bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ocean depth–temperature profiles for operational oceanography from a shark-borne transmitter
Authors: Holland Kim , Meyer Carl , Potemra James , Holland Melinda
Published: November 2022

Background

Many regions of the ocean are under-sampled in terms of their biology and physical structure. Increasingly sophisticated animal-borne electronic tags are capable of measuring and transmitting in situ environmental data such as ocean temperature–depth profiles. This has the potential to significantly augment the volume of data acquired from under-sampled regions of the ocean. These data would enhance interpretation of animal behavior and distribution and could be used to inform oceanographic and meteorological models. Building on results obtained from marine mammals and turtles, we present a case study of depth–temperature profiles obtained from a tagged tiger shark.

Results

During a 102-day deployment, 1350 geolocations were obtained from a shark from waters around Oahu, Hawaii. Of these, 520 were associated with depth–temperature profiles—some of which were from depths exceeding 500 m. Delay between profile creation and transmission to satellite or land-based receiver averaged 8.9 h (range: 35 s–43 h, median 6.32 h). The profiles were in close agreement with profiles extracted from nearby locations in an operational ROMS model. Land-based receivers played a significant role in augmenting data throughput obtained via satellites.

Conclusions

Shark-borne transmitters offer a viable option for collecting ocean profiles with reporting latencies that make them suitable for operational oceanography. They can significantly increase sampling frequency (especially subsurface) and sample geographic areas that are otherwise difficult to monitor with Lagrangian methods such as Argo floats. They sample locations and depths that are important to the animal and which in some cases may be biological hotspots. The resolution of the data is comparable with that derived from traditional platforms. By targeting appropriate species of shark, different areas of the ocean could be monitored at significantly higher rates than is currently the case.
Design and simulation of a neural interface based on a microfluidic flexible interconnection cable for chemical delivery
Authors: Kang Yoo Na , Chu Jun-Uk , Lee Kang-Ho , Lee Yongkoo , Kim Sohee
Published: November 2022

Neural interfaces are fundamental tools for transmitting information from the nervous system. Research on the immune response of an invasive neural interface is a field that requires continuous effort. Various efforts have been made to overcome or minimize limitations through modifying the designs and materials of neural interfaces, modifying surface characteristics, and adding functions to them. In this study, we demonstrate microfluidic channels with crater-shaped structures fabricated using parylene-C membranes for fluid delivery from the perspective of theory, design, and simulation. The simulation results indicated that the fluid flow depended on the size of the outlet and the alignment of microstructures inside the fluidic channel. All the results can be used to support the design of microfluidic channels made by membranes for drug delivery.
Recent trends in vanadium-based SCR catalysts for NOx reduction in industrial applications: stationary sources
Authors: Ye Bora , Jeong Bora , Lee Myeung-jin , Kim Tae Hyeong , Park Sam-Sik , Jung Jaeil , Lee Seunghyun , Kim Hong-Dae
Published: November 2022

Vanadium-based catalysts have been used for several decades in ammonia-based selective catalytic reduction (NH3-SCR) processes for reducing NOx emissions from various stationary sources (power plants, chemical plants, incinerators, steel mills, etc.) and mobile sources (large ships, automobiles, etc.). Vanadium-based catalysts containing various vanadium species have a high NOx reduction efficiency at temperatures of 350–400 °C, even if the vanadium species are added in small amounts. However, the strengthening of NOx emission regulations has necessitated the development of catalysts with higher NOx reduction efficiencies. Furthermore, there are several different requirements for the catalysts depending on the target industry and application. In general, the composition of SCR catalyst is determined by the components of the fuel and flue gas for a particular application. It is necessary to optimize the catalyst with regard to the reaction temperature, thermal and chemical durability, shape, and other relevant factors. This review comprehensively analyzes the properties that are required for SCR catalysts in different industries and the development strategies of high-performance and low-temperature vanadium-based catalysts. To analyze the recent research trends, the catalysts employed in power plants, incinerators, as well as cement and steel industries, that emit the highest amount of nitrogen oxides, are presented in detail along with their limitations. The recent developments in catalyst composition, structure, dispersion, and side reaction suppression technology to develop a high-efficiency catalyst are also summarized. As the composition of the vanadium-based catalyst depends mostly on the usage in stationary sources, various promoters and supports that improve the catalyst activity and suppress side reactions, along with the studies on the oxidation state of vanadium, are presented. Furthermore, the research trends related to the nano-dispersion of catalytically active materials using various supports, and controlling the side reactions using the structure of shaped catalysts are summarized. The review concludes with a discussion of the development direction and future prospects for high-efficiency SCR catalysts in different industrial fields.
Prevalence of hepatic vascular anomalies in consecutive contrast-enhanced computed tomography images — a retrospective observational study
Authors: Rajapriyan Panneerselvam , Dutta Souradeep , Nagarajan Krishnan , Ariharan Krishnaraj , Ramakrishnaiah Vishnu Prasad Nelamangala
Published: November 2022

Background

Liver is a complex, highly vascular organ, where anatomical variations are the norm. This study aimed to analyze all the three hepatic vascular anatomical variations in a single study which would help us understand the prevalence of hepatic vascular (arterial, portal, venous) anomalies in the population catered to by our institution.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 545 contrast-enhanced CT scans was done from November 2019 from the institute PACS after satisfying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The raw imaging data were processed in PACS software — Centricity™ Universal Viewer and Syngo.via Vb20 platform, for axial, coronal, and axial-oblique multiplanar reformation, maximum intensity projection (MIP), and volume rendering (VR) images. Data were analyzed in the three vascular phases to determine the anatomical variations. Analysis was done by two surgical residents in the division of HPB surgery, which was verified by a certified radiologist.

