bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Private Security Organizations in crime prevention and homeland security management in Ghana
Authors: Awuni Robert , Agyemang Opoku Oscar , Atta Wahab Bashiru , Osei Amankwah Godfred
Published: September 2023

The study was to explore the play by Private Security Organizations in crime prevention and homeland security management in Ghana. The study used a descriptive design of the qualitative of which respondents from the various management of Private Security Organizations in Accra were targeted. Purposive sampling technique was employed to select 7 participants to form part of the study. Interview guide was used at the data collection instrument. Data from interviews were analysed thematically based on the research objectives. The study found that key security services provided by the PSOs included the four functions mandated by the laws of Ghana. Also, their operations basically covers; watching and guarding services, patrolling services, and escort services. PSOs follow some form laid down procedures and principles in recruiting and selecting employees. PSOs have some collaboration with the Ghana Police Service with regards to its mandate enshrined by the constitution of Ghana to prevent crime and protect lives and properties. However, the key challenges of the PSOs are financial constraints, inadequate logistics and resources, high cost of operations, poor perception of the general public on their roles in fighting against crime as well as protecting lives and properties. Therefore, the study recommended that various PSOs should come together to form some associations that can fight for their right and welfare of their members. Also, the government of Ghana through the Ministry of Interior and the Ghana Police Service should sponsor some of their activities such as training and workshops. Moreover, the government can support them in terms of vehicles or patrol cars and fueling allowances
Interpersonal Communication of Married Couples Through the Ta'aruf Process in Palu City
Authors: Zainuddin Sumarni , Khairil Muhammad , Lampe Ilyas
Published: September 2023

Ta'aruf is a process of exploring or introducing prospective husband or wife partners based on Islamic law. The objectives of this study are: 1). To determine the role of  ta'aruf mediators  in mediating married couples through the ta'aruf process  carried out before marriage. 2). To find out the process of searching for information carried out by married couples before marriage through the process of ta'aruf.  To dissect the substance of this study, the author uses Charles Berger's Uncertainty Reduction Theory in analyzing the process of finding information on married couples through the process of ta'aruf. The method used was a qualitative approach involving 11 informants consisting of 4 married couples who had been married through the ta'aruf  process and 3 ustad, which were determined purposively. The results showed that: Passive strategies carried out by ta'aruf  couples include observing the personal biodata of prospective partners, observing secretly when there are formal meetings such as when attending lectures, studies, and organizational meetings. The active strategy carried out by  ta'aruf couples is to actively ask mediators (ustad or ustadzah), close people of the prospective spouse, parties who have been married through the process of t a'aruf, and seek information through social media about the personality and daily life of the prospective partner.  An interactive strategy carried out  by ta'aruf  couples by meeting and talking directly with their potential partners before deciding to get married. The topics discussed are related to, things that are liked, discussing various things related to marriage such as vision and mission, number of children, things to be achieved in the future, in this communication is not allowed to discuss the disgrace of each spouse
Application of Electronic Certificate in Indonesia and the Adaptation of the Provision of Electronic Certification (Psre) Under the Menteri Agraria/BPN Nomor 1 Tahun 2021
Authors:   Pascasarjana Fakultas Hukum Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta, Pamungkas Esti Anisa , Purwadi Hari ,   Pascasarjana Fakultas Hukum Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta
Published: September 2023

Technology that is growing rapidly affects all levels of society to keep up with existing technological advances. It is no exception with various government agencies in Indonesia which are now implementing the speed of technology. This also applied by the National Land Agency or BPN, which through the regulation of the Minister of Agrarian and Spatial Planning Head of the Republic of Indonesia Land Agency or commonly referred to as ATR / BPN Number 1 of 2021 concerning Electronic Certificates which has now taken effect in January 2021. The regulation states that Electronic Certificates will replace physical certificates that were previously in the form of books. However, the problem experienced is that the Indonesian people do not fully understand the performance and also the use of electronic certificates due to the uneven socialization carried out by ATR / BPN. In addition, what is feared by the public is the very easy theft of data that occurs in Indonesia because of the weak security system especially in the Indonesian government.
Morfologia interna e externa de diásporos de Tectona grandis L. e sua relação com a qualidade de sementes
Authors: Oliveira Andréa dos Santos , Almeida Tanismare Tatiana de , Reis Rodrigo de Góes Esperon
Published: September 2023

Tendo em vista a importância da produção de Tectona grandis Linn F. no estado de Mato Grosso, é necessário estabelecer cultivos com mudas de excelente qualidade e a seleção de diásporos pode favorecer seu vigor, proporcionando a produção de mudas de maior padrão. O objetivo da pesquisa foi indicar o estágio de maturação ideal dos diásporos de teca por meio da análise de imagens, que garanta a qualidade de sementes e produção de mudas. Diásporos foram coletados nos anos de 2016 e 2017 aos 90, 120, 150 e 180 dias após a antese e analisados quanto à presença de sementes por fruto em equipamento de raios X para compor os tratamentos. Após a seleção, foram analisadas características de cor, área e diâmetro e realizados testes de peso de frutos, germinação e emergência. Os diásporos durante o processo de maturação possuíam maior peso e quantidade de sementes. O aumento da porcentagem da cor amarela e preta foi indicativo da maturação dos diásporos coletados em 2017 e a redução da porcentagem da cor cinza escuro para o ano de 2016. A área e diâmetro dos frutos foram maiores naqueles que continham quatro sementes e a qualidade dos diásporos avaliados, pela germinação, primeira contagem de germinação, estande inicial e emergência, foi superior no ano de 2017, com diásporos contendo 2 e 3 sementes. A maturação dos diásporos de teca são dependentes do ano de coleta e com melhor qualidade quando coletados aos 120 e 150 dias após a antese.
The sustainable practices in service companies covered by the ALI program, in RN, Brazil
Authors: Paula Yara Lemos de , Silva Napiê Galvê Araújo
Published: September 2023

