bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LEADERSHIP ATTRIBUTES AND WORK ENGAGEMENT MATTER TO ENHANCE JOB PERFORMANCE OF ACADEMICIANS
Authors: Rizwana Kousar  , Dr. Muhammad Naveed Jabbar  , Mamoona Nazli
Published: December 2024

Job performance has become a foremost phenomenon of modern age. It can be enhanced by effective leadership. The main objective of this study was to examine the effect of leadership attributes and work engagement on performance of teaching faculty. In this study the teaching faculty from public secondary school in Hafizabad was selected as population while 289 respondents were administered as sample which were selected by simple random sampling technique. The questionnaire was used for the collection of research data by adopting survey method. In order to analyze the research objectives SPSS was administered. The results indicated that leadership attributes and work engagement had moderate association with performance of teachers. Moreover, leadership attributes and work engagement had predictor of job performance. Whereas, leadership attributes had more significant effect on job performance than that of work engagement. This study is beneficial for educational management to implement the innovative policies with the engagement of employees.
ANALYZING THE ENCOURAGING FACTORS AND BARRIERS TO THE ADOPTION OF INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES IN REGULAR AND SPECIAL EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS: TRANSFORMING EDUCATION IN PUNJAB
Authors: Dr. Hina Hadayat Ali  , Dr. Muhammad Nazir  , Muhammad Akram Sabir
Published: December 2024

Modern advancements caused schools, colleges and universities to rethink their existing educational systems including how to use instructional technologies effectively and successfully. Partially or fully usage of instructional technologies may not be rapidly possible in under developed countries like Pakistan. Therefore, it was important to review literature on using instructional technologies at educational institutions and to understand this complex phenomenon in Pakistani perspective. The present study aimed to investigate the encouraging factors and barriers in using instructional technologies at the general and special educational institutions of the Punjab province, Pakistan. The researchers reviewed academic literature and grey literature, identified total forty eight encouraging factors to the use of instructional technologies and thirty seven barriers to the use of instructional technologies on first stage. Fifty one of these cases were purposefully selected for further exploration on second stage. By using thematic analysis, these fifty one cases were abridged into thirty six major themes on third stage. Eighteen were related to the encouraging factors to the use of instructional technologies and eighteen were related to the barriers for the usage of instructional technologies. The encouraging factors to promote the instructional strategies included the supply of material and resources, adequate infrastructure, formulation of effective policy to implement the instructional technology. The barriers in the adoption of the instructional strategies included the insufficient investments made by the government, lack integration of curriculum, lack proper knowledge of teachers in use of instructional strategies, poor access to libraries and laboratories and low level of teacher interest. It finally led to discuss and reflect it in higher education context of Pakistan at the end.
POWER DYNAMICS WITHIN THE CHRONO TROPE OF THE NARRATIVE OF “PIERRE MENARD AUTHOR OF THE QUIXOTE” BY JORGE LUIS BORGES
Authors: Dr. Memoona Idris  , Ms. Mariam Azam  , Mr. Samar Kamal Fazli
Published: December 2024

Borges is a post modernist writer who is important with reference to critical analysis on account of his stylistic techniques. This paper seeks to discuss “Pierre Menard, Author of the Quixote”, a short story by Borges, especially against the cushion of Foucault’s critical theory. It discusses the narrative structure with respect to space and time and the language employed within it. This study would benefit in understanding the post-modernist discourse of Borges’ narrative. This makes is accessable to a wider readership. It will also help in breaking the intellectual hegemony which is otherwise created, by making the text available to only a selected readership due to complexity in its contentand style.
ENTREPRENEURIAL INTENTIONS AND CROWDFUNDING ADOPTION IN PAKISTAN: UNVEILING BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY'S MODERATING INFLUENCE AMONG BUSINESS STUDENTS
Authors: Samadia Gul  , Dr. Mubbsher Munawar Khan
Published: December 2024

This study aims to investigate entrepreneurial and crowdfunding intention among university business students of Pakistan, while considering the moderating effect of blockchain technology adoption. The research utilizes the theory of planned behavior (TPB) with the impact of entrepreneurial education to analyze entrepreneurial intentions. The impact of entrepreneurial intention is additionally examined concerning crowdfunding intentions and the adoption of blockchain technology offered by crowdfunding platforms. Data were gathered from 330 university students who are enrolled in business studies in Pakistan and analyzed using PLS-SEM 3. The results indicate favorable impact of attitude, social influence, and entrepreneurial education on entrepreneurial intention. Moreover, there exists a favorable correlation between entrepreneurial intention and the deployment of blockchain technology in the context of intending to use crowdfunding for capital acquisition. This study is novel and the foundational investigation into the correlation between entrepreneurial intention along with crowdfunding intention among university students of Pakistan, incorporating the moderating effect of blockchain technology adoption.
GENETIC ANALYSIS OF SNPS OF CGH (GROWTH GENE) IN LOCAL BREED OF KASHMORE, SINDH, PAKISTAN
Authors: Jakhrani Shahid Ali , Javed Ahmed Ujan  , Safdar Ali Ujjan
Published: December 2024