Results

There were no major differences in the prevalence rates of the vascular anomalies across gender and domicile distributions. The prevalence of normal hepatic artery and variant hepatic artery in our study was 69% and 31%, respectively. Accessory left hepatic artery (10%) was the most common hepatic artery variant in our study. Single RHV was seen in 77.4%, and other RHV variants like two RHV with common trunk, two RHV with independent drainage, and three RHV with common trunk contribute 22.6% of our study population. Accessory inferior RHV was seen in 19.8% of the study population. Normal portal vein anatomy was found in 81.1% in our study, and the most common variant in our study population was trifurcation of portal vein (16.1%).

Conclusion

This was the largest study until date from South India, studying all three hepatic vascular anatomical variations in a single study. Variations in the anatomy of hepatic arteries, portal veins, and hepatic veins are common. A good knowledge of the same is necessary especially for a hepatobiliary surgeon or for an interventional radiologist, to plan and avoid complications during a procedure. Preoperative contrast-enhanced CT scan and whenever necessary a VR or a MIP reconstruction will precisely help in identifying these variations.
Prescribing practices of Hormone Therapy for Menopausal females by OBGYN of Pakistan
Authors: Shah Nighat , Tariq Dr Hira , Fahad Khan Dr Farah , Shah Dr Nusrat
Published: November 2022

Objectives: To assess the prescribing practice of obstetricians and gynecologists (OBGYN) regarding Menopausal Hormone therapy (MHT) for menopausal females and assess the knowledge regarding indications for prescribing MHT and identify the barriers to HRT.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted from May 2021 to December 2021. The participants were OBGYN experts (MCPS, FCPS, MRCOG) and senior experts. The tool was formulated after looking at contemporary literature and then validated by experts for face, content and construct validity. It was piloted and hence fourth given to study participants after approval by IRB of JSMU. Data was analyzed by SPSS version 22. Mean and Standard Deviation of categories in Likert scale were calculated.

Results: Majority of the participant gynecologists prescribed HRT for Hot flushes and vaginal dryness having the highest mean scores nearing 4 on a Likert scale of (1-5). The prescription for other menopausal symptoms was observed to be less. The highest score for category of women in whom hormone therapy is specifically justified was “Premature ovarian failure” (4.37) followed by “Hysterectomy with bilateral oophorectomy before the age of 50” (4.23).

Conclusion: Pakistani gynecologists are more cautious in their management strategies concerning MHT. Most of the gynecologists showed good and up to date information while prescribing MHT however knowledge for preventing fractures, alleviating anxiety/depression and weight gain was less among the gynecologist of Pakistan. We recommend refresher courses and online webinars for updated information on menopause and its management.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.6176

How to cite this: Shah N, Tariq H, Khan F, Shah N. Prescribing practices of Hormone Therapy for Menopausal females by OBGYN of Pakistan. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(1):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.6176

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
The effect of low-molecular-weight heparin combined with amikacin on the coagulation function and bacterial clearance in the treatment of patients with severe senile pneumonia
Authors: Luo Aihong , Liu Ya
Published: November 2022

Objective: To analyze the effect of the combined low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) and amikacin treatment on the bacterial clearance and changes in coagulation function in patients with severe pneumonia (SP).

Methods: A single-center retrospective observational study was conducted. Medical records of 526 elderly patients with SP admitted to the ICU Department of Shandong Provincial Third Hospital from February, 2018 to December, 2021 were reviewed and 342 patients were identified. The patients were divided into two groups according to the treatment records: the study group (175 patients received LMWH combined with amikacin) and the control group (167 patients received amikacin). Changes in coagulation indexes before and after the treatment, as well as bacterial clearance rate and clinical efficacy after the treatment were compared between the two groups.

Results: There was no significant difference in prothrombin time (PT), D-Dimer (D-D), antithrombin III (AT-III) and fibrinogen (FIB) levels between the two groups before the treatment (P>0.05). After the treatment, levels of PT, D-D and FIB in the two groups decreased and the level of AT-III increased(P<0.05). Levels of PT, D-D and FIB in the study group were lower, and the level of AT-III was higher (P<0.05) that n in the control group. Bacterial clearance rate in the study group was (86.19%), higher than that in the control group (72.25%) (P<0.05). The total clinical effective rate of the study group (93.14%) was significantly higher than that of the control group (79.04%) (P<0.05).

