bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tipos de vegetación leñosa y su composición florística en el Geoparque Mundial Unesco Mixteca Alta, Oaxaca
Authors: Ramírez Santiago Rosario , Orozco-Ramírez Quetzalcóatl , Clark Tapia Ricardo , Cruz Ramírez Miguel Ángel
Published: December 2021

Se describe la cobertura del suelo y la composición florística de los tipos de vegetación leñosa del geoparque Mixteca Alta (GMA), del estado de Oaxaca, mismos que se identificaron mediante una clasificación visual sobre una imagen de satélite Google Earth (2016) y luego fueron verificados en campo. Se identificaron nueve tipos de cobertura del suelo y cuatro tipos de vegetación leñosa, que fueron muestreados para conocer su composición. En los tipos de vegetación leñosa, se establecieron 70 sitios temporales de 500 m2 cada uno, en los que se censaron árboles y arbustos. En total se registraron 91 especies, pertenecientes a 55 géneros y 31 familias. La composición florística es similar a la de otras zonas templadas de México, aunque la riqueza de especies es menor. Sin embargo, el bosque de encino y el de pino y encino tienen una mayor riqueza de especies en comparación con el matorral xerófilo y con el de enebro. La composición y estructura muestran que la vegetación es de tipo secundaria, que se ha repoblado mediante un proceso de sucesión secundaria. Debe reconocerse que actualmente el GMA es una zona donde la cobertura forestal se está recuperando y que las comunidades locales han desempeñado un papel en este proceso.
Efecto de la fertilización en el crecimiento de Retrophyllum rospigliosii de la zona andina colombiana
Authors: Ramírez Jorge Andrés , Marín Adriana , Urrego John Byron , Castaño Álvaro , Ospina Román
Published: December 2021

Retrophyllum rospigliosii es una especie amenazada nativa de los bosques altoandinos. Con el fin de evaluar si la fertilización química incrementa el crecimiento (diámetro, altura, área basal y volumen) de R. rospigliosii, se estableció en 1999 una plantación de esta especie en la zona andina colombiana. A partir del monitoreo de la plantación (años 2003, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2016 y 2018), se realizó un análisis longitudinal mediante un modelo lineal mixto para evaluar el efecto de los tratamientos de fertilización en el crecimiento. Las tasas de crecimiento promedio encontradas en esta plantación fueron ligeramente superiores a las anteriormente registradas para esta especie, con un incremento medio anual del diámetro, altura, área basal y volumen para el testigo de 12 mm, 0.661 m, 2.050 m2 ha-1 y 0.012 m3, respectivamente, pero más lentas en comparación con otras especies de coníferas comúnmente plantadas en la zona andina colombiana. El tratamiento de fertilización No. 6 (50 kg ha-1 de N, 20 kg ha-1 de P, 2 kg ha-1 de B y 5.5 kg ha-1 de elementos menores) conllevó un incremento significativo en las variables evaluadas respecto al testigo (9.2%, 8.4%, 18.4% y 25.0%, respectivamente para diámetro, altura, área basal y volumen) durante el período de estudio considerado. Ello posiblemente debido a que la fertilización temprana favorece un pronto cierre de copas y la reducción de malezas, lo cual, sumado a las adaptaciones de la especie a la baja disponibilidad de nutrientes del suelo, mantiene el efecto a lo largo del tiempo.
Trapping bacteria and fungi using microfluidic design
Authors:   Department of Chemistry and Physics, College of Arts and Sciences, Cebu Normal University, Cebu, Philippines, et al. Galon
Published: December 2021

Escherichia coli and Candida auris are not easy to identify in laboratories without special technology. In this study, we have presented microfluidic designs for trapping bacteria and fungi. Two trapping chambers are designed using AutoCAD and the fluid dynamics of the bacteria and fungi are simulated using D. Schroeder’s Fluid Dynamics Simulation software. The designs are modified versions of a device that is constructed and simulated with numerical predictions, which include sizes and apertures in consideration of the specified microbe. The current designs take into account the exact dimensions of E. coli and C. auris under fluid flow and passive microfluidic technique, where actuation is based on geometry, is considered. The measurements of the design ensure that the species are to be trapped due to diffusion and ¬¬fluid dynamics. From the simulation, the stagnation is to be shown with its default setting, and approximation is done in its motion which is simulated in the two-dimensional space of the bacteria and fungi. The microfluidic designs will be useful during experiments in deciphering necessary information of the bacteria and fungi and will be a platform in modeling numerous biomedical assays and in the optimization of biophysical tools.
An Online International Collaborative Learning Program During the COVID-19 Pandemic for Nursing Students: Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Jung Dukyoo , De Gagne Jennie C , Choi Eunju , Lee Kyuri
Published: December 2021

Background

Given the limitations imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, a better understanding of how nursing programs around the globe have implemented distance education methods and related initiatives to provide international collaborative learning opportunities as well as complementary aspects of practical education would be constructive for nursing students. It is expected that international collaboratives through web-based communication will continue to be increasingly utilized after the pandemic; therefore, it is time to discuss the effects and direction of these developments.

