings showed that product innovation (β = .524, p < .005) process innovation (β = .417, p < .005) and administrative innovation (β = .488, p < .005) significantly influenced firm sustainable competitive advantage, individually and jointly. The research concludes that manufacturing organisations should prioritise innovation in their strategic plans. This study suggests ongoing product improvement through process and administrative adjustments and a culture of innovation and experimentation to find new sources of competitive advantage and create sustainable value.
Ethical Theories Applied in the Field of Tourism
Authors: ANASTASIU Ionuț-Emilian , BOȘCA Loredana-Cornelia , BACIU Silviu-Gabriel
Published: November 2024

The paper aims to synthesise the main ethical theories that can be applied in any economic area in general and in the tourism field in particular. It is widely believed that each economic sector in which human interaction is principal, has a moral side. This moral side is translated into tourism through concepts such as ethical tourism, responsible tourism, and sustainable tourism. Three main ethical theories are described from a philosophical perspective. They can be applied in a concrete manner to real tourism processes and activities and will enable clarification of key concepts that form any applied ethics expert’s tool: values, principles, standards, ethics, and/or codes of conduct, etc. In the last part of the paper, among the main conclusions, future research directions are detailed.
Plagiarism, from Carelessness to Crime. Perception of Undergraduate Students
Authors: Saavedra Gabriela Fernández , Álvarez Ana María Vázquez , Zamora Rodrigo Miranda , Dávila María Oralia Acuña , Flores Beatriz Georgina Montemayor
Published: November 2024

Objective: To explore the perception of undergraduate students from a group of the Chemistry faculty regarding plagiarism, cyberplagiarism and their relationship with information sources.
 
Theoretical Framework: Although the criminal code in Mexico indicates that plagiarism is a crime, there is evidence of it being a frequent event, we do not know the perception that undergraduate students have in relation to plagiarism, which is why it is necessary to investigate it.
 
Method: Students from the Bachelor of Pharmacobiology and Chemistry participated voluntarily, and signed the informed consent. Participants were asked to write in free format what plagiarism/cyberplagiarism is and its relationship with information sources. Each document was then analyzed, identifying the terms used to consult their meaning in the Dictionary of the Royal Spanish Academy and their representation was developed.
 
Results and Discussion: Students have different perceptions of what plagiarism is, from “carelessness” to “crime”, and only 40% of participants completed the work by identifying the relationship between Plagiarism and the Information Sources session.
 
Implications of the research: The findings allow us to detect a need: to incorporate the topic of plagiarism into the program of each subject. This will allow students to be aware that plagiarism has consequences that can affect their future. Enabling students not to resort to plagiarism is a strengthening strategy that also contributes to the cognitive process of students.
 
Originality/Value: This study provides, in the first instance, the perception of plagiarism among undergraduate students and detects a heterogeneity in its meaning and consequences. We propose active, teacher-led empowerment to learn how to manage time, prioritize activities, and collaborate with peers to counteract this crime.
Digital Education for Health Care Providers: An Advanced Cardiac Life Support Resource
Authors: Narayan Deo , Rogers Samantha , De Simone Alessandro , Sinapi Adam , Heney Megan , Rix Meredith , Blommestyn-Perez Alissa , Jin Kelly , Sheth Shania , Murray Matthew , Jugoon Liam , Lafferty Grace , Wiggins Emma , Kara Ali
Published: November 2024

Advanced cardiovascular life support (ACLS) refers to a set of urgent treatment guidelines for cardiac emergencies to improve patient outcomes. Strong evidence supports online interactive content in facilitating student learning and engagement. This project introduces an innovative approach to ACLS education, namely a digital ACLS simulation to promote medical resident learning of relevant protocols. No similar resource was found in existing literature, supporting the potential merit of creating this tool for medical education. A scoping review was conducted on current ACLS guidelines to inform interactive content creation with MEDLINE [PubMED] and Web of Science. From this review, a decision tree based on validated care guidelines was derived, guiding digital application development. An online prototype was constructed in HTML, JavaScript, and CSS frameworks. The creation allows users to input cardiovascular emergency patient information and output relevant care instructions based on American Heart Association guidelines. Evidence-based descriptions were provided for each decision, referencing credible external resources for further learning. This interactive application may enhance ACLS protocol learning. Next steps include simulation testing with medical residents to establish whether statistically significant benefits are observed. Long term, this project may inform the development and revision of similar digital resources to enhance medical education delivery.
Water Protection:
Authors: Kristine M. Schutz  , Woodard Rebecca
Published: November 2024