Conclusions: Combining LMWH with amikacin in the treatment of elderly SP patients can improve the coagulation function and bacterial clearance, can promote the recovery of patients and has a good clinical application value.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.6627

How to cite this: Luo A, Liu Y. The effect of low-molecular-weight heparin combined with amikacin on the coagulation function and bacterial clearance in the treatment of patients with severe senile pneumonia. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(1):---------.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.6627

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Efficacy of multiple Biomarkers: NGAL, KIM1, Cystatin C and IL18 in predicting pregnancy related acute kidney injury
Authors: Naqvi Rubina , Hossain Nazli , Butt Sofia , Bhellar Zeenat , Fatima Erum , Imtiaz Sanam , Ghulam Moosa Palwasha , Abbas Khawar , Jafri Salma Batool , Khan Sadia
Published: November 2022

Objective: Several biomarkers like NGAL, KIM-1, IL-18, and Cystatin C has been previously reported as reliable marker to predict AKI. However, their predictive accuracy varies widely. We aim to observe the efficacy of multiple markers, NGAL, KIM-1, Cystatin C and IL-18, in obstetric population who are at risk of developing AKI.

Methods: This prospective study was carried out between June 2021 to March 2022 at Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology Unit II, Ruth Pfau KM Civil Hospital and Sindh Institute of Urology & Transplant (SIUT), Karachi Pakistan. On women brought to OBGYN-ER with the diagnosis of hemorrhage (antepartum and postpartum), hypertension (pre-eclampsia and eclampsia) and sepsis. The urine samples and 3cc blood was collected at the time of admission, blood sample processed for biochemistry at time of admission and repeat blood samples for serum creatinine at 24 and 48 hours. Urine was stored at -80ºC and later evaluated for NGAL, KIM-1, Cystatin C and IL-18. Serum Cystatin C was also processed for the time zero sample. The biomarkers were tested using ELISA assays.

Results: A total of 149 women were included in the study, 83% of these women were non-booked. Twenty-six (17%) women developed AKI. Serum Cystatin C, urinary Cystatin C and urinary NGAL were found significantly raised in women who developed AKI. While KIM-1 and IL-18 were not raised to statistical significance in this population. However, urinary KIM-1 along with urinary Cystatin C were significantly raised in women with positive quick sequential organ failure assessment (qSOFA).

Conclusion: This study validates the use of serum and urinary Cystatin C and urinary NGAL as highly predictable biomarkers for the development of AKI and nullifies urinary IL-18 and KIM-1 in this regard.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.6930

How to cite this: Naqvi R, Hossain N, Butt S, Bhellar Z, Fatima E, Imtiaz S, et al. Efficacy of multiple Biomarkers: NGAL, KIM1, Cystatin C and IL18 in predicting pregnancy related acute kidney injury. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(1):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.6930

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
For the love of all that is holy, stop prescribing sodium valproate and carbamazepine together
Authors: Jawaid Wajid
Published: November 2022

Sodium valproate and carbamazepine are two time-tested drugs for treatment of epilepsy. Individually, they are usually excellent choices in treating a broad spectrum of epileptic seizures. They are, however, not friendly with each other. Their co-administration affects the drug levels of each other by influencing the action of hepatic enzymes. This write up attempts to give an overview of the mechanism of this drug interaction, and informs readers why this combination is a bad choice. The author hopes that this will help in raising awareness among the physicians regarding the dangers of this prescription, and in putting a full stop to this practice.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.7281

How to cite this: Jawaid W. For the love of all that is holy, stop prescribing sodium valproate and carbamazepine together. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(1):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.7281

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Building consensus in research partnerships: a scoping review of consensus methods
Authors: Cary Miranda A. , Plamondon Katrina , Banner-Lukaris Davina , Oelke Nelly , Sibley Kathryn M. , Baxter Kristy , Vis-Dunbar Mathew , Hoens Alison M. , Wick Ursula , Bigsby Stefan , Wuerstl Kelsey , Gainforth Heather
Published: November 2022

Background:

Research partnership approaches that engage community members within the research team (for example, integrated knowledge translation, community-based participatory research) are typically used to enhance the relevance and usefulness of research findings. However, research outcomes generated through partnered research do not de facto address the priorities of those most affected nor take inclusion or power dynamics into consideration. Consensus methods (for example, Delphi, Deliberative Dialogue) can be used to develop evidence-based solutions by addressing the groups’ needs and priorities. Limited research has examined how consensus methods are used by research partnerships.

Aims and objectives:

Using the PRISMA-ScR checklist as a guide, this scoping review sought to better understand the use of consensus methods in research partnerships.

Methods:

The search strategy involved four databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EMBASE and CINAHL Plus). A total of 6,654 citations were screened, 404 were advanced for full text review, and 34 studies met eligibility criteria. Data from the 34 studies were extracted and iteratively analysed by three members of our research team.

Findings:

At least 11 different consensus methods were used with variations of the Delphi being most common. Issues of inclusion and power dynamics were rarely discussed. Overall, there was limited reporting of consensus methods, partnership approaches, and/or power dynamics.