Present study revealed different single nucleotides mutations in GH (growth) hormone gene were found in Desi, (Local breed) varieties of chickens. The Desi chicken is a hardy breed, well suited to cold as well as hot climates. Desi chickens are domesticated for hundreds of years ago, the common desi breed is a best mother for hatching and possess a unique appearance but distinguish from other cross breeds. The chicken growth hormone (cGH) gene plays a crucial role in controlling growth and metabolism, leading to potential correlations between cGH polymorphisms and economic traits. Mutations were identified through PCR sequencing technique based on Genetic codons, these mutation were classified and explained. In Desi parent chickens on 45Bp a Non sense mutation was found that result in termination of protein formation. Such type of mutations is always considered to be a nonproductive for species growth. In F1 generation of Desi chickens a mis sense mutation was identified that denotes replacement of valine < Glycine at 118Bp and the second one mutation was found at 182 Bp as frame shift mutation results in productive amino acid from deleted codon. F2 generation Desi chicken had single mutation at 81 Bp in replacement of A<T results as mis sense mutation. However, the mutation percentage in all breeds was not greater than 1%, it means there was no any polymorphism obtained from cross breeding of both varieties but there were different mutations that resulted in replacement of deleted codons and also formation of essential and non-essential amino acids. Statistically it was proved to be more beneficial for in reduction of their mortality rates and a viable improvement, in their growth as well as different morpho-genic traits.
EXPLORING THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH AWARENESS, ATTITUDE AND SEXUAL PRACTICES AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS: A CASE STUDY FROM DISTRICT KASUR
Authors: Hayat Nadir , Noor Ul Ann Ijaz  , Dr. Ghazanfar Hussain  , Dr. Kashif Siddique
Published: December 2024

This study examines the association between sexual and reproductive health literacy awareness and sexual practices among unmarried male Youth (15-24 years of age) from District Kasur, Pakistan. Data was randomly collected from the Youth (N=457) attending public sector educational institutes/government colleges. A self-administered questionnaire containing questions on sexual and reproductive health awareness and sexual practices was used for data collection. The descriptive analysis was carried out using SPSS software, and correlation analysis was used to explore the association between sexual and reproductive health awareness and sexual practices. The majority of the respondents in the samples (85%) had no sexual activity, and the rest were involved in premarital sex activity (15%). A significant number of respondents who were sex (67%) had sex without a condom, and only one-third (33%) of these respondents reported using condoms. The respondents, in general, have poor awareness regarding symptoms of a sexually transmitted disease and family planning methods except condoms. There was a significant positive relationship between sexual health and reproductive awareness, attitudes and sexual health practices. The results are suggested to be useful references for the youth while improving sexual and reproductive health services through better public health interventions.
THE EFFECT OF NONWOVEN REINFORCEMENT ON FLEXURAL STRENGTH OF GLASS, CARBON AND HYBRID COMPOSITES
Authors: Tahtalı Enver , Selver Erdem
Published: December 2024

This study examines the effect of nonwoven polypropylene veils on the flexural strength (3 and 4-point) of various layers of glass, carbon, and hybrid (glass and carbon) composite structures. The eight layers of the composite structures were manufactured using the vacuum infusion method with woven glass and carbon fabrics in various layer configurations. The flexural strength and elongation of the composites were found to be effectively influenced by the placement and number of nonwoven polypropylene reinforcement veils in the multilayer composite material.
IMPACTS OF AUGMENTED REALITY MARKETING ON GEN-Z FASHION CONSUMERS’ BEHAVIORAL INTENTION
Authors: Günduru Beliz , Deniz Deniz
Published: December 2024

Innovative technologies are significant for the textile and fashion industry. In this context, this research study focuses on understanding the impact of augmented reality (AR) technologies on Gen-Z fashion consumers’ behavioral intention by using a specific AR app. As a methodology, the present study utilized a questionnaire based on the UTAUT2 model, which was modified to incorporate a 5-point Likert Scale to gather essential research data. The questionnaire comprised twenty-three questions distributed across seven constructs. Using a sample of 310 male and female Gen-Z consumers, the findings indicate that perceived value (PV) positively influences their behavioral intention to use AR technology for fashion shopping. Findings indicate that the research model explained 75% of behavioral intention. All research results confirm the unified theory of acceptance and the use of the technology 2 model (UTAUT2) with its six dimensions. The perceived value (PV) dimension, added to the UTAUT2, has improved the model. In terms of its originality, this recent research study defines augmented reality technology's impacts on the behavioral intention of Gen-Z consumers by focusing on this specific group of users through an advanced AR application.
APPLICATION OF DEVELOPING CLOTHING RECOMMENDATION SYSTEM WITH ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TECHNIQUES
Authors: Özbek Ahmet , Altuntaş Volkan , Erdoğan Naile
Published: December 2024

This study aims to develop a clothing recommendation application for users who possess a large number of clothes but have limited time due to their intense work tempo. This application aims to assist them in using their clothes effectively, reducing the time spent on selecting outfits, and dressing fashionably. In the process of developing this application, firstly, the criteria influencing the user's clothing preferences were determined. Subsequently, a wardrobe dataset was created based on the established criteria. Following this, methods for suggesting clothes were explored. As a result of the research, it was decided to utilize association rule analysis, multidimensional clothing representation coding, and weighted L1 distance methods for clothing recommendation in this study. In the application phase, experiments were conducted using the dataset associated with the chosen methods. It has been determined that the application developed in this study gives successful results in suggesting clothes suitable for user preferences.
TARHUN BİTKİSİNİN (ARTEMISIA DRACUNCULUS L.) YÜNLÜ KUMAŞLARIN RENKLENDİRİLMESİNDE VE ANTİBAKTERİYEL BİTİM İŞLEMLERİNDE KULLANILABİLİRLİĞİNİN ARAŞTIRILMASI
Authors: Yılmaz Fazlıhan
Published: December 2024