The present study aimed to evaluate the sustainable practices adopted in 53 companies operating in the service sector which have concluded the ALI Program in the cities of Natal, Mossoró and surroundings, in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. The study was characterized as exploratory and observational, with a quali-quantitative approach, using standardized interviews for the application of an Innovation Radar. The results showed an evolution in the sustainability dimension, with improvement and innovations in the subdimensions of energy management and waste reduction, however, with subtle improvements in water management. It was also found that the adoption of sustainable practices by companies in the solar energy sector can be a marketing action to attract new customers. Furthermore, it is very important to intensify actions to raise awareness of these micro and small companies on the theme of sustainability focused on water and solid waste management, encompassing their impacts on the economy and natural resources, in order to make them competitive and aligned with global changes and requirements.
Putrescine and deficit irrigation as regulatory factors in basil plants metabolism and morpho-physiology
Authors: Hurtado Daniel Andrés Villegas , Franco Marcos Fabian Sanabria , Nasser Vinicius Guimarães , Rocha Bruno Henrique , Silva Geraldo Humberto , Macedo Willian Rodrigues
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study was to alleviate the harmful effects of water restriction, by applying foliar doses of putrescine (0, 50, 100 and 150 mg L-1) on basil plants, as well as, understand the different soil water levels (60% and 80% of soil capacity) on plant development. We evaluated the physiology and metabolic pathways of plants. Basil plants under water restriction (60% of soil capacity) reduced their growth and dry matter accumulation, leaf water status, physiological variables, and photosynthetic pigments. Furthermore, the exogenous putrescine sprays, influenced the biometric and physiological variables, photosynthetic pigments, and proline levels. Our research suggests that exogenous putrescine sprays promote different behaviours on Basil spp., through the activation of tolerance mechanisms in basil plants under moderate water deficit, principally by the proline accumulation in the leaves. Moreover, the oil chemical profile was determined by the water availability in the soil.
Survey on the tribe Tigridieae (Iridaceae) in the Campos of Southeast South America
Authors: Deble Leonardo Paz
Published: September 2023

Survey on the tribe Tigridieae (Iridaceae) in the Campos of Southeast South America (SESA Grasslands). Iridaceae is one of the largest families of monocots and is an important constituent of grassland ecosystems across the globe. The tribe Tigridieae is exclusive to the Americas, with an important center of diversity in the Andean region, in the Campos of Southeast South America, in Mexico and in the southern United States. In this study, a survey of the Iridaceae-Tigridieae native to the Grassland Ecosystems of Southeast South America (=SESA Grasslands) is carried out. The SESA  was divided into four regions: Campos, Campos de Altitude, Chaco Húmedo and Pampa. The Iridaceae-Tigridieae are represented by a total of 65 species (including ten subspecies), distributed in ten genera. The genus Cypella with 30 species and eight subspecies is the most diverse, followed by Calydorea (13 species), Herbertia (11 species) and Gelasine (four species and two subspecies). A total of 87% of the taxa occurring in the SESA are endemic, most of them exclusive to the Campos region, which includes 54 taxonomic entities, of which 41 taxa are endemic The Campos de Altitude region is represented by 15 taxa, including six endemic species. The Pampa region includes six taxonomic entities, being one of them endemic. The Chaco Húmedo region comprises five species, none of which are exclusive to the latter region. Key words: Bulbous, Grasslands, High Grasslands, Humid Chaco, Geographic distribution, diversity, Pampa.
Taxonomic review of the genus Kelissa Ravenna (Iridaceae)
Authors: Deble Leonardo Paz
Published: September 2023

Abstract. Taxonomic review of the genus Kelissa Ravenna (Iridaceae)
A taxonomic review of the genus Kelissa is carried out. This genus is constituted by a single species, Kelissa brasiliensis, endemic to the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Kelissa brasiliensis prospers in mountainous regions associated with grasslands, mainly in the southeastern part of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, but with populations extending to the central and western regions of the state. Kelissa brasiliensis is described and illustrated in detail and its geographic distribution is represented on a map. Data on etymology, geographic distribution, habitat, phenology, conservation, uses and vernacular names are provided, as well as discussions of taxonomic relationships of Kelissa with related taxa. A dichotomous key for distinguishing the genera of Iridaceae-Tigridieae from South America is presented.
Key Words: Pampa Biome, Grasslands, Cypelloid, Tigridieae.
Reproductive biology of Jacarada ulei Bureau & K. Schum. (Bignoniaceae)
Authors: Ribeiro Maria de Fátima , Granja e Barros Mariluza Araújo , Palhares Dario , Silveira Conceição Eneida dos Santos , Caires Claudenir Simões , Pereira Luiz Alfredo Rodrigues
Published: September 2023

Phenological events and floral biology of Jacaranda ulei were studied. After the first rains, new branches, leaves and flowers are produced. The flowering period lasts for

40

almost three months; a great amount of flowers is produced; nectar is abundant. It was

identified 15 species of bees visiting the plant, also ants, butterflies and hummingbirds.