This six-week water inquiry unit with pre-service teachers in an English Language Arts (ELA) elementary education methods course explores the guiding question: Why is it important to protect water, and how can water be protected? Core whole-class texts include We are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom (2020) and Thirst by Varsha Bajaj (2022). Multiple assessment projects that support pre-service teachers’ informational reading and writing are included.
Water Aways Means Something:
Authors: Bullock Jay
Published: November 2024

I present the outline of and possibilities for a high school English unit examining writers’ symbolic use of water. Water typically symbolizes life, change, or cleansing. I suggest multiple possible texts in varying genres, as well as climate connections, for each of those meanings. I offer a student assessment prompt, “What water means to me,” which students can write to at the beginning of the unit and revisit at the end. I provide a link to a Google folder with references, more resources, customizable activities, and a Spotify playlist.
Drawing Our Water Stories
Authors: Ariens Melanie , Nordstrom Rhonda
Published: November 2024

As living beings, we are united by our universal dependence on water. We cannot live without it. Whether it is an innate connection or a deep-seated fear, we all have a water story to share. Drawing our water stories can generate empathy with one another and the non-human world.
Real-world surveillance of standardized quality (SQ) house dust mite sublingual immunotherapy tablets for 3 years in Japan
Authors: Gotoh Minoru , Maekawa Yuriko , Saito Shiori , Kato Noboru , Horikawa Eiji , Nishino Noriaki
Published: November 2024

Background: Standardized quality (SQ) house-dust mite (HDM) sublingual immunotherapy tablets (10,000 Japanese allergy units [JAU], equivalent to 6 SQ-HDM in Europe and the United States) are licensed for the treatment of HDMinduced allergic rhinitis (AR) without age restriction, based on 52-week administration clinical trials. There are no large-scale data on the administration of 10,000 JAU for > 1 year in actual clinical practice.Objective: To examine the safety and effectiveness of 10,000 JAU during use for up to 3 years at real-world clinical sites in Japan.Methods: This survey was a multicenter, observational, prospective study. We assessed the safety and effectiveness of the long-term administration of 10,000 JAU as well as effectiveness after its discontinuation in patients with HDM AR with an observation period of 3 years.Results: The safety analysis included 815 patients, and the effectiveness analysis included 768 patients. Adverse reactionsthat occurred in 144 patients (17.67%) were mainly site-related events that occurred early in the dosing period. Seriousadverse reactions were dyspnea and anaphylactic reaction in one patient each, and both patients recovered. With regard toeffectiveness, compared with scores before the administration of SQ-HDM, nasal symptom scores decreased, depending on theadministration period, from 6 months to 3 years. Overall, 67.34% of the patients had improved quality of life after 6 months, and this improvement continued after 12 months. The proportion of patients with “improved and slightly improved” of overallimprovement exceeded 90% after 2 years. Treatment discontinuation because “symptoms disappeared” occurred in 24.42% of the patients at 3 years. Patients who discontinued 10,000 JAU (n = 39) had a sustained improvement in nasal symptomscores compared with baseline, even 1 year after discontinuing treatment.Conclusion: The real-world safety and effectiveness of 10,000 JAU SQ-HDM sublingual immunotherapy tablets were confirmed in Japanese patients with HDM AR. No new safety and effectiveness precautions were required
Remote asthma monitoring: How and why?
Authors: Bhole Anisha , Mercado Daniel , Bansal Priya
Published: November 2024

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic contributed to substantial advancement in digital technologies in health care. Health-care professionals involved in respiratory care can now tailor their therapy for their patients with asthma, who still account for >1
million emergency department visits annually, with remote monitoring services. Remote patient monitoring (RPM) and remote therapeutic monitoring (RTM) are both ways to help patients with chronic asthma and other patients who need respiratory monitoring in pulmonary and in allergy and immunology
clinics. RPM and RTM allow clinicians to gain further understanding as to what is going on in the patient’s home on a regular basis. Objectives: To ensure that the populations to monitor are correctly identified, privacy and security measures are in place, staffing
resources are sufficient, and billing practices are understood before initiating RPM and RTM. Methods: A review of the current literature (2019‐2023) for RPM and RTM from PubMed, National Center of Biotechnical Information, American College of Allergy, Asthma and
Immunology and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as practical experiences are outlined to provide an easy-to-follow guide for implementation in practice. Results: RPM and RTM services help identify and address gaps in care for patients such as
patients with uncontrolled asthma and to assist with populations of need such as the underserved, the elderly, and rural populations. Conclusion: As artificial intelligence and other technologies continue to grow in the healthcare space, remote monitoring services are expected
to transform health-care delivery to new heights yet to be seen.
Studying Surface Water Quality in the Upstream of Ba River Basin in Gia Lai Province
Authors: Thi Thu Ha Pham , Thi Lien Tong , Ngoc Anh Ngo , Ngoc Bach Duong , Hong Hanh Hoang , Thi Van Anh Nguyen
Published: November 2024

