bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-Step Synthesis, Characterization and Bioevaluation of Novel 2-(3-Methoxy-9H-carbazol-9-yl)-N-phenyl Acetamide Analogues
Authors: Rao Ch. Visweswara , Shaik Lakshman
Published: April 2024

In this work, the multi-step synthesis and characterization of novel 2-(3-methoxy-9H-carbazol-9-yl)-N-phenyl acetamide analogues is presented. These analogues were synthesized from 2-(3-methoxy-9H-carbzol-9-yl)acetyl chloride with substituted aromatic primary amines in the presence of organic base such as triethylamine and methylene dichloride under reflux conditions. The elemental analysis and structures of these novel compounds were elucidated by analyzing spectral data obtained through 1H NMR, 13C NMR and LCMS techniques. The bioevaluation of these newly synthesized compounds has been studied by evaluating their antibacterial and antifungal activities against various kinds of bacterial and fungal strains, respectively.
Synthesis, Characterization of ZnO-based Nanocomposites and its Effect on the Viscosity of Gasoline Engine Lubricating Oil
Authors: Sadananda  , Crasta Gladson Francis , Divya R. , Shetty Sumanth , Nagalakshmee M. , Manjesh D.M. , Rangappa Dinesh , Shetty Manjunath
Published: April 2024

This study represents the synthesis, characterization of ZnO nanoparticles and encapsulated composites with MWCNT, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) for the lubricating performance in petrol engine oil. The facile sol-gel process was used to synthesize ZnO and ZnO-based nanocomposites followed by annealing at 500 ºC. ZnO-based nanocomposite  samples were prepared by adding different secondary encapsulating agents such as MWCNT (with different wt.% of 1, 2 and 3), SDS  and CTAB. The as-synthesized ZnO and ZnO-based nanocomposite samples were further dispersed in 20W40 grade engine oil  separately by taking 50 mL volume of oil. Different amounts of the synthesized samples of 50 mg, 100 mg and 150 mg were blended  with the lubricant accordingly by the sonication process. After that the viscosity performances were carried out for all the prepared  samples. The dynamic and kinematic viscosity were measured using a redwood viscometer and the temperature varied throughout the  analysis at 34, 44 and 55 ºC to observe the optimum temperature effect on viscosity performance. The objective of this work is to  determine the temperature effects on the viscosity of commercial lubricant 20W40 grade by blending with different suspended novel  nanomaterials.
Rivea hypocrateriformis Plant Extract Mediated Synthesis of ZnO Nanoparticles: Characterization, Antioxidant and Anticancer Activities
Authors: Balaji M. , Rajesh P. , Velmani V. , Parethe G.T. , Kavica S.
Published: April 2024

Nanomedicine has emerged as a promising approach for cancer diagnosis and treatment. This study explores the green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using Rivea hypocrateriformis extract. The synthesized ZnO nanoparticles were characterized through UV-vis, FT-IR, zeta potential, XRD, SEM with EDS and TEM analyses. These nanoparticles were also evaluated for their impact on A549 cell lines. The UV visible spectroscopy identified absorbance peaks, while FT-IR analysis detected various functional groups. SEM and XRD images confirmed the partial crystal spherical form and crystal nature. The cytotoxicity assessments revealed an enhanced cytotoxic effect, marking a significant step toward synthesizing ZnONPs as potential anticancer agents. This research suggests the potential of these nanoparticles as chemo-preventive agents in future cancer treatments, in addition to their strong antioxidant properties.
Computational Study of the Antioxidative Potential of Substituted Hydroxy-2-arylbenzothiazole Derivatives
Authors: Babiker Musa Elballa Mohamed
Published: April 2024

This study use density functional theory B3LYP/6-31+G(d) methods to examine theoretically the electrical and structural characteristics of substituted hydroxy-2-arylbenzothiazole derivatives, which contribute to their ability to scavenge free radicals. It was found that the antioxidant activities increase with small the energy gap ΔE (EL-EH), lower ionization potential (IP), lower hardness (η), higher softness (S), higher dipole moment, higher negative total energy of optimization and high the net charge. These values are interpreted with experimental equivalent antioxidant values. Two series of compounds, series one, compounds 1-6 (hydroxyl groups attached to aryl ring) and series two viz. compounds 7-10 (substituent to ortho-position of phenyl ring) were studied. It was observed that in series one, compound 6 with three hydroxy substituent had the lowest energy gap ΔE, lowest IP, lowest hardness (η), highest softness (S), highest dipole moment, highest total negative energy of optimization and compound 1 with no substituent had highest energy gap ΔE, highest IP, highest hardness (η), lowest softness (S), lowest dipole moment, lowest negative total energy of optimization. The results of the antioxidant activity are in the following order: 6 > 5 > 4 > 2 > 3 > 1. The introduction of the strongly electron-withdrawing substituent, –NO2 and –CN groups attached to phenyl ring of hydroxy-2-arylbenzothiazole nucleus improve the effect of antioxidant activity. On the basis of these findings, a novel antioxidant compound that possesses enhanced activity can be developed.
Synthesis and in silico Assessment of Heteroaryl Semicarbazones: Towards Understanding Antimicrobial Activities and Safety Profiles
Authors: Rao Nidagurthi Guggulla Raghavendra , Chitrapu Prashanti , Singh Gurinderdeep , Pulipati Sowjanya , Veluru Hari
Published: April 2024

