bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of α-Fe2O3 Nanoparticles By Photolysis Method For Novel Dye-sensitized Solar Cell
Authors: Rheima Ahmed Mahdi , Abdulah Hussain Ismail , Hussain Dhia Hadi , Abed Hayder Jawad , Abbas Zainab Sabri
Published: April 2022

The dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) is a cost-effective and simple-to-implement technology for future energy generation. It has a comparable power conversion efficiency (PCE) to traditional silicon solar cells while having lower material and production costs. α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles were synthesized by photo irradiation method using complexes solution of iron. The synthesized nanoparticles are characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Uv.visable spectroscopy. Results show that nanoparticles have a uniform rhombohedral shape with an 11 to 29 nm average size. The hematite nanoparticles were applied to fabricate a novel Dye solar cell, with an energy conversion efficiency of about 2.5 % by (ITO/ α-Fe2O3 Nps/ Dye (Rhodamine 6 G) /iodine / Ag film / ITO).
The Influence of the Implementation of E-Filling and E-Billing on Individual Taxpayer Compliance with Tax Socialization and Understanding of the Internet as Moderating Variables
Authors: Kemuning Pradilatri , Djaelani Yustiana , Fala Dwi Yana Amalia Sari
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of implementing the E-Filling and E-Billing System on the Compliance of Individual Taxpayers with Tax Socialization and Internet Understanding as Moderating Variables. Sampling technique using Convenience Sampling. The population in this study are individual taxpayers who have used E-Filling and E-Billing, the total sample is 100 respondents. The hypothesis testing used is the validity test, reliability test and classical assumption test. The hypothesis test used is multiple linear regression and Moderated Regression Analysis. The results showed that the implementation of the e-filling and e-billing system had a positive effect on individual taxpayer compliance, tax socialization strengthened the relationship between the e-filling system implementation and individual taxpayer compliance, tax socialization could not moderate the implementation of the e-billing system on compliance. individual taxpayers and internet understanding cannot moderate the application of e-filling and e-billing systems to individual taxpayer compliance.
The Levels System
Authors: Locke Dustin ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: April 2022

This paper describes an application of mastery learning to the teaching of philosophical writing—an approach I call “the Levels System.” In this paper, I explain the Levels System, how I integrate it into my course, and the pedagogical research supporting the principles of mastery learning on which it is built. I also compare the Levels System to Maryellen Weimer’s “menu approach,” Linda Nilson’s “specifications grading,” and Fred Keller’s “personalized system of instruction.” I argue that the Levels System has many of the virtues of these other systems and some additional virtues of its own.
The Clinical Impact of Comedonecrosis Within Intraductal Carcinoma of the Prostate
Authors: Wang Ying , Teramoto Yuki , Weisenthal Samuel J. , Goto Takuro , Miyamoto Hiroshi
Published: April 2022

Context.—

Intraductal carcinoma of the prostate (IDC-P) is considered a distinct form of aggressive prostate cancer where comedonecrosis, a grade 5 pattern, is occasionally present. Meanwhile, assigning a Gleason grade to IDC-P remains controversial.

Objective.—

To assess the clinical significance of necrosis associated with IDC-P.

Design.—

We compared radical prostatectomy (RP) findings and oncologic outcomes in men with prostate cancer exhibiting IDC-P with (IDC-P+/N+) versus without (IDC-P+/N−) comedonecrosis.

Results.—

Of the 558 RPs examined, IDC-P was present in 213 cases (38.2%), including 167 (78.4%) with IDC-P+/N− and 46 (21.6%) with IDC-P+/N+. When comparing IDC-P+/N− versus IDC-P+/N+ cases, the presence of necrosis was significantly associated with higher tumor grade, higher incidence of pT3/pT3b or pN1 disease, and larger estimated tumor volume. Outcome analysis revealed a significantly higher risk of disease progression in IDC-P+/N+ patients than in IDC-P+/N− patients (P < .001). Significant differences in progression-free survival between IDC-P+/N− and IDC-P+/N+ patients were also seen in subgroups, such as those without (P = .01) or with (P = .03) adjuvant therapy immediately after RP, those with pN0 disease (P < .001), and, more interestingly, those exhibiting conventional Gleason pattern 5 component (P = .02). Multivariate analysis showed significance for IDC-P+/N+ when IDC-P (grade 4) and IDC-P+/N+ (grade 5) were (hazard ratio, 1.768; P = .049) or were not (hazard ratio, 2.000; P = .008) incorporated into the Gleason score.