This study used two data sets to evaluate the surface water quality in the upstream of Ba River basin in Gia Lai Province in 2022. The first collected data set included six monitoring periods in April, May, July, September, November, and December in 2022 with 22 surface water samples each time at 22 points in Gia Lai. The second data set was monitored additionally, focused on the monitoring points in the Ba River basin in Gia Lai, including 38 monitoring points: 28 points on the Ba River and 10 points on 4 major river tributaries in the Ba River basin, with 10 samples for each point during the period from April 4th, 2022 to May 2nd, 2022. Results from processing the first data set showed that there were 4/22 points having water quality at the level from poor to very heavily polluted needing special attention, including: 3 points measured in the dry season (N1 - Tra Da Industrial Park, Pleiku City, N17 - receiving wastewater from Chu Se Industrial Park, and N23 - Phu Tuc town, Krong Pa) and 1 point measured in the rainy season in July (N11 -Yang Trung Bridge, Kong Chro district) where the water quality was heavily polluted with WQI = 8. Results from processing the second data set showed that the water quality of the Ba River tended to gradually degrade along the flow. There are 3 monitoring points in the upstream of Ba River with the water quality reaching level C (bad water quality): NN_Song Ba_1, NN_Song Ba_2, and NN_Song Ba_3. The remaining points reached level D (very poor water quality). These locations with poor water qualities need appropriate measures to improve water quality. This research results will be the basis for developing a surface water quality management plan in Gia Lai province and Ba River basin.
Properties and Potential Application of Urban Sewage Sludge as Construction Material in Da Nang City
Authors: Huan Nguyen Xuan , Hoang Phat Nguyen , Thi Minh Hang Tran , Minh Trang Hoang , Dinh Mau Trinh , Manh Khai Nguyen
Published: November 2024

Research on sludge properties makes an important contribution to the management and reuse of sludge for different purposes. In this study, 60 sludge samples were sampled from the urban drainage river system in Da Nang city and analyzed for their physical and chemical properties. The results show that the composition of the sludge samples are mainly sand, ranging from 52.2 to 90.1%, pH at slightly acidic to neutral levels, ranged from 4.3 to 6.8, total organic carbon content ranged from 1.1 to 6.0% and there was a large difference within samples. The content of Cl-, SO42- ranges from 0.07 to 1.92%. There were 45/60, 31/60, and 26/60 samples with Zn, Pb and Hg contents exceeding the national technical regulation on sediment quality (QCVN 43:2017/BTNMT), respectively, from 1.04 - 2.52, 1.02 – 1.61, and 1.4 – 5.8 times. The As and Cd contents in all research samples were lower than the maximum allowable level (QCVN 43:2017/BTNMT). Ag, Co, and Se content were undetected in all samples. 48/60 sludge samples had phenol content exceeding QCVN 43:2017/BTNMT by 2.38 - 6.91 times. With this result, urban wastewater sludge in Da Nang city could be reused as bricked construction materials for a circular economy.
Air Pollution Assessment of Thermal Power and Cement Plants in Ninh Binh Province
Authors: Anh Le Hoang , Anh Tuan Ngo , Minh Thuy Kim , Thi Viet Anh Pham , Thu Huyen Pham
Published: November 2024

Cement production and thermal power generation are two primary industries in Ninh Binh province, but they are also among the sources of emissions that can negatively affect to local and regional air quality. This study employs the AERMOD air dispersion modeling system to assess the air pollution levels caused by the operations of the cement and thermal power plants in Ninh Binh province. The results show that the highest average hourly concentrations of TSP, SO2, and NOx are 30.1 µg/m3, 73.2 µg/m3, and 361 µg/m3, respectively; the highest average daily concentrations are 3.77 µg/m3, 2.17 µg/m3, and 49.0 µg/m3, respectively. The predominant direction of pollutant dispersion is towards the West and Southwest, affecting areas within Ninh Binh City and Tam Diep City. The AERMOD model results indicate that pollutant concentrations are lower than the relevant national technical standards. However, it is concerning that a small region within Cuc Phuong National Park shows signs of being affected by these air pollutants. Therefore, stringent control measures on emissions from thermal power and cement plants must be in place to ensure the local air quality and public health.
Using Biochar to Improve Soil Fertility and Productivity of Drought-Tolerant Sweet Potatoes in Thanh Hoa Coastal Sandy Soil
Authors: Sy Chung Le , Quoc Viet Nguyen , Minh Tien Tran , Minh Phuong Nguyen , Sy Chinh Le , Anh Hung Pham
Published: November 2024

