bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
الحوار الفكري ودوره في تعزيز السلم المجتمعي دراسة اجتماعية - تحليلية
Authors: أ.م. د. ريم أَيوب محمد أ.م. د. ريم أَيوب محمد , م. م هند زياد محمد م. م هند زياد محمد
Published: May 2024

الملخص
إنّ الحوار الفكري هو وسيلة لغاية أسمى، وهي تحقيق التقارب بين الثقافات المختلفة، وتفادي الخلافات المؤدية للنزاعات والحروب والتطرف. فهو آلية أو وسيلة لتقريب وجهات النظر المتباعدة، وتحقيق التواصل والتفاهم بين الجماعات المتعايشة في مكان واحد أو في أمكنة مختلفة، لأن غياب الحوار الثقافي يؤدي إلى تفكيك وحدة المجتمع والنسيج الاجتماعي ، ويعود السبب في ذلك إلى أنّ لكل ثقافة نمط حياة وعادات وتقاليد تسهم في تكوين إطار خاص للثقافة، وانغلاقها على نفسها، مما يؤدي إلى تفكيك الإطار المشترك وهو المجتمع أو الدولة.
          يكرس الحوار الفكري الاعتراف بشرعية جميع الثقافات الموجودة في المجتمع، وينمي روح السلم والتعايش المجتمعي بين مختلف الفئات والاقليات ، ويعمل على التعرف على عادات الثقافات الأُخر وقيمها وتقاليدها وتحقيق المساواة والحريات بين جميع الثقافات الموجودة داخل المجتمع، والاحترام المتبادل بين الثقافات المختلفة .
 
©THISISANOPENACCESSARTICLEUNDERTHECCBY LICENSE.http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
 
ولا يمكن تصور حوار ثقافي حقيقي إذا لم يكن هناك إقرار بمبدأ التنوع الثقافي ، فالتنوع الثقافي عامل أساسي للفهم المتبادل والتعايش السلمي والسير نحو التقدم الاقتصادي والاجتماعي، وحماية التراث لجميع الشعوب التي يتعرض تراثها الفكري والثقافي والحضاري لمحاولات التشويه والتزوير والطمس والتدمير.
ومن جهة أخرى، فإن التنوع الثقافي، الذي هو حق من حقوق الشعوب، وفطرة في الإنسان وطبيعة في الحياة وسنة في الكون، يقتضي التقارب بين الثقافات، بحكم أنّ التنوع هو مدعاة للتقارب، بخلاف الانغلاق الذي هو سبيل إلى الانكماش المفضي إلى ضمور الثقافات وسقوط الحضارات ([1]).
 
[1] د. سمير الشرقاوي السموني ،الحوار الثقافي واثره على التماسك الاجتماعي ، موقع الجزيرة ،https://www.al-jazirah.com/ 24ابريل 2020 تاريخ الزيارة 28/4/2023 .
Budget Utilization of Barangays: The Case of the Municipality of Concepcion, Tarlac
Authors: Liwanag Dolly Anne
Published: May 2024

This case study research analyzed the budget utilization of thirty (30) out of forty-five (45) barangays in the Municipality of Concepcion, Tarlac. The paper examined the problems and the causes of those problems the barangays experienced in utilizing their budgets from 2020 to 2022. The types of sampling that the researcher used are purposive and stratified sampling. The instruments used were an interview guide and documentary analysis. The researcher interviewed the Barangay Treasurers of the thirty (30) barangays that participated in the study. The Annual Budgets, Supplemental Budgets, and Statements of Comparison of Budget and Actual Amounts (SCOBAA) from 2020 to 2022 were used to analyze their budget utilization. Findings revealed that there was a decrease in the total allocation of some barangays in 2021. The COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on preparing and utilizing the budget of the barangays. Also, results show that all barangays are compliant with the budgetary requirements such as the Barangay Development Fund, Sangguniang Kabataan Fund, and BDRRM Fund. Findings also discovered that there is an underspending in the budget utilization of barangays in the Municipality of Concepcion from 2020 to 2022. The COVID-19 pandemic restrictions have had an effect on the utilization rates for these years. The projects, programs, and activities implemented in the Barangay Development Fund are more on economic development. It is revealed that the Sangguniang Kabataan Fund is not used merely for sports-related activities. The BDRRM Fund was utilized mostly for preventing floods by declogging the canals and this fund was utilized mostly during the height of the pandemic. The findings also reveal that barangays spend mostly on their current appropriations. Continuing appropriations are not being utilized. Some barangays were not able to approve their Annual Budget on time. Late approval of the budget prevents the barangays from spending the public funds at the start of the year. The researcher intended that by making efficient and effective use of their available resources, this study would contribute to the attainment of the goals and objectives of the barangays.
The Lived Experiences of Anxiety and Depression Support Philippines’ (ADSP) Members amid Public Stigma: A Phenomenological Hermeneutic Study
Authors: Navarro Psyche Reve
Published: May 2024

