bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
El problema de la agencia material. Un desafío para el pensamiento posthumanista contemporáneo
Authors: Fagioli Nicolás
Published: January 2022

El presente trabajo se propone reflexionar en torno al vínculo entre la noción de agencia material y el pensamiento posthumanista contemporáneo. Mas específicamente nos proponemos cuestionar la necesidad de que una postura filosófica no antropocéntrica deba contener necesariamente una concepción simétrica de agencia. Para esto, en primer lugar, se analizarán los desarrollos de Lambros Malafouris en torno a dicha problemática, con el fin de caracterizar una concepción simétrica de la capacidad agentiva. En contraposición a esto, en segundo término, se explicitará la visión de Tim Ingold al respecto, con el fin de abrir paso a un nuevo enfoque.
¿Influyen los auditores en la agresividad fiscal de sus clientes? Evidencia empírica en las compañías españolas no cotizadas
Authors: Monterrey Mayoral Juan , Sánchez Segura Amparo
Published: January 2022

The purpose of our study was to carry out an empirical test of the extent to which auditors have an influence on the tax practices of the audited firm. Based on a wide sample of Spanish non-listed companies for the period 2009-2017, we have obtained consistent empirical evidence revealing that the choice of a high-quality auditor has a significant impact on the tax planning strategy of the firm. Companies show a greater tax planning aggressiveness when they are audited by one of the Big Four. Notwithstanding, leverage and the existence of tax credits are factors mitigating that aggressiveness. Moreover, abnormally higher audit fees do not seem to be an incentive for the auditor to cooperate in the tax strategies of the audited company. Our results are robust and remain unaltered after adjusting for the potential heterogeneity inherent to auditor’s choice and using alternative variable specifications.

Nuestro estudio tiene por objeto verificar empíricamente en qué medida los auditores influyen en las prácticas fiscales de sus clientes. Tomando una amplia muestra representativa de compañías españolas no cotizadas para el periodo comprendido entre 2009 y 2017, hemos documentado resultados empíricos que dejan constancia de que la elección de un auditor de calidad induce un significativo impacto en las estrategias de planificación fiscal de las empresas, que muestran una mayor agresividad tributaria cuando son auditadas por una Big Four. No obstante esta evidencia, el endeudamiento y la presencia de créditos fiscales pendientes de aprovechamiento se erigen como factores mitigantes de esta conducta. Además, la percepción por el auditor de un nivel de honorarios anormalmente elevados no parece generar incentivos para cooperar en las estrategias fiscales de la compañía auditada. Los resultados que hemos documentado son robustos y se mantienen inalterados tras corregir la posible endogeneidad inherente a la elección del auditor y ensayar con especificaciones alternativas de variables.
The Impact of Mayors’ Corruption on Spanish Municipal Spending
Authors: Bastida Francisco , Guillamón María-Dolores , Ríos Ana-María
Published: January 2022

We investigate the impact of mayors’ corruption on the size and structure of Spanish municipal budgets. The theory posits that total expenditure is greater in corrupt governments: €77.08 higher per capita in our sample when a corrupt mayor is in office. Moreover, the literature predicts that mayors (agents), will spend more on items directly connected with corruption, rather than expenditure priorities demanded by the citizens (principals). Thus, we show that total expenditure, capital, trash collection and police are higher when corruption exists. Literature predicts that corrupt mayors spend less on items that provide fewer opportunities to collect bribes: our data show that corrupt mayors do not spend more on health. Corrupt mayors spend on average 1.46 years on duty after being taken to court with a formal indictment on a corruption charge. This indicates that in Spain, sadly, resigning the mayoralty is not automatic when facing criminal charges for corruption.

Investigamos el impacto de la corrupción de los alcaldes en el tamaño y la estructura de los presupuestos municipales españoles. La teoría postula que el gasto total es mayor en los gobiernos corruptos: 77,08 euros más per cápita en nuestra muestra cuando un alcalde corrupto está en el cargo. Además, la literatura predice que los alcaldes (agentes), gastarán más en partidas directamente relacionadas con la corrupción, en lugar de en los gastos demandados por los ciudadanos (principales). Así, mostramos que el gasto total, el gasto de capital, la recogida de basura y la policía son mayores cuando existe corrupción. La literatura predice que los alcaldes corruptos gastan menos en partidas que ofrecen menos oportunidades de sobornos: en este sentido, nuestros datos muestran que los alcaldes corruptos no gastan más en sanidad. Los alcaldes corruptos están una media de 1,46 años en activo tras ser llevados a juicio con una acusación formal por corrupción. Esto indica que en España, lamentablemente, renunciar a la alcaldía no es automático cuando se enfrenta a cargos penales por corrupción.
Teocentrismo, Antropocentrismo y Contabilidad: de la Edad Media al Renacimiento
Authors: Villaluenga de Gracia Susana , Llibrer-Escrig Inmaculada , Gutiérrez-Hidalgo Fernando-Gabriel
Published: January 2022

The change in the accounting method from single entry to double entry in the 15th century has been tried to explain by the influence of some different issues such as the appearance of capitalism or by the contact of Italy with other peoples. However, none of them has been able to do so satisfactorily. That is why this work, tries to show how this accounting change could be pushed by a paradigm shift: the philosophical and religious perception of the world and its passed from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. It will be seen using a qualitative methodology which helps to know how the methods of charge and discharge and double entry respond to the prevailing ways of thinking in which they developed. The first one, can be associated with a Theocentric thought, typical of the Middle Ages, and the second one, double entry bookkeeping, philosophical viewpoint that are the are the most important entity in the world, which is characteristic of the Renaissance.