The coastal area of Thanh Hoa province has a large proportion of sandy soil and is suffering negative impacts from climate change that affect crop productivity. The aim of this study is to investigate the use of biochar to improve the soil fertility and productivity of drought-tolerant sweet potatoes. The effect of biochar contents on the productivity of three sweet potatoes VC 04-24, KL C3, and VC 68-2 in the coastal sandy soil area of Thanh Hoa province was examined. The results indicated that the yield of sweet potatoes was the highest when applying five tons of biochar per hectare, equivalent to using 10 tons of manure. With the same biochar content, the productivity and other factors related to the product quality of these sweet potatoes such as the number of tubers per plant and the average mass of tuber were the highest. In detail, the estimated commercial productivity of VC 04-24, KL C3, and VC 68-2 were 25.46, 24.92, and 21.76 ton/ha, respectively. With the least significant difference at the probability of 0.05% (LSD0.05), the VC 04-24 and KL C3 showed high productivity. The economic efficiency of the sweet potatoes-growing model at Hai An commune, Tinh Gia district, Thanh Hoa province showed that the productivity of the model was 24 tons/ha, higher than the actual productivity of the control model (20.2 ton/ha). The productivity and the economic efficiency of the model were 18.8% and 31.38% higher than those of the control model, respectively. In addition, the test results showed that using 5-6 ton/hectare of biochar can improve the physical and chemical properties of soils.
Gasto calórico, actividad fisica y nutrición en niños
Authors: Reina Julio César , Spurr GB
Published: November 2024

The most accurate measurement of energy expenditure (EE) in free-living individual subjects is by the doubly-labeled water technique. The minute-by-minute heart rate UH) method, while not yet quite suitable for individuals, will give excellent measurements of EE in small groups of subjects as well as the pattern of EE while wearing the tH recorder. In preschool children, chronic energy deficiency results in decreased activity as a first defense against the decreased growth rate. In marginally malnourished school-age children, the lower levels of EE result from their small size. However, they cannot cope with situations where they have increased activity above ordinary levels.
Carcinoma gástrico temprano: experiencia del Hospital Universitario del Valle, Cali, Colombia
Authors: Cortés B Armando D. , Bravo Juan Carlos
Published: November 2024

De 1982 a 1991 se realizaron 131 gastrectomías por adenocarcinoma gástrico en el Hospital Universitario del Valle, Cali, Colombia. De ellas, 15 lesiones (11.4%) correspondieron a carcinoma gástrico temprano. Esta lesión fue más frecuente en mujeres (promedio 51.4 años) y la precedían años de manifestaciones clínicas inespecificas en el tracto digestivo alto. La endoscopia fibro-óptica permitió presumir su malignidad en 86.6% de los casos. Macroscópicamente el aspecto más común fue una úlcera localizada sobre todo en el antro, a nivel de la curvatura menor. Microscópicamente sólo 2 casos fueron por entero intramucosos y hubo compromiso ganglionar en 3 ocasiones. Todos los carcinomas se asociaban con gastritis crónica atrófica y metaplasia intestinal. Hoy 14 pacientes aún viven sin recurrencias de la enfermedad. El enfermo que falleci6 no tenía evidencia de recurrencia al morir. Se requiere un alto sentido de sospecha y una investigación endoscópica insistente para permitir el hallazgo más frecuente y precoz en individuos sintomáticos. La resección quirúrgica del cáncer gástrico temprano ofrece un buen pronóstico.
El caso radiológico
Authors: Chamorro-Mera Carlos
Published: November 2024

Mujer de 30 años que consultó a su médico por dolor abdominal. Había contraído nupcias 7 meses antes y se encontraba embarazada. Por su propia iniciativa se hizo una prueba de embarazo en sangre con resultados positivos. Además del dolor abdominal de tipo punzada en el hipogastrio, había expulsado escaso material sanguinolento por vía vaginal. Al examen físico se en-contraba en buenas condiciones generales, febril, pero el examen físico era normal. En el examen ginecológico el médico le encontró una masa hacia el anexo izquierdo.
Morphometric analysis and tortuosity typing of the large intestine segments on computed tomography colonography with artificial intelligence
Authors: Ozkan Mazhar , Simsek Mehmet Ali , Sasani Mahmut , Sasani Hadi
Published: November 2024