The flowers, fruits and seeds suffered from predatism and fungus attack, but the leaves

remained intact. The species is strongly selfincompatible, 30% of the flowers from

manually crossed pollination developed into fruits against only 10% of the naturally

pollinated ones. The necessity of having compatible individuals should be taken into

consideration for cultivating this plant in gardens or herbalists.
Frequency of obesity and in pregnancy and fetal outcome in normal weight, over weight and obese pregnant females
Authors: Wajid Rabia , Fayyaz Saira , Ahsan Amna , Masood Hina
Published: September 2023

ABSTRACT

Background: Obesity is now a major public health PROBLEM especially among women of reproductive age. This happening has a major impact on pregnancy outcomes, according to latest reports. Especially, during pregnancy and childbirth, obese women are more at risk of fetomaternal complications than women with a normal body mass index (BMI). Objective: To determine the frequency of normal weight, over weight and obese women presenting for antenatal care and to compare the outcome in normal weight, over weight and obese pregnant females. Patients and Methods Descriptive Case series study conducted from 29th October 2022 to 29 April 2022 .200 subjects meeting the inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study after informed consent. BMI was recorded and weight category assigned. All these women were followed-up till 37 weeks of gestation and till delivery. The indications for Caesarian section in any pregnancy were post-dates pregnancy (gestational age at more than 41 weeks), reduced fetal movements, fetal growth restriction, and term pre-labour rupture of membranes more than 24 hours. Main outcome variable: Fetal outcome was accessed using C-section, macrosomia and admission of neonate to NICU. Results: Frequency of weight of the patients was classified as 34%(n=68) were normal, 40.5%(n=81) were over-weight and 25.5%(n=51) were obese, comparison of outcome in normal weight, over weight and obese pregnant females shows that of 8 cases of macrosomia, 1 in normal and overweight while 6 cases in obese, of 61 cases of C-section 13 in normal, 15 in overweight and 33 were obese, NICU admission cases were 27, out of which 7 in normal, 6 in overweight and 14 were in obese group, p value 0.80.Conclusion: We concluded that on comparison for the outcome in normal weight, over weight and obese pregnant females, obese and overweight females are higher at the risk of macrosocia, cesarean birth and NICU admission of the neonate.
Prevalence of COVID-19 in End Stage Renal Disease Patients on Hemodialysis & Dialysis Providers During SARs-Cov-19 spike in Pakistan.
Authors: Cheema Sidra , Habib Hozaifa , Cheema Manal , Gilani Samreen , Saeed Muhammad Asad , Cheema Shafiq
Published: September 2023

The global pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) poses a significant threat to both hemodialysis staff and patients. However, the prevalence of COVID-19 among asymptomatic end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients on chronic hemodialysis (MHD) and healthcare staff including nurses and technicians in dialysis unit remains uncertain. Given that hemodialysis patients and dialysis nurses are particularly prone in congregate settings, this research aimed to examine the prevalence of COVID-19 in two hemodialysis units at Jinnah Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan. This cross-sectional study involved the participation of 198 maintenance hemodialysis patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and 83 dialysis staff members. These patients or staff members did not have any symptoms at the time of testing. Testing was conducted using qualitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) on nasal & pharyngeal swabs collected from June 18th to June 23rd, 2020. 

Out of the total participants, 45 out of 198 dialysis patients (22.7%) and 10 out of 83 dialysis staff members (12%) were found to be positive for COVID-19. The overall prevalence of COVID-19, combining patients and staff, was 19.5% (55 out of 281). The mortality rate among the infected patients was 6.6% (3 out of 45). To conclude, the findings of this study demonstrate a significant prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 among hemodialysis staff and patients in Lahore, Pakistan.
Frequency of Inhibitors among known Hemophilia A Patients.
Authors: Iqbal Irem , Abdullah Javeria
Published: September 2023

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Inhibitors are IgG alloantibodies which are directed against exogenous clotting factor VIII that neutralize the function of infused clotting factor concentrate used for the treatment. The prevalence of inhibitors in Hemophilia A is around 30% worldwide. Inhibitors occurs as a result of natural immune process of the body as factor concentrates used for treatment are foreign to the body and patient’s own body either produces no factor or produces structurally abnormal protein.

Objectives: To determine the frequency of inhibitors among known hemophilia A patients.

Methods: Cross-sectional survey done including 100 male patients of hemophilia A and on treatment for more than 1 year, from 2 to 60 years of age, were included. All the patients were undergone aPTT based screening for inhibitor, both immediately and two hours after mixing the patients plasma with the normal plasma.

Results: Age range in this study was from 2 to 60 years with mean age of 37.21 ± 14.73 years. Frequency of inhibitors among known hemophilia A patients was seen in 18 (18.0%) of cases.

Conclusion: This study concluded that frequency of inhibitors among known hemophilia A patients is quite high.