Seven semicarbazone derivatives incorporating either substituted furan or thiophene were synthesized by reacting phenylurea with semicarbazide and various heteroaryl aldehydes. The newly synthesized compounds were characterized using IR, NMR, mass spectrometry and elemental analysis. Additionally, their antibacterial and anti-tubercular activities were also evaluated. In silico tools such as Swiss ADME and Pro Tox II were employed to assess molecular targets, medicinal chemistry properties, as well as toxicity and safety profiles. Compounds 3a-g demonstrated significant antibacterial activity at a 100 µg/mL when compared to the standard ciprofloxacin. Notably, compounds 3c, 3d, 3f and 3g exhibited the highest activity against all bacterial strains. Furthermore, compound 3d demonstrated anti-tubercular activity at all tested concentrations.
Novel Phenothiazine and Coumarin based Sensitizers: Design, Synthesis and Photoelectrochemical Application by Anchoring on CdS Nanowires
Authors: Madar Suresh F. , Mendhe Avinash C. , Mavazzan Ahmedraza , Bayannavar Praveen K. , Sankapal Babasaheb R. , Nadoni Vishwa B. , Kamble Ravindra R. , Pasha Mussuvir
Published: April 2024

Novel metal-free organic dyes (E)-2-cyano-3-(10-(prop-2-yn-1-yl)-10H-phenothiazin-3-yl)acrylic acid (PPC) and (E)-2-cyano-3-(10-((1-((7-methyl-2-oxo-2H-chromen-4-yl)methyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)methyl)-4a,10a-dihydro-10H-phenothiazin-3-yl)acrylic acid (PCTC) was synthesized and then anchored to 1D cadmium sulfide nanowires (1D CdS NWs) for application in photoelectrochemical dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC). The 1D CdS nanowires were interconnected into a nanonetwork using solution chemistry in a straightforward and efficient manner. The UV-visible spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry and density functional theory (DFT) were effectively employed to analyze the characteristics of PPC and PCTC. The sensitizer-anchored CdS nanowires have a broader range of light absorption in the UV-visible spectrum compared to bare CdS nanowires. The complete device has the assembly FTO, compact CdS, CdS nanowires, synthesized dye and counter electrode. In photovoltaic assessment, the PCTC and PPC devices yield 3.19 and 3.04 times, respectively, more efficiency than naked CdS nanowires under conventional sunshine illumination (100 mW/cm2, AM 1.5G). The obtained results provide strong evidence supporting the presence of rising external quantum efficiency (EQE) and show a high level of consistency with the optical tests.
Growth performance, haemato-biochemical indices of broiler chicken fed Aristolochia indica as a phytogenic feed additive
Authors: Alagbe John Olujimi
Published: April 2024

This experiment was carried out to examine the growth performance and some heamato-biochemical indices of broiler chicken fed Aristolochia indica (ALM) as a phytogenic feed additive. A total of 500 – 1-day old (Vencobb 450) with initial body weight of 48.0 ± 0.02 g were randomly divided to 5 groups with 5 replicates for each group. Basal diet (a corn-soya meal based diet) was sufficient in all nutrients (NRC, 1994). Birds in group 1 was fed basal diet without A. indica leaf meal, those in group 2, 3, 4 and 5 were fed basal diet with supplemented with A. indica leaf meal at 100 g, 200 g, 300 g and 400 g per 100 kg-1 respectively. Fresh clean water and feed were offered ad libitum. Results on phyto-constituents of Aristolochia indica leaf meal showed that it contained flavonoids (996.05 mg/100 g-1), tannins (609.7 mg/100 g-1), phenols (1341.8 mg/100 g-1), steroids (206.17 mg/100 g-1), alkaloids (151.8 mg/100g) and saponins (91.21 mg/100g). Average daily weight gain, average daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio were higher in group 4 and 5, intermediate in group 3 and lower in group 1 and 2 (P < 0.05). Mortality of 2.20 % was recorded in group 1 while none was recorded in the other treatment (P < 0.05). Pack cell volume, red blood cell, haemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, white blood cell, lymphocytes and monocyte values were significantly (P < 0.05) different among the groups except for basophil values (P > 0.05). Total protein, albumin/globulin ratio, urea, creatinine, glucose and cholesterol were influenced (P < 0.05) by the treatment except for alkaline phosphatase, alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase values (P > 0.05). In conclusion, ALM can be fed up to 400 g in the diet of broilers without compromising their performance and health status.
Natural History of Indeterminate Liver Nodules in Patients With Advanced Liver Disease: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Singal Amit G. , Parikh Neehar D. , Shetty Kirti , Han Steven-Huy , Xie Cassie , Ning Jing , Rinaudo Jo Ann , Arvind Ashwini , Lok Anna S. , Kanwal Fasiha ,   the Translational Liver Cancer Investigators
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Indeterminate liver nodules (ILNs) are frequently encountered on diagnostic imaging after positive hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance results, but their natural history remains unclear.