The study is a qualitative phenomenological hermeneutic that explored the lived experiences of Anxiety and Depression Support Philippines' (ADSP) members amid public stigma and the role of ADSP in these experiences. The main purposes of the study are (1) to fill the gap in the literature on the role of local mental health peer support groups in the lives of its members amid public stigma and (2) to highlight the role of local mental health support groups. Six participants were interviewed with a semi-structured interview protocol through Zoom. A step-by-step procedure of Creswell's thematic analysis was employed. The emerging themes and subthemes were the following: Major Textural Theme 1, Day-to-Day Personal Challenges (with subthemes, Somatic Symptoms and Costly Treatment), Major Textural Theme 2, Stigma Experienced from the Public (with subthemes, Invisibility of Mental Health Condition, Imposement of Spiritual Beliefs, Pill Shaming Phenomenon, and Deregatory Stereotypes), Major Structural Theme, Meaning (with subthemes, Shared Struggles, Acknowledgment of Proper Treatment, and Being Unbothered), and Major Textural Theme 3, Role of ADSP (Providing Emotional Support, Preventing Suicide, Assisting in Help-Seeking, and Actualizing Potential). Some of the recommendations were future research to examine and explore the structure and dynamics of Filipino-based mental health support groups to further address the needs of individuals with mental health conditions or psychological disorders (particularly anxiety and depression) and national-level encouragement of the development of accessible Filipino–based mental health support groups. The research will also contribute to the pool of local research exploring the same topic or related topics.
Memaknai Penderitaan Secara Kristiani
Authors: Hidayat Elvin Atmaja
Published: May 2024

Suffering is a reality that everyone endures as an integral part of his/her life. As the part of human life, suffering is inevitable. For some people, suffering shakes their faith in the Benevolent God. They asked, “Why does not God eliminate the suffering if He is benevolent and omnipotent?” This paper is going to persuade the Christians to make sense of their suffering by examining the views of Scripture and the documents of the Church (especially Salvifici Doloris). Both sources show that there are a lot of meanings behind the suffering. From such explanations, we would say that suffering also serves for good. The writer invites the faithfuls to be “in peace” with their suffering. People are led to interpret suffering as a precious and valuable gift. In so-doing, people would be able to remain faithful, even become more steadfast in the midst of their suffering. The concept of God as “Father” would also helps people to be more enduring in Christian faith.
Stigmatisasi Ata polo, Orang dengan Kekuatan Magis
Authors: Niba Yulianus
Published: May 2024

The article explores the stigmatization phenomena of Ata polo, the ones with magical power in Flores, particularly in the District of Ngada. It is a great challenge for everyone who has to catechise the Catholics in the area. The Catholic Church is expected to take this socio-religious phenomenon into consideration and could offer an appropriate pastoral guideline for the people. In his research the writer found out that the ata polo labeling is merely an accusation based on suspicion on the one hand. On the other hand, he presumes that behind the magical practice, which is just a superstition, the people are looking for some personal interests or advantages.
Lingko, Kearifan Lokal Manggarai dan Inkulturasi Teologi Katolik
Authors: Tandak Rikardus
Published: May 2024

The church has been present and grown up throughout the centuries in human cultures. It takes part in the life of the world and builds the society by promoting Christian values through the local cultures. In that sense, wisdoms of the local communities are of particular importance. The writer argues that the so-called Lingko, the local wisdom of Manggarai, Flores, could be elaborated as means of promoting Christian values among the local people. In this article the writer put forward the main values of Lingko, such as the belief in Mori Keraeng (the Supreme Being, God the Creator), the value of brotherhood (cooperation and mutual assistance), and the role of ancestors (ceki) to intercede for humans to Mori Keraeng.
Membangun Dialog dalam Keberagaman
Authors: Sigalingging Jimson
Published: May 2024

Religion and culture are two different things. Religion is God’s creation, while culture is human creativity. However, the two of them are interconnected and inseparable. The focus of this study is the understanding of the martutu aek ritual in connection to the Sacrament of Baptism. Martutu aek is a ritual of purification of babies from evil spirits before they are formally accepted into the society. Meanwhile, the Sacrament of Baptism is one of the sacraments of initiation in the church. This study contains the meaning of martutu aek; the basic implementation, function, and meaning of the sacrament of baptism, and its purpose according to the Catholic Church. The methodology used in this research is a comparative theological study. The findings of this study uncover the similarities and differences between the ritual of martutu aek of Batak Toba and the meaning of the Sacrament of Baptism. The contribution of this research is to build a religious dialogue within the Batak Toba communities.
Corporate Governance, Agency Costs, and Financial Performance: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Otto Thomas
Published: May 2024

