bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Noam Chomsky (Views Against Terrorism)
Authors: Lect. Muyassar  Qasim Al – Khashab Lect. Muyassar  Qasim Al – Khashab
Published: May 2024

Abstract
     This research focuses analytically on the concept of terrorism which became a part of US foreign policy. N.Chomsky, who is the famous linguist appears here as a social justice activist, and sheds light on the oppressive practices, and attitudes of the United States.
     The study holds views of terrorism in its three aspects: governmental, state – directed, and state – sponsored one through many examples of Cuba, Lebanon, Palestine, and South America.
     In this research, N. Chomsky comments, opposes the current aspects of terrorism, and defends the social rights of people inside and outside America.  
  The Objective : is to show how much terrorism is  dangerous on human societies and how N. Chomsky   exposes and condemns  certain aspects of  terrorism in this world.
Witogai Kamuu, Menemukan Wajah Allah yang “Memanggil Pulang”. Sebuah TelaahTeologis Praktek Rekonsiliasi Suku Mee, Papua
Authors: Lela Emanuel Richardus Buang
Published: May 2024

The article tries to respond theologically the praxis of the so-called witogai kamuu, a reconciliation rite among the ethnic Mee in Papua. It is an exploration and evaluation on the meaning of witogai kamuu, which has traditionally been carried out among the Mee. The main intention is to improve the praxis of reconciliation for the better future of the people and their society. Suggestions and recommendations will be offered at the end of the article directed primarily to the local Church, the active subject of witogai kamuu. The writer is convinced that the local Church is the one who is expected the most to work more seriously in promoting peace within the Mee society. He also believes that the sacrament of reconciliation in particular is the very important means among the Catholics that could be made known among the Mee in particular and within the society in general.
Tinjauan Buku
Authors: Situmorang Markus
Published: May 2024

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Melacak Visi Hierofani di Balik Narasi Ngibau (Pemeliharaan Padi) Suku Dayak Peruan Kalimantan Barat
Authors: Berek Yanuarius
Published: May 2024

Fokus artikel ini adalah menelusuri visi hierofan di balik narasi Ngibau suku Dayak Peruan Kalimantan Barat. Narasi menanam padi suku Dayak Peruan, seperti banyak narasi lainnya, sarat makna. Penggambaran menanam padi adalah seperti seorang anak yang pergi ke luar negeri dengan mengarungi lautan, menghadapi gelombang pasang, hingga kembali ke tanah air dengan membawa serta barang-barang berharga yang telah dipesan oleh orang tuanya kepadanya. Untuk membuka maknanya secara utuh, penulis menggunakan teori Mircea Eliade tentang hierofani realitas sakral.
Hakikat Jihad Serta Pemaknaannya dalam Konteks Indonesia
Authors: Stevanus Adolvus , Jagom Bonifasius , Mahendra Felix , Wangge Gregorius Loudowick Lengga , Jie Marcelino Bramantyoko
Published: May 2024

Jihad merupakan kewajiban bagi seluruh umat Islam sesuai dengan kemampuannya masing-masing, namun jihad seringkali disalahartikan sebagai perang. Jihad yang diperintahkan dalam Al-Qur’an tidak terbatas pada jihad dalam arti perang, tetapi mencakup banyak arti lainnya. Jihad pada masa Mekkah dilakukan bukan dengan perang, melainkan dengan mengerahkan segenap kemampuan menghadapi kaum musyrik dengan kalimat-kalimat yang menyentuh akal dan hati karena melihat situasi dan kondisi umat Islam yang masih lemah dan tidak memiliki kekuatan fisik. Sementara itu, jihad pada masa Madinah cenderung dimaknai sebagai ‘perang’, yaitu upaya umat Islam untuk membalas serangan yang ditujukan kepada mereka. Dalam konteks Indonesia, jihad lebih dimaknai sebagai jihad nafsu, yaitu melawan hawa nafsu yang ada dalam diri sendiri dan juga menjaga nilai-nilai luhur bangsa.
Vínculos afectivos y profesionales en los inicios de la vida académica. Narrativas de estudiantes avanzados de la Licenciatura en Ciencias de la Educación de la Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata
Authors: Gaggini Paula , Aguirre Jonathan , Foutel Mariana
Published: May 2024

El presente artículo tiene como objetivo poner en valor y retomar aspectos teóricos y metodológicos expuestos en la Tesis de Grado de la Licenciatura en Ciencias de la Educación de la Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMDP), denominada: “Vínculos afectivos y profesionales en los inicios de la vida académica de estudiantes de la Licenciatura en Ciencias de la Educación. Un estudio autoetnográfico a partir de la reapertura de la Licenciatura (2019-2022)”. La investigación  propuso comprender los procesos de reconfiguración de los vínculos afectivos y profesionales de estudiantes de la Licenciatura en el período de 2019 -2022. Metodológicamente la investigación es de corte cualitativo dónde se privilegia la autoetnografía, valorizando la horizontalidad en la producción de conocimiento situado. Abordar los vínculos que se gestan en la vida académica puede representar la permanencia, el sostenimiento y la pertenencia de los/as estudiantes universitarios; recuperar las voces se vuelve sustancial para el sistema universitario y democrático
Job Roles of the Nurses Working in Long Term Care Hospital in Korea: Content Analysis
Authors:   Korean Society of Health Nursing Convergence, Lim Hyun Sook , Chung Hyang In
Published: May 2024