Keywords: Hemophilia A, inhibitors, severity.
Analisis Strategi Penyaluran Dana Zis Dalam Peningkatan Ekonomi Mitra Umkm
Authors: Lestari Nur Hidayati Dwi , Abdurahim Ahim
Published: September 2023

Latar Belakang: Kemiskinan yang ada di Indonesia saat ini tidak bisa terlepas dari rendahnya tingkat pendapatan ekonomi masyarakat. Salah satu penyebab terjadinya kemiskinan adalah masyarakat yang kesulitan meningkatkan modal. Dana ZIS (Zakat, Infaq, dan Shadaqah) dapat diandalkan sebagai mekanisme untuk mengatasi permasalahan yang terjadi di masyarakat.

Tujuan: Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk  mengetahui strategi penyaluran dana ZIS dalam meningkatkan ekonomi mitra UMKM di LAZISMU Bantul Kota.

Metode Penelitian: Jenis penelitian ini adalah penelitian kualitatif deskriptif  yang dimana penelitian ini menggunakan informasi yang ada di lapangan dengan cara wawancara, dokumentasi, dan observasi.

Hasil Penelitian: Optimalisasi strategi penyaluran dana ZIS dalam meningkatkan ekonomi mitra UMKM di LAZISMU Bantul Kota belum optimal. Hal ini dikarenakan pada tahap pembekalan dan monitoring belum terlaksana secara tepat dan benar. LAZISMU Bantul Kota selanjutnya untuk lebih mengoptimalkan tahap pembekalan dan monitoring kepada para mitra UMKM, dan disarankan juga mitra UMKM yang berhasil dijadikan model untuk para mitra UMKM yang belum berhasil.

Keaslian/Kebaruan Penelitian: Penelitian ini memberikan gambaran lebih detil mengenai strategi penyaluran dana ZIS dalam peningkatan ekonomi mitra UMKM.
rOpenSci's Communication Channels: Twitter
Authors: Saibene Yanina Bellini , LaZerte Steffi
Published: September 2023

Twitter is one of the preferred social media platforms and networks for the R community and for the data, open science and research communities. Since the beginning of rOpenSci we have used Twitter to connect with our community and other parallel communities, to share what we do, and to be part of conversations around the topics important to our mission.
rOpenSci News Digest, February 2023
Authors:   The rOpenSci Team
Published: September 2023

Dear rOpenSci friends, it’s time for our monthly news roundup! You can read this post on our blog.Now let’s dive into the activity at and around rOpenSci!rOpenSci HQ R-universe improvements!
rOpenSci Dev Guide 0.8.0: Updates
Authors: Padgham Mark , DeCicco Laura , Gustavsen Julia , Hollister Jeff , Krystalli Anna , Lepore Mauro , Ram Karthik , Riederer Emily , Ross Noam , Salmon Maëlle , Sparks Adam , Vidoni Melina
Published: September 2023

rOpenSci Software Peer Review’s guidance is gathered in an online book that keeps improving!This blog post summarises what’s new in our Dev Guide 0.8.0, with all changes listed in the changelog.Farewell Stefanie Butland After many years of fabulous contributions to the rOpenSci community, Stefanie Butland left the role of community manager at the start of 2022.
Announcing the rOpenSci Champions Program!
Authors: Saibene Yanina Bellini
Published: September 2023

Why a Champions Program? Champion programs are designed to identify, recognize, and reward passionate community members. At rOpenSci, we recognize that there is a dismaying lack of diversity in the ecosystem of research software and open source communities. The R Community is no exception; its developers are overwhelmingly white, male, and from a handful of countries.
Dynamite for Causal Inference from Panel Data using Dynamic Multivariate Panel Models
Authors: Helske Jouni
Published: September 2023

Introduction Panel data contains measurements from multiple subjects measured over multiple time points.Such data can be encountered in many social science applications such as when analysing register data or cohort studies (for example).Often the aim is to perform causal inference based on such observational data (instead of randomized control trials). A new rOpensci-reviewed R package dynamite available on CRAN implements a new class of panel
Become a Mentor for rOpenSci Champions!
Authors: Saibene Yanina Bellini
Published: September 2023

rOpenSci is seeking mentors to support our inaugural cohort of rOpenSci Champions! The rOpenSci Champions Program is for

people from historically and systematically excluded groups

who are interested in contributing to rOpenSci and the broader ecosystem of open source and open science communities.
Working with Qualtrics Data - Part 1: Importing Data
Authors: Stevens Jeffrey
Published: September 2023

The online survey system Qualtrics can be a great way to collect data from research participants, customers, and stakeholders. I use it frequently to conduct research studies with participants or just to poll students and collaborators.
rOpenSci Champions Program Teams: Meet Haydee Svab and Beatriz Milz
Authors: Svab Haydee , Milz Beatriz
Published: September 2023

We designed the rOpenSci Champions Program with a mentorship aspect. Mentoring plays a significant role in the growth and development of both mentors and mentees alike.
rOpenSci News Digest, April 2023
Authors:   The rOpenSci Team
Published: September 2023

Dear rOpenSci friends, it’s time for our monthly news roundup! You can read this post on our blog.Now let’s dive into the activity at and around rOpenSci!rOpenSci HQ Meeting the stars of the R-universe: Athanasia Monika Mowinckel Knowing our community’s stories helps us to learn about the people behind our software, brings us closer and offers us new opportunities.
rOpenSci Champions Program Teams: Meet Alican Cagri Gokcek and Elio Campitelli
Authors: Gokcek Alican Cagri , Campitelli Elio
Published: September 2023