Background:Morphological properties such as length and tortuosity of the large intestine segments play important roles, especially in interventional procedures like colonoscopy.
Objective:Using computed tomography (CT) colonoscopy images, this study aimed to examine the morphological features of the colon's anatomical sections and investigate the relationship of these sections with each other or with age groups. The shapes of the transverse colon were analyzed using artificial intelligence.
Materials and Methods:The study was conducted as a two- and three-dimensional examination of CT colonography images of people between 40 and 80 years old, which were obtained retrospectively. An artificial intelligence algorithm (YOLOv8) was used for shape detection on 3D colon images.
Results:160 people with a mean age of 89 men and 71 women included in the study was 57.79±8.55 and 56.55±6.60, respectively, and there was no statistically significant difference (p=0.24). The total colon length was 166.11±25.07 cm for men and 158.73±21.92 cm for women, with no significant difference between groups (p=0.12). As a result of the training of the model Precision, Recall, and mAP were found to be 0.8578, 0.7940, and 0.9142, respectively.
Conclusion:The study highlights the importance of understanding the type and morphology of the large intestine for accurate interpretation of CT colonography results and effective clinical management of patients with suspected large intestine abnormalities. Furthermore, this study showed that 88.57% of the images in the test data set were detected correctly and that AI can play an important role in colon typing.
Una metodología para el diseño hidrológico de pavimentos de hormigón poroso
Authors: Weber Juan F.
Published: November 2024

Introducción: los pavimentos de hormigón poroso se presentan como una solución efectiva para reducir el escurrimiento superficial en entornos urbanos, lo que contribuye al desarrollo sustentable de las ciudades. Estos pavimentos permiten la infiltración del agua, lo cual es fundamental para mitigar los efectos de la urbanización, como las inundaciones. Sin embargo, la capacidad de infiltración del pavimento no depende únicamente de la capa de rodamiento de hormigón, sino también de las características de la base granular y la subrasante del suelo natural, lo que requiere un análisis integral del sistema de capas.Objetivos: el objetivo principal de este estudio es presentar una metodología simplificada basada en el modelo de Horton para definir el espesor hidrológicamente necesario de la base granular y simular el movimiento del agua en el sistema de pavimento poroso. Esta metodología busca facilitar el diseño y análisis de pavimentos permeables en contextos urbanos.Metodología: la metodología se basa en el modelo de Horton, que se utiliza para simular la infiltración del agua en suelos. Se define el espesor necesario de la base granular mediante un enfoque simplificado que considera tanto las características del pavimento como las de las capas subyacentes. Posteriormente, se realiza una simulación del movimiento del agua en el sistema para evaluar la eficiencia del diseño propuesto. Para ilustrar su aplicación, se presenta un ejemplo práctico de diseño hidrológico típico.Resultados: la aplicación de la metodología propuesta en un caso de diseño típico permite determinar el espesor adecuado de la base granular necesario para asegurar la infiltración eficiente del agua. Los resultados muestran que el modelo puede ser utilizado como una herramienta efectiva para calcular y simular el comportamiento del agua en sistemas de pavimentos de hormigón poroso.Conclusiones: el método simplificado presentado es útil para los ingenieros que trabajan en el diseño hidrológico de pavimentos permeables, ya que proporciona una manera rápida y eficaz de calcular el espesor de la base granular y simular el movimiento del agua. Además, esta metodología puede ser de gran valor en la formación académica en áreas de drenaje urbano, tanto a nivel de grado como de posgrado.
Activismo digital, medios comunitarios y comunicación sostenible en América Latina
Authors: Martens Cheryl , Venegas Cristina , Sharupi Tapuy Etsa Franklin Salvio
Published: November 2024

Este libro reúne trabajos académicos y activistas, así como perspectivas feministas, decoloniales e indígenas sobre medios comunitarios y activismo digital, incluyendo la comunicación libre y abierta en América Latina. Los ensayos de esta colección hablan sobre cambios y rupturas significativas que se han producido en la última década y que están reconfigurando los usos y las prácticas de los medios digitales. Los estudios de caso presentados aquí cuestionan muchos de los supuestos comúnmente sostenidos en torno a los medios de comunicación globales, la sostenibilidad y el acceso a la comunicación, al resaltar debates relevantes para la región y para países más allá de América Latina.
Academic stress in dental students: suggestions for care in university institutions
Authors: Obispo-Salazar Kelly Johana , Morales-Lastre Cristian Camilo , Wilches-Visbal Jorge Homero
Published: November 2024

Stress is a challenging situation that is generated by the arrival of an unexpected or novel situation that is difficult to solve. Dental students are subjected to high stress loads. The purpose of this paper is to briefly review the most recent literature on this topic and to make suggestions on how to approach it according to this and the authors' experience.
Study on the whole lifecycle energy consumption scenarios of expressway
Authors: Peiqiang Cui , Qi Yu , Jie Liu , Ning Mao , Yizheng Wu
Published: November 2024