METHODS:

We conducted a multicenter retrospective cohort study among patients with ≥1 newly detected LI-RADS 3 (LR-3) lesion ≥1 cm or LI-RADS 4 (LR-4) lesion of any size (per LI-RADS v2018) between January 2018 and December 2019. Patients were followed with repeat imaging at each site per institutional standard of care. Multivariable Fine-Gray models were used to evaluate associations between potential risk factors and patient-level time-to-HCC diagnosis, with death and liver transplantation as competing risks.

RESULTS:

Of 307 patients with ILNs, 208 had LR-3 lesions, 83 had LR-4 lesions, and 16 had both LR-3 and LR-4 lesions. HCC incidence rates for patients with LR-3 and LR-4 lesions were 110 (95% CI 70–150) and 420 (95% CI 310–560) per 1,000 person-year, respectively. In multivariable analysis, incident HCC among patients with LR-3 lesions was associated with older age, thrombocytopenia (platelet count ≤150 ×109/L), and elevated serum alpha-fetoprotein levels. Among those with LR-4 lesions, incident HCC was associated with a maximum lesion diameter >1 cm. Although most patients had follow-up computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, 13.7% had no follow-up imaging and another 14.3% had follow-up ultrasound only.

DISCUSSION:

ILNs have a high but variable risk of HCC, with 4-fold higher risk in patients with LR-4 lesions than those with LR-3 lesions, highlighting a need for accurate risk stratification tools and close follow-up in this population.
A social realist view of contextual disruption through (un)conferencing
Authors: de Klerk Danie , Frade Nelia , Ramrung Arthi , Fontaine-Rainen Danielle
Published: April 2024

Disruptions within higher education are seldom effortless and often provocative. They may result in a break from traditional, established educational models of knowledge transmission, offering alternative ways of accessing and cocreating knowledge. In 2021, the Higher Education Learning and Teaching Association of Southern Africa (HELTASA) adopted an (un)conferencing methodology for its annual conference. In this paper, the association’s Student Learning Project Team explores contextual disruption against the (un)conferencing backdrop. Critical reflective accounts by project-team members provide the empirical grounding for the paper. First, the notions of context and contextual disruption are discussed. Second, the reflective accounts are analysed using Archer’s structure, culture, and agency, as analytical framework. Third, Archer’s morphogenetic framework is used to appraise whether change or stasis occurred within the project team. Finally, recommendations for others wishing to facilitate intentional contextual disruption are shared. Ultimately, the article provides insight into the intricacies of contextual disruption as part of (un)conferencing.
Productive Disruption as a critical enabler for organisational change
Authors: Behari-Leak Kasturi , Ganas Rieta
Published: April 2024

Faced with challenges of being isolated through COVID-19, HELTASA leadership embarked on a process of productive disruption to restructure and reshape the organisation to be more agile and responsive. Embraced as a potential organisational catalyst for change, we used productive disruption as a catalyst for structural reorganisation and expansive capacity building; and methodological disruption through the unprecedented (un)conference experience that encouraged equitable and socially inclusive participation. We present a duo-ethnographic case study of productive disruption of organisational structure in a context of crisis. Data was generated through deliberations, reflections, provocations, and memory work by the leadership level. We reflect on and analyse the outcomes of the expansion and change to assess if HELTASA’s shapeshifting could be contextually responsive, resilient, and relevant. We conclude that productive disruption is a necessary intervention when ‘business as usual’ no longer offers the stretch and growth needed for professional organisations to survive and be sustained.
Ken jy My Hart?
Authors: Fredericks Gaireyah
Published: April 2024

Ek is een vanne twieling. Op ’n paa mâne val my suster op haa kop en daana begin sy fit. Epileptiese aanvalle soes die doktus ôs verduidelik et. Soe nou was sy die siek kint en ek die invisable, of soe het ek daao gevoel. As sy ’n fit gekry et moes ek by haa sit in case sy wee een kry. My ma-hulle’t dan tiê oppie stoep gedrink en gesels en ek’t yti kamevenster die kinnes en my niggies sien aeroplane-hokkie oppie pavement voorie hys sien speel, while ek my siste guard. Ek kan onhou. In primary skool. In stanerd vier. Dai jaar wassit op sy ergste. As sy oppie skool ’n toeval gekry et, dat ekkie net geworry dat sy sal dood gani, ma oek geworry ori kinnes wat ek moet regsien wat nog kans sien ve haa condition mock deur hulle gesigte te trek soes sy lyk as sy fight om asem te kry. Wanne sy fit, is haa brein oxygen deprived en kannit breindood cause. Hulle hettie dai gewietie en niemand herrit ve hulle ooit gesê nie, ma ek het gewiet. En ek’t nooit kans gekry om eers dit te onthou innie moment ie, want ek moes sieke maak sy’s op haa linke sy en haa tong probee sy nie afbyt ie. Soe ek moes focus en amal ytblock en ma die bysake virrie aftermath los. Dit was horrible en ek was daa. Deur alles, amper altyd. Ek was haa bodyguard.
Daseinsvorsorge in ländlichen Räumen neu denken?
Authors: Adam Hernández Alistair , Steinführer Annett , Voß Winrich
Published: April 2024