Discussion and conclusions:

This review extends the literature by providing an overview of consensus methods that have been conducted in research partnerships and how they have been executed. We offer initial considerations for conducting and reporting on the use of consensus methods in research co-production.
THE SHIFTING PARADIGM IN INDONESIAN FILM DISTRIBUTION DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Patawari Muhammad Yunus , Sugiyanto Dyah Rachmawati
Published: November 2022

Cinemas or movie theaters are one of the industries that can hold its own amidst digital disruption. As a means of distribution and exhibition of conventional films, cinemas have the ability to adapt themselves to various digital innovations; starting from the audio-visual projection device, ticketing, payment system to 3D technology. The existence and survival of a cinema rely on two factors, namely film distribution and moviegoer factors, the COVID-19 pandemic has shifted these two factors. If previously movie distribution and moviegoing occurred conventionally, the two activities have shifted considerably to online distribution/streaming. This study analyzed the paradigm shift in film distribution and moviegoing during and after the pandemic using a “three-stage model of theory building” as an analytical tool which is part of the descriptive-qualitative methodology. The results showed that the COVID-19 pandemic is an anomaly that is shifting the paradigm in conventional film distribution as evidenced by the fact that it is not new media that pose a threat to the existence of cinemas, but the insubstantial social functions and cinema activities during the pandemic. There are five factors why cinemas will continue to develop as a film distribution and exhibition medium post COVID-19: cinema adaptation, big screen sensation, entertainment and social values, historical values, and economic factors.
SATIRICAL HUMOR AS CRITICS OF GOVERNMENT THROUGH EASTERN INDONESIAN STAND-UP COMEDIAN
Authors: Sihombing Lambok Hermanto
Published: November 2022

In Indonesia, Stand-up Comedy has become the most popular form of community entertainment, resulting in the emergence of influential youth culture. Stand-up Comedy has become a platform for comics to communicate political aspirations, worries, and criticisms. Three comics from Eastern Indonesia, Arie Kriting, Abdur, and Mamat Alkatiri, have continuously presented Stand-up Comedy material regarding socioeconomic disparity and the availability of public services in their native region. In addition to the aforementioned concerns, education, emancipation, economic, and technological issues are common discussion topics. Typically, Eastern Indonesian comic elements communicate criticisms and worries about inequality and underdevelopment. Due to the presence of some Comics from East Indonesia who regularly expressed and voiced the unrest and backwardness felt by the people of East Indonesia, this issue became popular and garnered widespread attention. This qualitative study analyzes the utilization of satire in stand-up comedy content. This study utilized Barbara Swovelin (2019) concept of Horatian Satire, Friedman's Menippean Satire (2019), and  Van Dijk's Critical Discourse Analysis approach. As a result of this study, Eastern comics used sarcasm and humorto express their dissatisfaction with the government.
VARIETY OF “KOPIKO” PRODUCT PLACEMENT IN VINCENZO'S KOREAN DRAMA ON TELEVISION: WHAT ARE THE ETHICS?
Authors: Amanda Gelgel Ni Made Ras , Rahma Praminia I Gusti Agung Ayu , Purnawan Ni Luh Ramaswati
Published: November 2022

Product placement or embedded marketing is a marketing technique that unites products or brands in activation or program, such as television programs, events, sports, video games, or movies. This technique is now often found on the screen of Sinetron in Indonesia. For this reason, this study aims to identify the variety of product placement in Sinetron Indonesia to be studied from the perspective of broadcasting ethics in Indonesia. The object of this research is the Korean drama Vincenzo. The concept of product placement used in this research is according to d'Astous and Sequin and Přikrylová dan Jahodová. The research method is descriptive qualitative with a study of visual data documentation on these four episodes of the Korean drama Vincenzo. The research found that the variety of product placement used is Integrated Explicit Product Placement. The actor plays an active role in the scene and is expressed formally in the program or plot. The main star clearly shows the attributes and benefits of the central hat. This product placement is no longer implicit or sponsorship but more open. Ethically this can psychologically impact the audience that this is not part of an advertisement but a Sinetron scene. This strategy does not protect the audience. It is because the message is disguised not as an advertisement but as a persuasion function.
POLITIC THROUGH DA’WAH ON FACEBOOK: EXPLORING DA’WAH STRATEGY IN WOMEN’S POLITICAL COMMUNICATION
Authors: Riauan Muhd Ar. Imam , Prihatin Panca Setyo , Muhlis Muhlis , Aisha Tengku Siti
Published: November 2022

This research investigates Da'wah activities conducted by women politicians on Facebook, focusing on Intsiawati Ayus, a member of the DPD RI in Indonesia. The study employs qualitative content analysis, utilizing a pragmatic form to classify signs related to Bil-Haal Da'wah and Bit-Tadwin Da'wah. A total of 26 Facebook posts from the influential female politician were analyzed. The findings reveal that women politicians engage in Bil-Haal Da'wah, which showcases exemplary da'wah activities for the community to emulate. Additionally, they conduct Bit-Tadwin Da'wah through written content on social media platforms. These results highlight the significant role of Muslim politicians, with verified Facebook accounts, in carrying out Da'wah activities beyond traditional preachers, providing insights into the communication strategies adopted by women politicians in promoting their political and religious beliefs. The politicians also encourage the audience to refrain from spreading fake news and pray for the deceased. They also advocate for spending time with family, emphasizing the significance of family bonding in Islamic teachings. The research concludes that politicians can effectively carry out da'wah activities through social media, setting examples for the community and fostering a sense of brotherhood and religious commitment among followers.
A Ação Tranformadora dos Contos de Autoria Feminina na Sociedade Contemporânea Brasileira na Perspetiva Pedagógico-Interventiva de Conceição Evaristo
Authors: Almeida Antônia Rosa , Silva Levi Leonido , Rodrigues João Bartolomeu , Morgado Elsa Gabriel
Published: November 2022