Conclusions.—

IDC-P+/N+ was found to be associated with worse histopathologic features on RP and poorer prognosis as an independent predictor. Pathologists may thus need to report the presence or absence of not only IDC-P but also comedonecrosis within IDC-P.
Rigid pavement planning in traffic: Case study in Ciherang road and Pemuda road, Bogor Regency, Indonesia
Authors: Syaiful Syaiful , Rusfana Hendra
Published: April 2022

Rd Ciherang and Rd Pemuda, Dramaga Subdistrict, Bogor Regency, are located in a densely populated area which connects Rd Raya Dramaga and Rd Dramaga Ring. The existing condition of the road is in the form of flexible pavement or asphalt, but there are several points that have been damaged. Damage is in the form of longitudinal cracking, cracks and holes. The purpose of planning rigid pavement is to improve the surface layer of the road smoother and provide comfort, smoothness for road users. The method used is to calculate the thickness of the plate and geometric analysis of the road. The basis for choosing rigid pavement is due to its location in the mountains and poor subgrade conditions. The basic condition of rigid pavement strongly supports the movement of heavy vehicles in locations which are planned for the outer ring road. Because the geometric conditions of the road are winding and up and down, Spiral-Circle-Spiral and Full-Cyrcle planning is highly recommended. Fatik and erosion damage must be less than 100%. This is to get the results of the calculations that have been done. Rigid Pavement is planned and geometric analysis to provide comfort and smoothness for road users. In this study, a pavement thickness of 18.5cm was produced from the results of calculations using Bina Marga Method. Transverse connection using dowel diameter 25mm, length 450mm, spacing 300mm. Longitudinal connection using tie bars with a diameter of 16mm, a length of 700mm and a distance of 600mm. The results of the geometric analysis obtained five horizontal alignment forms, namely the spiral-circle-spiral (SCS) PI-1 bend with a bend length of 153.35m. The PI-2 bend is spiral-circle-spiral (SCS) with a bend length of 233.21m. The PI-3 bend is full circle (FC) type with a bend length of 174.19m. The PI-4 bend is full circle (FC) type with a bend length of 68.11m. Full circle (FC) type PI-5 bend with a bend length of 66.47m.
Sliding wear characteristics of Boron Carbide and novel Squid Quill Ash reinforced Aluminium 6061 hybrid composites
Authors: Padmaraj N.H. , Keni Laxmikant , Chethan K.N. , Hegde Sharun , Nithin I.R. , Kumar Anush , Mendon Abhishek
Published: April 2022

Reinforcement of metallic and non-metallic particulates will enhance or improve the tribological and mechanical properties of metal matrix composites. In the present study, Aluminium 6061 was reinforced with agro-waste based novel Squid Quill Ash (SQA) and Boron Carbide (B4 C) by employing a stir casting process. Sliding wear behavior of Al/B4 C/SQA hybrid composites investigated by varying SQA content (0.5%, 1%, and 1.5%), sliding speed (400,500 and 600 RPM), and applied load (10,20 and 30 N) using Pin on Disc apparatus. Experiments were performed based on Taguchi L27 orthogonal design. The role of control parameters on wear rate was estimated using the Analysis of variance method. Statastical analysis showed that applied load has a significant effect on the wear rate of the hybrid composites followed by SQA content and Sliding Speed. Material removal during wear test mainly due to the combined effect of formation of cracks, abrasion, and grooves on the target surfaces.
Chronic pain and exercise
Authors: Frey P-E , Schiltenwolf M
Published: April 2022

Problem: Worldwide, at least one in four adults do not exercise sufficiently. Inactivity is associated with an increase in disease burden and mortality, whereas exercise can contribute to a longer, healthier life. Chronic musculoskeletal pain is a significant public health concern; in Germany, approximately 15% of the adult population suffers from chronic low back pain. Based on the diagnoses of chronic back pain, chronic joint pain, and chronic widespread pain or fibromyalgia syndrome, this study will evaluate the importance of exercise in the treatment of chronic pain. Methods: Narrative review based on current treatment guidelines and scientific publications. Results: Exercise and physical activity are both preventively and therapeutically effective in the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal pain. Individualized, supervised exercise programs that take patients’ preferences and goals into account appear to be particularly effective, regardless of pain location. There is evidence that the positive biopsychosocial effects of movement are more important than the specific form of exercise. Discussion: In the treatment of chronic pain, exercise and activity should be considered primary therapeutic measures and be prescribed accordingly. Supervision and adaptation of exercise programs to patient needs are critical factors of success, regardless of the type of sport or form of exercise. Even a small dose of physical activity achieves health benefits in patients with chronic pain and contributes to symptom relief.
Anthropometry – assessment of body composition
Authors: Kobel S , Kirsten J , Kelso A
Published: April 2022

Anthropometric measurements are non-invasive and easily obtained measurements with a wide range of utility in both paediatric and adult populations, including athletes. They can be used to diagnose risk factors, enhance performance and help patients to assess improvement after treatment. To enhance long-term patient outcomes, an inter-professional team should work together to consistently obtain reproducible results that apply to clinical settings. Accurate serial measurements over time are the most important aspect of anthropometry for a reliable indicator of risk factors. This will help identify at-risk individuals early, help promote a healthy lifestyle, and enhance performance in athletes. Choosing the appropriate assessment method depends on aim, resources, population, and required accuracy.
Rasistiska brott mot utsatta grupper
Authors: Enarsson Therese , Åström Karin
Published: April 2022