Purpose : The purpose of this qualitative study was to identify the detailed job roles of nurses working in long term care hospitals in Korea.
Methods : Data were collected using individual in-depth interviews and analysed with a content analysis method. Participants were 11 nurses working more than one year in long term care hospitals.
Results : A total of 4 categories, 33 subcategories, and 105 codes were generated from 465 meaningful statements (job roles). Then, 33 subcategories were classified into 4 categories (nursing roles, nursing roles/physician’s roles, physician’s roles and nursing staff roles). Among 105 of the long-term care hospital nurse job roles, thirty-eight(36.2%) was nursing role, eleven(10.5%) were nursing or physician’s roles, twenty- five(23.8%) were physician’s roles and thirty-one(29.5%) were nursing staff roles. In addition to pure nursing work, other roles also showed an high rate(63.8%).
Conclusion : Guidelines for the job roles of nurses in long-term care hospitals, as well as appropriate qualifications and compensation standards, must be established.
A Development of 18 Core Nursing Skills and Evaluation Protocols based on Programme Outcome of Nursing Curriculum at a College
Authors:   Korean Society of Health Nursing Convergence, Kim Ae Jung , Jang Hyo Yeol , Lim Young Sook
Published: May 2024

Purpose : This study was conducted to establish a core nursing skills and evaluation protocols by modifying and supplementing Programme Outcome of nursing curiculum at a college.
Methods : Through quantitative and qualitative surveys, expert consultation, and validity, 18 core nursing skills and evaluation protocols were finally derived.
Results : The 18 core nursing skills include vital signs measurement, oral medication, intramuscular injection, subcutaneous injection, intradermal injection, intravenous fluid infusion, transfusion, intermittent gavage nutrition, simple catheterization, indwelling catheterization, enema, peripheral oxygen saturation measurement and electrocardiogram monitor, oxygen therapy using a nasal cannula, suction, basic CPR and defibrillator application, pain control, bedsore management and fall prevention nursing, and drainage management.
Conclusion : It is expected that the final completed core nursing skills and evaluation protocols will contribute to improving nursing students’ core nursing skills competency and clinical adaptation ability.
Análisis numérico de propiedades aerodinámicas de perfil Alar NACA 4412 y Göttingen 436B
Authors: Paz Gonzalez Mauricio , Morales Contreras Oscar , Gomez Roa Antonio , Paz Gonzalez Juan , Apodaca Miriam
Published: May 2024

La selección del perfil aerodinámico es uno de los factores más importante en el diseño de las aeronaves, garantiza la sustentación, el arrastre y la distribución de presión en superficie alar óptimo para el rendimiento del aeroplano. El presente trabajo presenta un análisis comparativo de los parámetros aerodinámicos entre dos de los perfiles utilizados con mayor frecuencia en la construcción de aviones ultraligeros NACA 4412 y Göttingen 436B. Los perfiles son analizados empleando diferentes velocidades y ángulos de incidencias, la verificación de los modelos se realizó mediante comparación de resultados numéricos empleando dinámica de fluidos computacional CFD y ecuaciones analíticas.
Revisión Meta-Analítica de Factores Críticos de Éxito de Seis Sigma en las Instituciones de Educación Superior
Authors: Maciel Monteón Marco , Gastelum Acosta Carlos , Luna Sandoval Gabriel , Jiménez López Eusebio
Published: May 2024

La calidad del proceso de enseñanza en la educación superior, es uno de los principales retos de la gestión de los directivos en las Instituciones de Educación Superior (IES) en México y Seis Sigma (SS) es una metodología que ha demostrado la obtención de grandes beneficios y ahorros en empresas de manufactura y de servicios, algunos autores han recomendado incorporar SS en las IES como una ayuda a la mejora de calidad, por lo que el presente trabajo analiza los factores críticos de éxito (FCE) para la implementación de SS en las IES, los cuales son importantes para aumentar la probabilidad de éxito si una universidad decide implementar esta metodología. Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica en bases de datos a nivel mundial. La información fue analizada con la técnica del meta análisis, en la cual se consideraron 15 FCE de los 39 mencionados en 88 artículos.
Nanopartículas de Ag y Au obtenidas en solución y en fibras de algodón como soporte por el método de bioreducción
Authors: López Iturbe Jaquelina , Sánchez Mendieta Victor , López Tellez Gustavo , Vilchis Nestor Alfredo Rafael
Published: May 2024

Durante el desarrollo de este trabajo se prepararon biocompositos de nanopartículas de plata y oro por el método de bioreducción, utilizando fibra de algodón como soporte y Camellia sinensis como agente reductor, fueron también preparadas las mismas nanopartículas en solución utilizando el mismo método y finalmente se extrajeron las nanopartículas obtenidas sobre la superficie de las fibras. De esta manera se pudieron comparar algunas características como tamaño de partícula, la posición y forma del plasmón superficial, para lo cual las fibras fueron observadas por FE-SEM para observar la impregnación de la superficie con las nanopartículas, y se utilizó FE-TEM para determinar la distribución de tamaño y tamaños promedio para los diferentes tipos de nanopartículas. La posición y forma del plasmón superficial se determinó a través de espectroscopia UV-VIS. Finalmente se determinaron las energías de enlace por la técnica XPS de los metales reducidos sobre la superficie de las fibras de algodón.
Demand forecasts for chronic cardiovascular diseases medication based on Markov chains
Authors: Hermosilla Armando , Carmagnola Richard , Sauer Carlos , Redondo Eduardo , Centurion Luis
Published: May 2024