O conto contemporâneo de autoria feminina surge na literatura brasileira como um instrumento literário capaz de alterar o status quo do ser humano enquanto individuo, contribuindo desta feita para o aperfeiçoamento humano. Surge e manifesta-se como causa e efeito de transformação social: em primeiro lugar, assume a reivindicação da própria escrita feminina que busca o seu lugar no panteão da literatura; num segundo momento, ao jeito de fermento, vai levedando a massa que teimosamente cria resistências à mudança e paulatinamente vai ampliando as possibilidades transformadoras de que a escrita feminina é capaz de operar na sociedade, tornando-a, porventura, mais consciente de si, da sua natureza essencialmente dialógica. A expressão e valorização do conto brasileiro é sintoma suficientemente claro da aparição de um diálogo que nasce no intertexto da literatura feminina e se manifesta no formato de um plano dinâmico capaz de colocar o homem todo e todo homem na rota de uma nova axiologia ancorada em valores mais altos que se alevantam na defesa acérrima de um povo bem instruído capaz de colocar o seu país no carril do desenvolvimento: a literatura feminina será para a contista não um fim que se esgota em mesmo, mas o meio privilegiado de lançar à terra a boa semente e esperar que a colheita se traduza no nascimento de uma sociedade mais justa, mais fraterna, ancorada em alicerces humanitários.
Capacitação Tecnológica de Estudantes com Deficiência
Authors: De Souza Mariana Pinkoski , Da Silva Louise Quadros , Fossatti Paulo
Published: November 2022

Este artigo tem como tema a importância da capacitação de estudantes com deficiência para o uso de artefatos tecnológicos e a relevância para futura inclusão no mercado de trabalho. Seu objetivo versa sobre verificar a relevância da apropriação de tecnologias, para a futura inserção de pessoas com deficiência no mercado de trabalho. Para tal, realizamos uma pesquisa bibliográfica, de cunho qualitativo, sobre a temática por meio de livros, artigos, monografias, dissertações e teses. Os resultados apontam que existem tecnologias que não foram desenvolvidas com o propósito de auxiliar pessoas com deficiência, mas que podem ser exploradas neste sentido. Como considerações finais entendemos que as universidades devem estar atentas às diferentes possibilidades de uso das tecnologias para ajudar os estudantes com e sem deficiência. O mercado de trabalho é exigente, e a colocação do estudante com deficiência como profissional pode ser facilitada pela atuação em distintas funções, o que pode ocorrer por meio de tecnologias.
Zum Verhältnis von Staat und Religion bei Dante: Das heikle Beispiel König Sauls
Authors: Bender Niklas
Published: November 2022

Riassunto

L’opera dantesca è attraversata da un rapporto conflittuale tra pensiero politico e religioso, tra monarchia universale (concetto chiave nella Monarchia) e visione religiosa del mondo (essenziale alla Commedia). La vicenda di Saul occupa una posizione di rilievo in questo rapporto: simbolo del potere terreno, scelto da Dio e dal suo profeta Samuele come primo re d’Israele, Saul cade in disgrazia, per venire poi sostituito da Davide. L’articolo presenta la storia biblica e la sua ricezione presso quattro autori fondamentali del pensiero teologico e politico medievale per analizzare in seguito la rappresentazione dantesca dell’esempio di Saul, nel Purgatorio (canti X e XII) e nei trattati. Da una parte Saul, contrapposto a Davide, funge da figurazione della superbia, dall’altra costituisce un’eccezione, un intervento diretto di Dio nel campo politico.
Pier Damiani zwischen vita eremitica und vita apostolica
Authors: Bürgel Matthias
Published: November 2022

Riassunto

Come dimostra una lettura incrociata con i rispettivi canti dell’Inferno e del Purgatorio, il »dittico« Par. XXI/Par. XXII mette in risalto la possibilità di unire stile di vita contemplativo con fervore apostolico e pastorale. S. Pier Damiani funge da exemplum paradigmatico per una tale unione: infatti, il santo ravennate dimostra che l’ascesa dell’anima è basata sull’umiltà, sulla consapevolezza di essere peccatori, da cui sfocia però anche l’attività missionaria della predicazione. Autodefinendosi Pietro peccator (Par. XXI, 122), Pier Damiani evoca la confessione pietrina di Lc 5, 8: «peccator sum Domine». L’implicita presenza di quest’ultimo versetto neotestamentario spiega anche la variante pescator, lezione attestata da un folto numero di manoscritti appartenenti in modo compatto al gruppo del cento e che conferma ulteriormente il fatto che il verso dantesco in oggetto si riferisca al santo stesso.
Schein oder Erscheinen des Sittlichen?
Authors: Honneth Axel
Published: November 2022