We designed the rOpenSci Champions Program with a mentorship aspect. Mentoring plays a significant role in the growth and development of both mentors and mentees alike.
Air transport implications in tourist destinations
Authors: Sotiroski Ljupco , Gorica Klodiana
Published: September 2023

Most of the travel destinations rely almost entirely on air services for their visitor traffic. Air transport facilitates integration into the economy and provides vital connectivity on a: • National, • Regional, • International scale between countries, • Promoting tourism growth, Create employment opportunities in tourist 11 UNWTO, eLibrary, https://www.e-unwto.org/doi/abs destinations. Over time, the rate of growth will gradually slow down, from 3.8% in 2011 to 2.5% in 2030, but on top of growing base numbers. The total economic impact of travel and tourism can be assessed by measuring current and capital expenditures in each of the fields including those by: • consumers, • businesses, • government. The adequate system of Air transport is an essentialm requirement for the successful development of tourism to many destinations. The emergence of LCC,s contributed to the increase in tourist arrivals. There is a powerful synergy between the development of International Air transport and International tourism. Air transport contributes to consumer welfare and travel and tourism provide substantial socialbenefits, including: • Increasing understanding of different cultures and nationalities which facilitatesmcloser international integration,m • Improving living standards by widening choice Air transport contributes to sustainable development and makes a major contribution to sustainable development by supporting andpromoting international tourism. Tourism helps reduce poverty by generating economic growth, providing employment opportunities, increasing tax collection, and by fostering the development and conservation of protected areas and the environment
Assessment of companies’ degree of informatisation and transition to digital business
Authors: Smirnova Polina , Shtrafina Elena
Published: September 2023

The article discusses the issues of assessing the effectiveness of the use of information technologies, the vector of which is set by the Solow paradox. It is proposed to look for a solution to the paradox in the accumulated level of business informationisation, as well as in a change in the methodological approach to assessing the dynamics of labor productivity as a result of business digitalization
Diagnóstico de la situación turística de la parroquia Malacatos, cantón y provincia de Loja (Ecuador)
Authors: León Abarca Rodrigo Medardo , Reyes Vargas María Victoria
Published: September 2023

El diagnóstico de la situación turística es una herramienta primordial para la planificación de una localidad, para lo cual se puede emplear diversas metodologías. La presente investigación se realiza en la parroquia Malacatos, ubicada en el cantón y provincia de Loja, tiene por objetivo el diagnosticar la situación turística de esta parroquia, a través de la caracterización del entorno, identificación de la oferta de atractivos y servicios turísticos, mapeo de los actores que confluyen en la localidad, para finalmente con la matriz de factores internos y externos plantear estrategias de desarrollo turístico que permitan dinamizar la economía. Se utilizó métodos cualitativos que permitieron la recolección de información en las salidas de campo, revisión de literatura, talleres participativos con actores y entrevistas a los informantes seleccionados, lo que permitió conocer la realidad local en los ámbitos sociocultural, económico y ambiental. Entre los principales resultados se destaca la identificación de seis establecimientos de alimentos, ocho de alojamiento y uno de esparcimiento. El inventario turístico de la parroquia lo conforman 36 atractivos turísticos, de los cuales 12 corresponden a sitios naturales y 24 a manifestaciones culturales; se determinó la presencia de dos instituciones de educación superior, seis instituciones gubernamentales y seis no gubernamentales. Un total de 58 lineamientos relacionados con turismo determinó el análisis de la matriz FODA, que responden a estrategias que se orientan a comunicación, capacitación, infraestructura y participación ciudadana, cuya aplicación futura permitirá promover el desarrollo turístico para dinamizar la economía local sobre la base del turismo en la parroquia.
Influence of aerodynamic lift and centre of pressure position in motorcycle stability
Authors: González Benjamín , Vasquez Stuardo Felipe
Published: September 2023

Motorcycles are systems with complex dynamic behaviour that can become unstable under certain driving conditions. Avoiding such instabilities from the design stage is not trivial since they depend on various interrelated parameters, one of which is aerodynamics. Aerodynamic forces in a vehicle can be essentially described by its longitudinal (drag) and vertical (lift) components acting in a point known as the centre of pressure (CoP). Additionally, several authors explain that drag influences stability through four mechanisms: dampening lateral motion and changing weight distribution, tire cornering stiffness, and rake geometry. On the other hand, the lift force, which has been used importantly in sports motorcycles in recent years, can also influence stability, however, its effect has not been described in the literature. Therefore the aim of this research is to analyse the influence of lift magnitude and CoP position on motorcycle stability in straight-running conditions. To this end, we develop a motorcycle stability model and perform an analysis on a motorcycle with several CoP and downforce values. We consider the CoP ahead, aligned, and behind the motorcycle centre of mass, together with multiple lift coefficients. Results showed that CoP towards the front end stabilises wobble mode, while rear CoP may cause instability on weave mode. The result contributes to the understanding of motorcycle aerodynamics providing new insights into how to use aerodynamics to enhance stability.
The History of Two-wheeled Vehicle Dynamics in Japan and Subsequent Trends
Authors: Kageyama Ichiro
Published: September 2023