Good corporate governance practices are critical for both private and public sector organizations to enhance their financial performance. Despite the various theories and models produced to explain the correlation between these two factors, the link continues to be a mystery. It has not yet been established how corporate governance influences financial performance and whether there are underlying variables that can moderate or intervene the association between corporate governance and financial performance. The intention of this paper was to perform a critical theoretical and empirical literature review. The specific objectives were to conduct literature review on; the association between corporate governance and financial performance; and the effect of agency costs on the correlation between corporate governance and financial performance. The review is of significance to the management of firms, policy-making entities and to the literature of finance. The management of firms may use the conclusions and study recommendations to formulate effective corporate governance structures which will enhance financial performance of their firms. The study will also be of value to policymaking organizations like regulators that formulate the various polices on corporate governance. The research anchor theory is agency theory as it explains in what manner management, being agent, is supposed to fulfill their perfect fiduciary duty of serving the principal’s best interests to enhance the main goal of a firm. The theory holds that strong corporate governance structures provide better monitoring leading to managerial efficiency. Other theories guiding this study included stakeholder theory, the institutional theory and resource dependence theory. The theoretically expected relationship between study variables is inconclusive as corporate governance is expected to provide better monitoring leading to a positive influence on financial performance but it also comes with agency costs which might lower the financial performance. From the empirical studies reviewed, most studies conclude that corporate governance influence financial performance in a positive way but it is also evident that the studies also provide conflicting findings with some oscillating from negative to positive and others indicating no relationship at all. The study also found that the primary limitations in this field of research include an absence of related studies in frontier economies and contradictions in research findings.
The Effectiveness of Domestic Elderly Nursing Simulation Education over the Past Decade
Authors:   Korean Society of Health Nursing Convergence, Sim Jeong Eun , Yang Ye Song , Jeong Yun Jeong , Park Seon Hwa , Park Bock Soon
Published: May 2024

Purpose : This study aims to analyze and summarize the trends of research conducted on domestic elderly nursing simulation through a thematic literature review method, in order to gain insights into the overall direction of research in this field.
Method : This study conducts a thematic literature review of papers published in domestic academic journals, focusing on topics related to domestic elderly nursing simulation, to understand the research trends in this area.
Results : The analysis of research topics revealed the following themes addressed in the papers related to domestic elderly nursing simulation: ‘Development and validation of a simulation-based educational program aimed at enhancing patient safety performance for caregivers in elderly care facilities’, ‘Effectiveness of simulation-based education in preventing frailty among the elderly through home nursing interventions’, ‘Impact of simulation-based practical training programs on home health management knowledge, problem- solving skills, and clinical performance’, ‘Development and effectiveness of standardized patient simulation- based professional training programs for managing home care for seniors with dementia’, ‘Nursing students’ experiences in virtual simulation and hybrid simulation-based elderly nursing practicum education: a mixed-methods research approach’, ‘Effects of simulation-based education on communication skills, academic self-efficacy, and attitudes towards the elderly among nursing students when caring for elderly individuals with cognitive impairment’, and ‘Assessment of demand for simulation-based home nursing education for frail elderly individuals’.
Conclusion : These findings underscore the diverse applications and effectiveness of simulation- based education in various aspects of elderly nursing care in domestic settings.
Computational modeling of the MAPK pathway using NetLogo
Authors: Flores Dora Luz , Gomez Claudia , Manzanarez Ozuna Edgar , Hirata Gustavo
Published: May 2024

Las vías de transducción de señales tienen un papel importante en el desarrollo celular, ya que son la principal vía de comunicación de las células con su entorno, el cual determina la actividad de las mismas promoviendo respuestas celulares tales como: proliferación, diferenciación, migración, desarrollo, apoptosis, etc., se han realizado modelos que representan estas vías utilizando diferentes técnicas, tales como EDOs, métodos estocásticos, redes de Petri, cálculo pi, redes booleanas, redes bayesianas, autómatas celulares y sistemas basados en agentes, entre otros. En este trabajo de investigación se presenta un modelado basado en agentes y la simulación del conjunto de eventos posteriores a la activación de la molécula Ras, en la sección intracelular de la vía MAPK utilizando la herramienta llamada NetLogo.
Análisis y Estrategia de Consumo Óptimo Eléctrico Anual
Authors: Montoya José , Esquivel Adolfo , Calvillo Téllez Andrés , Barba Eduardo
Published: May 2024

El presente artículo muestra mediante el diagnóstico de lecturas de consumo de la demanda energética, según el tipo de carga que existe, durante un lapso de 24 horas en un período de un año, mediante el levantamiento de lecturas. Se analiza mes a mes las condiciones climáticas que prevalecen y marcan el consumo. Finalmente se presentan la estrategia encaminada a asegurar una reducción del 6% anual así hasta alcanzar una reducción del 24% en 5 años, enfocando la simplificación y eficiencia de todos los procesos. Los resultados obtenidos después de implementar las estrategias, logran el objetivo, sin embargo, en los datos se presentan condiciones atípicas que beneficiaron el índice de eficiencia, por lo que en los siguientes años debemos de sostener el ritmo de optimizar.
Data Analytics Applied to Predictive Maintenance
Authors: Alfonso Diaz Andres Leonardo , Barrera Gómez Marien Rocio , Alfonso Díaz Iván David , Mejia Gallo Jerley Andres
Published: May 2024

This paper describes in a simple way the development of a web application for predictive maintenance of equipment implemented in the electronics laboratory of the Universidad Pedagógica y Tecnológica de Colombia Sogamoso. This application was developed in Python language to achieve the manipulation and processing of large amounts of data. We developed a machine learning algorithm to predict damages in the laboratory equipment and enable the stakeholder toschedule maintenance to these equipments to prevent them from getting damaged. We implemented and compared the results obtained for two models (Random Forest and MLPRegressor Neural Network), being Random Forest the most accurate model.
“Rigid criteria should not be established”?
Authors: Verbergt Marie-Gabrielle
Published: May 2024