This paper constructs a set of energy consumption scenarios for typical expressway construction, operation and maintenance phases, and analyses the energy demand under each scenario. Firstly, a comprehensive lifecycle energy consumption framework for expressway is established, detailing the energy consumption scenarios during construction, operation, and maintenance phases. Secondly, based on literature review and scenario assumptions, the study examines the energy consumption levels under different scenarios and analyses the proportion of energy consumption in each scenario. The results show that the ratio of energy consumption during the construction, operation and maintenance phases of expressway is about 5:10:3. The energy consumption during the construction phase is the highest for the construction of expressway trunk lines, accounting for about 80.6% of the total energy consumption. During the operation phase, fuelling and refuelling stations consume the most energy, accounting for about 71.4%. The energy consumption of expressway trunk lines is the highest during maintenance phase, which accounting for about 70%. This analysis facilitates a deeper understanding of the characteristics of the integration between transportation and energy networks, and assists the transportation sector in achieving carbon peak and carbon neutrality goals in a scientifically sound manner.
Exploring factors associated with first antenatal care booking among pregnant women in Northwestern Tanzania
Authors: Zuberi Sued Yassin , Shayo Regan Zenas , Muniko Gerald Samson , Lyapa Oswald Thomas , Kombo Zakaria Khamis , Dyegura Osimund January , Mkonyi Emanuel Alfred , Mawalla Brian Caesar
Published: November 2024

Objectives:

Pregnant women are advised to schedule their initial antenatal care (ANC) visit during the first trimester to detect and treat any medical issues as well as screen for risk factors that may affect the course and outcome of their pregnancy. Nonetheless, delayed first ANC presentation is typical, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study sought to determine the timing of the first ANC booking and identify factors that influence the first ANC booking among pregnant women.

Material and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study which was carried out from June–August 2023. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Data analysis was done using Epi Info 7.2 and STATA version 15.0 software. Independent factors for the first ANC booking were determined by multivariate logistic regression analysis using odds ratios, 95% confidence intervals, and a P-value cut-off of ≤0.05.

Results:

A total of 402 pregnant women were recruited for the study. The bulk of participants, 189 (47.0%), were between 25 and 34 years. More than half 279/402(69.4%) of the pregnant women booked their first ANC appointment beyond 12 weeks of gestation. The married pregnant women had almost four-fold booking ANC earlier compared to single women (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 3.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.1–14.4, P = 0.036). Similarly, employed pregnant women were 2.8 times more likely to book their first ANC visits earlier as compared to self-employed women (AOR = 2.8, 95% CI = 1.3–5.8, P = 0.006). In addition, women receiving support from their family or partner were more likely to book their first ANC as recommended compared to those lacking such support (AOR = 0.5, 95% CI = 0.3–0.9, P = 0.022). Finally, those who planned pregnancy were 2 times more likely to book their first ANC visit within the recommended time, unlike those who did not (AOR = 2.3, 95% CI = 1.3–2.1, P = 0.03).

Conclusion:

Despite the known benefits of early antenatal appointments, many pregnant women delay their first visit, highlighting the need for targeted policies to address socioeconomic barriers and improve health-care access, thus encouraging timely ANC bookings and better maternal health outcomes.
Measuring the Concentration of Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) in People infected with Cutaneous leishmaniasis in Tikrit
Authors: Ali Noor Talal , Abdulwahhab Intisar Ghanim , Omear Hadeel Abdel Hadi
Published: November 2024

The study conducted in Salahaddeen Governorate aimed to measure the concentrations of cytokines (interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha) in patients infected with Baghdad boil and to compare these concentrations with those of the control group. The endemic disease of leishmaniasis manifests in three types in Iraq; cutaneous, mucocutaneous and visceral. The most common type is cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) which causes skin sores. CL attributed to L. tropica is disseminated via the bite of an infected female sand fly. The study was conducted at Salahaddeen Teaching Hospital in Salahaddeen Governorate, Iraq, from March 1, 2021, to September 1, 2022. Detailed data were collected about age, gender, residence, location, number and type of lesions (wet or dry). Sixty clinical cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis were included in the study. The cytokine concentration of interleukin-6 (IL-6) exhibited an increase, reaching 94.7a±7.74 picograms/ml in patients infected with multiple leishmaniasis lesions (7-10 lesions). Conversely, the lowest concentration was observed at 56.3b±7.43 picograms/ml in patients with 1-3 lesions. Furthermore, the concentration of interleukin-6 reached its peak in patients with dry lesions (96.0a±10.9) compared to those with wet lesions (63.3b±12.4). An elevation in tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) levels was observed across different age groups, with patients infected with cutaneous leishmaniasis typically falling within the age range of 11 to 40. Consistently, the highest TNF-α levels were documented annually in patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis, specifically within the age brackets of 11-20, 21-30 and 31-40, reaching 343.0a±28.3 picograms/ml, 316.7abd±41.2 picograms/ml and 295.9b±51.9 picograms/ml respectively, in comparison to the control group. Conversely, the lowest TNF-α level was noted in patients aged 41 (238.0c±42.6 picograms/ml). Moreover, TNF-α concentration was higher in patients with leishmaniasis in rural areas compared to urban areas. In rural regions, the TNF-α concentration was 436.7a±54.4 picograms/ml.
Phytochemical Profiling and Antibacterial Dynamics of Xanthium strumarium L Extract: Unlocking Potential Therapeutic Pathways
Authors: Ashoor Estbrak Yahya , Hameed Ashwaq Talib , Najim Thaar Mohammed , Hasan Raad N.
Published: November 2024