Bilindiği üzere tekstilde uygulanan terbiye işlemlerinde genel olarak yoğun bir şekilde kimyasal madde kullanımı söz konusudur. Günümüzde yoğun bir şekilde kullanılan bu kimyasal maddelerin oranlarının düşürülmesine yönelik kapsamlı araştırmalar yapılmaktadır. Bu kapsamda yapılan çalışmada tekstil boyamacılığı ve bitim işlemlerinde Erzurum yöresinden temin edilen tarhun bitkisinin (Artemisia Dracunculus L.) kullanılabilirliği araştırılmıştır. Çalışma kapsamında tarhun yaprağı yünlü kumaşların renklendirilme denemelerinde kullanılmak üzere seçilmiştir. Boyama denemelerinde bitkisel kaynağın yanında ayrıca 6 farklı mordan maddesinin kullanılabilirliği de araştırılmıştır. Ayrıca mordansız boyama denemeleri de gerçekleştirilmiştir. Boyama denemeleri sonucunda boyanmış, yıkanmış ve gölgede kurutulmuş olan yünlü kumaşların CIE L*a*b* C* ho değerleri, K/S renk verimliliği değerleri, yıkama ve sürtme haslığı testleri de gerçekleştirilmiştir. Ayrıca mordansız boyanmış kumaş numunelerinin Gram-pozitif (Staphylococcus Aureus) ve Gram-negatif (Escherichia Coli) bakterilere karşı antibakteriyel etkinlik testleri de yapılmıştır. Bunlara ek olarak boyanmış bütün kumaş numunelerinin SEM görüntüleri de alınmıştır. Yapılan bu analizler neticesinde tarhun yaprağının yünlü kumaşları renklendirebileceği ve kullanım açısından gerekli ve yeterli derecede haslık özelliklerini sağlayabileceği tespit edilmiştir. Ayrıca mordansız direkt olarak tarhun yaprağı ile boyanmış olan yünlü kumaş numunelerinin Staphylococcus Aureus cinsi bakteriye karşı da yüksek değerlerde (%95,99) antibakteriyel etkinliğe sahip olduğu tespit edilmiştir.
Indigenous Voices in Digital Spaces:
Authors: Tekobbe Cindy
Published: December 2024

Theorizes a digital indigeneity and explores case studies through a theoretical frame that offers new methodologies and epistemologies to explore digital communities and technologies. The author uses Indigenous storytelling and “thick” indigenous meaning-making.
La traducción según Flavio Josefo
Authors: Aguayo Hidalgo Fátima
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT Translation according to Flavius Josephus  As a contribution to the clarification of the identity of Flavius Josephus, the present material aims to elucidate what role Josephus played as a translator of the Holy Scriptures. For this purpose, we take as a basis the Jewish Antiquities, since it is in its first ten books that Josephus translates the contents of the Bible. In order to understand what attitude this author took to the text, it is necessary to know what he understood by ‘translation’. Such an investigation is necessary given the confusion caused, on the one hand, by Josephus’ own stance towards the sacred texts and, on the other hand, by his manipulation of these texts. The study of the Greek word μεθερμηνεύω sheds light on the matter, for although it literally means ‘to translate’, the translation to which Josephus alludes is different from the one we know today. An examination of the word shows that, in antiquity, the ἑρμηνεύς was an interpreter rather than a translator. And in accordance with this idea, Josephus seems to fit the term ἑρμηνεύς, since he interprets the Bible and makes use of various models in order to give us a work as complete as possible.
Sofocle senza χλανίς: nota a un aneddoto comico-erudito
Authors: Mura Antonio
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT Sophocles without his χλανίς: a note to a comic and scholarly anecdote  This note examines the anecdote concerning Sophocles and the stealing of his cloak, which was told by the peripatetic Hieronymos of Rhodes. After discussing the previous studies about the anecdote, the paper turns to define the elements employed in writing this ancient scholarship piece about tragedians: many parts of the story can be traced back to ancient Greek comedy and, especially, to Aristophanes. Similarly to other anecdotes recorded by other Hellenistic scholars, this story too owes much of its material to the comic literary criticism, eminently represented by the motif of stealing a χλανίς. Through a further analysis of the epigram (fr. eleg. 4 West) it is eventually showed that the reuse of comic topoi is also extended to the fictional quarrel between Sophocles and Euripides, which is about plagiarism rather than (only) about Sophocles and Euripides’ lovers.
Parthenius, Erotica Pathemata 26 e la storiografia locale milesia. Riflessioni sulle annotazioni al codice Palatinus Heidelbergensis gr. 398
Authors: Polito Marina
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT Parthenius, Erotica Pathemata 26 and the local Milesian historiography. Considerations on the annotations to the codex Palatinus Heidelbergensis gr. 398 This paper consists of an examination of some main aspects and problems of the notes that the Codex Pal. gr. 398 preserves on Parthenius’ Erotika Pathemata. It further systematically examines some characteristic features of the annotation work with the aim of a historiographical reading of the phenomenon. This contribution mainly examines the notes of Pathema 26 (f. 186r), the features of which might allow us to shed light on the annotations in their genesis and contribute to the understanding of at least some aspects of fragments of local historiography traceable in the notes.
Constitutively active receptor ADGRA3 signaling induces adipose thermogenesis
Authors: Zhao Zewei , Hu Longyun , Song Bigui , Jiang Tao , Wu Qian , Lin Jiejing , Li Xiaoxiao , Cai Yi , Li Jin , Qian Bingxiu , Liu Siqi , Lang Jilu , Yang Zhonghan
Published: December 2024