This article asks when, how, and why external peer review was introduced in the funding procedures of the European Science Foundation’s Standing Committee for the Humanities. It covers both the period before and after the introduction of external review in 1997. Up to then, a lack of selection criteria in combination with highly flexible procedures made it possible for a small elite to allocate funding based on personal convictions and ties. When peer review was introduced, this was done not only because of ideological reasons, but also for logistical, and, in the end, economic reasons. This insight challenges all too triumphant interpretations of the history of peer review and points to the intricate connection of the history of peer review to scale and institutional changes in European research policy.
Sleep Apnoea Detection with Smart Internet of Things Technology
Authors:   , Barika Ragab Ambark Seedi Ali
Published: May 2024

Sleep apnoea (SA) is a hazardous condition characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep. This prevalent medical issue affects individuals of all ages, potentially leading to severe complications when untreated including, cardiovascular problems, diabetes, and daytime fatigue etc. Unfortunately, SA often remains undiagnosed due to the costly and inconvenient diagnostic procedures associated with it. It stands as a significant global health concern, impacting nearly one billion people worldwide, with a prevalence of 17 to 23% in women and 34 to 50% in men. SA is recognized as a risk factor for cardiovascular disorders (CVD) and carries substantial individual, societal, and economic burdens. The economic costs of SA diagnosis and treatment services run into billions of dollars annually. The reference standard for diagnosing SA is polysomnography (PSG), conducted in a laboratory setting by trained professionals. However, this process is time-consuming, susceptible to human error, and demands technical expertise for both execution and interpretation. The inconvenience of in-lab PSG has spurred the need for new, simplified methods. This thesis posits that Computer-Aided Diagnosis (CAD) systems can enhance diagnostic efficacy. To explore this hypothesis, the thesis introduces innovative real-time detection techniques for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) and the development of a high-performance OSA detection system. This system, offering continuous OSA detection, addresses the practical challenges associated with traditional diagnostic approaches. The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) and advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, with a focus on the Lifetouch sensor, represents a novel approach to improve the accuracy of OSA detection. This innovative strategy aims to overcome barriers to timely and reliable diagnosis and monitoring of sleep disorders. To thoroughly assess the algorithm, a clinical study enrolled 15 patients with a history of OSA. Simultaneously, standard PSG monitoring and diagnosis were conducted, serving as the benchmark for comparison. This dual approach ensured a robust evaluation of the DL algorithm's performance against established PSG methods, providing a comprehensive understanding of its capabilities in OSA detection. The trial results highlight the potential of the proposed technology model, showing a high level of patient acceptance and satisfaction with Lifetouch wearables. However, the identification of only two OSA cases among the 15 patients studied was lower than anticipated. These findings emphasize the need for improved detection methods, as addressed by the novel techniques introduced in this thesis. The results presented here also highlight the efficacy of the developed methods, showcasing their ability to deliver quick, reliable, and standardized analyses an essential step forward in overcoming the limitations of conventional diagnostic approaches.
Prostate cancer perspective: Africa versus the world
Authors: Marais B , Klopper G , John J
Published: May 2024

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among men, with a rising global incidence. Currently, the PCa landscape is vastly different between developed countries and Africa. Of note, owing to various biological, socioeconomic and institutional factors, black African men often present with more advanced disease and suffer greater mortality. This review will focus on the burden of PCa globally and in Africa, compare the state of the disease in Africa with that in more developed regions of the world, and answer the question why it can sometimes look like a ‘different’ disease compared with developed regions. In addition, we address the racial disparities of PCa.
Learning in the district health system: How can meetings become spaces of reflection?
Authors: Motshweneng O , Elloker S , Gilson L
Published: May 2024

To fulfil its role, the District Health System (DHS) must enable and lead learning in the South African (SA) health system. Meetings are a core routine that can be leveraged to encourage learning in the DHS. In this article, we draw from existing experiences in SA to present practical steps that can be implemented to transform meetings into spaces of learning.
Metabolite analysis reveals flavonoids accumulation during flower development in Rhododendron pulchrum sweet (Ericaceae)
Authors: Yang Qiaofeng , Li Zhiliang , Ma Yuting , Fang Linchuan , Liu Yan , Zhu Xinyu , Dong Hongjin , Wang Shuzhen
Published: May 2024

The azalea (Rhododendron simsii Planch.) is an important ornamental woody plant with various medicinal properties due to its phytochemical compositions and components. However little information on the metabolite variation during flower development in Rhododendron has been provided. In our study, a comparative analysis of the flavonoid profile was performed in Rhododendron pulchrum sweet at three stages of flower development, bud (stage 1), partially open flower (stage 2), and full bloom (stage 3). A total of 199 flavonoids, including flavone, flavonol, flavone C-glycosides, flavanone, anthocyanin, and isoflavone were identified. In hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA) and principal component analysis (PCA), the accumulation of flavonoids displayed a clear development stage variation. During flower development, 78 differential accumulated metabolites (DAMs) were identified, and most were enriched to higher levels at the full bloom stage. A total of 11 DAMs including flavone (chrysin, chrysoeriol O-glucuronic acid, and chrysoeriol O-hexosyl-O-pentoside), isoflavone (biochanin A), and flavonol (3,7-di-O-methyl quercetin and isorhamnetin) were significantly altered at three stages. In particular, 3,7-di-O-methyl quercetin was the top increased metabolite during flower development. Furthermore, integrative analyses of metabolomic and transcriptomic were conducted, revealing that the contents of isoflavone, biochanin A, glycitin, and prunetin were correlated with the expression of 2-hydroxyisoflavanone dehydratase (HIDH), which provide insight into the regulatory mechanism that controls isoflavone biosynthesis in R. pulchrum. This study will provide a new reference for increasing desired metabolites effectively by more accurate or appropriate genetic engineering strategies.
Editorial Dossier Comunicación organizacional, estratégica y relaciones públicas en América Latina: convergencias y divergencias
Authors: Athaydes Andréia , Claro Cecilia , Labarca Claudia
Published: May 2024