El cambio del método contable de la partida simple a la doble en el siglo XV se ha intentado explicar por la influencia de diferentes factores como la aparición del capitalismo o por el contacto de Italia con otros pueblos. Sin embargo, ninguno de ellos aisladamente, lo ha podido hacer de forma satisfactoria. Por lo tanto, utilizando una metodología cualitativa, este trabajo intenta arrojar luz indagando cómo este cambio contable se pudo deber a un cambio en la percepción filosófica y religiosa del mundo, al pasarse de la Edad Media al Renacimiento. Se verá cómo los métodos del cargo y descargo y de la partida doble responden a las formas de pensamiento imperantes en el que se desarrollaron. En consecuencia, que partida simple se puede asociar a un pensamiento Teocéntrico, propio de la Edad Media, y que la partida doble se puede relacionar con el Antropocéntrico característico del Renacimiento.
THE EFFECT OF BLOOD CONTAMINATION ON SHEAR BOND STRENGTH OF CALCIUM SILICATE-BASED PULP CAPPING MATERIALS
Authors: YAVUZ Hasan Fatih , BULUT EYÜBOĞLU Güneş
Published: January 2022

Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine the effect of different hardening times and blood contamination of MTA and Biodentine, which are widely used for pulp capping treatments in the market, on shear bond strength (SBS) with a self-etch adhesive resin, after different hardening times (24, 48, 72 and 96 hours).
Materials and Methods: Slots with a diameter of 5 mm and a height of 2 mm were prepared in 192 acrylic blocks for this study. Both ProRoot MTA and Biodentine were prepared according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and half of the slots were filled with ProRoot MTA and the other half were filled with Biodentine. All the samples were divided into groups depending on four different hardening times and hardened. After hardening process completed, the group of each hardening time was divided into 2 subgroups (n:12) with and without contamination.
In the uncontaminated groups, a self-etch adhesive resin (Clearfil Liner Bond) and a resin-based composite (Filtek P60) were applied on the samples and polymerized. In the contaminated groups, the sample surfaces were contaminated with blood for 20 seconds. After washing and drying the samples, adhesive resin and composite were applied on them. After that SBS tests were performed and the data were subjected to a 2-way ANOVA test analysis.
Results: In the uncontaminated groups, there was no significant difference in the SBS of each pulp capping material depending on different hardening times (p>0.05). ProRoot MTA showed statistically higher SBS than Biodentine in the 72 and 96 hour uncontaminated groups (p<0.05). Blood contamination caused a significant decrease in the SBS of ProRoot MTA and Biodentine (p<0.05).
Conclusions: In this study, it was determined that blood contamination reduces the SBS of pulp capping materials. Therefore, it is recommended to prolong the hardening times of the capping materials and to take clinical measures to prevent blood contamination as much as possible before restorative treatments are performed.
ROOT CANAL FILLING WITH NEOMTA PLUS IN SECOND PRIMARY MOLAR TEETH WITH MISSING SUCCESSOR: TWENTY-FOUR MONTHS OF FOLLOW-UP
Authors: DOĞAN Özgür , GÖKÇE Edanur , ALTINTEPE DOĞAN Suat Serhan , KARAKAN Nebi Cansın , ÇELİK İsmail
Published: January 2022

Hypodontia of the mandibular second premolar teeth is one of the most frequent anomalies of tooth development, which reveals a unique hardship for clinicians. Retaining the primary second molars helps to maintain arch integrity until facial growth is complete. This case series investigates the potential improvement and longevity of retained primary mandibular second molars obturation of the root canal system using a mineral trioxide aggregate when successors are missing. Neo MTA Plus (Avalon Biomed Inc, Bradenton, FL) recently introduced calcium silicate-based cement that may have some potential as a root canal obturating material. Nevertheless, no study using Neo MTA Plus as a root canal filling material was found in the literature. Five female patients with a decayed, necrotic second primary molar tooth without a successor were selected and performed a root canal treatment with Neo MTA Plus. Patients were scheduled for clinical and radiographic evaluation at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. They were followed up for twenty-four months. According to the present study, it can be concluded that NeoMTA Plus maybe a proper material for use in the root canal treatment of primary molars with a missing successor.
Tragicomedia de Calisto y Melibea: testimonios recuperados y una nueva edición [Roma, Marcelo Silber, 1512-1515]
Authors: Lacarra María Jesús , Jiménez Ruiz Ana Milagros
Published: January 2022