In this work, we propose and evaluate models to predict the demand for cardiovascular drugs using Markov chains. The models use transactional data of patient medication delivery to identify consumption levels. These levels are considered as Markov chain states. Four model configurations were evaluated, differing on the arrival/departure nature of patients to the system and the inclusion of an idle state. The models were trained with 12 months of real data and tested with a four-month horizon. Also, the models were sequentially applied to an 18-month Losartan consumption data, simulating thus the chained implementation in a real scenario. The MAPE of two months ahead forecasts ranged from 3.92% to 5.55% in three of the four evaluated models. As well, our results showed that variations of the consumption level could be modeled using Markov chains, and in low inventory levels situations, these tools are usable to prioritize patients with higher levels of consumption.
French economists and the symbolic power of (post-)national capital
Authors: Schmidt-Wellenburg Christian
Published: May 2024

The paper argues that economists’ position-taking in discourses of crises should be understood in the light of economists’ positions in the academic field of economics. This hypothesis is investigated by performing a multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) on a prosopographical data set of 144 French economists who positioned themselves between 2008 and 2021 in controversies over the euro crisis, the French political economic model, and French economics. In these disciplinary controversies, different forms of (post-)national academic capital are used by economists to either initiate change or defend the status quo. These strategies are then interpreted as part of more general power struggles over the basic national or post-national constitution and legitimate governance of economy and society.
Review of: George Steinmetz, The Colonial Origins of Modern Social Thought: French Sociology and the Overseas Empire (Princeton NJ: Princeton University Press, 2023).
Authors: Jebari Idriss
Published: May 2024

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A randomised trial comparing preoperative administration of single-dose kefazolin to kefazolin plus metronidazole as prophylactic antibiotics at caesarean section
Authors: Lamfel R , Snyman L , Seopela L , Jahn G , Becker P
Published: May 2024

Background. Caesarean section is a life-saving procedure which is associated with high rates of maternal and neonatal complications. It has been estimated that globally, 29.7 million births occur by caesarean section annually. The risk of postpartum infection is estimated to be five to ten times higher compared with normal vaginal delivery. Pregnancy-related sepsis was listed as a top-six cause of maternal mortality in the South African Saving Mothers report between 2017 and 2019. Multiple trials have been conducted in an attempt to optimise administration of prophylactic antibiotics in an effort to reduce postpartum infection and maternal sepsis, and current practice guidelines suggest that there is sufficient evidence that extended-spectrum antibiotics, in combination with kefazolin, result in reduction of postpartum infections.
Objectives. To investigate the effect of perioperative administration of kefazolin alone compared with kefazolin plus metronidazole on postpartum infection in women undergoing caesarean section at Kalafong Provincial Tertiary Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa.
Method. All patients undergoing emergency or elective caesarean section were randomised and then sequentially numbered in opaque sealed envelopes, which were placed in the caesarean section operating theatre. The intervention group received kefazolin and a sealed envelope with metronidazole. The control group received kefazolin and a sealed envelope with normal saline.
Results. A total of 57/1 010 patients (5.64%) had surgical site infections, of which 27 (5.33%) were in the control group, and 30 (5.96%) were in the intervention group (p=0.66). Two patients in each arm (0.40% in the intervention arm and 0.39% in the control arm) underwent laparotomy procedures, while three women (0.60%) in the intervention arm and four women (0.79%) in the control arm underwent hysterectomy procedures. There were no statistically significant differences in all the measured secondary outcomes between the two groups.
Conclusion. The overall sepsis rate in this study was 5.64%. Postpartum infection is multifactorial and there are multiple factors that can be addressed in strengthening the sepsis care bundle. We do not recommend the addition of metronidazole to kefazolin as prophylaxis at caesarean section.
Artistic creativity in the cultural diplomacy: opportunities and boundaries
Authors: Chuprova Irina Aleksandrovna , Glagolev Vladimir Sergeevich
Published: May 2024

The subject of the study is the semantic content of cultural diplomacy. The relevance of addressing this topic is determined by the specifics of the current stage of development of international relations, when cultural diplomacy finds itself in a situation of sharply narrowed opportunities amid the intensification of counterproductive strategies of “cancel culture.” The purpose of the work is to trace the features of the disclosure of values and meanings of the period of recent sociocultural turbulence. The objectives of the study are 1) to clarify the nature of the attitude of representatives of creative professions to the political and ideological realities of the time; 2) highlight the difference between the dichotomies “political / non-political” and “official / unofficial”; 3) establish the significance of each part of these dichotomies in solving the problems of cultural diplomacy; 4) to trace theoretical and practical approaches to the components of these dichotomies on the part of representatives of artistic culture in the light of the paradigm of meaning-making as a key value of culture; 5) determine the possibilities and boundaries of interaction between representatives of creative professions and the political context of their activities. The research methodology is based on an integrated approach based on data from cultural history, cultural anthropology, and political psychology within the framework of the theory of intercultural communication. The key method used is categorical analysis, as well as discourse analysis, which allows us to trace blocks of value preferences, taking into account the characteristics of current historical and cultural processes. The novelty of the study lies in identifying the possibilities and boundaries for the development of cultural contacts in an era of current turbulence (primarily political), when, against the backdrop of the intensification of “cancel culture,” the possibilities for such interactions are reduced.
Unlocking the secrets of kangaroo locomotor energetics: Postural adaptations underpin increased tendon stress in hopping kangaroos
Authors: Thornton Lauren H. , Dick Taylor J.M. , Hutchinson John R. , Lichtwark Glen A. , McGowan Craig P. , Rubenson Jonas , Wiktorowicz-Conroy Alexis , Clemente Christofer J.
Published: May 2024