AbstractThis article takes its starting point in Sami and Roma exposure to racism by studying preconditions within the criminal law for dealing with racism against individual victims of crime. The purpose is to identify whether and how individual victims can obtain remedy andreparation when exposed to racism. In this article, that means that the racist act must be criminalized, that the criminal interest of criminalization is the individual victim, and that the racist nature of the crime has legal implications for classification, sentencing and punishment. Methodologically, the study focuses on identifying possible challenges in the application of so-called hate crimes legislation. Two challenges to the application of indivi dual remedies and reparations were identified. First is the difficulty in identifying and establishing (racist) motive. Second is the lack of clear statements from the courts about how assessments have been made in the use of aggravating and mitigating circumstances in sentencing, and if or how they have affected sentencing and punishment. The results of this study show that the legal conditions for individual victims to obtain criminal justice when they have been subjected to racism are insufficient. Problems are primarily due to deficiencies in the formulation of the legislation, but are also seen in its application. Despite a strong contemporary political focus on work to combat racism, no legal changes have been proposed. Based on the results of this study, we suggest the application of a holistic approach to the legislation on hate crimes. This would enable individual redress for the racism to which Sami and Roma, among others, are exposed.
Samarbejdet mellem den danske kriminalforsorg og den frivillige sektor
Authors: Olesen Anette
Published: April 2022

AbstractThe Danish Prison and Probation Service (DPPS) is facing prison overcrowding, staff shortages and a political focus on order and control. This situation is challenging prisons in fulfilling their rehabilitative function. Delivery of rehabilitation services in the DPPS from external voluntary organisations is therefore of interest and a strategic, systematic collaboration between the DPPS and the voluntary sector has been included in DPPS agreements that describe the financial framework and the operational and  developmental targets to be realised during the contractual period 2022-25. Knowledge about the current collaboration and its potential is nevertheless scarce. This study explores the present informal collaboration between voluntary organisations delivering in/post-prison rehabilitative programmes and the DPPS, with a focus on funding structures and collaboration demands.The study is based on semi-structured interviews with prison and probation staff and representatives from voluntary  organisations as well as participant observation of volunteer training in/post prison. The findings reveal that the rehabilitative work of volunteers in prisons is challenged by, among other things, the focus placed by the DPPS on professionalism, standardisation and impact measurement. Moreover, lobbying for funding is found to be time-consuming and challenging to the autonomy of voluntary organisations. The article supports protecting the voluntary organisations’ diversity of methods and approaches to prisoner rehabilitation.
Creative rotation in conceptual art: Marcel Duchamp вЂ“ composer, John Cage вЂ“ artist
Authors: Balbekova Irina Mikhailovna
Published: April 2022

The subject of this study is the intersection points of music and fine art, demonstrated by the example of the creative interaction of the conceptual artist Marcel Duchamp and composer John Cage. The possibility of reformatting creativity from the visual to the sound field is considered as a role rotation, within which Duchamp appears as a composer, and Cage as an artist. An attempt is made to explain the motivation for such a choice. What is the meaning of this, and what do people mean when they choose this or that image for themselves, and create this or that image for themselves. How important it is to change the artistic image and creative image for the master. The methodology of the research consists in a comparative analysis of these concepts using already known works on this topic and personal observations of the author. In conceptualism, an idea is valued above the process of its materialization in a work of art, and therefore, the technique of execution is not a decisive factor. In such a creative paradigm, the artist's tools themselves become not so essential, which can be paints, a brush or other means of visual representation of the concept, as well as sheet music or a graphic score. The means of artistic expression - sounds or visual elements вЂ“ also turn out to be equivalent. All of them focus around the concept - the dominant point of any kind of creativity. This conclusion becomes the key for the conducted research in this article.
Folk ballad "Prince Mikhailo" in the context of the Russian musical and epic tradition
Authors: Korolkova Inga
Published: April 2022

The article for the first time carries out a comparative study of variants of the Russian folk ballad "Prince Mikhailo" about the mother-in-law-destroyer. The study summarizes various sources of folk tunes вЂ“ auditory recordings of the XIX century, publications from folklore archives of collectors of the XX century, previously unpublished folklore materials. Among them are tunes recorded in the Tver, Nizhny Novgorod, Vologda, Murmansk, and Arkhangelsk regions. The author draws attention to a little-known recording of the ballad made in the Novgorod region, and designates the role of this fact as an important evidence of the involvement of Novgorodians in the hit of "Prince Mikhailo" in the Northern Russian territories. The purpose of the study is the need to give a typological and historical assessment of the ballad tunes. A special perspective of the work is aimed at finding related musical forms in other genres of the Russian musical epic. The analysis showed that the ballad tunes recorded in various regions of Russia belong to the same musical type. It is based on a single-verse line of 8-complex composition with a choreographic ending, covering 10 or 12 musical-time units. The melodic features of the tunes testify to their fret unity associated with the narrative orientation of intonation. During the study, it was found that "Prince Mikhailo" is performed only with the melodies of the described structure. Moreover, it is the only proper ballad text assigned to this model. In Russian musical folklore, a structural type with a choreic ending was revealed (in addition to the ballad "Prince Mikhailo") in spiritual poems, tall tales, and some church hymns. The article suggests that it has developed among the Russian professional singers вЂ“ buffoons and kalik pererozhikh. The role of Ancient Novgorod in the formation of a special cultural environment that contributed to the formation of these social institutions and the musical repertoire of its representatives is indicated.
The content of organic acids and carotenoids in Sorbus fruits
Authors: Nikiforova Anastasiya Gennad'evna , Skochilova Elena Anatol'evna , Mukhametova Svetlana Valer'evna
Published: April 2022