En el trabajo se repasan los recientes hallazgos de nuevas ediciones, o ejemplares no documentados, de la Tragicomedia de Calisto y Melibea. También se da a conocer un curioso testimonio manipulado, conservado en la Biblioteca estatal de Ulm, que transmite, junto a los dos primeros folios de Valencia (Juan Jofré, 1514), una edición desconocida hasta la fecha que incorpora el éxplicit rimado con la particular con-trahechura «Sevilla 1502». Un análisis tipobiblioiconográfico y de ecdótica textual e iconográfica nos lleva a identificarla como [Roma: Marcelo Silber: 1512-1515].
Celestina: Documento bibliográfico (suplemento número 43)
Authors: Saguar García Amaranta , Paolini Devid
Published: January 2022

Suplemento bibliográfico.
The development of supra-professional competencies of future pedagogues in the practice-oriented environment of the university
Authors: Kozilova Lidiya Vasilievna
Published: January 2022

The subject of this research is supra-professional competencies that contribute to successful pedagogical activity. The author examines the impact of supra-professional competencies upon the success of practical pedagogical activity. Having specialized knowledge, skills and professional competencies is not always sufficient to meet the requirements of modern educational environment. Developed social and emotional intelligence, ability to work both in a team and independently, balance between subordination and leadership qualities, organized thinking, and other qualities are becoming increasingly relevant in pedagogical profession. The scientific novelty consists in determination of the key supra-professional qualities that contribute to successful pedagogical activity. The experienced pedagogues believe that emotional intelligence, ability to work independently, and critical thinking are considered supra-professional qualities, while young pedagogues believe that such qualities are social intelligence, proclivity for leadership and design thinking. Despite the fact that depending on age category, the pedagogues have different representations of supra-professional qualities, they are not contradictory. In the context of practice-oriented educational environment of the pedagogical university, the students should be taught not only specialized knowledge and skills, but also develop supra-professional competencies.
The functionality of class-numerical indicators in suffixes of adjectives of the Dargin languages
Authors: Mutalov Rasul Osmanovich
Published: January 2022

This article examines the class-numerical indicators functioning in the suffixes of adjectives of the Dargin languages that belong to the Nakh-Daghestanian language family. The relevance of this topic lies in the fact that these languages have rich morphological system; however, many grammatical categories are yet to be studied. The goal of this work is to determine the etymology of suffix indicator -ch-b (-v,- p), which forms the adjectives and contains an Aslaut changing class indicator. For achieving the set goal, the article employs comparative-historical analysis and descriptive method; for collecting verbal material of various idioms – the methods of field linguistics. The novelty consists in the fact that this attributivizer is analyzed from the comparative-historical perspective in the Dargin studies for the first time. It is established that the morpheme under review is formed from the short form of the adverb of place chedi (ch-) “upwards”. In  the Dargin languages, it functions in form of the essive comprised by affixing class indicators to the lative form. With evolution of the language, this morpheme has been grammaticalized. The acquired results can be applied in preparing comparative-historical grammar of the Dargin languages, teaching the course of the Dargin literary language, as well as in typological research.
The role of title and epigraph in the essay “The Vision of Mirza” by Joseph Addison
Authors: Liudmila Iurievna  Makarova
Published: January 2022

The object of this research is the essay “The Vision of Mirza” by Joseph Addison. The relevance of studying J. Addison's essay is substantiated by undue attention to his works in the Russian literary studies, as well as the need for tracing the dynamics in the genre of vision in the Age of Enlightenment. The subject of this research is the title and epigraph as parts of the work that determine its structure and artistic distinctness. Analysis is conducted on the images of the viewer, visionary hero, and his guide, chronotope of the essay and allusive links. The essay is based on the combination of systemic-structural, comparative-historical, and hermeneutic methods. The novelty consists in the fact that the comprehensive examination of the role of the title ensemble within the structure of the essay allows reconstructing the link of the essay with the traditions of the medieval genre of vision manifested in the traditional topic and consistent motifs, imagery system, space and time arrangement, and dialogical structure of the text. The author provides interpretation to the allusive links between J. Addison's essay and Greco-Roman mythology, epic poem “The Aeneid” by Virgil, and psalms from the New Testament, and “The Voyage of St. Brendan”. It is established that the dialogue set by the epigraph passes through the entire plotline of the essay and reveal the characters of its participants. The extensively presented Christian theme alongside the images from ancient mythology and Virgil’s texts are essential for the author to express the enlightening program.
The reflection of space in the language of a multilingual society (on the example of the Khatango-Anabarsky district)
Authors: Zakharova Nataliya Egorovna
Published: January 2022