The induction of adipose thermogenesis plays a critical role in maintaining body temperature and improving metabolic homeostasis to combat obesity. β3-adrenoceptor (β3-AR) is widely recognized as a canonical β-adrenergic G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that plays a crucial role in mediating adipose thermogenesis in mice. Nonetheless, the limited expression of β3-AR in human adipocytes restricts its clinical application. The objective of this study was to identify a GPCR that is highly expressed in human adipocytes and to explore its potential involvement in adipose thermogenesis. Our research findings have demonstrated that the adhesion G-protein-coupled receptor A3 (ADGRA3), an orphan GPCR, plays a significant role in adipose thermogenesis through its constitutively active effects. ADGRA3 exhibited high expression levels in human adipocytes and mouse brown fat. Furthermore, the knockdown of Adgra3 resulted in an exacerbated obese phenotype and a reduction in the expression of thermogenic markers in mice. Conversely, Adgra3 overexpression activated the adipose thermogenic program and improved metabolic homeostasis in mice without exogenous ligand. We found that ADGRA3 facilitates the biogenesis of beige human or mouse adipocytes in vitro. Moreover, hesperetin was identified as a potential agonist of ADGRA3, capable of inducing adipocyte browning and ameliorating insulin resistance in mice. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that the overexpression of constitutively active ADGRA3 or the activation of ADGRA3 by hesperetin can induce adipocyte browning by Gs-PKA-CREB axis. These findings indicate that the utilization of hesperetin and the selective overexpression of ADGRA3 in adipose tissue could serve as promising therapeutic strategies in the fight against obesity.
The satiety hormone cholecystokinin gates reproduction in fish by controlling gonadotropin secretion
Authors: Hollander-Cohen Lian , Cohen Omer , Shulman Miriam , Aiznkot Tomer , Fontanaud Pierre , Revah Omer , Mollard Patrice , Golan Matan , Levavi-Sivan Berta
Published: December 2024

Life histories of oviparous species dictate high metabolic investment in the process of gonadal development leading to ovulation. In vertebrates, these two distinct processes are controlled by the gonadotropins follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), respectively. While it was suggested that a common secretagogue, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), oversees both functions, the generation of loss-of-function fish challenged this view. Here, we reveal that the satiety hormone cholecystokinin (CCK) is the primary regulator of this axis in zebrafish. We found that FSH cells express a CCK receptor, and our findings demonstrate that mutating this receptor results in a severe hindrance to ovarian development. Additionally, it causes a complete shutdown of both gonadotropins secretion. Using in-vivo and ex-vivo calcium imaging of gonadotrophs, we show that GnRH predominantly activates LH cells, whereas FSH cells respond to CCK stimulation, designating CCK as the bona fide FSH secretagogue. These findings indicate that the control of gametogenesis in fish was placed under different neural circuits, that are gated by CCK.
Accurate predictions of SARS-CoV-2 infectivity from comprehensive analysis
Authors: Park Jongkeun , Choi WonJong , Seong Do Young , Jeong Seungpil , Lee Ju Young , Park Hyo Jeong , Chung Dae Sun , Yi Kijong , Kim Uijin , Yoon Ga-Yeon , Kim Hyeran , Kim Taehoon , Ko Sooyeon , Min Eun Jeong , Cho Hyun-Soo , Cho Nam-Hyuk , Hong Dongwan
Published: December 2024

An unprecedented amount of SARS-CoV-2 data has been accumulated compared with previous infectious diseases, enabling insights into its evolutionary process and more thorough analyses. This study investigates SARS-CoV-2 features as it evolved to evaluate its infectivity. We examined viral sequences and identified the polarity of amino acids in the receptor binding motif (RBM) region. We detected an increased frequency of amino acid substitutions to lysine (K) and arginine (R) in variants of concern (VOCs). As the virus evolved to Omicron, commonly occurring mutations became fixed components of the new viral sequence. Furthermore, at specific positions of VOCs, only one type of amino acid substitution and a notable absence of mutations at D467 were detected. We found that the binding affinity of SARS-CoV-2 lineages to the ACE2 receptor was impacted by amino acid substitutions. Based on our discoveries, we developed APESS, an evaluation model evaluating infectivity from biochemical and mutational properties. In silico evaluation using real-world sequences and in vitro viral entry assays validated the accuracy of APESS and our discoveries. Using Machine Learning, we predicted mutations that had the potential to become more prominent. We created AIVE, a web-based system, accessible at https://ai-ve.org to provide infectivity measurements of mutations entered by users. Ultimately, we established a clear link between specific viral properties and increased infectivity, enhancing our understanding of SARS-CoV-2 and enabling more accurate predictions of the virus.
The role of CT in prognosis prediction in COVID-19 patients
Authors: Gravdal Tonje , Storås Kine , Rusandu Albertina , Stalsberg Ragna
Published: December 2024