Hopping kangaroos exhibit remarkably little change in their rate of metabolic energy expenditure with locomotor speed compared to other running animals. This phenomenon may be related to greater elastic energy savings due to increasing tendon stress; however, the mechanisms which enable the rise in stress remain poorly understood. In this study, we created a three-dimensional (3D) kangaroo musculoskeletal model, integrating 3D motion capture and force plate data, to analyse the kinematics and kinetics of hopping red and grey kangaroos. Using our model, we evaluated how body mass and speed influence (i) hindlimb posture, (ii) effective mechanical advantage (EMA), and (iii) the associated tendon stress in the ankle extensors and (iv) ankle work during hopping. We found that increasing ankle dorsiflexion and metatarsophalangeal plantarflexion likely played an important role in decreasing ankle EMA by altering both the muscle and external moment arms, which subsequently increased energy absorption and peak tendon stress at the ankle. Surprisingly, kangaroo hindlimb posture appeared to contribute to increased tendon stress, thereby elucidating a potential mechanism behind the increase in stress with speed. These posture-mediated increases in elastic energy savings could be a key factor enabling kangaroos to achieve energetic benefits at faster hopping speeds, but may limit the performance of large kangaroos due to the risk of tendon rupture.
Verbos intransitivos y sus caminos de transitivización
Authors: Alfonso Vega Milagros , Melis Chantal
Published: May 2024

Este trabajo se centra en las estrategias a través de las cuales algunos verbos clasificados como intransitivos con atención a su significado básico se insertan en construcciones transitivas. A partir del estudio de cuatro verbos (descansar, despertar, trabajar y vivir), que evidencian procesos de transitivización en datos de uso (CORPES XXI), identificamos mecanismos recurrentes y generalizables al ámbito de los verbos intransitivos en español. Específicamente, discutimos el fenómeno de la causativización, que surge en los casos donde se agrega un participante que pasa a funcionar como sujeto, por un lado, y por el otro, examinamos la diversidad de las estructuras en las que la entidad añadida se formaliza como objeto directo. Estas últimas se distinguen por la heterogeneidad no solo en cuanto a los tipos de objeto, sino también en lo relativo a los efectos producidos sobre la semántica y la sintaxis del verbo.
Noncore datives in Basque and Spanish impersonal, passive and anticausative sentences
Authors: Suárez-Palma Imanol , Santamaría-Gallego Alba
Published: May 2024

This paper focuses on the Basque impersonal construction, i.e. a detransitivized configuration that can convey impersonal, passive and middle readings. Although these are agentive constructions (Fernández and Berro 2021), labile change-of-state predicates in these sentences allow for a causative and an anticausative reading, enhanced by the possibility of inserting a purpose clause or a by-itself PP, respectively (Ortiz de Urbina 2003). We suggest that two distinct underlying representations with identical exponents yield these readings: (i) a defective Voice head that encodes an implicit external argument in the causative variant (Schäfer 2008; Berro et al. 2022), and (ii) an anticausative counterpart, lacking Voice altogether. We support this claim by examining the distribution of noncore dative arguments in these contexts, whose possible interpretations are (i) affected by an intentionally or naturally caused change of state, or (ii) accidental causers of this event; this phenomenon is also attested in Spanish se-passives and se-anticausatives (Cuervo 2003; Suárez-Palma 2020). Assuming that a middle applicative head introduces these arguments (Cuervo 2020), the affected reading arises when the applicative merges below vP, and the accidental causer one when it sits on top of it. Crucially, the latter is only possible in anticausative contexts, where that position is not filled by Voice; these observations from Basque mirror Suárez-Palma’s (2020) findings for Spanish. Finally, if this proposal is on the right track, future typological studies should include Basque in the list of languages showing applicative constructions (Polinsky 2024).
¿Son las categorías léxicas tan discretas como parece?
Authors: Ivanova Olga
Published: May 2024

Uno de los debates centrales en la lingüística actual gira en torno a la consideración de las categorías gramaticales de nombre y verbo como discretas o graduales. En este trabajo, parto de las evidencias sobre la adquisición, el procesamiento y la producción de estas dos clases léxicas en hablantes sanos y hablantes con trastornos para defender que, desde el punto de vista neurocognitivo, se trata de categorías discretas. Además, analizo el tipo de condicionamiento de la disociación categorial con el fin de defender que la procedimentalización de la función lingüística a lo largo de la vida conduce a la generación de la naturaleza gramatical-semántica de las clases léxicas. Para ello, reviso y analizo los resultados de una serie de trabajos experimentales, de naturaleza sobre todo neurofuncional y neurocognitiva, que me permiten comparar la disociación categorial y su disociación causativa en niños, adultos y mayores sanos y con diferentes tipos de trastornos de naturaleza cognitiva (TEL, TEA; afasias; DS y EA). La conclusión principal de mi trabajo es que nombre y verbo son categorías gramaticales discretas en términos neurocognitivos, que desarrollan gradualidad gramatical-semántica con la procedimentalización de la función del lenguaje.
Yield Attributes and Yield of Maize as Influenced by Different Paddy Straw Management Options and Nitrogen Levels in Rice-maize Cropping Systems
Authors: Kumar E. Ajay , Reddy, A R. Uma , Chaitanya Krishna , Reddy M. Malla , Triveni S.
Published: May 2024