This article examines the universal category of space and its representation in the multicultural and multilingual Khatango-Anabarsky cultural landscape. The Dolgan language in Khatangsky and Anabarsky multilingual societies develops evenly and has specifics of functionality. The Russian language that is the state language in the Russian Federation, along with the Yakut language that is cognate to the Dolgan language and has greater communicative capacity in the territory of Yakutia,  play considerable role in these processes. The description of the Dolgan concept of space is carried out by the following scheme: 1) semantic analysis of the lexis that reflects space and is notionally named spatial; 2) spatial analysis of the regional toponymy and ethno-economic territorial system of the Dolgan people; 3) psycholinguistic analysis of content of the concept. The novelty of this research lies in description of the peculiarities of linguistic consciousness of the bilinguals on the example of the Dolgan concept of space, which is viewed alongside the regional toponymy and ethno-economic territorial system of the Dolgan people. Space is the subject of research in various scientific disciplines. This article reviews its psycho-linguoculturological aspect. In accordance with the anthropocentric research model, the study explores the correlation between the language, culture and mentality, and complies with the definition of the concept as a certain "bundle of culture within human mind” [Stepanov, 2001, p.43]. Thus, the special lexis, besides the generally accepted binary oppositions, should include the geographical terms with landscape peculiarities, which in the authors’ opinion, can be the reflection of space.
Art Nouveau in the context of realism: Ilya Repin at the turn of two centuries
Authors: Davydova Olga Sergeevna
Published: January 2022

The main subject of this research is the specificity of I. E. Repin's perception of the dynamics of artistic-aesthetic tasks formed under the influence of changing modernity. In view of this, one of the compositional centers of the research is the history of relationship that developed between I. E. Repin and the artists of the “first wave of symbolism” – members of the association “The World of Art” (primarily, the editor-in-chief of the eponymous journal S. P. Diaghilev, A. N. Benois, K. A. Somov, Y. Y. Lanceray). Special attention is given to the question of perception of I. E. Repin by certain representatives of the avant-garde in 1910s. Developing in the range “attraction – negation”, full of dramatic and comic moments, the dialogue between Repin and younger generation indicates the hastiness of univocal view of realism and Art Nouveau as opposing imagery systems. For the first time, on the current level of scientific comprehension of the aesthetics of symbolism and neo-romanticism, the article analyzes the attitude of I. E. Repin towards the innovative imagery pursuits of the Art Nouveau artists. At the same time, the very concept of Art Nouveau is interpreted in two dimensions: as a certain milestone in the context of the development of the history of art of the late XIX – early XX century; and as an inner dynamic potential embedded by I. E. Repin in his works since the beginning of his creative path. Based on systematization of the artistic and documentary sources and  the method of complex reconstruction of the views of Peredvizhniki and symbolist artists upon the objectives and nature of art, the author concludes that the poetics of art of Ilya Repin, synthesizing the ideas of time, tends to reflect a complicated and distinctive artistic image formed by realistic and idealistic principles.
The Shift in the Childbirth Paradigm in Latin America and its Socio-Political Implications
Authors: Wójtowicz-Wcisło Marta
Published: January 2022

The article tackles the issue of the shift in the model of childbirth taking place in Latin American countries. Based on the analysis of 2012 documentary film Nacer by Jorge Caballero, audiovisual material from organizations dedicated to maternity care, and selected documents and legislation it focuses on values, significances, normative principles and power relations in technological and natural childbirth models. I argue that a shift from the technological paradigm to the natural paradigm of childbirth may contribute to the abolition of patriarchal structures perpetuating violence, the women’s empowerment and the construction of a society supported by the values of respect and love for living beings.
Competitiveness of the Selected Countries of the EU with a Focus on the Quality of the Business Environment
Authors: Hajduova Zuzana , Coronicova Hurajova Jana , Smorada Marian , Srenkel Ludovit
Published: January 2022

The business environment and entrepreneurship are important elements in the economic growth of each country. The better the business environment a given country offers, the more attractive the country is for small and large companies as well as for private entrepreneurs. A high level of business competitiveness can help a country secure economic growth, especially after overcoming a crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Many institutions focus on the measurement of the business environment using indices to evaluate its quality. The main goal of the present study is to evaluate the quality of the business environment through multicriteria analysis. For the period from 2018 to 2020, the data were analysed by using seven selected indices of the weighted sum approach (WSA) and the technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) methods. The research sample included all EU countries that joined the EU at the same time in 2004. The processing of analytical data was gradually implemented by using descriptive statistics and multicriteria evaluation methods. The methods used in the multicriteria evaluation of variants determined the rankings of the individual variants in terms of the selected criteria using entropy. We concluded that the efficiency of the business environments in Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Poland, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovakia and Slovenia are below the EU average. Within this group of countries, Estonia, Malta and Slovenia have seen the largest regeneration of their business environment since having joined the EU.
Supply Chain Finance, Performance and Risk: How Do SMEs Adjust Their Buyer-Supplier Relationship for Competitiveness?
Authors: Liu Feng , Fang Mingjie , Park Kwangtae , Chen Xuesheng
Published: January 2022

Supply chain finance (SCF) has attracted considerable attention being an innovative business model that allows firms, especially small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), to convert illiquid assets into cash without incurring additional liabilities. However, its effects on SME performance and risk have been insufficiently studied. The competitiveness of SMEs depends on performance enhancement and risk mitigation. Thus, this study constructs a scaled-decile rank transformation of account receivable turnover to gauge the degree to which a supplier implements SCF, thereby examining the relationship between SCF, performance, and risk. We collect data on 4,679 SMEs from the Chinese manufacturing sector. Thereafter, hierarchical linear regression, a complex form of multiple linear regression analysis, is employed to test the hypotheses. The results indicate that an SME’s SCF adoption positively impacts its performance but negatively impacts its risk. To further explore cross-sectional variability, we investigated the buyer-supplier relationship’s moderating role. Results show that an increase in customer concentration strengthens both the positive effects of SCF on performance and the negative effects of SCF on risk. Overall, our study contributes to the literature on the interface of operations and finance in supply chains by exploring the multiple facets of SCF adoption and highlighting the moderating role of buyer-supplier relationship in SCF and SME competitiveness. Finally, we provide managerial implications for SMEs and financial service providers by validating the value of SCF implementation and the buyer-supplier relationship management in forging competitive advantages.
Symbol Correspondence for Euclidean Systems
Authors:   Marin Drinov Academic Publishing House, Natividad Laarni B. , Nable Job A.
Published: January 2022