Conference paper
Comparison of Two Methods for the Determination of the Effects of Ionizing Radiation on Blood Cell Counts in Mice
Authors:   Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA, Kennedy Ann R. , Romero-Weaver Ana L.
Published: September 2023

A reliable technique is needed to determine the effect of ionizing radiation on white blood cell (WBC) counts. Facilities that utilize automated methods can provide this service. However, utilizing external facilities can introduce additional variables, such as differences between time of sample collection and time of sample processing, which may affect the results. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether an automated method at an external facility can accurately determine radiation-induced changes in total WBC, lymphocyte and granulocyte counts when samples are analyzed at periods of time up to 24 hours after collection and stored either at room temperature or at 4oC. To accomplish this, we compared automated blood cell counts determined at an external facility with our manual blood cell counts processed immediately after sample collection or 24 h after sample collection and stored either at room temperature or 4°C from mice exposed to 2 Gy proton or 2 Gy gamma radiation. Our results show a close correlation and good agreement between the two methods, indicating that neither a delay of 24 hours in sample processing nor storage temperature affected white blood cell counts. Analysis of the effects of radiation on blood cell counts by either manual or automated cell counts revealed a statistically significant decrease in lymphocyte and granulocyte counts at different days post-irradiation, with no statistically significant difference between the methods employed; therefore both manual and automated blood cell counts are reliable methods to determine the effects of ionizing radiation in blood cells.
Effects of Gametophytes of Ecklonia Kurome on the Levels of Glucose and Triacylglycerol in db/db, Prediabetic C57BL/6J and IFN-γ KO Mice
Authors:   Division of Human Health and Medical Science, Graduate School of Kuroshio Science, Kochi University, Kohasu, Okoh-cho, Nankoku, Kochi 783-8505 Japan, Tominaga Akira , Dwiranti Febriza , Taguchi Takahiro ,   Division of Human Health and Medical Science, Graduate School of Kuroshio Science, Kochi University, Kohasu, Okoh-cho, Nankoku, Kochi 783-8505 Japan, Hiraoka Masanori ,   Usa Marine Biological Institute, Kochi University, 194 Inoshiri, Usa, Tosa, Kochi 781-1164 Japan, Konishi Yuko ,   Life Science and Functional Materials Section, Science Research Center, Kochi University, Kohasu, Okoh-cho, Nankoku, Kochi 783-8505, Japan, Tominaga Mari ,   Department of Medical Technology, Kochi Gakuen College, 292-26 Asahitenjin-cho, Kochi, Kochi 780-0955, Japan
Published: September 2023

We have studied edible algae that have the potential to down-regulate blood glucose. In Japan, Ecklonia species have been believed to improve the circulation of blood. In this study, we used leptin receptor deficient type 2 diabetes model mice (db/db) and prediabetic C57BL/6J mice. We also focused on the role of IFN-γ in the control of blood levels of triacylglycerol and glucose, because it is reportedly engaged in the regulation of energy consumption together with leptin. We report that gametophytes of Ecklonia kurome down-regulate the blood level of glucose and serum level of triacylglycerol in db/db. We also report that gametophytes of Ecklonia kurome down-regulate the level of glucose but not the level of triacylglycerol in prediabetic C57BL/6J mice induced by a high fat diet. They increased the level of triacylglycerol compared to that of control group in C57BL/6J, but not in IFN-γ KO mice. Gametophytes of Ecklonia kurome were administered orally to prediabetic C57BL/6J and IFN-γ KO mice and oral glucose tolerance tests were performed to evaluate the effects of algae. During the administration of the normal diet, we found a higher level of blood glucose in a glucose tolerance test of IFN-γ KO mice compared with that of C57BL/6J. Although a high fat diet induced a higher level of blood glucose compared with a normal diet group in a glucose tolerance test of C57BL/6J mice, this effect of high fat diet was not observed clearly at first but appeared three hours after glucose administration in IFN-γ KO mice. Gametophytes of Ecklonia kurome down-regulated the level of blood glucose in both C57BL/6J and IFN-γ KO mice, when administered a normal diet after making them prediabetic. These results suggest that Ecklonia kurome are effective to down-regulate the blood glucose and IFN-γ is involved in the regulation of blood glucose and triacylglycerol.
The Control of Stress Induced Type I Diabetes Mellitus in Humans through the Hepatic Synthesis of Insulin by the Stimulation of Nitric Oxide Production
Authors:   Sinha Institute of Medical Science & Technology, Garia 700084, India, Sinha Asru K. , Bhattacharya Gorachand ,   Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata-700 014, India, Ghosh Rajeshwary , Bhattacharya Rabindra ,   Sinha Institute of Medical Science & Technology, Garia 700084, India
Published: September 2023