En 2023, un grupo de investigadores latinoamericanos, agrupados en la Red de Investigadores de Comunicación Organizacional –Redlaco.org–, decidimos organizar la primera pre conferencia sobre relaciones públicas (del concepto Public Relations) y comunicación organizacional enfocada en América Latina en el marco de la conferencia de la International Communication Association (ICA) realizada en Toronto, Canadá. Ciertos miembros de este mismo grupo de investigadores ya habían hecho historia organizando los primeros paneles con presencia exclusivamente latinoamericana en dicha conferencia y editando un número especial al respecto en la revista Public Relations Inquiry (Waymer, 2022).
Análisis del ciclo de vida del cobre en una operación minera de hidrometalurgia en la zona central de Chile
Authors:   , Meza Chevecich Carolina Alejandra
Published: May 2024

La metodología de Análisis de Ciclo de Vida o Life Cycle Assessment (LCA, en inglés) ha sido aplicada en diferentes industrias. Sin embargo, en la ruta de procesamiento hidrometalúrgica de cobre, aún no ha sido ampliamente estudiada y existe escasez de datos e información al respecto, especialmente en Chile. Un LCA tiene la particularidad de ser una herramienta integral que permite estudiar los impactos generados al ambiente producto de las actividades desempeñadas en la elaboración de un producto y/o servicio. Por lo tanto, el objetivo de este estudio es cuantificar, por medio de un análisis de ciclo de vida, los impactos ambientales generados por la vía hidrometalúrgica del cobre por etapa en una operación ubicada en la zona central de Chile. Las categorías de impacto e indicadores por evaluar son el potencial de calentamiento global (GWP), potencial de acidificación (AP), potencial de creación de ozono fotoquímico (POCP), formación de material particulado (PMF), demanda acumulada de energía (CED), y uso de agua (WU). Para llevar a cabo esto, se utilizará Microsoft Excel para realizar los balances y la cuantificación de las categorías, además de Tableau como herramienta de visualización de los resultados. Estos, mostraron que las categorías más estudiadas son las de potencial de calentamiento global, potencial de acidificación y demanda acumulada de energía. Además, los resultados obtenidos se encuentran dentro de los rangos registrados en la literatura. Específicamente en la categoría de potencial de calentamiento global, se pudo observar el aporte significativo de las emisiones indirectas en comparación a las directas, expresado en dióxido de carbono equivalente por cátodo de cobre producido (tCO2-e /tCu). Finalmente, aún existe el desafío de incluir otras categorías de impacto ambiental como la eutrofización, la toxicidad, y aquellos relacionados a la pérdida de la biodiversidad, además de incluir aspectos sostenibles que puedan dar una mirada holística al desempeño de las operaciones en la minería del cobre.
Estudio de desacoplamiento del consumo de energía eléctrica y la producción de cobre de plantas concentradoras en Chile
Authors:   , Hernández Carrasco Loreto
Published: May 2024

La presente investigación se realizó con el objetivo de estudiar la disminución del consumo de energía eléctrica en la industria del cobre mediante la implementación de estrategias de eficiencia energética. Se identificaron los puntos de consumo eléctrico más importantes y se evaluaron alternativas de eficiencia. Dentro de las acciones evaluadas se consideraron la implementación de pre – chancado y la optimización de aspectos operacionales en la concentradora. Se estudiaron similitudes entre plantas concentradoras que operan actualmente en Chile para definir un caso utilizado como referencia. Se realizaron simulaciones de procesos para cuantificar la reducción del consumo especifico de energía respecto al caso base definido al aplicar las oportunidades de eficiencia identificadas, por separado y en conjunto. A través de las simulaciones se estimó que entre las tres oportunidades de eficiencia simuladas (pre chancado, optimización del diámetro de bolas y optimización del tamaño de transferencia) la mayor reducción se podría obtener al implementar el pre – chancado, con una reducción potencial del 11.7% de consumo especifico de energía. El mejor resultado en cuanto a reducción de CEE se obtiene al implementar el pre – chancado en conjunto con la optimización del tamaño de transferencia. Los resultados aquí obtenidos son favorables y permiten cuantificar el posible efecto de implementación de estas acciones de eficiencia en una planta concentradora de cobre en Chile. La incorporación de las estrategia estudiadas en todas las plantas concentradoras hoy activas podría reducir en conjunto el consumo energético de la industria en 14% por año equivalente a 2240 GWh anual en promedio en los próximos 9 años.
Socio-economic Variables Influencing the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTS) in Agricultural Extension Service Delivery Among Farmers in Yobe State, Nigeria
Authors: Mohammed, N
Published: May 2024