The three main objects that serve as the foundation of quantum mechanics on phase space are the Weyl transform, the Wigner distribution function, and the $\star$-product of phase space functions. In this article, the $\star$-product of functions on the Euclidean motion group of rank three, $\mathrm{E}(3)$, is constructed. $C^*$-algebra properties of $\star_s$ on $\mathrm{E}(3)$ are presented, establishing a phase space symbol calculus for functions whose parameters are translations and rotations. The key ingredients in the construction are the unitary irreducible representations of the group.
Graph coloring using the reduced quantum genetic algorithm
Authors: Ardelean Sebastian Mihai , Udrescu Mihai
Published: January 2022

Genetic algorithms (GA) are computational methods for solving optimization problems inspired by natural selection. Because we can simulate the quantum circuits that implement GA in different highly configurable noise models and even run GA on actual quantum computers, we can analyze this class of heuristic methods in the quantum context for NP-hard problems. This paper proposes an instantiation of the Reduced Quantum Genetic Algorithm (RQGA) that solves the NP-hard graph coloring problem in O(N1/2). The proposed implementation solves both vertex and edge coloring and can also determine the chromatic number (i.e., the minimum number of colors required to color the graph). We examine the results, analyze the algorithm convergence, and measure the algorithm's performance using the Qiskit simulation environment. Our Reduced Quantum Genetic Algorithm (RQGA) circuit implementation and the graph coloring results show that quantum heuristics can tackle complex computational problems more efficiently than their conventional counterparts.
PresB-Net: parametric binarized neural network with learnable activations and shuffled grouped convolution
Authors: Shin Jungwoo , Kim HyunJin
Published: January 2022

In this study, we present a novel performance-enhancing binarized neural network model called PresB-Net: Parametric Binarized Neural Network. A binarized neural network (BNN) model can achieve fast output computation with low hardware costs by using binarized weights and features. However, performance degradation is the most critical problem in BNN models. Our PresB-Net combines several state-of-the-art BNN structures including the learnable activation with additional trainable parameters and shuffled grouped convolution. Notably, we propose a new normalization approach, which reduces the imbalance between the shuffled groups occurring in shuffled grouped convolutions. Besides, the proposed normalization approach helps gradient convergence so that the unstableness of the learning can be amortized when applying the learnable activation. Our novel BNN model enhances the classification performance compared with other existing BNN models. Notably, the proposed PresB-Net-18 achieves 73.84% Top-1 inference accuracy for the CIFAR-100 dataset, outperforming other existing counterparts.
Efficacy of bakuchiol-garlic combination against virulent genes of Candida albicans
Authors: Fahim Ayesha , Himratul-Aznita Wan Harun , Abdul-Rahman Puteri Shafinaz , Alam Mohammad K.
Published: January 2022

Background

Polymicrobial biofilms are notorious for causing intraoral tissue destruction. Streptococcus sanguinis and Streptococcus mitis, commensals of oral cavities, have been found co-existing with C. albicans in resistant oral infections. There is an urgent need to find alternative treatment options. This study aims to assess the efficacy of garlic (G) and bakuchiol (Bk) combination against candida virulent genes and their subsequently secreted proteins.

Methods

In vitro single species biofilms of C. albicans, and mixed species biofilms formed in combination with streptococci were exposed to bakuchiol and garlic extract (Bk+G). Gene expression of agglutinin-like sequence (ALS1), (ALS3), adhesin-like wall proteins (HWP1) and aspartyl proteinases (SAP5) were determined using qPCR and their subsequent proteins were assessed through Western blotting.

Results

Virulent genes were significantly downregulated in single species biofilms when they were treated with Bk+G combination. However, Bk+G did not have significant effect on ALS1 and HWP1 gene in polymicrobial biofilms. ALS3 and SAP5 were significantly downregulated in Bk+G treated polymicrobial biofilm. Similar results were portrayed in Western blotting.