The role of stress induced development of Type-1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) as opposed to autoimmunity remains obscure. It has been reported that a stress induced protein, identified to be dermcidin isoform 2 (dermcidin) inhibited insulin synthesis in both the pancreatic β cells and the hepatic cells. As dermcidin effect could be neutralized by the increased production of systemic nitric oxide (NO), investigations were carried out to determine the feasibility of controlling stress induced T1DM through the neutralization of dermcidin by systemic increase of NO. To determine the role of plasma dermcidin level in T1DM subjects (n=45), if any, when the plasma dermcidin level were determined, it was found that the protein level was increased in 65% of the participating volunteers. Efforts were made to normalize the plasma glucose level (median=175 mg/dL) in these T1DM subjects by systemic increase of NO by applying a cotton pad containing 0.28mmol sodium nitroprusside on the abdominal skin. It was found that the systemic increase of NO level decreased the blood glucose level of 275 mg/dL (median) to 115 mg/dL (median) in these volunteers within 24 h with concomitant increase of plasma insulin level from 7.5 μunits/dL to 101 μunits/dL at the same time. The increase of plasma insulin level was accompanied by the decrease of dermcidin level of 124.5 nM to 18 nM with increase of NO from 0.43 ± 0.19 nM to 4.1 ± 1.56 nM. The results suggested that the stress induced T1DM by dermcidin could be controlled by the systemic increase of NO which in consequence led to increased synthesis of insulin.
Developmental Changes of Catecholamine-mediating Enzyme - Dopamine-β- Hydroxylase and Its Cofactors in Central and Peripheral Tissues and Serum of Long-Evans Rats
Authors:   Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh, Rahman M. Khalilur , Choudhary M. Iqbal , Hafizur Rahman M. ,   Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan, Islam M. Rafiqul ,   Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
Published: September 2023

Dopoamine-β-hydroxylase (DBH) is a catecholamine-synthesizing enzyme which catalyzes the formation of norepinephrine from dopamine. Fifty nine Long-Evans rats of 1 week-old were used to grow on normal diets in 7 different developmental stages, viz., 15 rats in 1 week-old group, 9 rats in 2 weeks-old group, and the remaining 35 rats were divided equally into five groups, 7 rats in each group of 5-, 8-, 12-, 15- and 27-weeks old for systematic developmental studies of DBH. At the end of each developmental period, weights of rats were recorded for that specific group and they were sacrificed. The brain tissues (caudate nucleus, hypothalamus, brain stem, colliculi, cerebral cortex and cerebellum) and peripheral tissues (liver, heart, kidney, adrenal, spleen, pancreas, lung and small intestine) and serum were collected. The brain tissues had the highest activity (expressed as nmole/min/g of wet weight tissue) of DBH at 5 weeks of age. The hypothalamus had the highest activities (11.5 ± 2.2) and the lowest activities were found in the cerebellum (5.7 ± 0.9). The peripheral tissues also showed the peak DBH activities at 5 weeks of age and adrenals had the highest activities (59.2 ± 7.0) among the central and peripheral tissues. The serum DBH activities were relatively low (1.3 ± 0.2) as compared to those in all other tissues. The highest serum DBH activities (1.28 ± 21 nmole/min/ml of serum) were also found in the 5- weeks-old rats. The specific activities of DBH were also measured in various developmental stages and the results were found to be in agreement with the DBH activities expressed in terms of gram of tissues or milliliter of serum. The Km and Vmax values for DBH were measured in the serum samples of each group and the highest Vmax values (78.3 ± 21.2 pmol/min/mg protein) were obtained at 5 weeks of age; while the lowest Km values (0.52 ± 0.04 mM) were obtained at this stage of age.
Liquid Chromatographic Determination of Linagliptin in Bulk, in Plasma and in itsPharmaceutical Preparation
Authors:   Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, KasrEl-Aini St., Cairo 11562, Egypt, Ayoub Bassam M. , El-Bagary Ramzia I. , Elkady Ehab F.
Published: September 2023

In this work, tworeversed-phase liquid chromatographic (RP-LC) methods have been developed for the determination of linagliptin (LNG) based on isocratic elutionusing a mobile phase consisting of potassium dihydrogen phosphate buffer pH (4.6)-acetonitrile(20:80,v/v) at a flow rate of 1 mL min-1. Two detection techniques have been applied either UV detection at 299 nm in the first method or fluorometric detection at 239 nm for excitation and 355 nm for emission in the second method. Chromatographic separation in the two methods was achieved on a Symmetry® cyanide column (150 mm×4.6 mm, 5μm). Linearity, accuracy and precision were found to be acceptable over the concentration ranges of 2.5-80 μgmL-1 for LNG in bulk and 2.5-15μg mL-1 for LNG in plasma with the first method and 5-160 μgmL-1 for LNG in bulk with the second method. The optimized methodswere validated and proved to be specific, robust and accurate for the quality control of the cited drug in its pharmaceutical preparation.
Liquid Chromatographic Determination of Alogliptin in Bulk and in itsPharmaceutical Preparation
Authors:   Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, KasrEl-Aini St., Cairo 11562, Egypt, Ayoub Bassam M. , El-Bagary Ramzia I. , Elkady Ehab F.
Published: September 2023