Editorial
Academic Self-problems of Candidate Teachers of Native Language: “I am not sure what or how to learn.” But I must be sure of what I can teach.”
Authors: Demir Sezgin , Orhan Belkıs
Published: April 2024

Academic self-concept is an individuals’ self-definition using their experiences in the educational process or their views on their own skills and interests. This study aims to determine the academic self-perception of teacher candidates of native language. This study was conducted with a qualitative approach in a phenomenological design. The study group consisted of 10 female and 6 male native language teacher candidates at a university located in the eastern part of Turkey. During the data collection process, semi-structured interviews were conducted with open-ended questions, the data collected with a voice recorder was converted into a written text. Participant views were subjected to content analysis. The first, last, and focus codings were completed for “coder reliability;” and an external controller was also used. In this study, the data source was diversified with reminder notes and observation reports for stability and transparency. The findings revealed that most participants had high verbal abilities and interests, and weak numerical abilities and interests. Additionally, the views that they were unable to make the right choices in line with their abilities and interests and therefore could not achieve their academic self-concept and goals are remarkable.
Native Chinese Language Teachers’ Beliefs about Teaching Chinese Abroad
Authors: Aftab Mariam , Khan Muhammad Asim
Published: April 2024

The impact of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) expansion has changed the dynamics of foreign language learning in Pakistan. Due to the increased regional importance of Chinese language, some public and private sector universities are offering Chinese as a compulsory language course at the undergraduate level. Due to the significance of forthcoming opportunities for local youth, one public university in Karachi, Pakistan hired native Chinese teachers to teach undergraduate students Chinese as a foreign language. The present study explored the beliefs of Chinese teachers based on their teaching experiences at the university. Data for this collective case study was collected through semi-structured interviews with three native-Chinese teachers and analysed thematically. The findings revealed that the Chinese teachers held positive beliefs about the prospects of Chinese language learning in Pakistan due to job opportunities. However, they seemed to hold reservations regarding the limited time span for the offered Chinese language course. There were also certain negative beliefs in connection with the traditional learning practices of the learners which the teachers considered barriers to the learners’ language learning. These findings depict the requisite exigency to address the issues highlighted by the Chinese teachers for effective Chinese language learning. The beliefs of teachers and their shared experiences need to be addressed for productive development in teaching and learning Chinese. Curriculum designers and decisionmakers should consider teachers’ beliefs to align the curriculum and teaching methodologies as per the provision that includes teachers’ experiences to further improve Chinese language teaching and learning.
High School Teachers' Opinions on Homework
Authors: Ömeroğlu Adalet , Ozan Ceyhun
Published: April 2024

The research aims to examine the opinions of high school teachers about homework. The researchers designed the study as a phenomenology design, a qualitative research method. The researchers developed a semi-structured interview form as a data collection tool in the study. Six branch teachers working in three different types of high schools, namely Vocational High School, Anatolian High School, and Project-Based Science High School in Erzurum city centre during the 2021-2022 academic year, voluntarily participated. They were included in the research using the maximum diversity sampling method. The researchers examined the data obtained using the thematic analysis method. As a result of the analysis, while there were general differences in our teachers' opinions about homework, similarities were seen in using homework as a measurement-evaluation tool. Notably, homework, which serves as an essential method in the educational process, exhibits profound differences among teachers and students. These differences encompass a broad spectrum, spanning from the type of school to the type of course, encompassing how homework is implemented and the approaches students take towards it. Furthermore, the researchers have identified that the primary motivation for completing homework in high school either stems from anxiety about receiving grades or arises from the preference of senior students for a single type of homework (question-solving) as they strive to prepare for university exams.
Functional disorders of the gastrointestinal tract in children of different age groups (a literature review)
Authors: Nedelska S. M. , Samokhin I. V. , Kriazhev O. V. , Yartseva D. O. , Bessikalo T. H. , Kliatska L. I.
Published: April 2024

In recent years, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract are becoming more common with economic and social impacts. It is believed that in terms of frequency, they rank second both among the adult and pediatric population, second only to respiratory system diseases. Due to significant morphological and physiological changes in individual organs and systems during the period of intensive development of a child, the formation of gastroenterological pathology occurs most often at the age of 5–6 or 9–12 years, that gives rise to various functional disorders of the gastrointestinal tract.
There is an opinion that among older children, such functional disorders are often bordering on pathology, prompting pediatricians to an increased interest in their etiology, pathogenesis and current therapy.
Aim. To highlight the state of the problem associated with the most frequent functional disorders of the gastrointestinal tract in children at the present stage.
According to the recent recommendations, it has been recommended to consider functional changes as disorders of the interaction between the brain and the gastrointestinal tract (disorders of gut-brain interaction).The underlying disorders are abnormal motility, visceral hypersensitivity, the state of the gastrointestinal mucosa and local immune factors, intestinal microflora, activity of the central and autonomic nervous system. Most researchers tend to think about the key role of impaired autonomic regulation of sphincter activity in the pathogenesis of motor-evacuatory dysfunction of the alimentary canal in children, buoyed by the fact that often the lack of gastrointestinal organic lesions in motility disorders indicates their dysregulatory character.
Conclusions. Functional disorders of the gastrointestinal tract have an extraordinary brightness of pain syndrome perception (no organic pathology would give such a wide array of symptoms as functional disorders) and a variable pattern of symptoms, so it becomes clear why these diseases impose a major economic burden, and it is this characteristic enables them to be classified as socially significant disorders. This requires a physician at various levels of medical care to provide timely diagnosis, differential diagnosis between organic gastrointestinal diseases, and timely correction of functional disorders.
Prospects for the creation of new phytochemical medicinal products based on Myrtus communis L. (a review)
Authors: Matsehorova O. Ye. , Odyntsova V. M.
Published: April 2024