Conclusion

Bk+G combination exhibited antimicrobial effects against single and mixed species biofilms. The findings might provide insights for treating resistant candida infections. This combination could potentially serve as an herbal alternative to traditional antifungals following further research.
Investigation of lipolytic activity of the red king crab hepatopancreas homogenate by NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Timchenko Maria , Molchanov Vladislav , Molchanov Maxim , Timchenko Alexander , Sogorin Evgeny
Published: January 2022

The digestive gland of craboids (hepatopancreas) is rich in a huge number of various enzymes (collagenases, nucleases, hyaluronidases, proteases), which are well studied at the moment. However, little is known about crustacean lipases. In this work, using 1H NMR spectroscopy, it was found that the hepatopancreas homogenate of the red king crab Paralithodes camtschaticus demonstrates high lipolytic activity against triacetin in a wide pH range and shows moderate activity against the caprylic/capric triglyceride emulsion. Under the action of the hepatopancreas homogenate, triacylglycerols are converted into 1,2-diacylglycerol, and then into 2-monoacylglycerol and 1-monoacylglycerol. The 1-monoacylglycerol predominates in the reaction products. The use of NMR spectroscopy makes it possible to quickly detect hydrolysis products and evaluate the reaction direction.
A Cross-sectional Study to Evaluate Causes of Maternal Mortality in Rural Areas of Punjab, India
Authors: Kaur Sarbhjit , Kaur Navneet , Mohi Manjit Kaur , Kaur Manjeet , Singh Neeraj , Oberoi Simmi
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Maternal mortality is an index of reproductive health of the society. In India illiteracy, late referrals, low socio-economic status of the community and direct causes are responsible for high incidence of maternal deaths which contributes to one-fifth of the global burden. Aim: To evaluate the causes of maternal death in rural areas of Punjab. Materials and Methods: The present retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted in 10 districts of Punjab, India chosen from five different zones i.e., east, west, north, south and central zone for a period of one year from 2016 to 2017. Information of all the deaths was taken from the civil surgeon office of the chosen district and then data of maternal deaths occurring within 42 days of delivery was collected by visiting patient’s residence and verbal autopsy was conducted. The data was collected and entered in predesigned proforma and percentages were calculated in Microsoft Excel version 2016. Results: A total of 67 maternal deaths were noted from above five zones, out of total rural population of 94,59,553. Maximum (n=51) maternal deaths were between age range of 20-30 years. Of these 67, majority 29 (43.28%) were illiterate, 66 (98.5%) women belonged to middle and low socio-economic status, 55 (82.1%) deaths occurred in the postnatal period, 33 (49.25%) occurred at more than 37 weeks period of gestation and 51 (76.12%) were due to direct causes. Out of 67 deaths, haemorrhage (n=29) was the most common cause. Anaemia contributed to 16.7% (11) as an indirect cause of maternal death. Conclusion: The maximum maternal deaths were contributed by illiterate women from middle and low socio-economic status. The most common cause was postpartum haemorrhage followed by pre-eclampsia/eclampsia.
Prophylactic Administration of Per Rectal Misoprostol vs Intramuscular Injection of Oxytocin in Third-stage of Labour for Prevention of Postpartum Haemorrhage: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Burman Sougata Kumar , Samanta Ritwik , Lata Kumari Kanak , Mukherjee Jayeeta , Dey Tapan Kumar
Published: January 2022

Introduction: In India, the routine Active Management of Third- Stage of Labour (AMTSL) with conventional intramuscular oxytocin, at the rural, resource-constrained areas, is often compromised due to lack of trained healthcare personnel and proper maintenance of cold chain system, causing maternal mortality and morbidity from Postpartum Haemorrhage (PPH). In these scenarios, tablet misoprostol, can be efficacious and convenient alternative. Aim: To evaluate efficacy and safety of misoprostol administered per rectum with respect to intramuscular oxytocin for effective control of PPH in a Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT). Materials and Methods: In this RCT, conducted in Sambhunath Pandit Hospital, kolkata, West Bengal, India from September 2015 to August 2016, total 80 eligible pregnant mothers in normal labour with prior consent and fulfilled criteria, were allocated to two separated groups (n=40) by computer generated randomisation table. Control group received 10 IU injection oxytocin and case group received 600 μg misoprostol tablet per rectally within one minute of cord clamping and cutting. The primary outcome measures were mean third- stage and mean postpartum blood loss up to eight hours after delivery. Secondary outcome variables were Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) after eight hours postdelivery, haemoglobin and haematocrit after 24 hours of delivery and reported side effects. Data was entered into a Microsoft excel spreadsheet and statistical analysis was done by Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0.1 and Graph Pad Prism version 5.0. Results: Total sample size was 80 equally divided into two groups, with a mean age of 23.20±3.1558 years and 23.7750±3.8927 years in case and control group respectively. The mean third-stage blood loss (332.4105±72.6632 mL versus {vs} 329.0088±59.4503 mL, p=0.8193) and mean total blood loss (426.5575±80.0215 mL vs 424.8783±61.5808 mL, p=0.9165) were statistically indifferent between misoprostol and oxytocin groups by two-sample t-tests. The mean for eight hours postpartum MAP (p=0.0894), 24 hours postpartum haemoglobin (p=0.4534) and haematocrit (p=0.1325) were statistically insignificant between the two groups by two- sample t-tests. Incidence of adverse effects like shivering, diarrhoea, compared by Pearson’s Chi-square test, were found to be more but non significant in misoprostol group. Conclusion: This study concludes that per-rectal misoprostol is equally effective as intramuscular oxytocin to control PPH without significant adverse effects.
Peroneus Brevis Muscle Flap as a Tissue Cover for Defect over Lower Mid Leg and Ankle Defects: A Case Series
Authors: Vaghani Sanjay Gordhanbhai , Chaudhari Ganesh Sadashiv
Published: January 2022