The study assessed socio-economic variables influencing the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in agricultural extension service delivery among farmers in Yobe state, Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study were to: describe the socio-economic characteristics of the farmers in the study area; examine the use of ICTs among the farmers in the study area; and determine the relationship between selected socio-economic characteristics of the farmers and the use of ICTs in the study area. A multi-stage sampling procedure was employed. Data were obtained primarily from 130 respondents through structured questionnaire. Data collected were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, mean, and multiple regressions. The results on socio-economic characteristics revealed that majority (67.7%) of the respondents were male, married and within the active age group of 26-40 years (54.6%). Majority (49.2%) had no formal education with a mean household size of 5.35 indicating over dependency on family labor. The respondents (34.6%) had 11-20 years of farming experience but lack ICT proficiency training and were not members of any cooperatives while (57.7%) cultivates between 2-4 hectares in which (47.7%) earns between ₦100, 001-₦300, 000 per annum. Mobile phone, internet and radio were the most frequently used ICT tools by farmers in the study area.  The results of multiple regression analysis revealed a high coefficient of multiple determinations (R2) of 0.711. This indicates that 71.1% of the total variables were caused by changes in the independent variables. Educational level, farming experience, computer literacy, and annual income are statistically significant at p≤0.01 level of significance. The study concludes that farmers utilize a limited number of ICTs, although these tools are moderately available and accessible. The study recommended that awareness on the use of ICTs such as the internet and computer for agricultural information transfer and retrieval should be encouraged, dissemination of agricultural information through radio and television programs as well as mobile phone would be recommended for greater agricultural production.
Genetic Diversity among Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Genotypes: A Review
Authors: Sudesh . , Fandan Renu , Bora Lila , Hegde Sapana Gurupad , Mehta Tanvi , Hardeep .
Published: May 2024

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) holds significant importance as a vegetable crop worldwide and is classified within the Solanaceae family. Cultivated tomato and wild tomatoes are related to each other which originated from Peru, Ecuador and other parts of South America including the Galapagos Islands. Although originating in the Peru-Ecuador region, the tomato has gained immense popularity and widespread cultivation in India, exhibiting significant variability in various plant traits. To enhance tomato cultivation, a comprehensive understanding of genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, correlation, path coefficient, and genetic diversity of both qualitative and quantitative traits is imperative. Traits showing higher values for genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance shows increased likelihood of achieving a higher selection response for maximizing productivity and yield. High significant positive association and positive direct effect of various yield attributing traits on fruit yield shows that these characters are the prime factors contributing to fruit yield. Improvement in yield and quality of self-pollinated crops like tomato also involves selecting genotypes with favorable trait combinations present in nature or through hybridization. Therefore, this review focuses on gathering information about the collection of indigenous tomato genotypes to formulate a breeding strategy for yield enhancement.
Impact of Surgical Margin on Prognosis and Recurrence in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Doi Shunsuke , Yasuda Satoshi , Hokuto Daisuke , Kamitani Naoki , Matsuo Yasuko , Sakata Takeshi , Nishiwada Satoshi , Nagai Minako , Terai Taichi , Kohara Yuichiro , Sho Masayuki
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study investigated the impact of surgical margin (SM) on the prognosis and recurrence of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC).

Summary of background data

The impact of SM on the prognosis remains controversial.

Methods

We analyzed 58 ICC patients who underwent macroscopically curative surgery. The patients were classified into 5 categories according to the SM; microscopically positive (R1), 0 to <1 mm, 1 to <5 mm, 5 to <10 mm, and ≥10 mm. The overall survival (OS) rate was significantly different for SM <1 mm or SM ≥1 mm; therefore, the cutoff value was set at 1 mm.

Results

Twenty-five patients (43.1%) had an SM <1 mm, and 33 (56.9%) had an SM ≥1 mm. The multivariate analysis identified SM <1 mm (P = 0.027) as an independent predictor of OS. After the propensity score matching based on tumor-related factors, the OS rate of the SM <1 mm group was significantly lower than that of the SM ≥1 mm group (P = 0.013). Peritoneal dissemination was significantly increased in the SM <1 mm group (P = 0.007). The postrecurrence survival rate of the SM <1 mm group was significantly lower than that of the SM ≥1 mm group (P = 0.012).

Conclusions

This study suggests that an SM of at least 1 mm should be achieved regardless of tumor status during ICC resection. An SM < 1 mm may indicate a higher risk of peritoneal dissemination.
Networks with large solvent recycle: Dynamics, hierarchical control, and a biorefinery application
Authors: Jogwar Sujit S. , Torres Ana I. , Daoutidis Prodromos
Published: June 2011

A class of networks featuring large recycle of solvent is analyzed. This feature is central to numerous integrated processes which use solvents in various reaction and separation steps. A prototype network capturing the essential features of such networks is identified. Rigorous dynamic analysis reveals the presence of two time‐scale dynamics exhibited by this prototype network. A systematic framework for model reduction and a subsequent hierarchical control design is proposed. The advantages of the proposed design over direct model‐based control are demonstrated via a simulation case study. Finally, the application of the proposed framework to a newly proposed process for the production of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural from fructose is also presented. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 58: 1764–1777, 2012
Model selection and parameters estimation in kinetic thermal evaluations using semiempirical models
Authors: Sanchirico Roberto
Published: June 2011