A field experiment was conducted during 2021-22 and 2022-23 at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Arepally, Warangal district. It is situated in the Central Telangana Zone. A total of 18 treatments replicated thrice in factorial RBD design. The study is conducted to know the yield attributes and yield of maize as influenced by different paddy straw management options and Nitrogen levels in rice-maize cropping systems. The results of the experiment concluded that highest grain yield, straw yield, cob length (cm), cob girth (cm), number of cobs per plant, number of rows per kernal, 100 seed weight (gms) was obtained in incorporation and least was obtained in cutting and removal. With the different nitrogen levels highest was obtained in T6 130% RDN (20% at basal, 42% 15 days after sowing, 42% knee high stage (30 DAS) and 26 % tasselling stage (60 DAS) and the least was obtained in T1 100 % RDN (33.3 % at basal, 33.3% knee high stage (30 DAS) and 33.3% tasselling stage (60 DAS). There is no significant effect of crop residue management and N levels on yield attributes of maize and there is no significant interaction between the two factors.
Enhancement of Greengram (Vigna radiata L.) Productivity by Using Organic Extracts and Fertilizers
Authors: Rai Sneha , Jolly Gritta Elizabeth
Published: May 2024

Greengram (Vigna radiata L.) being a leguminous crop has high nutritional value and is one of the most important pulse crops grown in India. In India greengram production is affected by a variety of factors, including biotic stresses like diseases, weeds, and pests as well as abiotic stresses such as drought, floods and poor management practices. Among those the use of inorganic fertilizers has resulted in ground water pollution, deteriorating soil quality, high production cost and poor quality production for livelihood which has resulted in poor productivity. Thus the main objective of this paper is to review the use of organic extracts and fertilizers and their benefits for enhanced productivity in greengram. As organic sources are known to considerably effect the growth and development of a crop yielding significant results, as a result utilization of such organic sources like seaweed extract, vermiwash, humic acid, panchagavya and jeevamruth can play a major role in enhancing the productivity in greengram.
Evaluation of Some Biochemical Parameters in Printers Occupationally Exposed to Large-format Printing Machines in Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Onwuli Donatus Onukwufor , Ibama Onengiyeofori , Ramoni Otenobebi , Ibioku Elekima , Ben-Chioma Adline Erinma , Waribo Helen Anthony , Brisibe Ngozi
Published: May 2024

Ensuring occupational health and safety is crucial across diverse industries, and the printing sector is no exemption. Workers operating large format printing presses are exposed to printing inks and materials containing potentially hazardous chemicals and solvents. This case-control study aimed to assess hepatic and renal function indices in individuals operating large-format printing machines within Port Harcourt metropolis, Rivers State, Nigeria. The study involved recruiting a total of 120 subjects, both males and females, aged between 18 and 40 years. Among them, 60 subjects constantly exposed to large-format printing machines constituted the test group, while the remaining 60, without exposure to such machines, served as the negative control. From each subject's antecubital fossa, 5 milliliters (5 ml) of venous blood were collected, processed, and the serum obtained was used for analyzing aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), sodium, potassium, urea, and creatinine using spectrophotometric and ion selective electrode methods. In the statistical analysis, SPSS version 24 was employed, with a significance level set at p<0.05. The results indicated significantly higher serum mean levels of AST 6.00 ± 3.00 U/l; ALT 7.70 ± 3.69 U/l, ALP 11.10 ± 4.50 iU/l, sodium 135.30 ± 13.90 mmol/l, and urea 4.38 ± 2.63 mmol/l respectively in the test subjects compared to the control subjects 5.00±2.00 U/l; 6.22 ± 2.45 U/l.; 9.50 ± 3.40iU/l; 125.2±19.40 mmol/l and 3.45±0. 94 mmol/l respectively. Conversely, no significant difference was observed in the mean levels of potassium 3.3 ± 0.50mmol/l and creatinine 50.0 ± 50 µmol/l between the test and control subjects 3.4 ± 0.30 mmol/l and 53.0 ± 50 µmol/l respectively.  Furthermore, gender-based comparisons within the test group revealed a significant increase in the mean levels of AST 7.12 ± 20mmol/l versus 5.40 ± 4.0mmol/l and sodium 142.1±10.0mmol/l in female subjects compared to male subjects 132.4±14.5mmol/l. These findings suggest that the exposure to large-format printing machines and their accessories may adversely affect liver and kidney function. The authors recommend the consistent use of personal protective equipment, such as nose masks as well as ensuring well-ventilated working environments, and regular medical checkups for individuals working with large-format printing machines.
Assessment of Vegetative and Flower Characters in Cocoa (Theobroma cacao) under Different Planting Densities
Authors: Padmadevi K. , V Jegadeeswari. , Vijayalatha K. R. , Mohanalakshmi M. , Kalaivani J. , Sidhdharth G.
Published: May 2024