Organic acids and carotenoids are important biologically active compounds that largely determine the pharmacological value of rowan fruits. In medicine, mountain ashberry is used as a multivitamin, diuretic, tonic. Its fruits are standardized according to the content of organic acids. In this work, the content of the organic acids sum and carotenoids in the fruits of Sorbus aucuparia and the varieties 'Burka', 'Granatnaya', 'Alaya Krupnaya' and 'Titan' from the collection of the Botanical Garden-Institute of Volga State University of Technology (Yoshkar-Ola, Mary El Republic) was studied. The moisture content in the fruits of all studied rowans varied from 0.49 to 0.60%, which corresponded to the permissible value of the pharmacopoeia. The amount of organic acids varied from 3.06 to 3.93%. In the fruits of the varieties 'Titan' and 'Burka' the greatest amount of the organic acids was found, slightly less was in the variety 'Granatnaya', but the difference is insignificant. The low content of the studied compounds was determined in Sorbus aucuparia and 'Alaya Krupnaya', while the value of this variety did not meet the requirements of the pharmacopoeia article. The content of carotenoids in rowan fruits varied from 3.09 to 5.60 mg%. In terms of the number of these compounds, the fruits of the varieties 'Titan' and 'Alaya Krupnaya' were in the lead. The smallest amount of carotenoids was found in the fruits of Sorbus aucuparia and 'Granatnaya'. The most promising for obtaining biologically active compounds is the variety 'Titan'.
The Location of Anxiety
Authors: Levi Melih
Published: April 2022

This essay elaborates an alternative to the Freudian and Lacanian conceptions of anxiety by tracing a middle ground between their accounts of linguistic acquisition and object-attachment. Both psychoanalysts overlook the importance of gestural expression while theorizing the eventual reliance on the symbolic with the onset of the Oedipal period. The essay turns to the folk psychology notion of the “theory of mind,” and a specific experiment called the “false belief task” to offer an alternative to how the encroachment of the symbolic is conceptualized in psychoanalytic history. Rather than framing the onset of the symbolic order as a swift entry into language, the essay proposes rethinking it as a process with a longer temporality and a more complex set of expressive behaviors (language, gesture, embodied expression). The comparative account of Freud and Lacan are supported with references to psychoanalysts and scholars of psychoanalysis such as Julia Kristeva, Elizabeth Grosz, and Donald Winnicott.
Moral Stress and Moral Agency in Swedish Eldercare
Authors: Elmersjö Magdalena , Hultqvist Sara , Hollertz Katarina
Published: April 2022

Background: Ageing population, high levels of sick leave among eldercare personnel and financial constraints on municipal budgets impact eldercare. Daily care work is complex and ethical dilemmas are constantly present for eldercare personnel. This project aims to a) identify situations that give rise to moral stress, b) study the relationship between moral stress and moral agency c) explore how moral agency can be fostered in eldercare. The argument underpinning this research project is that ethical dilemmas in the work cause moral stress among staff in eldercare. While much research on moral stress highlights the connection between moral stress and negative effects on health and wellbeing, our focus is on the possible connection between moral stress and moral agency. Moral agency encompasses cognitive capacity, feelings, skills, and actions.

Methods/Design: This project has a systemic approach to eldercare and interprets eldercare as an advanced system where a range of different skills is required. Participatory action research (PAR) will be used as an overall methodology. Focus-groups and research circles will be conducted with care workers, first line manages and needs assessors. 

Discussion: An ongoing discussion on relevant knowledge production in research, stresses the importance of participation. This is expressed by concepts such as deliberative democracy, user participation, empowerment, collaboration, follow-up research and citizen dialogue. In our research project we refer to robust knowledge as relevant knowledge that is valid in the eyes of care workers, care municipal needs assessors and first line managers. As the research is performed in collaboration with these three vocational groups, local politicians, and trade unions in three municipalities as well as two educational settings, different sorts of knowledge will be present. This unique stand will show how moral agency, as a response to moral stress, can be the ground for social changes and improve quality of care.
Study Protocol: Development and Validation of a Framework on the Personality Characteristics of High-Potential Employees (Hi-pots)
Authors: Martharine Freeda Jelly
Published: April 2022

Background: Modern organizations recognize the importance of identifying, developing, and retaining high potential employees (hi-pots) who can contribute to effective functioning. They try different talent management strategies and frameworks to meet this purpose. Research shows that the involvement of a hi-pot in a team could increase the effectiveness, nearly 5-15%. The prevailing methodologies and models to identify hi-pots lack scientific evidence and are descriptive.

Methods/Design: The study will follow an exploratory sequential research design with four phases: 1) Meta-analysis review; a systematic review of the literature using category checklist 2) Qualitative; semi-structured interviews to explore the personality of hi-pots 3) Quantitative; exploring the framework on the characteristics of hi-pots 4) Tool development; developing a measure to identify hi-pots

Discussion: In this study protocol, we present the methodological approach to develop & validate a framework on the personality characteristics of hi-pots. The framework will help organizations to facilitate better talent management strategies.
Engagement of parents in child-focused interventions
Authors: Burney Victoria , McCann Clare M , Arnold-Saritepe Angela
Published: April 2022

Background: Parent engagement in interventions for their children is considered necessary to the success of many allied health services. Currently, however, the concept of engagement is poorly defined and minimally understood. While literature on engagement is emerging, a coordinated overview of the topic from related disciplines is notably absent. Without this, it is difficult to translate insights of parent engagement into practical strategies for clinicians. The aim of this review is to systematically search the literature to identify factors relevant to parent engagement in child-focused interventions.