In this work, areversed-phase liquid chromatographic (RP-LC) method has been developed for the determination of alogliptin (ALG) based on isocratic elutionusing a mobile phase consisting of potassium dihydrogen phosphate buffer pH (4.6)-acetonitrile (20:80,v/v) at a flow rate of 1 mL min-1 with UV detection at 215 nm. Chromatographic separation was achieved on a Symmetry® cyanide column (150 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 μm). Linearity, accuracy and precision were found to be acceptable over the concentration range of 5-160 μg mL-1 for ALG in bulk. The optimized method was validated and proved to be specific, robust and accurate for the quality control of ALG in pharmaceutical preparations.
New View on the Initial Development Site and Radiographic Classification System of Osteoarthritis of the Knee Based on Radiographic Analysis
Authors:   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Interfaith Medical Center, 1545 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY, USA, Moon Ki-Ho
Published: September 2023

ntroduction: Radiographic pathology of severe osteoarthritis of the knee (OAK) such as severe osteophyte at tibial spine (TS), compartment narrowing, marginal osteophyte, and subchondral sclerosis is well known. Kellgren-Lawrence grading system, which is widely used to diagnose OAK, describes narrowing-marginal osteophyte in 4-grades but uses osteophyte at TS only as evidence of OAK without detailed-grading. However, kinematically the knee employs medial TS as an axis while medial and lateral compartments carry the load, suggesting that early OAK would occur sooner at TS than at compartment. Then, Kellgren-Lawrence system may be inadequate to diagnose early-stage OAK manifested as a subtle osteophyte at TS without narrowing-marginal osteophyte. This undiagnosed-OAK will deteriorate becoming a contributing factor in an increasing incidence of OAK. Methods: This study developed a radiographic OAK-marker based on both osteophyte at TS and compartment narrowing-marginal osteophyte and graded as normal, mild, moderate, and severe. With this marker, both knee radiographs of 1,728 patients with knee pain were analyzed.Results: Among 611 early-stage mild OAK, 562 or 92% started at TS and 49 or 8% at compartment. It suggests the initial development site of OAK, helping develop new site-specific radiographic classification system of OAK accurately to diagnose all severity of OAK at early, intermediate, or late-stage. It showed that Kellgren-Lawrence system missed 92.0% of early-stage mild OAK from diagnosis. Conclusions: A subtle osteophyte at TS is the earliest radiographic sign of OAK. A new radiographic classification system of OAK was suggested for accurate diagnosis of all OAK in severity and at stage.
Acute Myeloid Leukaemia of Donor Cell Origin Developing 17 Years after Allogenic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation for Acute Promyelocytic Leukaemia
Authors:   Servicio de Analisis Clinicos e Inmunologia, Hospital Universitario Virgen de las Nieves, Granada, Spain, Ruiz-Cabello Francisco , Jimenez Pilar ,   Servicio de Analisis Clinicos e Inmunologia, Hospital Universitario Virgen de las Nieves, Granada, Spain, Alvarez J. Carlos , Lorente J. Antonio ,   Departamento de Medicina Legal, Universidad de Granada, Spain, Garrido Pilar , Palacios Jorge ,   Servicio de Hematologia, Hospital Universitario Virgen de las Nieves, Granada, Spain
Published: September 2023

Donor cell leukaemia (DCL) is a rare complication of allogenic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). We report the case of a female patient with acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL), FAB type M3, who developed acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) type M5 of donor origin 17 years after allogenic bone marrow transplantation (BMT) from her HLA-matched sister. Morphology and immunophenotyping showed differences with the initial leukaemia, and short tandem repeat (STR) analysis confirmed donor-type haematopoiesis. Interphase fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) showed an 11q23 deletion. Given that the latency period between transplant and development of leukaemia was the longest reported to date, we discuss the mechanisms underlying delayed leukaemia onset.
Hyperemesis Gravidarum: A Novel Risk Factor for Heart Disease?
Authors: Veena Aggarwal
Published: September 2023

Hyperemesis Gravidarum: A Novel Risk Factor for Heart Disease?
Assessing the Prevalence of Age-related Enzyme Deficiency in Indian Population and the Efficacy of Supplementing with a Combination of Alpha- Amylase and Papain Enzyme in this Population
Authors: Krishna Deepak Sathiraju
Published: September 2023

Background: Enzymes are crucial for proper bodily functions, but as individuals age or experience medical conditions,their levels decrease, leading to several health issues most common being the gastrointestinal (GI) problems like dyspepsia,constipation and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The study assessed age-related enzyme deficiency in the Indian populationand investigated the effectiveness of a combined supplementation of alpha-amylase and papain enzymes. Methods: The studywas a retrospective study in July 2023 used a questionnaire-based survey to assess the prevalence of age-related enzymedeficiency in Indian population and the efficacy of supplementing with a combination of alpha-amylase and papain enzyme inthis population. The study used a validated questionnaire with 18 questions, and data was entered into a software database.Complete cases were analyzed, and missing data was excluded due to low occurrence. The final report was prepared aftercleaning the data. Result: The study included 134 doctors from various medical specializations. Results showed that themajority of doctors were GI specialists, with the highest frequency of patients with age-related enzyme deficits in the 40 to 60 years age groups (55.2%). The combination of alpha-amylase and papain was found to relieve proton pump inhibitor (PPI) overuse adverse effects. The safety profile was neutral (64.9%), with 30.6% stating it as safe and 2.2% as very safe. The combination was found to be neutral (48.5%), effective (45.5%) and very effective (3.7%), with age-related considerations being the main factor. Most doctors rated the combination as neutral (64.9%), with 29.1% giving a good rating and 5.2% giving a very good rating. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study sheds light on the prevalence of age-related enzyme deficiency in the Indian population and provides evidence for the potential efficacy of a combined alpha-amylase and papain enzyme supplement in addressing these deficiencies.