The article attempts to show that Hegel’s concept of “civil society” is characterised by a deep ambivalence regarding the value of the new market economy. On the one hand, Hegel believed that the economic system represented by “civil society” succeeded like no other in simultaneously giving free reign to the desires of individual subjects and integrating them into a stable structural framework (I). On the other hand, Hegel’s reflections are increasingly overtaken by doubts as to whether, in the light of its self-destructive tendencies, the market system can be as successful in guaranteeing individual freedom as he first envisaged it tobe (II). In the course of this essay, it will ultimately become clear that Hegel’s attempt to redefine “civil society” reveals considerably more conceptual indecision and inner conflict than one might have suspected from the great system builder.
An update on placental drug transport and its relevance to fetal drug exposure
Authors: Mao Qingcheng , Chen Xin
Published: November 2022

Pregnant women are often complicated with diseases that require treatment with medication. Most drugs administered to pregnant women are off-label without the necessary dose, efficacy, and safety information. Knowledge concerning drug transfer across the placental barrier is essential for understanding fetal drug exposure and hence drug safety and efficacy to the fetus. Transporters expressed in the placenta, including adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-binding cassette efflux transporters and solute carrier uptake transporters, play important roles in determining drug transfer across the placental barrier, leading to fetal exposure to the drugs. In this review, we provide an update on placental drug transport, including in vitro cell/tissue, ex vivo human placenta perfusion, and in vivo animal studies that can be used to determine the expression and function of drug transporters in the placenta as well as placental drug transfer and fetal drug exposure. We also describe how the knowledge of placental drug transfer through passive diffusion or active transport can be combined with physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling and simulation to predict systemic fetal drug exposure. Finally, we highlight knowledge gaps in studying placental drug transport and predicting fetal drug exposure and discuss future research directions to fill these gaps.
Structural study of ceramic samples of the PbTiO3–BaTiO3–BaZrO3 system with a high PbTiO3 content studied by the Rietveld method
Authors: Sirotinkin Vladimir , Bush Alexandr , Kozlov Vladislav
Published: November 2022

The xBa(Ti(1−y)Zry)O3–(1−x)PbTiO3 ceramic samples with x = 0.3, y = 0.95; x = 0.3, y = 0.7; x = 0.3, y = 0.3; x = 0.3, y = 0.05; x = 0.5, y = 0.05 were synthesized by a solid state reaction technique. The XRD patterns of these samples have anisotropic broadening of diffraction peaks. The crystallographic data were analyzed by the Rietveld method. During the refinement process the Stephens’s approach was used. All the samples studied are solid solutions with the tetragonal perovskite structure. The degree of tetragonal distortion of these solid solutions decreases with an increase in the Zr content. The microstructure analysis showed that the broadening of the diffraction peaks on the XRD patterns is due to both strains and small crystallite sizes.
A Novel Multifunctional Ring Shear Apparatus for Investigating the Interface Strength Characteristics of Liner Systems
Authors: Liu Zhanlei , Shi Jianyong , Zhang Yuchen , Xu Gaojie , Shu Shi , Li Yuping , Lei Guohui
Published: November 2022

A novel multifunctional ring shear apparatus is introduced in this paper, which is developed for investigating the interface strength characteristics of liner systems in various waste containment and other facilities. Annular specimens with a 300-mm inner diameter and a 500-mm outer diameter are tested by the apparatus. This apparatus consists of four components: (1) the vertical loading system, (2) the torsional shearing system, (3) the multifunctional shearing box, and (4) the process control and data acquisition system. The advantages of this apparatus are as follows: (1) The specimen can be tested both in displacement control and stress control, during which the normal stress is maintained or varied as needed. (2) The maximum normal stress and shear stress that can be loaded are 2.39 and 2.59 MPa, respectively. (3) The shear displacement is unlimited and the real-time shear displacement of each interface in the liner system can be obtained. (4) Special nail plate panels are developed for clamping different types of geosynthetics. A new adaptive telescopic pressure plate device is also developed for testing other materials, such as the clay layer and sand layer, and adapting to its compression deformation without lateral deformation. The performance of the apparatus is comprehensively evaluated by the conventional shear mode experiment and mode switching shear experiment of the textured geomembrane/geotextile interface and the conventional shear experiment of the composite liner system.
Experimental Setup for Measuring p-y Curves of Rigid Walls Supporting Granular Backfill
Authors: El Chiti Imad , Najjar Shadi , Saad George , Sadek Salah
Published: November 2022