Methods/Design: This review will follow a systematised literature review procedure, with a focus on comprehensive searching as well as application of quality appraisal and analysis steps. A search of five electronic databases will be undertaken, alongside citation tracking and hand searching of literature. Articles will be screened for relevance in a two-stage process (exclusion by title/abstract and exclusion at full text review), aligned with inclusion and exclusion criteria consistent with the review question. Included literature will be assessed for quality using a tool relevant to the study methods (quantitative or qualitative). Data analysis will include narrative synthesis for quantitative studies, and thematic synthesis for qualitative studies.

Discussion: This review will explore literature on parent engagement across related child-focused interventions, to better define the concept of engagement and identify factors which contribute to parents being engaged in the treatment of their children. This information may guide further research on engagement of parents, and support practitioners working to develop interventions that maximally engage parents for optimal child outcomes.
Dark tourism
Authors: Pereira Tércio , Pereira Melise de Lima , Limberger Pablo Flôres
Published: April 2022

O dark tourism é uma forma de turismo de nicho com desenvolvimento cada vez mais rápido. A literatura definiu o cemitério como dark tourism pois sugere a ideia de morte e luto, que pode causar sentimentos desagradáveis aos turistas, tornando-se uma característica fundamental deste conceito. O objetivo deste artigo é analisar a relação entre as motivações, experiências e benefícios de visitar o cemitério da Recoleta em Buenos Aires, Argentina. O estudo caracteriza-se como exploratório, descritivo e utilizou a abordagem quantitativa. Um total de 450 entrevistados afirmaram ter visitado o cemitério da Recoleta. Os autores testaram e validaram cinco fatores por meio de análise fatorial exploratória e confirmatória, incluindo motivações sociais e de aprendizagem, experiências reflexivas e empáticas e benefícios. O resultado fornece evidências teóricas de que as motivações estão relacionadas à busca de conhecimento, lazer e atividades sociais com a família e amigos. As experiências obtidas durante a visita estão relacionadas ao sentimento escapista através do relaxamento e paz. O estudo oferece evidências de que a visita ao cemitério pode ser um momento contemplativo, promovendo a reflexão sobre a vida. Por outro lado, contribuições práticas podem auxiliar nos processos de tomada de decisão.
Expansión urbana o cómo el suelo urbanizado se dispersa por el paisaje: Implicaciones para la conservación de la biodiversidad
Authors: Concepción Cuevas Elena D.
Published: April 2022

El crecimiento urbano amenaza seriamente la biodiversidad a nivel mundial. Presento una revisión exhaustiva de los impactos de la expansión urbana descontrolada sobre la biodiversidad. Me centro en las contribuciones relativas de los componentes de la expansión urbana (i.e., área urbana, dispersión e intensidad de uso) a estos impactos para diferentes taxones, grupos de organismos y rasgos que se consideran sensibles a la urbanización. También muestro cómo la estructura funcional y los patrones de ensamblaje de las comunidades biológicas responden a la urbanización a escalas espaciales amplias. La expansión urbana se relaciona principalmente con la homogeneización de las comunidades. El área urbana tiene los impactos más fuertes, pero la intensidad de uso y la dispersión urbana contribuyen significativamente a estos impactos. Las respuestas de los organismos se ven muy afectadas por su movilidad, grado de especialización y su interacción. La urbanización también modifica los patrones de ensamblaje de las comunidades e impulsa cambios marcados en su composición dependientes de los rasgos de las especies. Estos resultan en homogeneización biótica, baja redundancia y diversidad funcional y, potencialmente, menor resiliencia ecológica. Los impactos de la expansión urbana se consideran especialmente dañinos en lugares de alto valor de conservación por las especies y hábitats que albergan. Presento un análisis del grado de urbanización en los espacios protegidos Natura 2000 en los últimos años, que muestra una expansión urbana incipiente en esta red de protección.
Sesenta años (1960-2019) de ornitología urbana en España: análisis bibliométrico de una disciplina en desarrollo
Authors: Murgui Perez Enrique
Published: April 2022

En este artículo revisamos la investigación sobre avifauna de los medios urbanos españoles entre 1960 y 2019. Un total de 183 artículos fueron publicados en ese periodo, el 80% en los últimos veinte años. Casi todas las materias muestran un incremento con el tiempo, siendo la ecología y la etología las disciplinas más abordadas; dentro de la ecología, la mayoría de artículos se adscriben a la ecología del paisaje/biogeografía. La mitad de los artículos se concentran en comunidades de aves; del resto, ocho especies acumulan el 42%, especialmente el Gorrión Común Passer domesticus, el Mirlo Común Turdus merula y el Carbonero Común Parus major. El esfuerzo investigador se reparte desigualmente por territorios, de modo que cinco ciudades, todas de mediano o gran tamaño, acumulan el 68% de los artículos. Algunas de las tendencias y patrones observados coinciden con la investigación internacional; también existen diferencias, como el énfasis en el estudio de la avifauna de parques urbanos, y opuestamente, la escasez de artículos que indagan en los efectos sobre la avifauna de los niveles y tipos de urbanización, o de los factores socioeconómicos. En un país donde la urbanización del territorio ha sido pertinaz y extendida durante los últimos 60 años, resulta paradójico que apenas se haya indagado en su efecto sobre la avifauna. Se concluye que la investigación de aspectos básicos de la biología de las aves urbanas en periodos temporales largos, será crucial para modular el crecimiento urbano en aras de la conservación de la avifauna
Efectos socio-ambientales de la intensificación de la ganadería en ecosistemas de altura (paramos) del sur-oeste de Tungurahua
Authors: Pomboza Tamaquiza Pablo , Parco-Asitimbay Ximena
Published: April 2022