An experiment was conducted to investigate the impact of planting density on vegetative and flowering characteristics of cocoa (Theobroma cacao) during its initial growth stage at the Coconut Farm of the Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. Utilizing a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with eight treatments replicated three times, the study aimed to explore the influence of different spacing levels on plant morphology and flowering traits. The results delineated clear patterns across the spacing treatments. T1 (3m x 1.2m) showcased the tallest trees and the highest first branching height, indicating that wider spacing promotes vertical growth and higher branching points. T6 (2m) displayed the widest stem girth, suggesting that moderate spacing enhances stem development. T5 (1.5m) exhibited the highest number of fan branches, implying that denser planting encourages more lateral branching. Regarding flowering, T8 (3m) demonstrated the greatest number of flowers per cushion and per tree, highlighting the positive effect of wider spacing on flower production. T7 (2m) recorded the highest number of flower cushions per tree, indicating that optimal spacing can maximize the number of flowering sites. Notably, T6 (2m) boasted the highest pod set percentage at 0.98%, suggesting that a 2m spacing is beneficial for fruit setting efficiency. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that planting density significantly influences both vegetative growth and flowering characteristics in cocoa during the initial stages of crop growth. Wider spacings, such as those in T1 and T8, tend to promote taller trees and higher flower production, while moderate spacing like T6 enhances stem girth and pod set percentage. These findings underscore the importance of careful consideration of planting density to optimize both vegetative and reproductive performance in cocoa cultivation.
Nanostructured TiO2 and Its Application in Lithium‐Ion Storage
Authors: Myung Seung‐Taek , Takahashi Naohiro , Komaba Shinichi , Yoon Chong Seung , Sun Yang‐Kook , Amine Khalil , Yashiro Hitoshi
Published: July 2011

Titania nanorods and nanowires are synthesized via a hydrothermal reaction of amorphous TiO2 in alkaline NaOH, followed by ion exchange in HCl aqueous solution, and dehydration at 400 °C. Although the hydrothermal treatment produces three different particle morphologies depending on the reaction time (nanosheets, nanorods, and nanowires), the products exhibit the same crystal structure. Ion exchange of Na2Ti3O7 in HCl aqueous solution brings about a phase change to H2Ti3O7, but there is no change in the particle morphology. Dehydration of the nanostructured H2Ti3O7 leads to two types of crystal structure—anatase TiO2 for the nanorods, and TiO2–B for the nanowires—although no significant difference is found in the morphology of the products even after dehydration. The nanorods are 40–50 nm in length and 10 nm in diameter, whereas the nanowires are several micrometers in length and tens to hundreds of nanometers in thickness. In‐situ X‐ray diffraction revealed the formation of anatase TiO2 from the TiO2–B above 450 °C. This finding implies that the phase transformation occurs rather slowly for the TiO2–B nanowires due to the larger particle size and higher crystallinity of H2Ti3O7. Tests with Li‐metal half cells indicated that the anatase TiO2 nanorods are more favorable for the storage and release of Li ions because of their greater surface area than the TiO2–B nanowires.
Cocatalyst‐Free Photocatalysts for Efficient Visible‐Light‐Induced H2 Production: Porous Assemblies of CdS Quantum Dots and Layered Titanate Nanosheets
Authors: Kim Hyo Na , Kim Tae Woo , Kim In Young , Hwang Seong‐Ju
Published: July 2011

Highly efficient, visible‐light‐induced H2 generation can be achieved without the help of a Pt cocatalyst by new hybrid photocatalysts, in which CdS quantum dots (QDs) (particle size ≈2.5 nm) are incorporated in the porous assembly of sub‐nanometer‐thick layered titanate nanosheets. Due to the very‐limited crystal dimension of component semiconductors, the electronic structure of CdS QDs is strongly coupled with that of the layered titanate nanosheets, leading to an efficient electron transfer between them and the enhancement of the CdS photostability. As a consequence of the promoted electron transfer, the photoluminescence of CdS QDs is nearly quenched after hybridization, indicating the almost‐suppression of electron‐hole recombination. These Pt‐cocatalyst‐free, CdS‐layered titanate nanohybrids show much‐higher photocatalytic activity for H2 production than the precursor CdS QDs and layered titanate, which is due to the increased lifetime of the electrons and holes, the decrease of the bandgap energy, and the expansion of the surface area upon hybridization. The observed photocatalytic efficiency of these Pt‐free hybrids (≈1.0 mmol g−1 h−1) is much greater than reported values of other Pt‐free CdS‐TiO2 systems. This finding highlights the validity of 2D semiconductor nanosheets as effective building blocks for exploring efficient visible‐light‐active photocatalysts for H2 production.
Are there differences in the catalytic activity per unit enzyme of recombinantly expressed and human liver microsomal cytochrome P450 2C9? A systematic investigation into inter‐system extrapolation factors
Authors: Crewe H. K. , Barter Z. E. , Rowland Yeo K. , Rostami‐Hodjegan A.
Published: July 2011