Introduction: The aim of the present study was to summarize and evaluate previously published scientific studies examining whether computed tomography (CT) of the thorax can predict the COVID-19 prognosis. The purpose is to clarify whether CT can predict the COVID-19 prognosis, and also if a CT examination can predict whether the patient will be admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) or not.
Method: Traditional digital literature searches were performed in the Medline, Pubmed and Embase databases. Subsequent back- and forward citation-based searches were then conducted. A total of 17 studies were included according to preset inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Results: All 17 included articles were retrospective studies. The mean number of patients included was 219 (range: 28-901). Overall, the studies showed that CT-findings of abnormalities in the lung tissue may provide a possible COVID-19 prognosis determination. A total of 11 studies used a quantitative scoring system to evaluate the lung images. Based on the percentage of lung involvement, the ICU patients had a higher score compared with patients not admitted to the ICU. The pathology type with the highest predictive value was crazy paving pattern followed by vascular enlargement and air bronchogram. Pleural effusion and pleural thickening can help estimating the prognosis according to some of the studies.
Conclusion: The present study shows that CT can contribute to early diagnosis and predict the prognosis when using scoring systems or qualitative assessment of certain radiologic features which are more prevalent in critically ill COVID-19 patients.
Challenges issues and future recommendations of deep learning techniques for SARS-CoV-2 detection utilising X-ray and CT images: a comprehensive review
Authors: Islam Md Shofiqul , Al Farid Fahmid , Shamrat F. M. Javed Mehedi , Islam Md Nahidul , Rashid Mamunur , Bari Bifta Sama , Abdullah Junaidi , Nazrul Islam Muhammad , Akhtaruzzaman Md , Nomani Kabir Muhammad , Mansor Sarina , Abdul Karim Hezerul
Published: December 2024

The global spread of SARS-CoV-2 has prompted a crucial need for accurate medical diagnosis, particularly in the respiratory system. Current diagnostic methods heavily rely on imaging techniques like CT scans and X-rays, but identifying SARS-CoV-2 in these images proves to be challenging and time-consuming. In this context, artificial intelligence (AI) models, specifically deep learning (DL) networks, emerge as a promising solution in medical image analysis. This article provides a meticulous and comprehensive review of imaging-based SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis using deep learning techniques up to May 2024. This article starts with an overview of imaging-based SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis, covering the basic steps of deep learning-based SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis, SARS-CoV-2 data sources, data pre-processing methods, the taxonomy of deep learning techniques, findings, research gaps and performance evaluation. We also focus on addressing current privacy issues, limitations, and challenges in the realm of SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis. According to the taxonomy, each deep learning model is discussed, encompassing its core functionality and a critical assessment of its suitability for imaging-based SARS-CoV-2 detection. A comparative analysis is included by summarizing all relevant studies to provide an overall visualization. Considering the challenges of identifying the best deep-learning model for imaging-based SARS-CoV-2 detection, the article conducts an experiment with twelve contemporary deep-learning techniques. The experimental result shows that the MobileNetV3 model outperforms other deep learning models with an accuracy of 98.11%. Finally, the article elaborates on the current challenges in deep learning-based SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis and explores potential future directions and methodological recommendations for research and advancement.
Usability and optimization of online apps in user’s context
Authors: Iqbal M. Waseem , Shinan Khlood , Shahid Rafique Shahid Rafique , Alourani Abdullah , Ashraf M. Usman , Rahim Nor Zairah Ab
Published: December 2024

The OptiFlow framework introduces a novel approach for enhancing usability evaluation and optimization known as OptiFlow. This framework combines heuristic evaluation with a web-based platform to provide a comprehensive method for assessing and optimizing user experiences in online applications. The architecture of OptiFlow incorporates key components, including the user, website, web service, and library, enabling seamless interaction and data exchange. A set of 240 usability guidelines, derived from a multidisciplinary expert collaboration, are systematically categorized into 15 usability categories, aligned with established design principles. Guidelines within OptiFlow are assigned implementation levels: “Green” for easily implementable guidelines, “Amber” for moderately complex ones, and “Red” for highly complex guidelines. These levels prioritize tasks based on complexity and feasibility. The framework’s integration of guidelines into a structured SQL database simplifies implementation challenges, and the “execute” function systematically assesses website adherence to guidelines, resulting in True, False, or Null outcomes. Usability assessment outcomes are presented through categorized and prioritized data views for each implementation level, allowing stakeholders to address high-priority concerns efficiently. The OptiFlow framework represents an innovative approach to usability evaluation, fostering enriched user experiences and finely tuned digital interfaces. Future advancements may include additional rule types and the integration of advanced technologies for tackling intricate usability challenges. Ultimately, OptiFlow paves the way for proactive user experience enhancement and digital interface optimization in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
Effects of nitrogen doses on stomatal characteristics, chlorophyll content, and agronomic traits in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Oner Fatih
Published: December 2024