El objetivo de trabajo fue identificar los principales efectos socio ambientales de la intensificación de la ganadería, en el ecosistema paramo del sur-oeste de la provincia de Tungurahua que se extiende desde los 3000 msnm, en el marco de las transformaciones de las Unidades Productivas Agropecuarias (UPAS). Se seleccionaron las comunidades de San Luis de Chibuleo y Atillo ubicados en los cantones de Ambato y Mocha respectivamente para ello se consideraron dos criterios: 1) que sean comunidades aledañas a los páramos y 2) que su mayor rubro de producción sea la ganadería. Dado que las comunidades no cuentan con una base de datos sobre de los ganaderos, se aplicó un muestreo no probabilístico y se realizaron 49 y 28 entrevistas respectivamente. Además, se analizaron 12 muestras de suelos tomadas entre 20 y 30 cm de profundidad: seis en la comunidad de San Luis de Chibuleo y seis en Atillo. En cada comunidad, se tomaron tres muestras de suelos donde se cultivaron papas y tres en suelos cultivados con pastos. Los resultados indican que en promedio las familias tienen 5 unidades bovinas por familia. La intensificación de la ganadería tuvo también efectos favorables como el incremento de la fertilidad en suelos con pastos (12.67% M.O. y 75.67 ppm de Nitrógeno), abastecimiento de leche para consumo familiar (2 l/día), generación de ingresos permanentes para la familia (entre 307 a 504 USD/mes). Y efectos adversos como presión al ecosistema paramo por pastoreo de animales; reducción del área de cultivos agrícolas (papas) y mayor dependencia alimentaria de otros productos agrícolas. Sin embargo, la agricultura ocasiona mayor impacto negativo en los suelos y en el ambiente por el alto uso de pesticidas. En este escenario la presencia de las comunidades en estos territorios genera efectos antrópicos. Por otro lado, la población local se ve en la obligación de utilizar estos recursos para la reproducción de sus sistemas de vida. Los resultados sugieren incorporar prácticas agroecológicas y equilibrar los componentes: pecuario, agrícola y silvicultura en las unidades productivas agrícolas, de este tipo de comunidades que frente a la necesidad de recursos económicos no tienen otra alternativa que utilizar los recursos del medio
Los efectos de la heterogeneidad espacial y temporal sobre la pérdida de suelo en una cuenca agrícola
Authors: Ares María Guadalupe , Entraigas Ilda
Published: April 2022

Los efectos de la heterogeneidad espacial y temporal sobre la pérdida de suelo en una cuenca agrícola. El objetivo fue estimar la pérdida de suelo por erosión hídrica (A) mediante la Ecuación Universal de Pérdida de Suelo (EUPS) en una cuenca agrícola ubicada en la Ecorregión Pampa (Argentina) considerando la heterogeneidad espacial dada por sus ambientes, y la heterogeneidad temporal asociada a un ciclo agrícola. Se concibió al paisaje como un mosaico formado por diferentes ambientes: Agrícolas de Suelos Profundos (ASP), Agrícolas de Suelos Someros (ASS), de Vaguadas en Cuenca Superior (VS), de Vaguadas en Cuenca Media e Inferior (VMI), de Cerro y Pastizal Natural (CyPN), del Humedal de Cabecera (HC) y del Cauce Principal (CP). Los valores mensuales de A se estimaron mediante el producto entre factores que consideran los efectos de la lluvia, el suelo, los cultivos, la topografía y el manejo. Los ambientes con uso agrícola (ASP, ASS, VS, VMI y CP) mostraron valores promedio de A entre 1.9 y 0.5 t (ha mes)-1, significativamente diferentes del estimado para las áreas de CyPN y del HC (0.04 y 0.002 t (ha mes)-1, respectivamente). Las combinaciones de factores que describen la estructura de la cuenca (suelos, topografía, cultivos) contribuyeron a la heterogeneidad espacial de A, y su heterogeneidad temporal estuvo vinculada principalmente a la dinámica estacional de las lluvias. La implementación de la EUPS reflejó las interacciones espaciales y temporales entre los factores que condicionan A y determinan respuestas erosivas diferenciales entre los ambientes de una cuenca agrícola.
Seguimiento semi-automático de la cobertura del suelo tras quema prescrita mediante clasificación de imagen basada en redes neuronales convolucionales
Authors: Mir Sabaté Alberto , Castañeda del Álamo Carmen , Latorre Borja , Rodríguez-Ochoa Rafael , Olarieta Alberdi José Ramón
Published: April 2022