Objective

We aimed to examine the impact of an online international collaborative learning program on prelicensure nursing students’ international and global competencies in South Korea.

Methods

We conducted a mixed methods study (web-based surveys and focus group interviews). A total of 15 students participated in the study. The surveys were used to examine changes in participants’ global leadership competencies, and the focus group interviews were used to evaluate the program’s effectiveness and to identify opportunities for improvement. The online international collaborative program consisted of 7 synchronous web-based classroom sessions. Each session ran for 60 to 90 minutes. Faculty experts and nurses working in the United States discussed various topics with students, such as nursing education in the United States and evidence-based teaching and learning. The students gave presentations on the South Korean nursing education system. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, the Mann-Whitney U test, and content analysis methods.

Results

Participants reported improvement in their global leadership competencies. Four main categories emerged from analysis of the focus interviews: (1) realistic applicability, (2) clarification, (3) expansion of perspectives, and (4) initiative.

Conclusions

The online international collaborative learning program had a positive impact on the development of students’ international competencies. The findings support the further development of international exchange programs through web-based meetings in the postpandemic era.
Design and Evaluation of a Just-in-Time Adaptive Intervention (JITAI) to Reduce Sedentary Behavior at Work: Experimental Study
Authors: Ismail Tasnim , Al Thani Dena
Published: December 2021

Background

Employees in sedentary occupations tend to spend prolonged hours physically inactive. Physical inactivity is a main factor in the increase in the risks of a wide range of chronic diseases, including obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. This has drawn researchers’ attention to investigate methods of increasing the level of activity of employees during working hours and in their daily lifestyle.

Objective

The objective of this paper is to investigate the effectiveness of using personalized messages that include user information, user goals, daily routine, and the surrounding environment to increase the level of activity among employees. In this study, we hypothesize that sending context-aware motivational messages to workers in sedentary occupations after sitting for 40 minutes can break sedentary behavior and increase daily active time compared to static reminder messages.

Methods

A 66-day between-group study using a mixed methods design approach was conducted with employees who are located in Qatar and spend most of their working day sedentary. The 58 participants used 2 different interventions: The control group (n=29, 50%) used a mobile app that only sends a static message after prolonged sitting (MotiFit Lite), and the intervention group (n=29, 50%) used a mobile app that sends context-aware personalized messages to promote physical activity (PA; MotiFit). Both apps log the received messages, the step count before and after the messages are sent, and the user response to the messages to obtain an idea of the impact of the messages. The study received approval from the Qatar Biomedical Research Institute’s institutional review board (IRB application #2019-10-037).

Results

The questionnaires showed satisfaction of the designed apps’ subjective quality and perceived impact. The quantitative analysis showed a high level of engagement in the intervention group compared to the control group (P<.001). The results support the original hypothesis that using context-aware motivational messages can increase PA at work compared to static messages (P<.001). However, the analysis showed no significant impact of the message type on the overall activity level during the day (P=.06).

Conclusions

Context-aware motivational messages motivate employees to increase their PA in the workplace. However, future research will further develop the analysis to investigate the impact on increasing the overall activity level during the day.
Evaluation of a Healthy Relationship Smartphone App With Indigenous Young People: Protocol for a Co-designed Stepped Wedge Randomized Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Koziol-McLain Jane , Wilson Denise , Vandal Alain C , Eruera Moana , Nada-Raja Shyamala , Dobbs Terry , Roguski Michael , Barbarich-Unasa Te Wai
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

We co-designed a smartphone app, Harmonised, with taitamariki (young people aged 13-17 years) to promote healthy intimate partner relationships. The app also provides a pathway for friends and family, or whānau (indigenous Māori extended family networks), to learn how to offer better support to taitamariki.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of our taitamariki- and Māori-centered study is to evaluate the implementation of the app in secondary schools. The study tests the effectiveness of the app in promoting taitamariki partner relationship self-efficacy (primary outcome).

METHODS

We co-designed a pragmatic, randomized, stepped wedge trial (retrospectively registered on September 12, 2019) for 8 Aotearoa, New Zealand, secondary schools (years 9 through 13). The schools were randomly assigned to implement the app in 1 of the 2 school terms. A well-established evaluation framework (RE-AIM [Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance]) guided the selection of mixed data collection methods. Our target sample size is 600 taitamariki enrolled across the 8 schools. Taitamariki will participate by completing 5 web-based surveys over a 15-month trial period. Taitamariki partner relationship self-efficacy (primary outcome) and well-being, general health, cybersafety management, and connectedness (secondary outcomes) will be assessed with each survey. The general effectiveness hypotheses will be tested by using a linear mixed model with nested participant, year-group, and school random effects. The primary analysis will also include testing effectiveness in the Māori subgroup.

RESULTS

The study was funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment in October 2015 and approved by the Auckland University of Technology Ethics Committee on May 3, 2017 (application number: 17/71).

CONCLUSIONS

This study will generate robust evidence evaluating the impact of introducing a healthy relationship app in secondary schools on taitamariki partner relationship self-efficacy, well-being, general health, cybersafety management, and connectedness. This taitamariki- and indigenous Māori–centered research fills an important gap in developing and testing strengths-based mobile health interventions in secondary schools.