The number of medicinal products based on biologically active substances (BAS) of plant origin is increasing every year. Scientists are exploring non-official plant raw materials used in non-traditional medicine to expand the raw material base for creating new phytopreparations. Among numerous plants, common myrtle (Myrtus communis L.), which is a fairly common indoor plant, is recognized as a valuable source of BAS.
The aim of the work is to analyze and summarize new literature data on the botanical characteristics, chemical composition, pharmacological and toxicological properties of Myrtus communis L.
Materials and methods. Data were collected from several legitimate databases and services such as PubMed, Medline, Scopus, Google Scholar, ResearchGate using the key terms “Myrtus communis L.”, “botanical characteristics”, “pharmacological studies”, “phytochemical studies” in each database data Relevant and related data were filtered as appropriate if deemed relevant to the topic of interest. Time frames have also been adjusted to provide up-to-date information.
Results. Myrtus communis L., commonly known as common myrtle, is a widely recognized medicinal plant in the Mediterranean region. Various parts of this plant, including the leaves, fruits, and flowers, have been used in traditional medicine for treating a wide range of ailments. The pharmacological properties of common myrtle are attributed to the presence of essential oils and phenolic compounds, and these properties include antimicrobial, antiviral, antidiabetic, antispasmodic, vasodilator, antiulcer, antioxidant, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory effects. This article offers an overview of the botanical characteristics and chemical composition of different parts of common myrtle, and it presents a literature review of pharmacological studies that provide evidence for the plant’s medicinal properties.
Conclusions. Common myrtle is a promising plant for further pharmacognostic research with the aim of expanding the raw material base, using the method of clonal micropropagation and creating new phytopreparations based on it.
Prevention of the stapler line leak after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in patients with morbid obesity
Authors: Kalashnikov O. O. , Usenko O. Yu. , Todurov I. M. , Kosiukhno S. V.
Published: April 2024

Obesity has become a global pandemic, leading to increased morbidity and mortality among patients, both young and old. Bariatric surgery is the most effective method for treating pathological obesity. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy has become the most popular bariatric procedure worldwide.
However, staple line leak is the most dreaded postoperative complication following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. In order to reduce the incidence of this complication, most surgeons prefer to reinforce the staple line. However, there is no compelling evidence to suggest that peritonealization of the staple line or the use of coated stapler cartridges during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy reduces the risk of leakage. Therefore, we conducted a retrospective analysis to assess the impact of coated stapler cartridges on preventing staple line leaks.
The aim of the study. To evaluate the effect of using stapler with coating on preventing staple line leaks during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in patients with morbid obesity.
Materials and methods. This was a retrospective analysis of 45 patients who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy using endostapler from Medtronic (Endo GIA™) without additional reinforcement (Group I) and 46 patients who underwent a similar procedure using endostapler from Medtronic (Endo GIA™) stapler with coating (Group II). Both patient groups were homogeneous in terms of demographic characteristics. We compared the duration of surgery, intraoperative blood loss, length of hospital stay, and the incidence of staple line leak.
Results. The incidence of staple line leak was statistically significantly higher in Group I compared to Group II (5/40 vs. 0/46; χ2 = 5.4, p = 0.021). This resulted in a statistically significant increase in blood loss (U = 706; p = 0.006), prolonged total operation time (U = 310; p = 0.001), and extended postoperative hospital stay (U = 245; p = 0.001) in Group I. The median time to healing of the leak was 32 [20; 59] days. No patient died.
Conclusions. Using the endostapler with purple cartridges with coating from Medtronic during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy significantly reduced postoperative leak rate and significantly decreased postoperative hospital stay.
Divine Causality and Human Free Will: Ṭūsī’s Solution and Its Historical Background
Authors: Azadani Zakieh
Published: April 2024

This article aims to delve into the approach of Ḫwāǧa Naṣīr ad-Dīn Ṭūsī to a fundamental philosophical question concerning human agency: How can human free will coexist with a necessitating causal framework, where every effect is bound by its complete cause? Ṭūsī’s solution, which left a lasting impact on subsequent philosophical discussions on the issue, particularly within Shiite scholarly circles, revolves around the introduction of a differentiation between types of causes. I will examine Ṭūsī’s elucidation delineated in two of his works: Ǧabr wa Qadar in Persian and a concise Arabic text on Afʿāl al-ʿibād. Additionally, I will endeavor to uncover the historical origins and intellectual influences that may have shaped Ṭūsī’s approach to the question of human free will.
La figure du «bon historien» (liangshi 良史) dans les textes historiques de la Chine classique
Authors: Chaussende Damien
Published: April 2024