This investigation focuses on the analysis of the chemical constituents and possible therapeutic effects of extracts derived from botanical sources. The research entails a quantitative evaluation of phenolic compounds, alkaloids, carotenoids and tannins present in an ethanolic extract from the aerial components of the plant Xanthium strumarium L. Analytical results indicate a considerable presence of these phytochemicals within the extract, with phenolics, alkaloids and carotenoids as predominant constituents. Phenolic compounds represent 19% of the extract, notable for their role in antioxidative activities which are critical in scavenging free radicals and may contribute to lowering the incidence of chronic diseases. Alkaloids, accounting for 12% of the extract, have been recognized for their wide-ranging pharmacological actions. Carotenoids, which constitute 25% of the extract, suggest the extract's potential as a nutraceutical agent for health enhancement and disease prophylaxis. The study underscores the significant levels of these bioactive molecules, reflecting a phytochemical matrix with potential for antioxidative, anti-inflammatory and extensive pharmacological utilities. Additionally, the manuscript investigates the in vitro antibacterial efficacy of the Xanthium extract against various bacterial pathogens. By assessing the extract's minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and zone of inhibition (ZOI) and comparing these parameters to those of tetracycline, a standard antibiotic, the research delineates a concentration-dependent antibacterial activity of the extract. It is noteworthy that an increase in the extract's concentration resulted in a reduction in MIC and an augmentation in ZOI, particularly against E. coli and S. aureus, suggesting the extract's potential as an antibacterial agent.
Study of some physiological parameters in renal failure patients with hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: Salahdin Omar Dheyauldeen , Alani Safa Nadem , Saleh Raed Obaid , Jasim Saade Abdalkareem , Mohammed Thikra Majid
Published: November 2024

Renal failure is defined as the kidneys' inability to execute excretory functions, resulting in the retention of nitrogenous waste products in the blood. Therefore, the current study was aimed at detecting the hepatitis C virus in renal failure patients and investigating measurements of urea, creatinine, phosphorus, calcium and albumin. Also, Hb and ABO blood groups were investigated. In this study, 20 blood samples were collected from people aged (24–83) of both sexes and included (10) renal failure, (10) renal failure with hepatitis C and (10) controls aged (23–66). A highly significant increase (P<0.01) was observed in urea, creatinine and phosphorus levels in patients infected with renal failure without HCV and renal failure with hepatitis C virus infection groups in comparison to the control group. The other parameters albumin and hemoglobin concentration showed a highly significant decrease in renal failure patients with hepatitis C virus infection when compared to the healthy group. Calcium displayed a non-significant increase (P<0.05) in patients with renal failure without HCV when compared to renal failure with HCV infection. But albumin, urea and hemoglobin showed a nonsignificant decrease (P > 0.05) in patients with renal failure without hepatitis C infection when compared to those with renal failure. The ABO blood groups results for renal failure patients without hepatitis C virus infection showed the highest percent in the O+ blood group (60%) followed by A+, B+, AB+ and Arecorded as 10% for each one. The renal failure patient with hepatitis C virus infection group showed the highest percent of the O+ blood group (50%) followed by A+, B+, AB+ and A- recorded as (20%), (10%), (10%) and (10%) respectively.
The activity of silver nanoparticles produced by Aerococcus spp. against some Acinetobacter baumannii isolates
Authors: Hadi Duaa Hassan , Hadi Ameer Mezher , AL-Ameer Ali Mohammed Abd
Published: November 2024