The ‘relative activity factor’ (RAF) compares the activity per unit of microsomal protein in recombinantly expressed cytochrome P450 enzymes (rhCYP) and human liver without separating the potential sources of variation (i.e. abundance of enzyme per mg of protein or variation of activity per unit enzyme). The dimensionless ‘inter‐system extrapolation factor’ (ISEF) dissects differences in activity from those in CYP abundance. Detailed protocols for the determination of this scalar, which is used in population in vitro–in vivo extrapolation (IVIVE), are currently lacking. The present study determined an ISEF for CYP2C9 and, for the first time, systematically evaluated the effects of probe substrate, cytochrome b5 and methods for assessing the intrinsic clearance (CLint). Values of ISEF for S‐warfarin, tolbutamide and diclofenac were 0.75 ± 0.18, 0.57 ± 0.07 and 0.37 ± 0.07, respectively, using CLint values derived from the kinetic values Vmax and Km of metabolite formation in rhCYP2C9 + reductase + b5 BD Supersomes™. The ISEF values obtained using rhCYP2C9 + reductase BD Supersomes™ were more variable, with values of 7.16 ± 1.25, 0.89 ± 0.52 and 0.50 ± 0.05 for S‐warfarin, tolbutamide and diclofenac, respectively. Although the ISEF values obtained from rhCYP2C9 + reductase + b5 for the three probe substrates were statistically different (p < 0.001), the use of the mean value of 0.54 resulted in predicted oral clearance values for all three substrates within 1.4 fold of the observed literature values. For consistency in the relative activity across substrates, use of a b5 expressing recombinant system, with the intrinsic clearance calculated from full kinetic data is recommended for generation of the CYP2C9 ISEF. Furthermore, as ISEFs have been found to be sensitive to differences in accessory proteins, rhCYP system specific ISEFs are recommended. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fugenabdichtung mit Klemmkonstruktionen in WU‐Bauwerken – eine Herausforderung für Planer und Ausführende?
Authors: Hohmann Rainer
Published: July 2011

Bei der Abdichtung von wasserundurchlässigen (WU‐)Bauwerken erfolgt der Anschluss von WU‐Erweiterungsbauten an bestehende Betonbauwerke und die Abdichtung von undichten Bewegungsfugen oder in Fällen, in denen eine auswechselbare Fugenabdichtung gefordert ist, mit einer Klemmkonstruktion. Klemmkonstruktionen sind Maßanfertigungen, die hohe Anforderungen an Planung und Ausführung stellen. In dem folgenden Beitrag wird auf Klemmkonstruktionen und ihre Besonderheiten, aber auch auf typische Fehler eingegangen.

Retrofit waterstop assemblies – a challenge for designers and contractors?

Constructions and waterstops – applications‐ designing and site practice

Retrofit waterstop assemblies (or flanged constructions) are suitable for sealing joints between new and existing concrete structures, for the remedial waterproofing of leaking expansion joints and for application requiring replaceable waterstops. Retrofit assemblies demand considerable experience on the part of both designers and contractors. This article highlights fundamental background information about retrofit waterstop assemblies, explains typical mistakes and gives advice for the avoidance of them.
Randomized clinical trial comparing endovenous laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation, foam sclerotherapy and surgical stripping for great saphenous varicose veins
Authors: Rasmussen L H , Lawaetz M , Bjoern L , Vennits B , Blemings A , Eklof B
Published: July 2011

Background

This randomized trial compared four treatments for varicose great saphenous veins (GSVs).

Methods

Five hundred consecutive patients (580 legs) with GSV reflux were randomized to endovenous laser ablation (980 and 1470 nm, bare fibre), radiofrequency ablation, ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy or surgical stripping using tumescent local anaesthesia with light sedation. Miniphlebectomies were also performed. The patients were examined with duplex imaging before surgery, and after 3 days, 1 month and 1 year.

Results

At 1 year, seven (5·8 per cent), six (4·8 per cent), 20 (16·3 per cent) and four (4·8 per cent) of the GSVs were patent and refluxing in the laser, radiofrequency, foam and stripping groups respectively (P < 0·001). One patient developed a pulmonary embolus after foam sclerotherapy and one a deep vein thrombosis after surgical stripping. No other major complications were recorded. The mean(s.d.) postintervention pain scores (scale 0–10) were 2·58(2·41), 1·21(1·72), 1·60(2·04) and 2·25(2·23) respectively (P < 0·001). The median (range) time to return to normal function was 2 (0–25), 1 (0–30), 1 (0–30) and 4 (0–30) days respectively (P < 0·001). The time off work, corrected for weekends, was 3·6 (0–46), 2·9 (0–14), 2·9 (0–33) and 4·3 (0–42) days respectively (P < 0·001). Disease-specific quality-of-life and Short Form 36 (SF-36®) scores had improved in all groups by 1-year follow-up. In the SF-36® domains bodily pain and physical functioning, the radiofrequency and foam groups performed better in the short term than the others.

Conclusion

All treatments were efficacious. The technical failure rate was highest after foam sclerotherapy, but both radiofrequency ablation and foam were associated with a faster recovery and less postoperative pain than endovenous laser ablation and stripping.
Role of pressure and pancreatic reflux in the aetiology of choledochal malformation
Authors: Turowski C , Knisely A S , Davenport M
Published: July 2011

Background

The aetiology of choledochal malformation is not known. Babbitt's hypothesis remains a popular concept, and assumes that activated pancreatic juice refluxes through the common pancreatobiliary channel causing mural damage and subsequent biliary dilatation. This hypothesis was tested clinically by evaluating the relationship between epithelial histology, choledochal pressure and degree of pancreatic reflux.

Methods

Children with choledochal malformation (cystic, type 1c; fusiform, type 1f; both intrahepatic and extrahepatic dilatation, type 4) operated on between January 1999 and October 2009 were identified. Where practical, choledochal pressure was measured on entry to the abdominal cavity, by puncture of the common bile duct, and bile was sampled for amylase content. Archival bile duct sections were scored using a semiquantitative epithelial lining/mural score (ELMS).

Results

A total of 90 children with choledochal malformations were operated on during the study interval. Histology was available for 73 children (median age 2·9 (interquartile range 1·3–7·9) years), 29 with type 1c, 31 with type 1f and 13 with type 4 malformations. There was a significant stepwise increase in pressure with choledochal morphology (median pressure 13, 17 and 20 mmHg for types 1f, 1c and 4 respectively; P = 0·037). There was an inverse relationship between choledochal pressure and bile amylase activity (rs = − 0·45, P < 0·001). High ELMS values were associated with higher choledochal pressure (P = 0·057) and low bile amylase activity (P = 0·002).