Se ha llevado a cabo un estudio basado en el análisis digital de imágenes para el seguimiento de los efectos causados por una quema prescrita sobre la superficie del suelo susceptible de verse afectada por procesos erosivos. Se analizaron fotografías de la superficie del suelo tomadas verticalmente a una altura de 138 cm en 330 puntos de muestreo dispuestos en las diagonales de 15 subparcelas de 200 m2 (tres de ellas testigos) en una superficie aproximada de 10 ha en una repoblación de Pinus pinaster Ait quemada bajo prescripción. Durante el proceso de análisis de imagen se ha identificado manualmente en la superficie del suelo las coberturas de acículas, piñas, madera, musgo, restos quemados, biomasa seca, biomasa verde, gravas, y horizonte orgánico y horizonte mineral del suelo. Los resultados muestran que la clasificación automática de imágenes mediante redes neuronales convolucionales describe de forma precisa la realidad de las superficies analizadas. Esto permite reducir la duración de la toma de datos en campo, así como la identificación de las coberturas del suelo y, en especial, la discriminación del suelo mineral desnudo susceptible a la erosión. Por ello, se considera que ampliar y estandarizar esta metodología puede proporcionar importantes beneficios en el seguimiento de la superficie del suelo para cuantificar su erosividad.
Comparative Evaluation of the Border Morphology Produced by Three Different Border Molding Materials: An In-vivo Study
Authors: Zarir Ruttonji , Nayak Ajaykumar , Gundewar Shruti , Kusugal Preethi , Astagi Preeti , Melavanki Chithra
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Different materials and technique exist to record the functional and physiologic border of the denture. There is a need to determine which among the various materials available would accurately record the borders width and height as compared to tissue conditioner. Aim: To compare and evaluate the morphology of the denture borders produced by three different commercially available border molding materials. Materials and Methods: This in-vivo study was conducted at KAHER’s KLE VK Institute of Dental Science, Belagavi, Karnataka, India, from November 2012 to June 2013. The study included 20 patients with previous dentures. The labial flange of 20 patients with the existing maxillary denture was trimmed 2 mm short of the sulcus and border molding was done with tissue conditioner. The patients were instructed to perform routine activity with the denture and asked to report after 1 day. Three custom trays were fabricated without spacer, 2 mm short of the labial border. Border molding was carried out with low fusing compound, putty addition silicone and pattern resin. The trays were beaded at 2 mm from the depth of the vestibule and were poured with die stone. Casts were obtained and with the standardised method, the cast were sectioned into six sections. Border morphology of the sulcus was viewed under stereomicroscope and under image analyser. The statistical analysis carried out was using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 19.0 Inc. Chicago, IL, USA. The level of significance was 95% confidence with p-value <0.05 was considered. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test and Bonferroni multiple posts-hoc test was used to analyse the data. Results: The descriptive analysis showed that the mean area of tissue conditioner (111590.95 µm2 ) was least, next being pattern resin (131253.30 µm2 ) followed by Low fusing impression compound (154854.20 µm2 ) and addition silicone (190968.55 µm2 ) (p-value<0.001). Conclusion: The result of the study showed that tissue conditioner was the best material that could be used for border molding followed by pattern resin and low fusing compound.
Antibody Response following Exposure Section to SARS-CoV-2: Is It a Reliable Marker of Immunity?
Authors: Dhakal Mona , Dhakal Om Prakash , Bhandari Dhurba
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Infection and vaccination with the viral vector vaccine Covishield are both expected to produce immunity in the body against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Production of neutralising antibodies as a result of the humoral immune response plays a key role in defending against this deadly infection. A lack of virus-specific antibodies in the serum does not always imply a lack of immunological memory. The immune response mediated by T cells is also important. Aim: To check for the humoral immune response after exposure to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional observational research was carried out at Central Referral Hospital (CRH), a tertiary care hospital in Gangtok, Sikkim from May-June 2021. A total of 90 participants were divided into three equal groups; unvaccinated with a history of infection with SARS-CoV-2 in the recent past, vaccinated but no infection, and history of vaccination and infection both, respectively. The test was performed with COVISCREEN. It’s a double antigen sandwich immunoassay that can detect total antibodies (IgM+IgG+IgA) simultaneously to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), version 16.0 for Windows, was used to analyse the data. Results: Overall, 30 (33.3%) participants showed positive antibody tests out of total 90. Participants with prior infection exhibited more antibody responses irrespective of the vaccination status as compared to vaccinated participants with no prior infection, this difference was statistically insignificant (p=0.165). Conclusion: Both B-cell, as well as T-cell immune responses following infection and vaccination, need to be evaluated to predict long term immunological memory and protective immunity against future infections with SARS-CoV-2.
Effect of H. Pylori on Fibrinogen Level among Sudanese Patients at Khsartoum State
Authors: Alias Nahla Mohammed , Elkarsany Mubarak Saeed Mustafa
Published: April 2022

Background: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a gram-negative, spiral shaped pathogenic bacterium that specifically colonizes the gastric epithelium causing chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, and/or gastric malignancy.

Aim: To assess the effect of H. pylori on fibrinogen level of Sudanese patients with diabetes millets (D.M) living in Khartoum state.