It is very important to determine the chlorophyll content (SPAD) and nitrogen (N) requirement in order to increase the seed yield and nutritional quality of wheat. This research was carried out with three N doses (0, 50, 100 kg ha−1) and nine wheat cultivars (Alpu-2001, Soyer-02, Kate-A1, Bezostaja-1, Altay-2000, Müfitbey, Nacibey, Harmankaya-99 and Sönmez-2001) during 2-years field condition according to factorial randomized complete block design and three replications. In this study, with the increase of N dose (N50), seed yield increased by 13%, plant height by 10.8%, 1,000 seed weight by 10.5% compared to control plants (N0). The increase of N dose from 50 kg ha−1 to 100 kg gave lower increase rates in the same criteria (11.7%, 11.4%, 10.3%, respectively). However, the spike number per plant, spikelet number in spike, seed number in spike, spike length showed statistically significant differences between N doses and varieties. Boost of N doses caused a significant increase compared to plants without N application. The chlorophyll content and flag leaf area index were determined at three growth times (1st growth time; early, 2nd growth time; the middle and end of flowering, 3rd growth time; with a 10-day interval). Chlorophyll content was significantly (p < 0.01) affected by the N dose, variety and growth time. As N doses increased, chlorophyll content increased, and it was higher at both N doses compared with N0. The chlorophyll content had the highest rates (30.22%) at 1st growth time and it decreased as the growth period progressed. N doses, varieties and their interactions had significant effects on the flag leaf area index. The highest flag leaf area index (41.9 cm2) was determined from variety Bezostaja-1 and 100 kg ha−1 N dose treatment. The effect of N dose was found significantly on abaxial and adaxial stomata width-length and epidermal cells. The adaxial and abaxial stomata width were higher than N0 at both N levels. The highest adaxial and abaxial stomata width- length was obtained from 100 kg ha−1 N dose. As nitrogen concentration increased, both stomatal density and stomatal index increased. The stomatal index varied between 19% and 36%. The lowest stomata density had appeared in the 100 kg ha−1 N dose and Bezostaja-1 variety. As a result, stomatal characteristics, chlorophyll content, and agronomic traits of wheat were significantly affected by increasing N doses.
O Novo Marco Legal do Saneamento Básico e o leilão da CEDAE: transformações, desafios e perspectivas para o setor de infraestrutura no Brasil
Authors: Andrade Marcelo Custodio de , Maciel Vladimir Fernandes
Published: December 2024

O setor de saneamento básico no Brasil enfrentou desafios históricos de fragmentação regulatória, baixa eficiência e insuficiência de investimentos. A promulgação do Novo Marco Legal do Saneamento Básico (NMLS), em 2020, buscou resolver esses problemas, introduzindo mecanismos como a centralização regulatória na ANA, a obrigatoriedade de licitações públicas e a regionalização de concessões. Este artigo analisa os impactos do NMLS a partir do estudo de caso do leilão da Companhia Estadual de Águas e Esgotos (CEDAE), realizado em 2021, com arrecadação de R$ 22,7 bilhões. A pesquisa qualitativa, baseada em dados secundários, investiga as motivações para a privatização parcial, os resultados financeiros e os desafios enfrentados pelos concessionários, como o cumprimento das metas de universalização até 2033 e a resistência social e política à privatização. Observa-se que o leilão representou um avanço significativo na modernização do setor, atraindo investimentos privados e estabelecendo um modelo regulatório mais previsível. Conclui-se que, apesar dos desafios na implementação dos contratos, o NMLS oferece um caminho promissor para a universalização dos serviços de saneamento, desde que combinado com monitoramento regulatório eficaz e ajustes contínuos.
A Study of the Protective Role of Berberis vulgaris Aqueous Extract on Some Liver Enzymes and Proteins in Male Rats Treated with Monosodium Glutamate
Authors: Hamza Aqbal Salam , Jawad Rasha Abdul Ameer
Published: December 2024

Various civilizations utilize the fruit of the common herb barberry as a culinary component. Barberry is utilized as a therapeutic herb. This is used in traditional medicine for gastrointestinal issues, kidney stones, gallbladder and liver issues, circulatory system stimulation, and urinary tract abnormalities. Twenty adult male rats, ages 2-4 months, with an average weight of 150-300 g, have been utilized in the study. The rats have been split up to four groups (G), with five rabbits in each one of the groups. G1 was treated with normal saline extract 15 ml orally as the positive control group, G2 was treated with aqueous extract 14 mg/kg as the negative control group, G3 was treated with aqueous extract of Berberis vulgaris (300 mg/kg BW), and G4 was treated with aqueous extract of Berberis vulgaris (300 mg/kg BW) following 3hours. This study sought to ascertain protective effect of Berberis vulgaris extract on albumin, total protein, aspartate amino transaminase (ALT), globulin, alkaline phosphate (ALP), and alanine amino transaminase (AST). The current study's findings indicated that the mean levels of ALT, AST, ALP, albumin, total protein, and globulin have been much higher (p≤0.050) in G2 group than in G1 group. We have found no significant difference (p≥0.050) in levels of ALT, AST, total protein, ALP, albumin, and globulin in the group that had received doses of Berberis vulgaris (300 mg/kg BW) and Monosodium glutamate (14 mg/kg BW) in comparison with G1. We found a significant decrease (p≤0.050) in levels of (ALP, ALT, and AST) total protein, globulin, and albumin in G4 and G3 in comparison with G2. The study demonstrated that common barberry significantly enhances protective functions through the elevation of liver enzyme and protein levels. The observed effects are ascribed to the direct influence of the plant extract on hepatic function.
Effect of Foliar Application of Biostimulants and Micronutrients on Chlorophyll and Xanthophylls Content of African marigold cv. Pusa Narangi Gainda
Authors: Devdhara U. R. , Polara N D
Published: December 2024