In the context of performance-based design, there is interest in quantifying the relationship between the lateral earth pressure and the wall displacement using the concept of p-y curves. Although p-y curves have been extensively used in the analysis of piles, their use in the analysis of rigid walls is still in its early stages. There is a need for realistic and simplified models that could describe the p-y relationship for rigid walls to be used as input in robust soil-structure-interaction analyses. This paper aims at studying the development of lateral stresses behind rigid walls in the context of p-y curves using a laboratory-scale retaining wall prototype that is 0.5 m wide, 1.2 m high, and 2.6 m long. The main objective is to provide insight on the p-y response behind rigid walls under static and cyclic loading conditions for different backfill densities and confinement conditions. Results indicate that the proposed experimental setup yields repeatable and consistent measurements of the p-y response, which was found to be highly nonlinear and not adequately represented by the simple elastic-perfectly plastic model that was adopted in the literature in modeling soil-structure interaction between basement walls and sand backfill. Unique results from the cyclic tests indicated a process of densification that dominated the volumetric tendency of the sand during cyclic loading, with the p-y curves showing a significant increase in stiffness and maximum pressure at the passive side after 10 loading cycles. The gradual increase in stiffness decreased with the number of cycles until convergence in the passive stiffness was observed after 9 to 10 cycles.
Evaluating the Rutting and Cracking Resistance of Asphalt Mixes Subjected to Different Silo Storage Times
Authors: Elkashef Mohamed , Harvey John T. , Jones David , Jiao Liya
Published: November 2022

Plant-produced asphalt mixes can be stored in the silo for a few hours prior to being transported to the construction site. The mixes undergo additional aging during silo storage because of the high temperature in the silo. This additional aging of the mixes is not accounted for during the mix design process and could greatly influence the mix properties. Additional blending between the virgin and recycled binder could also take place in mixes containing reclaimed asphalt pavement or reclaimed asphalt shingles. In this study, four asphalt mixes were collected from different regions within California before and after silo storage. The plant-produced mixes were sampled at the hot drop point directly from the plant discharge, as well as from the silo after storage for 5–16 h. The rutting and cracking behavior of the mixes was assessed using the Hamburg wheel tracking (HWT) test, the repeated load triaxial (RLT) test, and the indirect tensile asphalt cracking test (IDEAL-CT). The rut depth from the HWT test, the flow number and cycles at 5 % permanent strain from the unconfined RLT test, and the CTindex from the IDEAL-CT were determined before and after silo storage. The results clearly show that the silo storage has a notable effect on both the rutting and cracking resistance, even for short durations (i.e., 5–6 h). The rutting resistance, as given by the HWT results, increased for three out of the four mixes after silo storage, whereas the cracking resistance decreased for all mixes.
Design, Fabrication, and Experiments of a Soft Pneumatic Gripper with Closed-Loop Position Control
Authors: Uludag Muhammet , Ulkir Osman , Ertugrul Ishak , Kaplanoglu Erkan
Published: November 2022

Soft pneumatic grippers (SPGs) contribute significantly to the development of soft robotic devices and help enable different and complex hardware designs for soft robots. Apart from the many advantages, the lack of position feedback of soft grippers presents a problem for position control. This study aims to examine this problem with the SPG, which is fabricated using additive manufacturing technology. The soft gripper is fabricated in two parts using the molding technique. The structure of the gripper consists of molded silicone (room-temperature-vulcanizing [room-temperature-vulcanizing]-3015) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film consisting of chambers. These sections are an active chamber consisting of 10 airtight sections that can be operated with compressed air and a passive chamber covered with PET film. During the bending of the SPG, the PET film inside the passive chamber begins to be compressed by the compressed air, resulting in a higher load-holding capacity of the gripper. In addition, the position of the feedback module made of flex sensor is integrated during fabrication. Various experiments were carried out to evaluate the performance of the SPG. Finite element analysis of the gripper was performed with COMSOL to compare the accuracy of real-time experiments. With the experimental studies’ results, the SPG’s motion characteristics, the relationship between the bending angle and the pressure, and the position-tracking performance were analyzed. Experimental results of the SPG were found to be in good agreement with the simulation results. The experimental results determined that the SPG showed successful trajectory tracking performance with the proportional-integral-derivative control algorithm. The root mean square value for the controller is calculated as 0.1245°.
Peri-Inguinal Hernias in Laparoscopic era
Authors: Sánchez A Weber , EM Palmisano
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Hernias that do not correspond to the usual sites of hernias in the inguinal and femoral region have been described. Laparoscopic vision provides a much broader and clearer perspective that allows visualizing these hernia defects. The purpose of this paper is to report two cases of peri-inguinal hernias solved by laparoscopy, and to review this unknown situation by many surgeons today. Methods: A search of the terms “peri-inguinal hernia”, “periinguinal hernia”, “para-inguinal hernia”, and parainguinal hernia” was performed in the databases PubMed, SciELO and Medline; supplemented by means of the search engine Google, Yahoo and Wikipedia, searching also reference lists of similar cases and review articles. Conclusion: Peri-inguinal hernias are a very rare type of hernias. These hernias are a reality that must be recognized, and laparoscopy is a very useful method to diagnose and treat them.
Perception of value and effectiveness of cadaveric dissection in human anatomy teaching among undergraduate and surgical post-graduate students in the university of Nairobi
Authors: Mohamed Nazir,1 Sumeiya , Butt Fawzia , Gathece Loice , Mutungi Koki
Published: November 2022