The minimum number of thermoanalytical experiments that should be considered with the aim of performing a complete and reliable kinetic analysis when using semiempirical models is the problem of concern. It is shown by means of a series of numerical experiments that three differential scanning calorimetric (DSC) dynamic runs performed at different heating rates provide a complete and reliable kinetic analysis while the topological structure of two DSC curves is enough to determine the semiempirical model (among reaction order and Sestack–Bergrenn) that better describe the experimental data. The procedure is analyzed by means of the simulation of a complex kinetic scheme and the results verified considering the thermal decomposition of cumene hydroperoxide. The proposed approach can be easily generalized to different kinetic models and is provided with a possible criterion devoted to identify autocatalytic processes by means of dynamical DSC experiments. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 58: 1869–1879, 2012
Laboratory evaluation of clopidogrel responsiveness by platelet function and genetic methods
Authors: Smock Kristi J. , Saunders Peter J. , Rodgers George M. , Johari Vandita
Published: June 2011

Clopidogrel is a widely used antiplatelet agent that irreversibly inhibits platelet P2Y12 ADP receptors after conversion to an active metabolite. There are a number of laboratory tests capable of detecting clopidogrel‐induced platelet inhibition and published literature correlates suboptimal clopidogrel response to adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Genetic polymorphisms are thought to affect conversion of the prodrug to the active metabolite, and the FDA has recently added a black‐box warning to clopidogrel to highlight the effects of these polymorphisms on drug bioavailability and to inform prescribers about the availability of genetic testing. For these reasons, there is growing interest in the use of laboratory tests to monitor patients treated with clopidogrel. This article summarizes the currently available laboratory testing, including platelet function tests and genotyping for CYP2C19 variants. Am. J. Hematol., 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Vitamin A dynamics in breastmilk and liver stores: A life history perspective
Authors: Fujita Masako , Shell‐Duncan Bettina , Ndemwa Philip , Brindle Eleanor , Lo Yun‐Jia , Kombe Yeri , O'connor Kathleen
Published: June 2011

Objectives:

Newborns are dependent on breastmilk vitamin A for building hepatic stores of vitamin A that will become critical for survival after weaning. It has been documented that vitamin A concentrations in breastmilk decline across the first year postpartum in both well‐nourished and malnourished populations. The reason for this decline has been assumed to be a sign of concurrently depleting maternal hepatic stores. This study investigates this assumption to clarify why the decline occurs, drawing on life history theory.

Methods:

A cross sectional survey was conducted among lactating mothers in Kenya in 2006. Data were used to examine (1) the relationship between liver vitamin A and time, (2) if the relationship between milk and liver vitamin A varies by time, and (3) by maternal parity.

Results:

The relationship between liver vitamin A and time fits the quadratic pattern with marginal significance (P= 0.071,n= 192); the liver vitamin A declined during early postpartum then recovered in late postpartum time, controlling covariates. The milk‐liver vitamin A relationship varied by postpartum time periods (P= 0.03) and by maternal parity (P= 0.005). Mothers in earlier postpartum or higher parity had a stronger positive relationship between milk and liver vitamin A than mothers in later postpartum or lower parity.

Conclusions:

Our observations are consistent with life history tradeoffs and negate the assumption that maternal hepatic and milk vitamin A decline together. Rather, maternal liver vitamin A has a dynamic relationship with milk vitamin A, particularly depending on postpartum time and maternal parity. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Within‐group social bonds in white‐faced saki monkeys (Pithecia pithecia) display male–female pair preference
Authors: Thompson Cynthia L. , Norconk Marilyn A.
Published: June 2011

White‐faced saki monkeys (Pithecia pithecia) lack most of the behavioral and physical traits typical of primate monogamy [Fuentes,1999]. In order to determine if social bonds in this species reflect patterns displayed by pair‐bonded groups or larger multimale–multifemale groups, we draw on 17 months of data collected on wild white‐faced sakis at Brownsberg Nature Park, Suriname. We analyzed within‐group social bonds for three habituated groups (one two‐adult and two multiadult groups) by measuring grooming, proximity, and approach/leave patterns between adult and subadult group members. We found that both two‐adult and multiadult groups showed significantly stronger social bonds between a single male–female dyad within each group (deemed “primary dyads”). In all three groups, primary dyads were composed of the oldest adult male and a breeding female. These pairs had significantly higher levels of grooming than other within‐group dyads and were also in close proximity (<1 m) more often than nonprimary dyads. Grooming in primary dyads was nonreciprocal, and consistently biased toward female investment. Grooming patterns in nonprimary dyads varied, but were often more reciprocal. Grooming and proximity of the primary dyad also changed in relation to infant development. Our results suggest that while white‐faced sakis do not show behavioral and physical traits typical of monogamy or pair‐bonding, social bonds are strongest between a single male–female pair. Pitheciine social systems range from small group monogamy inCallicebusto large multimale–multifemale groups inChiropotesandCacajao. As the middle taxon in this platyrrhine radiation, behavioral strategies of white‐faced sakis provide a model for how social bonds and affiliation could be influenced by and affect the evolution of larger group size in primates. Am. J. Primatol. 73:1051–1061, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis of Some Triazolophthalazine Derivatives for Their Anti‐Inflammatory and Antimicrobial Activities
Authors: Habib Nargues S. , Farghaly Ahmed M. , Ashour Fawzia A. , Bekhit Adnan A. , Abd El Razik Heba A. , Abd El Azeim Tarek
Published: June 2011