Le terme liangshi 良史, que l’on peut traduire par «bon scribe», «bon annaliste» ou encore «bon historien», plonge ses racines dans la longue tradition historienne de la Chine. Il fut employé avant les Han et sous les Han, pour désigner des historiographes modèles et pour mettre en valeur leur honnêteté et leur sérieux. Le terme a aussi été employé, dans une moindre mesure cependant, pour désigner des ouvrages historiques de bonne facture, en vertu de la polysémie du caractère shi 史. Liangshi est aussi devenu graduellement un outil rhétorique fréquemment employé dans des discours de persuasion. Le présent article s’emploie à déterminer à quelle époque et dans quels textes ce vocable commença à être utilisé, et quels étaient les critères qui faisaient qu’une personne était qualifiée de «bon historien». En replaçant ce terme dans le contexte plus large du jugement historiographique en Chine, on examine ensuite, à travers une sélection représentative de textes allant des Han jusqu’à Sima Guang 司馬光 (1019–1086), comment il fut employé – notamment par le critique et historien Liu Zhiji 劉知幾 (661–721) – et quelles furent les modalités de son usage sur le plan rhétorique.
The Recently Found Map of the World (Kunyutu 坤輿圖): A Philological Survey (Part II)
Authors: De Morsier-Fritz Claudia
Published: April 2024

This is Part II following on from the first presentation of the Chinese Map of the World or Kunyutu 坤輿圖 published in vol. 75 of this journal. The large wall map in silk, found in a federal library in Berne, Switzerland, is anonymous and purports to represent the geopolitical situation during the period 1700–1730. After a short general, geographical overview containing cartographic remarks and findings, this article will focus on the translation of all 112 text blocks on the map, which are found in Appendix II. These text blocks contain information on the customs and products of a given place, as well as describing other curiosities associated with it. I compared these texts with other maps and textual sources, in particular with The Complete World Map (Kunyu quantu 坤輿全圖) and The Explanations of the World Map (Kunyutu shuo 坤輿圖說) by Verbiest in 1674. A Venn diagram reveals which source was used most frequently. I detected some geographical assumptions the creator of the Bernese map has drawn from previous sources or copied from earlier maps. These offer valuable pointers to the source language and enable the identification of specific misunderstandings, original creations and uncertainties or signs of ignorance. My translation of the text blocks helps to pinpoint certain anachronisms and inaccuracies, although the map essentially reflects the political situation in the years 1700–1730. These various pieces of evidence suggest that the map was in fact made much later by a copyist and is not only a cartographic composite of earlier maps, but also a fusion based on Northern and Southern Mandarin sources. I presume that the translations, drawn from French sources into Southern Mandarin – the language of the late Ming officials (guanhua 官話) – as well as a variety of Southern Chinese dialects, suggest the underlying influence of a Jesuit tradition.
Enhancing students’ L2 writing skills online: a case study of an introductory English literature course for ESL students
Authors: Shi Huiwen , Chan Ka-ling Zoe , Wu Wenli , Cheung Lok-ming Eric
Published: April 2024

This research paper is based on a case study of an introductory English literature course that is being offered at a community college in Hong Kong, China. The 2020–2021 cohort was unique as it had the entire course online using Zoom without any face-to-face or hybrid teaching, which was considered the “new normal” of higher education under the pandemic. This study employs narrative inquiry (Barkhuizen, G. (2014). Revisiting narrative frames: An instrument for investigating language teaching and learning. System, 47, 12–27; Clandinin, D. J. (2016). Engaging in narrative inquiry. Routledge), semi-structured interviews, and analysis of student essays to demonstrate that online essay consultations and collaborative writing are useful for enhancing the essay writing skills of second language learners. The paper specifically reports and highlights how individual Zoom essay consultations, together with collaborative writing on Padlet, scaffold and enhance students’ essay writing and critical thinking skills. Essentially, the paper argues that online technologies expand the dimension of literature education and empower it as a form of content-based ESL instruction for long-term use.
Do languages spoken in multilingual communities converge? A case study of reflexivity marking in Mano and Kpelle
Authors: Khachaturyan Maria , Moroz George , Mamy Pe
Published: April 2024

This paper explores variation in the patterns of reflexivity marking in the Mano language and possible influence from the Kpelle language by using an experimental design with a picture questionnaire. While Kpelle does not have a morphological distinction between reflexive and basic pronouns, the Mano variety spoken by Mano-dominant individuals does possess such a distinction in 3sg. In contrast, the Mano variety spoken by Kpelle-dominant individuals shows a pattern borrowing from Kpelle into Mano, whereby the basic pronoun is used for both coreferential and disjoint readings. In a bilingual village, however, despite daily usage of both languages, almost all speakers from our sample manifest a uniform pattern that aligns closely with the monolingual Mano pattern of reflexivity marking. Therefore, the intensity of contact alone does not predict the amount of influence of Kpelle on Mano. Contrary to predictions by Labov (2010. Principles of linguistic change. Volume 3, Cognitive and cultural factors. Hoboken: Wiley-Blackwell: 5), we conclude that the languages spoken in a multilingual speech community do not necessarily converge and that a balanced multilingual community may provide enough input to acquire monolingual-like competence, at least according to the specific parameter under investigation. In the long run, however, convergence between Mano and Kpelle could indeed be taking place, with Mano losing its reflexivity contrasts, having already lost the contrast in 3pl.
Research progress in preparation technology of micro and nano titanium alloy powder
Authors: Jisen Yan , Minghui Wang , Tingan Zhang , Fang Xie , Xi Zhang , Ke Zhao , Gang Liu , Chu Cheng
Published: April 2024