Mid leg and ankle area are more vulnerable for post-traumatic full thickness soft tissue loss. Implants used in osteosynthesis in this region are also at risk of exposure as its placement is in subcutaneous plane as well as precarious blood supply in shin region. Various options like local flap to free flap are described for reconstruction of small and medium size defects in this region. Peroneus brevis is also well described in literatures. In this case series which was done over the period of six years that includes 10 patients with post-traumatic as well as post orthopaedics surgical intervention defects in lower mid leg and ankle region. Patients were selected for proximally and distally based peroneus brevis muscle flap according to the location of defects. Data regarding age, sex, aetiological factor, size of defect, type of flap, survival of flap, donor site complications were recorded. Out of 10 patients, eight were males and two were females. Major aetiological factor was two wheeler road traffic accident. Majority of the patient had orthopaedic surgical intervention for fracture fixation prior to or along with flap surgery. Only one patient, in this series had marginal flap necrosis. Rest of flaps survived well without any donor site complications. In authors experience peroneus brevis muscle flap is dependable for medium size defects over lower leg and ankle.
Maternal Pregnancy Associated Plasma Protein-A Levels in Late First Trimester as a Predictor of Miscarriage- A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Sinha Nivedita , Singh Alpana , Banerjee BD , Agarwal Rachna , Srivastva Himsweta
Published: January 2022

Indroduction: Miscarriage is the most common complication of pregnancy. Defective implantation is one of the common causes of miscarriage. Pregnancy Associated Plasma Protein-A (PAPP-A) is secreted from syncytiotrophoblast and it enables trophoblast invasion. Few studies have shown association of PAPP-A with miscarriage. However, there is limited data available to establish the role of PAPP-A as a predictive marker of miscarriage, especially in Indian population. Aim: To determine the potential of maternal PAPP-A level estimation in asymptomatic women in late first trimester (10-13 weeks) with viable foetus in predicting subsequent miscarriage. Materials and Methods: This was an observational, cross-sectional study conducted from November 2016 to April 2018 at University College of Medical Science and Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India. Asymptomatic pregnant women (N=500) at 10-13 weeks of gestation were recruited from an antenatal clinic after confirmation of foetal viability. A 2 mL of blood sample was collected and serum PAPP-A level was measured. Independent t-test and Chi-square test was used to compare continuous data and Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare PAPP-A Multiple of Median (MOM). Logistic regression was used to estimate risk of miscarriage. Results: Out of 500 participants, 9 were lost to follow-up. From remaining N=491, 32 (6.5%) women had a miscarriage. PAPP-A levels were significantly decreased in miscarriage group compared to ongoing pregnancy group with median MOM 0.116 (0.080-0.17) and 1.25 (0.665-3.249) respectively (p-value <0.001). PAPP-A MOM value of ≤10th percentile sensitivity and specificity of detection of miscarriage was 81.25% and 94.98% and at ≤5th percentile sensitivity and specificity was 40.62% and 97.82%, respectively. Lower the percentile cut-off of serum PAPP-A value, higher was the specificity and positive predictive value for prediction of miscarriage. By applying logistic regression we found that if PAPP-A MOM decreases by 1 unit the chances of miscarriage increased by 1.2 times. By this model 63.2% of cases could be explained (Nagelkerke R Square=0.632). For prediction of pregnancies likely to miscarry, the area under Receiver Operator Characteristic (ROC) curve (95% CI) was 0.969 (0.955-0.983). Conclusion: Low serum PAPP-A levels from asymptomatic women in late 1st trimester is a good predictive marker of miscarriage.
The Relationship of Economic Growth and Foreign Direct Investment on Financial Development: Empirical Evidence from Palestine
Authors: Badwan Nemer
Published: January 2022

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to investigate the impact and current link between economic growth and foreign direct investment (FDI) on financial development in Palestine, as well as the role of financial development in influencing this relationship.

Design/Methodology/Approach: The logical reasoning approach associated with quantitative research was applied in this study, which was backed up by experience and positivism as philosophical viewpoints. Data on economic growth indicators, foreign direct investment (FDI), financial development, and other control variables were also used, spanning the years (1998 to 2019). To determine whether there is an effect and a relationship between economic growth, foreign direct investment (FDI), and financial development in Palestine, Johansen's co-integration analysis method will be used.

Results: Johansen's co-integration discovered that economic growth, foreign direct investment (FDI), and financial development have a favourable influence and a Long-Term association. Furthermore, there was a statistically significant relationship between stock market financial development indices and foreign direct investment (FDI).

Practical Implications: This study adds to the literature by evaluating whether foreign direct investment (FDI) drives growth through financial development networks and other factors that can drive growth in addition to foreign direct investment (FDI). A well-developed financial market, according to research, will boost the impact of indirect foreign direct investment (FDI) on economic growth. By offering enough liquidity services that increase links between local and global investors, a well-developed stock market will promote capital accumulation activities and output growth.