Several novel series of triazolophthalazine derivatives namely; pyrazolylethenyltriazolophthalazinones (4a–d), styryltriazolophthalazinones (5a,b), aryloxopropenyltriazolophthalazinones (7a,b), pyrazolinyl‐ (8a,b), (9a,b) and (10a–f), pyrazolyl‐ (11a–d), (1,2‐oxazol‐5‐yl)‐1,2,4‐triazolo[3,4‐a]phthalazin‐6(5H)‐ones (14a,b), triazolo[3,4‐a]phthalazin‐3‐yl‐pyridine‐3‐carbonitriles (12a,b), triazolo[3,4‐a]phthalazin‐3‐yl)ethylthioacetic acids (13a,b) and 2‐aryl‐5‐arylamino‐1H,5H‐pyrazolo[2″,3″‐1′,5′]imidazo[3′,4′‐1,5]‐1,2,4‐triazolo[3,4‐a]phthalazin‐12(13H)‐ones (15a–c) have been synthesized. The anti‐inflammatory activity of representative compounds has been studied. Compounds 8b, 10c, 10f, 11b, 12a, 13b, and 15a showed anti‐inflammatory activities comparable to that of the reference standard, indomethacin. They exhibit also minimal ulcerogenic effect relevant to the reference standard and were found to be non‐toxic up to 120 mg/kg orally or up to 75 mg/kg through parenteral route. Concerning the antimicrobial activity; compounds 12b and 13b were found to be equipotent to ampicillin against Staphylococcus aureus, while compounds 10a and 10f were found to be as potent as ampicillin against E. coli, whereas compound 14b exhibited equipotency to clotrimazole against Candida albicans. Compounds 8b, 10f, 11b, 12a, and 13b exhibited, besides their antimicrobial activity, moderate to potent anti‐inflammatory profiles. This represents a fruitful matrix for the development of a new class of dual non‐acidic anti‐inflammatory/antimicrobial agents.
Cytotoxic and Antimicrobial Activities of Cu(II), Co(II), Pt(II) and Zn(II) Complexes with N,O‐Chelating Heterocyclic Carboxylates
Authors: Buczkowska Magdalena , Bodtke Anja , Lindequist Ulrike , Gdaniec Maria , Bednarski Patrick J.
Published: June 2011

A series of Cu(II), Co(II), Pt(II) and Zn(II) coordination compounds has been prepared by the reaction of the metal chlorides with pyrazine‐2‐carboxylic acid, pyridine‐2‐carboxylic acid, imidazole‐4‐carboxylic acid, benzimidazole‐2‐carboxylic acid and 1‐methylimidazole‐2‐carboxylic acid. The complexes were characterized by IR, UV‐VIS, elemental analysis, and some by 1H‐NMR, X‐ray crystallography, HPLC and LC/MS spectroscopy. All complexes consist of a 2:1 ratio of ligand to metal ion. IR and X‐ray crystallography show that coordination is through the nitrogen and carboxylate oxygen donor atoms of the ligand to form chelating rings. DFT calculations predict that the trans‐coordinated isomers are thermodynamically more stable than their cis‐forms. Only one of five complexes studied by X‐ray crystallography, Cu(II) complex of 1‐methylimidazole‐2‐carboxylic acid showed a cis‐configured metal ion center. HPLC analysis indicated that Pt(II) complex of 1‐methylimidazole‐2‐carboxylic acid is dominated (>90%) by the trans‐configured complex. All other complexes showed one isomer, presumably the trans‐form. The cytotoxic activity was investigated in human cancer cell lines in vitro; only the Pt(II) complexes were active. The antimicrobial activity against four bacterial strains and one fungi was estimated by the MIC method and best results were found amongst the Co(II) complexes. These results indicate that trans‐coordinated bischelating N,O‐heterocyclic carboxylates of Pt(II) are an interesting new class of potential antitumor agents.
Water‐soluble mercaptoundecanoic acid (MUA)‐coated CdTe quantum dots: one‐step microwave synthesis, characterization and cancer cell imaging
Authors: Dong Chaoqing , Ren Jicun
Published: June 2011

ABSTRACT: In this study, a one‐step approach for aqueous synthesis of highly luminescent semiconductors, CdTe quantum dots (QDs), using long‐chain thiols‐mercaptoundecanoic acid (MUA) as surface ligand, was developed in a microwave irradiation system. The synthetic conditions were systematically investigated. The as‐prepared MUA‐coated QDs were characterized by various spectroscopy techniques, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD). The experimental results document that MUA‐coated CdTe QDs have small diameter, good stability, high luminescence and long lifetime. Particularly, it was confirmed, using fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) that, compared with other ligand, MUA formed a thicker ligand layer on the QD surfaces, which will help their stability and conjugation with biomolecules. Furthermore, MUA‐coated QDs were successfully used for HeLa cell imaging. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.