Background: Over the years medical educational approach to the teaching of anatomy has been centered on the use of cadaveric dissection or prosected specimen. However, there is currently a worldwide debate on the value and duration of dissection as a teaching tool in Human Anatomy. Therefore, it was important to determine what the students felt about cadaveric dissection and evaluate its value as a teaching method in learning anatomy. Objective: To investigate the perception of undergraduate and postgraduate medical and dental students towards the value and effectiveness of cadaveric dissection in the teaching of Human Anatomy at the University of Nairobi. Methods: A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted. Questionnaires were distributed among undergraduate and postgraduate medical and dental practitioners in the University of Nairobi. The data collected was analyzed using SPSS (Statistics Package for Social Sciences) and presented in tables and graphs Results: Out of the 107 students sampled, 73.33% were against a reduction in cadaveric dissection because it provides 3D perception of the human body (76.36%) and it assists in relating pathology to the relevant anatomy (70.91%). The students who preferred a reduction in cadaveric reported that it was too time consuming (90%) and felt that the time should be allocated to the clinical sciences (45%). Majority of the post-graduate students sampled thought that learning anatomy was relevant to their current profession (70.67). Conclusion: The results demonstrate that students perceive cadaveric dissection to be a valuable tool that should remain at the core of learning anatomy.
Explicative factors of the low uptake of modern contraceptives practice among women of childbearing age in Kumbo West Health District, North West Region, Cameroon
Authors: Tebeu Pierre Marie , Dubila Edward , Mve Ngou Jean Pierre Ngou , Njamen Theophile Nana , Antaon Jesse Saint Saba , Kongnyuy Eugene
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Contraception is a main pillar for reducing maternal mortality. Modern contraceptive (MC) prevalence is low in Cameroon. Objective: To analyze the explicative factors of low uptake of modern contraceptives. Material and methods: This was a cross-sectional analytic study in Kumbo West health district, in the North West Region, after the Catholic University Ethical Committee approval. A total of 250 women were interviewed on their use of MC, their socio-demographic and reproductive health characteristics. Ever users and never users of MCs were compared. Data analysis was performed using EPI-info.7.2 Odds ratio, with its 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to appreciate associations between different variables and no use of MC. The level of significance was set up at p<0.05. Results: Among the overall 250 participants, 99 had ever use MC (39.6%) and 44 women were currently under MC (17.6%). Never use of MC was associated with low level of education (68.5% vs. 31.5 %; AOR=3.64; 95% CI: 2.74-4.82; p=0.0001); living far from the health facility (84.0% vs. 16.0%; AOR: 3.32; 95%CI: 2.23-4.95; p=0.0001); lack of counseling on MC (93.6% vs. 5%; AOR: 2.71; 95%CI: 1.97-3.75); p=0.0001); lack of couple discussion on MC (83.7% vs.16.3%; AOR: 3.07 (2.22-4.25); p=0.0001); decision for MC use belonging to the partner (71.2% vs. 28.8%; AOR: 1.31 (1.9-1.45); p=0.0001); and low monthly income less than 36 000 CFA was associated to non-use of MCs (64.9% vs. 35.1%; AOR: 2.56; 95%CI: 1.81-3.62, p=0.0001). Conclusion: MC Uptake is low in Kumbo and most explicative factors are modifiable. Program managers must use them for developing strategies if they are expecting to increase the MC use.
Profitability of Islamic banks verses conventional banks in Pakistan
Authors: Kazim Rizwan
Published: November 2022

This research study analyzes the profitability of Islamic banks versus conventional banks in Pakistan from 2006 to 2020. The main objective of this study was to examine the profitability of three Islamic banks, Bankislami, Dubai Islamic Bank Ltd, and Meezaan Bank, whereas three conventional banks like Habib Bank Limited (HBL), Muslim Commercial Bank (MCB), United Bank Limited (UBL) in Pakistan from the year 2006 to 2020. This study investigates whether Islamic banks are performing well in Pakistan compared to conventional banks. Ratio analysis has been used to measure profitability, and two variables have been used, ROA and ROE, to measure the banking sector's profitability. The study concluded that Islamic banks were more profitable during the year 2007-2008 only while conventional banks were more profitable in the year from 2006- 2015 except 2008, in respect of ratio analysis, although in the year 2007-8 performance and profitability of Islamic banks are suitable according to the overall results conventional banks are more efficient and profitable than Islamic banks in Pakistan.
Determinisme Teknologi dan Ekstensi Manusia
Authors: Muqsith Munadhil Abdul
Published: November 2022

Tulisan ini ingin menjelaskan Determinisme teknologi dan eksesnya terhadap Manusia. Menusia yang menciptakan teknologi lewat penemuan dan penciptaan, ternyata justru berbanding terbalik. Teknologi yang diharapkan dapat menyelesaikan persoalan manusia, justru kita manusia terpengaruh oleh ketergantungan terhadap teknologi. Bayangkan saja, bila manusia tidak punya telpon genggam. Seperti apa manusia itu di era sekarang?. Namun demikian realitanya, bagimana ketergantungan bahkan sampai tingkat kecanduan manusia pada perangkat cerdas itu tidak bisa kita dilepaskan. Bagimana joget-joget viral di tiktok yang dilakukan oleh suku pedalaman di Afrika misalnya. Oleh karena itu, penulis akan membedah melalui tulisan ini bagimana berbagai pandangan ahli terkait determinisme teknologi dan dampaknya terhadap manusia