Originality/Value: This study is unique in that it examines the impact and relationship between economic growth and foreign direct investment (FDI) in Palestine on financial development, which must be considered in all developing countries' Long-Term development plans. Simultaneously, this study is a step ahead in examining the relationship between economic growth and foreign direct investment (FDI) in Palestine, as well as their primary function in financial development.
Characterization of Clay from Isan Ekiti Deposits for Making the Ceramic Water Purifier
Authors: Akinruli I. J. , Akinruli F. T.
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Despite the efforts of Governments and non-governmental organizations in sponsoring ceramic water purifier (CWP) filter project across the globe, some rural communities in Ekiti State, Nigeria are yet to benefit from it. One of the major technical difficulties hindering the making of CWP filter cells in many places was the adaptation to the sand, clay and sawdust mixture necessary to obtain the correct filter properties.

Aim: In this study, some salient properties of clay from orudi, arade and oturo deposits at Isan Ekiti were assessed in the light of their usefulness for making the ceramic water filter cells.

Methodology: The particle size distribution analysis and consistency tests were carried out on the crude clay. Also the shrinkage, effects of percentage constituents of burnout on porosity, filtration rate and quality of filtrate were measured, using standard methods.

Results: Results show that arade has the appropriate technical properties for making the filter cell. The chosen clay sample has its deposit less than 2 kilometers to the point of making. About 56% of its particles are less than 0.075mm equivalent spherical diameter (ESD). A composition of ratio 50:50 by volume mixture of clay to sawdust has the   porosity of 54. 55% while that of ratio 40:60 is 55.56%. Samples made of these batches were capable of reducing the water turbidity Neflometric Turbidity Unit (NTU) of contaminated water by 95%.  The 50:50 samples have the higher capacity of reducing total coliform count by 50.28% as against 25.07% for 40:60 samples.

Conclusion: Given appropriate facilities and training, with the abundant clay at arade deposit, the pottery center is a place where CWP filter cell factory could be established.
Mapping of Ornamental Fish Farming Cultivation Production Areas in Bogor Regency
Authors: Prasetya Bayu , Nurhayati Atikah , Suryadi Ibnu Bangkit Bioshina , Gumilar Iwang
Published: January 2022

Aims: Analyze the leading ornamental fish commodities in Bogor Regency and analyze the mapping of ornamental fish farming areas in Bogor Regency.

Place and Duration of Study: Research conducted in Bogor Regency and was carried out from Desember 2020 – September 2021.

Methodology: The method used was a literature study to determine the leading ornamental fish commodities in Bogor Regency and mapping of ornamental fish farming areas in Bogor Regency. After processing the data, the data is analyzed descriptively. Primary data was obtained from interviews with 1 key person at the Department of Fisheries and Livestock, Bogor Regency. Secondary data is obtained through reports from several documents including the Annual Report 2015 – 2019 from the Bogor Regency Fisheries and Livestock Service, Gross Regional Domestic Product (PDRB) 2015 – 2019 Bogor Regency, Bogor Regency Medium Term Development Plan 2018-2023.

Results: The results of this study indicate that the main ornamental fish commodities in Bogor Regency are oscars, corydoras, guppies, bettas, black ghosts, rainbows, manfish and goldfish. The leading areas for ornamental fish production in Bogor Regency are the Subdistrict of Kemang, Megamendung, Tenjolaya, Cibinong, Ciseeng, Nanggung, and Ciampea.
Development of Wireless Technique to Regulate Seed Dropping in a Seeder for Intercropping
Authors: Harshavardhan Korla , Sivakumar S. S. , Gunasekar J. John , Balaji K. , Padmanathan P. K. , Albert V. Alex
Published: January 2022

Although intercropping gives additional yield per unit area than sole cropping, yield may also decrease as the crops differ in their competitive abilities. To avoid competition and to accompany complimentary action between the base crop and inter crop in intercropping practise, proper crop ratio of two crops should be maintained. When sowing with available seeders crop ratio was not maintained because of non-availability of a seed hopper, handling two different varieties of seeds and the un controlled seed flow from the hopper to the seed tube when ground wheel is rotating. To look after this problem an experiment was conducted at DFMPE, AEC & RI, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Kumulur by fabricating a seed hopper consisting of two compartments and circular shaped outlet for two variety of seeds and developing an RF (radio frequency) wireless technology to control servo motor in order to restrict the seed drop from seed hopper to the seed tube even though ground wheel is in running condition. In this paper considering a seven-row seeder, the performance of a micro controller coded with appropriate programme in embedded C language which can regulate seven servo motors each at seven seed hoppers, functioning of RF transmitter sketch, functioning of RF receiver sketch, header issue & its solution, angle conversion of servo shaft and power consumption was observed and discussed. Total power required for operating RF electronic setup containing seven servomotors was recorded as 5 V 12 A. The angle of rotation of servo motor shaft was from 0º to 165º when pulse width range in micro controller was set from 0 and 2400 micro seconds. The servo did not respond in the hardware interfacing because both the libraries use timer 1 interrupt which created an error issue. In order to overcome that “Servo timer 2.h” header was issued instead of servo.h. Then sketch was compiled and was executed successfully.