Nanoparticles are among the fine materials that have an important role in many medical and health sciences such as medicine, biology, physics, chemistry and others. The purpose of this study was to create silver nanoparticles from Aerococcus spp. then used it against isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii. The method included growing Aerococcus spp in a culture medium. Silver nanoparticles were created when the color of medium changed to brown. Some structural properties of these materials were measured using TEM, FTIR, UV-Vis and XRD to characterize the AgNPs. The results showed the ability of Aerococcus spp to produce silver nanoparticles after adding alkaline silver nitrate solution to the culture medium and then the color change occurred. The biochemical tests showed the ability of bacteria; silver nanoparticles (NPs AgNO3) to absorb ultraviolet radiation at 200 nm. X-ray diffraction test showed that these nanoparticles formed radial peaks of 200, 202 and 311 at a wavelength of 25.94 nm depending on the crystalline state of the particles. The Scanning electron microscope test also showed these nanoparticles forming spherical nanoparticles at size of 32.78 nm. The Ag NPS antibacterial activity shows the ability of these nanoparticles at concentration 250μg/ml against inhibition of the growth of some A. baumannii isolates with an inhibition diameter of 30.32. Finally, the antibiofilm forming test showed the ability of Aerococcus spp. (NPs AgNO3) to reduce biofilm forming of A. baumannii at 100%.
The Antimicrobial Effect of Silver Nanoparticles on some Fungi isolated from Otitis Media
Authors: Yousif Falah H. , Mohammed Sanaa H. , Ali Muna J.
Published: November 2024

This study involved the inhibitory effect of silver nanoparticles with plant extracts against the fungi isolates from otitis media evaluated. A total of 216 samples were collected from individuals suffering from otitis media with age ranging from 1-70 years, who visited the Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Department at Al-Hawija General Hospital between September 2022 and March 2023.The results of culture on Sabouraud dextrose agar media showed microbial infection in otitis media in 114 samples, accounting for 52.77% of the cases. Regarding fungi, Candida spp. was the predominant species, found in 81 samples, representing 37.5%. Plant extracts demonstrated high efficiency in inhibiting fungi. The alcoholic extract of the Callistemon viminalis plant exhibited the highest inhibitory effectiveness with an average inhibition zone diameter of 16.19mm followed by the aqueous extract of the Callistemon viminalis plant with an average inhibition zone diameter of 15.44 mm. Silver nanoparticles showed inhibitory effects on the studied fungal isolates. The silver nanoparticles manufactured from the Callistemon viminalis plant exhibited the highest inhibitory effect with an average inhibition zone diameter of 17.52mm against Candida parapsilosis yeast.
The assessment of the minimum inhibitory concentration of Botulinum toxin on Staphylococcal bacteria isolated from Acne vulgaris and validating its impact through Polymerase Chain Reaction analysis
Authors: Madhi Adyan Abdulrahman , Alwan Baydaa Hus
Published: November 2024

Acne vulgaris (AV) is an inflammation of pilosebaceous unit which commonly occurs in adolescence. Staphylococcus aureus is also involved in AV pathogenesis. This study included isolating and diagnosing 35 samples of bacteria isolated from acne by the aerobic method and dividing them according to their sensitivity to methicillin,10 samples were used in determining the extent of the effect of different concentrations of Botulinum toxin on bacteria using PCR technology. The results obtained 2.5mg/ml as the MIC for the bactria. Botox treatment at 2.5mg/ml demonstrated molecular effects, causing a lack of PCR binding in selected samples. This suggests a potential disruption in gene transcription or DNA degradation, aligning with international studies showcasing Botox's molecular impact on acne-related Staphylococcus aureus, supporting its role in combination therapy for bacterial control. Botox, renowned for cosmetic use, is also under investigation for medical applications like treating acne. Research suggests that Botox may reduce acne by minimizing sebum production and inhibiting bacteria associated with acne, particularly Staphylococcus aureus. Global studies support these findings, revealing potential applications beyond cosmetics, expanding into acne treatment.
The Identification and Characterization of the Resistance Genes of Klebsiella pneumoniae Plasmids Transformed in E. coli BL21(DE3)
Authors: Mohammed Abdulsalam Najm , Mohammed Tasnim Tariq , Buniya Harith K. , Al –Rawi Dhafer F.
Published: November 2024

The emergence of multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae constitutes a serious threat to global public health due to the limited treatment options available. This study aimed to identify some characteristics carried on the plasmids of K. pneumoniae isolated from pathological cases. The plasmid was extracted from K. pneumoniae and transformed into E. coli BL21(DE3) by the heat shock method using 0.1 M CaCl2. The results showed that transformed E. coli BL21(DE3) became resistant to four types of antibiotics which included cefepime (FEP) 10 μg, ceftazidime (CAZ) 30 μg, tetracycline (TE) 10 μg and rifampin (RA) 5 μg. In addition, transforming colonies of E. coli BL21(DE3) were able to producer biofilm as well as production of urease enzyme. The extracted plasmids were digested by 3 types of restriction enzymes (enzyme EcoRI, BamHI and Hind III) to know the restriction sites available in bacterial plasmids. The results showed the presence of some EcoR1 restriction sites by observing the change in the physical shape of the plasmid after being treated with the EcoR1. Meanwhile, no restriction sites were observed for BamH1 and HindIII.