The present experiment was carried out during 2017 to 2019. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with Factorial concept (FRBD) consisting two factors and three replications. The treatment comprised with four biostimulants and three micronutrients. The result indicated that foliar application of banana pseudostemsap @ 1% with micronutrient grade-IV @ 1% in addition to recommended dose of fertilizers (200:100:100 kg/ha NPK) produced higher chlorophyll content in leaves and xanthophylls content in flower of African marigold cv. Pusa Narangi Gainda.
Results of Chemical and Pharmacological Study of the Mongolian Traditional Prescription “Indra-4”
Authors: Chimedtseren Chimedragchaa , Baatartsogt Uuganbayar , Tsagaanbaatar Nyamdemberel , Buyantogtokh Dejidmaa , Urtnasan Myadagbadam , Altangerel Anu
Published: December 2024

Aims: The study aims to identify the biologically active ingredients in the Indra-4 prescription and evaluate their effects on rats with acute inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS).
Methodology: Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) was used to identify bioactive compounds in the prescription, while UV/Vis spectrophotometry measured total phenolic compounds, flavonoids, triterpene saponins, and coumarins. Forty adult Wistar rats were divided into four groups: Normal, LPS (control group), Diarex (reference treatment), and Indra-4 (test group). The study investigates how these components impact the condition of IBD in the rats. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism version 9.0.
Results: The study is the first to analyze the chemical and pharmacological properties of the traditional Indra-4 prescription, revealing that it contains polyphenolic compounds 2.38 ± 0.031% (gallic acid equivalent), flavonoids 0.28±0.034% (quercetin equivalent), coumarins 1.61±0.27% (isofraxedin equivalent), and triterpene saponins 0.9 ± 0.03% (oleanolic acid equivalent). In an enteritis model, a 300 mg/kg dose of Indra-4 reduced diarrhea by 68.9% compared to a control group treated with LPS (p<0.01). It also increased plasma sodium, potassium, and chloride plasma levels and lowered serum prostaglandin E2 levels by 30.8%, indicating potential anti-inflammatory effects (p<0.05). These findings suggest that Indra-4 may help alleviate diarrhea and inflammation in LPS-induced enteritis, providing a basis for its possible use in treating acute inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Conclusions: We conducted the first chemical and pharmacological analysis of the traditional Indra-4 prescription and discovered that it primarily contains polyphenolic compound derivatives, including flavonoids, coumarins, and triterpene saponins. These biologically active compounds exhibit various pharmacological actions and therapeutic effects. In the acute inflammatory enteritis disease model induced by lipopolysaccharide, the Indra-4 prescription demonstrates an antidiarrheal effect by decreasing prostaglandin E2 levels and preventing electrolyte loss, as confirmed through laboratory and histological analyses.
The Mongolian Gerbil (
Meriones Unguiculatus
): Introduction
Authors: Leonel Ellen C. R. , Campos Silvana G. P. , Bedolo Carolina M. , Falleiros Luiz R. , Taboga Sebastião R.
Published: September 2021

Rodents are the most abundant and taxonomically diverse order of living mammals.
Meriones unguiculatus
, the Mongolian gerbil, is a rodent naturally distributed in the desert, grasslands, and agricultural fields. Although used as a relevant experimental model, the genetic information on gerbils is limited. The Mongolian gerbil is the most widely used species of gerbils in the laboratory and a preferred model species for pharmacological research.
Galeus Melastomus
(Chondrichthyes): Introduction
Authors: Porcu Cristina , Marongiu Martina F. , Follesa Maria C.
Published: September 2021

The blackmouth catshark,
Galeus melastomus
, is a small bottom‐dwelling shark distributed in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and in the Mediterranean Sea. It belongs to the Pentanchidae, a family of small slender deep‐water sharks which was previously included as a subfamily in the Scyliorhinidae. Taxonomically important features of this species are the long anal fin, the compressed precaudal tail, and a striking color pattern of numerous dark saddles and circular spots.
Poecilia Mexicana
: Introduction
Authors: Torres‐Martínez Aarón , Hernández‐Franyutti Arlette , Contreras‐Sánchez Wilfrido M.
Published: September 2021

The cave molly
Poecilia mexicana
is an extremophile viviparous teleost inhabiting a sulfur spring cave in southern Mexico, the Cueva del Azufre, a subterranean environment with high levels of hydrogen sulfide and extreme hypoxia. Environment high levels of hydrogen sulfide and extreme hypoxia. To survive and reproduce under these extreme conditions, the cave molly has evolved a series of morphological and physiological adaptations. Morphological adaptations include a reduced body size, reduced eyes, reduced pigmentation, enlarged heads and a hyperdeveloped cephalic lateral line system. Cephalic lateral line system. In this article, we describe the current knowledge about the morphological and anatomical adaptations of the cave molly to an active sulfur spring cave.
Poecilia Mexicana
: Sensory Structures
Authors: Torres‐Martínez Aarón , Hernández‐Franyutti Arlette , Sanlúcar‐González Meritxell , Contreras‐Sánchez Wilfrido M.
Published: September 2021