Titanium alloys have excellent properties and are widely used in aerospace, medicine, chemical industry, and other fields. With the rapid development of the powder metallurgy and 3D printing industries, the demand for ultra-fine titanium alloy powders has increased significantly. It should be noted that the particle size of titanium alloy powders determines the application process. However, the high melting point of titanium and titanium alloys and the limitation of many factors, such as the prepared powders being easily contaminated by secondary pollution, make the preparation cost higher, which restricts their promotion and application. In this study, the research progress of micro and nano titanium alloy powder preparation process is described, and the existing problems of various processes are analyzed and discussed, and it is proposed that the direct reduction in TiO2 to obtain micro and nano titanium alloy powder is the key research direction in the future. In particular, the preparation of micro and nano titanium alloy powder by “calciothermic self-propagation process” has great industrial potential.
One story as part of the Global Conversation on Sustainability: dye adsorption studies using a novel bio-derived calcite material
Authors: Christian-Robinson Sachel , Kerton Francesca M.
Published: April 2024

Many of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be addressed through chemistry. Researchers at Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada, have been sharing their stories on September 25 for the past two years through the Global Conversation on Sustainability. This article describes the details of one of these stories. As the global population increases, food production including aquaculture is increasing to provide for this. At the same time, this means more waste is produced. Waste from aquaculture is often overlooked as a source of valuable chemicals. By-products from farming blue mussels (Mytilus edulis) is dominated by shells rich in calcite. A ‘soft’ calcite material prepared from waste mussels, via a combination of heat and acetic acid treatment, was investigated for its adsorptive properties and its possible use in wastewater remediation. The adsorption of two cationic dyes, methylene blue and safranin-O, on this material were evaluated through isothermal and kinetic modelling. The adsorption systems for both methylene blue and safranin-O can best be described using Langmuir isotherms and the respective adsorption capacities were 1.81 and 1.51 mg/g. The adsorption process was dominated by pseudo-second order rate kinetics. Comparisons are made with other mollusc-derived materials reported to date.
A handy analytical approximate solution for the magnetohydrodynamic flow of blood in a porous channel
Authors: Filobello-Nino Uriel , Vazquez-Leal Hector , Huerta-Chua Jesus , Callejas-Molina Rogelio Alejandro , Trigos Ángel , Salinas-Castro Alejandro
Published: April 2024

This work presents a new version of the Picard method, known as the boundary values problems Picard method (BVPP), to obtain an analytical approximate solution for a highly complex nonlinear differential equation that models the magnetohydrodynamic flow of blood through a porous channel. The proposed method is versatile and can produce compact and easily evaluated analytical expressions that accurately capture the scientific phenomena being studied, making it ideal for practical applications. BVPP transforms a differential equation into an integral equation and utilizes an iterative algorithm like that of the basic Picard method. However, unlike the basic method, BVPP allows for the selection of an appropriate initial function and involves several adjustable parameters that can be optimized to obtain a precise analytical approximate solution with minimal effort. Overall, BVPP represents a significant advancement in the analysis of complex nonlinear differential equations, particularly in the field of biomedical engineering.
Impact of Extracellular Current Flow on Action Potential Propagation in Myelinated Axons
Authors: Abdollahi Nooshin , Prescott Steven A.
Published: April 2024

Myelinated axons conduct action potentials, or spikes, in a saltatory manner. Inward current caused by a spike occurring at one node of Ranvier spreads axially to the next node, which regenerates the spike when depolarized enough for voltage-gated sodium channels to activate, and so on. The rate at which this process progresses dictates the velocity at which the spike is conducted and depends on several factors including axial resistivity and axon diameter that directly affect axial current. Here we show through computational simulations in modified double-cable axon models that conduction velocity also depends on extracellular factors whose effects can be explained by their indirect influence on axial current. Specifically, we show that a conventional double-cable model, with its outside layer connected to ground, transmits less axial current than a model whose outside layer is less absorptive. A more resistive barrier exists when an axon is packed tightly between other myelinated fibers, for example. We show that realistically resistive boundary conditions can significantly increase the velocity and energy efficiency of spike propagation, while also protecting against propagation failure. Certain factors like myelin thickness may be less important than typically thought if extracellular conditions are more resistive than normally considered. We also show how realistically resistive boundary conditions affect ephaptic interactions. Overall, these results highlight the unappreciated importance of extracellular conditions for axon function.
How the Past Has Stalled Democratization in Zanzibar
Authors: Tronvoll Kjetil
Published: April 2024

Zanzibar, a self-governing state of Tanzania, may look like a tranquil tropical archipelago. But in the 60 years since a revolution overthrew a sultanate with origins in Oman, its politics have been turbulent. Revolutionary doctrines of socialism and one-party rule led to repression that lasted for years. Far from bringing stability, the introduction of multiparty politics in the 1990s has led to cycles of electoral violence and failed reconciliation talks. The legacies of the 1964 revolution continue to define the deeply polarized political landscape, even as demographic shifts and foreign investment transform the islands.
Aprendizaje significativo y desarrollo de competencias lectoescritoras en estudiantes del grado sexto
Authors: Rodríguez Guerrero Mayra Natalia
Published: April 2024