Subjects and Methods: This was case control study conducted among Sudanese diabetic patients during the period from May 2018 to July 2021. A total of 181 diabetics patients are involved in this study. Citrated blood and stool samples were collected from each participant. All stool samples were tested for the presence of H. pylori antigen by using commercially available H. pylori antigen detection card. Based on the result examination for H. pylori the study population are sub grouped in two groups one group 124 of cases with Positive H. pylori antigen and another group 57 of     controls with negative H. pylori infection. Both groups were assessed for the fibrinogen level. Data was gathered and analyzed by using SPSS version 20.

Results: Our results revealed that cases have slightly higher values of fibrinogen levels 326.29± 89.99 mg/dl compared to 309.47± 90.82 mg/dl for control group. However, the statistical analysis indicate that the difference was remain insignificant with P-value of 0.246. Among cases group gender concerned the fibrinogen concentration mean in the plasma of male 336.2±98.5 mg/dl was higher than female  311.1±73.4 mg/dl.

Conclusion: they were insignificant association between fibrinogen level and presence of H. pylori infection among Sudanese diabetic patients. gender concerned the fibrinogen concentration in the plasma in H. pylori among males showed higher levels than females.
Interrogating the Impact of Microfinance Banks on the Living Conditions of the Rural Poor in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. 1999 - 2020
Authors: Ekong Ekaette Umanah , Ikpe Michael Emmanuel
Published: April 2022

More than twenty years after the introduction of microfinance banks into the financial and social lives of Akwa Ibom people, the impact of this initiative is yet to have any meaningful effect on the living conditions of the rural poor, which are primarily its main target. Clamped down by official red tape, incessant recapitalization demands, hounded by self-seeking revenue collection agency officials, operated by poorly trained and fraudulent staff on the one hand, and an equally fraudulent and uninformed clientele on the other. Microfinance banks in Akwa Ibom state have performed abysmally low. This paper adopts a historical and interrogative approach. It takes a critical look at the operating environment of microfinance banks in Akwa Ibom state. The paper establishes that less than ten percent of residents in the state patronize these banks and points out that rather than improve the quality of lives of its customers, it has on contrary left them worse off. It also suggests that Nigeria needs to deliberately make policies which will create an enabling environment for microfinance banks to succeed in their task of improving the quality of lives of the rural dwellers.
Extraction and Evaluation of Musa paradisiaca Stem Mucilage as a Pharmaceutical Excipient
Authors: Rajyam R. Lakshmi , Keerthana M. , Sowmya D. V. , Vidyavathi M.
Published: April 2022

Aim: In present Pharmaceutical trend, natural excipients are gaining more importance because of their availability, safety, performance, and cost. The present work aimed at extraction of the mucilage from the stem of Musa paradisiaca (banana) and evaluation of extracted mucilage for its binding and disintegrating properties with Paracetamol as a model drug.

Methodology: The mucilage was extracted by aqueous extraction method followed by precipitation and evaluated for various physico-chemical properties. Drug-mucilage compatibility studies were conducted by FT-IR spectrometer. The extracted mucilage in three different concentrations was used to prepare 2 different sets of tablets for evaluation of its binding as well as disintegrating properties. Binding properties and disintegrating properties of the mucilage were compared with starch as standard binder and microcrystalline cellulose as standard disintegrant for the first and second set of tablets respectively. Wet granulation method was used to prepare total eight batches of 1 gm tablets of Paracetamol. Pre compression and post compression parameters of tablets were evaluated. Then the similarity factor for both (binding and disintegration test) were calculated by comparing test and standard tablets in each set.

Results and Discussion: The results of the work shown that the mucilage extracted from the Musa paradisiaca stem (MPS) has similar binding properties as of starch and release retarding effect at increased concentration as disintegrating time was increased when compared to microcrystalline cellulose.

Conclusion: Thus, the mucilage can be used as a better binding agent in the tablet formulation and its high disintegrating time can be explored for its slow release or extended release effect.
Prevalence of Training-related Knee Injuries among Jazan University Students with Determining Possible Related Risk Factors
Authors: Moafa Ramiz J. , Mashbari Hassan , Okmi Ezzuddin A. , Osaili Marwan , Shubair Abdulrahem , Arishi Mohammed , Alnami Anas , Shugairi Ahmad , Altherwi Ayman , Kaal Abdulaziz , Moafa Amirah J. , Kailani Abdulrahman , Khormi Khaled , Alhazemi Alhassan , Alhazmi Abdulaziz
Published: April 2022

Background: The articulating surface of the knee is the most commonly injured joint in athletes. However, there is a lack of proper prevalence and determinant estimations for knee injury among Jazan University students.

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of knee injury among students at Jazan University, Saudi Arabia and to identify the associated risk factors. An online self-administered modified Arabic version of the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score questionnaire was distributed to collect data from the students. 884 participants were included and met our inclusion criteria.

Results: The overall prevalence of knee injuries was 18% (n = 156). Ninety-two injuries were due to sports activity. Men were 2.7 more likely to have a knee injury than women. Performing 2–3 hours of training every week increased the likelihood of knee injury by 1.7 times more than being inactive or performing only 1 hour of activity per week. An increase in the body mass index was associated with knee injury.

Conclusion: Our study highlights the high prevalence of knee injury among male students with a high body mass index, especially those studying in medical colleges. Further large-scale research is needed to address the limitations of this study and generalize the results to a larger population.