The cave molly
Poecilia mexicana
has a hyperdeveloped lateral system and an increased number of taste buds that allow navigation and communication in a lightless environment. Compared to other troglomorphic fish, the cave molly has functional eyes. However, morphometric, histological, and molecular data suggest an early loss of eye functionally. In addition, a morphological gradient of eye reduction has been identified in this population of
P. mexicana
.
Galeus Melastomus
(Chondrichthyes): Intestinal System
Authors: Porcu Cristina , Marongiu Martina F. , Follesa Maria C.
Published: September 2021

Galeus melastomus
liver, like in all Elasmobranchs, is less definitively organized into lobules than in higher vertebrates. It is divided into two lobes, and its functions are assimilation of nutrients, production of bile, detoxification, and maintenance of the body metabolic homeostasis. The hepatic parenchyma, delimited by a simple cuboidal epithelium, is composed of polyhedral hepatocytes with marginal nuclei and lipid droplets in the cytoplasm. A feature of
G. melastomus
liver is the presence of the melanomacrophage centers, dark brown spherical spots, dispersed within the parenchyma and closely associated with blood vessels, considered as biomarkers of exposure to pollution in fish.
Galeus Melastomus
(Chondrichthyes): Reproductive Organs
Authors: Porcu Cristina , Marongiu Martina F. , Follesa Maria C.
Published: September 2021

Galeus melastomus
females, following the typical elasmobranch pattern, have a reproductive system composed of ovary, anterior and posterior oviducts, oviducal glands, and uteri. However, this species has only a functional right ovary associated with the epigonal organ, a lymphomyeloid tissue, producing different types of blood cells. Information about the microscopic anatomy of epigonal organ, oviducal glands, anterior and posterior oviducts, and uteri are reported. For
G. melastomus
males, externally characterized by two intromittent organs known as claspers and internally by two equally elongate testes, the histology of the epigonal organ, epididymis, paired deferens ducts, Leydig gland, and seminal vesicle is described.
Risk of Cancer After Initiation of Targeted Therapies in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis and a Prior Cancer: Systematic Review With Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Wetzman Amélie , Lukas Cédric , Gaujoux‐Viala Cécile , Mamtani Ronac , Barnetche Thomas , Combe Bernard , Morel Jacques , Szafors Paulina
Published: September 2021

Objective

To determine the risk of recurrent or new malignancy with exposure to targeted disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) in adults with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), axial spondyloarthritis (SpA), or psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and a history of cancer.

Methods

We performed a systematic search of the literature for articles published up to June 2019 that investigated adults with RA, axial SpA, or PsA who had a history of cancer and received biologic or targeted synthetic DMARDs (bDMARDs or tsDMARDs). We compared the risk of relapse or occurrence of new cancer between patients with and without bDMARDs. Rate ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were estimated. The heterogeneity of the studies was evaluated by the Cochran Q test and the I2 statistic.

Results

We included 24 observational studies of chronic inflammatory arthritis; of those, 12 were included in the meta‐analysis of RA patients receiving bDMARDs. As compared with RA patients with a history of cancer and not receiving bDMARDs, for those receiving any bDMARD, the overall RR for risk of neoplasia was 1.09 (95% CI 0.92–1.32; P = 0.31, I2 = 8%); with tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, it was 1.11 (95% CI 0.85–1.46; P = 0.45, I2 = 48%); and with rituximab, it was 0.79 (95% CI 0.41–1.53; P = 0.49, I2 = 0%). The RR for risk of recurrence for skin cancer was 1.32 (95% CI 1.02–1.72; P = 0.04, I2 = 0%) and for breast neoplasia 1.21 (95% CI 0.84–1.72; P = 0.31, I2 = 0%).

Conclusion

Apart from skin cancers including melanoma, the risk of recurrent or new cancer is not increased with the initiation of bDMARDs for RA as compared with no bDMARDs.
Motivators, Barriers, and Opportunity for E‐Health to Encourage Physical Activity in Axial Spondyloarthritis: A Qualitative Descriptive Study
Authors: Passalent Laura , Cyr Alaina , Jurisica Igor , Mathur Sunita , Inman Robert D. , Haroon Nigil
Published: September 2021

Objective

Physical activity is fundamental in the management of axial spondyloarthritis (SpA); however, evidence suggests that patients with axial SpA are not adhering to physical activity recommendations. E‐health technology (e.g., telephone reminders and mobile text messaging) can increase participation in physical activity. The aims of this study were as follows: 1) to understand perspectives of the importance of physical activity in the management of axial SpA; 2) to describe factors associated with physical activity adherence; and 3) to explore the role of e‐health technology to facilitate physical activity in patients with axial SpA.

Methods

Semistructured interviews were conducted with axial SpA patients attending an urban academic rheumatology clinic. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using thematic principles. Systematic labeling of the data set was completed using an inductive approach until saturation of emergent themes.

Results

Twelve patient interviews were completed. Most respondents were male (83.3%) with a mean ± SD age of 45.5 ± 12.5 years and a mean ± SD disease duration of 21.5 ± 14.9 years. Participants defined physical as any activity involving physical exertion. The role of physical activity in axial SpA management was well recognized and included symptom relief, pharmacologic synergy, and impact on general health. Motivators included a growth mindset, social support networks, and facility access. Barriers included fear of disease progression, life demands, and environmental restrictions. Feedback, electronic reminders, and virtual support networks were key components of e‐health technology to facilitate engagement in physical activity.

Conclusion

The results of this study provide a foundation to guide development of patient‐centered e‐health technology interventions to increase physical activity uptake in patients with axial SpA.