El presente artículo de investigación tiene como objeto de análisis las deficiencias en la competencia lectoescritora que presenta la sección A, del grado sexto del Colegio Las Montoyas. Por ello, se realizó un estudio cualitativo empleando el diseño investigación acción con el fin de conocer la incidencia de la teoría del aprendizaje significativo de Ausubel, en la enseñanza del proceso lectoescritor con los estudiantes antes enunciados. La investigación se estructuró en cuatro fases: observación, diagnóstico, actuación y evaluación. La experiencia didáctica consistió en la innovación educativa a partir de las TIC mediante la creación del Edu Blog LEMON, que incorporó elementos de aprendizaje significativo. Con esta intervención se evidenció la apropiación efectiva de contenidos en un entorno dinámico y divertido que los mantuvo motivados y enfocados, manifestado por mayor participación, seguridad para leer en voz alta y más fluidamente. También se percibió mayor rapidez en la expresión escrita y adecuada respuesta en el uso de recursos discursivos, aunque la comprensión lectora, sigue siendo un elemento para reforzar.
Two step synthesis and application of porous carbon for removal of copper (II) from wastewater: Statistical optimization and equilibrium isotherm analysis
Authors: Sinniha Shobana , Chowdhury Zaira Zaman , Ibrahimy Ahmad Ibn , Ahmed Mostak , Johan Mohd. Rafie Bin , Khandaker Mayeen Uddin , Badaruddin Irfan Anjum , Kamangar Sarfaraz , Hussien Mohamed
Published: April 2024

In this study, activated carbon (ACs) adsorbent was synthesized using the lignocellulosic waste (LCB) seed from Adansonia digitata L. (BSP) using two steps of hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) followed by activation. The hydrothermally produced char of BSP was activated to produce porous activated carbon BSPAC, where K2CO3 was used as a chemical activating agent. Box Behnken Design was used to optimize the input variables of pyrolysis temperature (A1), residence time (B1), and ratio (C1) for the pyrolysis process. Removal percentage (β1), percentage carbon yield (β2), and fixed carbon (β3) percentage were chosen as output responses. The analysis of variance was utilized to generate appropriate mathematical models with subsequent statistical analysis. Physiochemical characterizations were carried out for the hydrothermally carbonized sample (BSPC) and the optimized activated sample (BSPAC). Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin models were employed to estimate the isotherm model parameters. The results demonstrated that HTC with subsequent mild activation using K2CO3 can be considered as a greener route to obtain better-quality porous carbon having surface area of 599 m2/gm for removal of Cu(II) cations from wastewater.
Preparation of fiber raw materials by cooking golden bamboo grass (Arundo donax) with calcified regenerated alkali solution
Authors: Wang Qian , Zhu Tian , Li Yi-jing , Wang Jin-hui , Ling Yi-kai , Chen Meng-meng , Mo Liu-ting , Nong Guang-zai
Published: April 2024

The increasing consumption of paper products has led to a shortage of paper fiber raw materials. It is necessary to develop new plant materials to alleviate the shortage of fiber suitable for papermaking. In this study, the fast-growing plant golden bamboo grass (Arundo donax), which is cultivated and planted in Guangxi province of China, was used as a new material for pulping. The average pulp yield by cyclic-cooking method averaged 48.6%, being 4.1% greater than the pulp yield by the ordinary caustic soda method. Much of the increased yield was attributable to the reprecipitation of lignin onto the fibers. The paper properties of the pulp prepared by cycle-cooked method did not decrease significantly, compared with the pulp prepared by the usual single-cooked method. Therefore, the pulp met the requirements of national standards of many kinds of papers. However, the pulp was not suitable for bleaching, due to its high consumption of oxidizing agents to reach the required brightness. Therefore, this research demonstrates that the fast-growing plant, Arundo donax is a good raw material for pulp, and the innovative method of cycle-cooking method can significantly improve the pulp yield.
Characterisation of rotary friction welding process and mechanism of heat-treated Scotch pine
Authors: Zhang Jian , Fu Wentao , Zhu Hai
Published: April 2024

Rotary friction welding of wood to heat-treated lumber from Scotch pine is feasible and the strength of the joint exceeds that of glued and hammered joints. This study investigated the rotary friction welding process parameters and its welding mechanism applicable to heat-treated Scotch pine. Untreated Scotch pine served as the control. The one-way test revealed the tenon/bore ratio of 1.5, rotational speed of 2000 to 3500 r/min, and feed rate of 15 to 20 mm/s as the ideal process parameters for heat-treated Scotch pine. Under the same conditions, heat-treated material had weld strength up to 63.2% higher than untreated material. The portion of the weld zone with better weld strength was larger in size, had a full surface, and was darker in color, according to ultra-depth-of-field microscopic examinations. The internal wood components melted and cooled after the welding was finished and re-polymerized to form a tightly wrapped structure, linking the dowel rods to the substrate, according to the results of scanning electron microscopy.