Conclusion

High choledochal pressure (not bile amylase) was associated with more severe histopathological changes and choledochal morphology. These findings suggest that distal bile duct obstruction (and therefore high intraluminal pressure) contributes more to the key features of choledochal malformation than does pancreatic reflux.
Cost-effectiveness of screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm in the Netherlands and Norway
Authors: Spronk S , van Kempen B J H , Boll A P M , Jørgensen J J , Hunink M G M , Kristiansen I S
Published: July 2011

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the cost-effectiveness of ultrasound screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) in men aged 65 years, for both the Netherlands and Norway.

Methods

A Markov model was developed to simulate life expectancy, quality-adjusted life-years, net health benefits, lifetime costs and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios for both screening and no screening for AAA. The best available evidence was retrieved from the literature and combined with primary data from the two countries separately, and analysed from a national perspective. A threshold willingness-to-pay (WTP) of €20 000 and €62 500 was used for data from the Netherlands and Norway respectively.

Results

The additional costs of the screening strategy compared with no screening were €421 (95 per cent confidence interval 33 to 806) per person in the Netherlands, and the additional life-years were 0·097 (−0·180 to 0·365), representing €4340 per life-year. For Norway, the values were €562 (59 to 1078), 0·057 (−0·135 to 0·253) life-years and €9860 per life-year respectively. In Norway the results were sensitive to a decrease in the prevalence of AAA in 65-year-old men to 1 per cent, or lower. Probabilistic sensitivity analyses indicated that AAA screening has a 70 per cent probability of being cost-effective in the Netherlands with a WTP threshold of €20 000, and 70 per cent in Norway with a threshold of €62 500.

Conclusion

Using this model, screening for AAA in 65-year-old men would be highly cost-effective in both the Netherlands and Norway.
A unique Golgi apparatus distribution may be a marker for osteogenic differentiation of hDP‐MSCs
Authors: Kasap Murat , Karaoz Erdal , Akpinar Gurler , Aksoy Ayca , Erman Gulay
Published: July 2011

Stem cell markers are utilized to isolate or identify stem cells. So far, many stem‐cell‐specific markers have been described, although some of them turned out to be not as specific as it was originally proposed. In this study, we sought to search for a specific stem cell marker that would be phenotypically helpful, characteristically specific, economically affordable and easy to use. Because organelles are one of the major characteristics of eukaryotic cells, we asked the question of whether organelle characteristics might be a useful tool for stem cell characterization. We studied distribution and characteristics of the endoplasmic reticulum, the mitochondria and the Golgi apparatus in human dental‐pulp‐derived mesenchymal stem cells before and during osteogenic differentiation. Although it was not possible to find a useful macromolecular marker for stem cell characterization, we found that during osteogenic differentiation, the stem cells changed their Golgi characteristics and displayed a unique in vivo pattern. We analysed these unique Golgi structures and proposed a potential osteogenic differentiation marker for human dental‐pulp‐derived mesenchymal stem cells. This pattern may be used in the evaluation of osteogenic differentiation. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Isolated Supramolecular [Ru(bpy)3]–Viologen–[Ru(bpy)3] Complexes with Trapped CB[7,8] and Photoinduced Electron‐Transfer Study in Nonaqueous Solution
Authors: Monhaphol Thitinun Karpkird , Andersson Samir , Sun Licheng
Published: July 2011

The synthesis of two supramolecular diruthenium complexes, 1⊂CB[7] and 1⊂CB[8] (CB[n]=cucurbit[n]uril), which contain the respective host CB[7] and CB[8], were synthesized and isolated. In the case of host CB[8], the desired supramolecular complex was obtained by utilizing dihydroxynapthalene as a template during the synthesis. The 1H NMR spectra, electrochemistry, and photochemistry of these supramolecular complexes were performed in nonaqueous solution. The results show that both CB[7,8] hosts mainly bind to the linker part in solution in acetonitrile. This binding also lowers the oxidation potential of the ruthenium metal center and hinders the quenching effect by the viologen moiety. It has also been shown that external methylviologen can be included into 1⊂CB[8]. Analysis with NMR spectroscopy, electrochemistry, and photochemistry clearly shows a viologen radical dimer formation between the bound viologen and free methylviologen, thereby showing that the unique abilities of the CB[8] host can be utilized even in nonaqueous solution.
Computational Characterization of Binding of Small Molecule Inhibitors to HIV‐1 gp41
Authors: Song Kuizhong , Bao Ju , Sun Yueming , Zhang John Z. H.
Published: July 2011

Developing orally available small molecule inhibitors of HIV‐1 fusion has attracted significant interest over many years. Frey had recently reported several synthetic compounds which are experimentally shown to inhibit cell‐cell fusion in the low micromolar range. We carried out computational study to help identify possible binding modes by docking these compounds onto the hydrophobic pocket on gp41 and to characterize structures of binding complexes. The detailed gp41‐molecule binding interactions and free energies of binding are obtained through molecular dynamics simulation and MM‐PBSA calculation. Specific molecular interactions in the gp41‐inhibitor complexes are identified. The present computational study complements the corresponding experimental investigation and helps establish a good starting point for further refinement of small molecular gp41 inhibitors.