CLINICALTRIAL

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12619001262190; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=377584

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR1-10.2196/24792
Use of Information Technology in evaluation of access and quality Primary Health Care in Brazil: qualitative study (Preprint)
Authors: Bay Junior Osvaldo de Goes , Diniz Vieira Silva Cícera Renata , Martiniano Cláudia S , Lopes Monique da Silva , de Figueiredo Melo Lygia Maria , Barros de Souza Marize , Coelho Ardigleusa Alves , Rocha Nadja de Sá Pinto Dantas , Xavier de Albuquerque Pinheiro Themis , de Medeiros Rocha Paulo , da Costa Uchôa Severina Alice
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

The increased applicability of information technology for evaluating health policies, programs, and care requires advancements in understanding trends, influences, its use by evaluators, and the implications for quality standards of evaluation.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the applicability of information technology in evaluation the Access and quality of primary health care in Brazil considering international quality standards.

METHODS

We conducted a qualitative case study during the External Evaluation of Brazil’s National Program for Improving Primary Care Access and Quality. Data collection consisted of interviews, focus groups, and document analysis. Seven technicians from the Ministry of Health and 47 researchers from various high education and research institutions across the country participated in the study. Data were categorized using the software Atlas.ti, according to the quality standards of the Joint Committee on Standards for Education Evaluation, followed by Bardin’s content analysis.

RESULTS

Results related to feasibility, thematic scope, field activity management, standardized data collection, data consistency, and transparency, demonstrate improvements and opportunities for advancements in evaluation mediated by the use of Information Technology, favoring the emergence of new practices and remodeling of existing ones, taking into account the multiple components required by the complex assessment of access and quality in primary health care. Difficulty in operating, inoperative system, and lack of investment in equipment and human resources are challenges to increase the effectiveness of information technology in evaluation.

CONCLUSIONS

The strategic and intelligent use of information technology offered evaluators a greater opportunity to stakeholder engagement, to insert different organizational, operational, and methodological components, capable of triggering influences and confluences, with connections in collaborative and synergistic networks to increase the quality and allow the development of a more consistent and efficient evaluation with greater possibility of incorporating the results into public health policies.
Comparison of Microwave-Assisted Extraction to Soxhlet Extraction of Mango Seed Kernel Oil using Ethanol and n-Hexane as Solvents
Authors: Balacuit June Neil G. , Guillermo Jollana Dianne A. , Buenafe Reuben James Q. , Soriano Allan Nana
Published: December 2021

Mango seed kernel oil was extracted by Soxhlet Extraction (SE) and Microwave-Assisted Extraction (MAE) with ethanol and n-hexane as extraction solvents. To optimize the extraction condition for SE, the temperature was set to 90°C for ethanol and 80°C for n-hexane with varying solvent-to-feed ratios (S/F ratio) of 75/12, 75/10, and 60/6 mL/g. As for MAE, the same S/F ratios were considered. Extraction was done for 5, 10, and 15 minutes with microwave power levels of 120 and 240 W. It was found out that the highest yield per extraction process for SE was: 18.00±0.25 % and 9.38±2.03 % using ethanol and n-hexane, respectively; and 6.69±0.05 % and 4.68±0.06 %using ethanol and n-hexane, respectively for MAE. It was also noted that MAE, with the microwave power level of 120 W has less extraction time for about 15 minutes as compared to SE of 8 hours. Also, the best S/F ratio in this study is 60/6 for all processes. In oil quality determination, the oil extracted was examined through several tests such as FTIR, GC-MS, acid value, % FFA, iodine value, saponification value, and melting point. It was noted that oil extracted in ethanol has a better yield compared to that of n-hexane but the oil extracted using n-hexane would provide superior quality.
A Review on the Hydroisomerisasion of n-Parafins over Supported Metal Catalysts
Authors: Safaat Muhammad , Adilina Indri Badria , Tursiloadi Silvester
Published: December 2021

Catalytic hydroisomerization of n-paraffin aims to produce branched paraffin isomers and suppress cracking reactions in the production of the low cloud point of biodiesel. The development of the type of metal and catalyst support, amount of metal loading, and reaction conditions are important to increase the catalyst activity. A high performace catalyst for hydroisomerization bears bifunctional characteristics with a high level of hydrogenation active sites and low acidity, maximizing the progress of hydroisomerization compared to the competitive cracking reaction. In addition, a catalyst support with smaller pore size can hinder large molecular structure isoparaffins to react on the acid site in the pore thus providing good selectivity for converting n-paraffin. Catalysts loaded with noble metals (Pt or Pd) showed significantly higher selectivity for hydroisomerization than non-noble transition metals such as Ni, Co, Mo and W. The reaction temperature and contact time are also important parameters in hydroisomerization of long chain paraffin, because long contact times and high temperatures tend to produce undesired byproducts of cracking. This review reports several examples of supported metal catalyst used in the hydroisomerization of long chain hydrocarbon n-paraffins under optimized reaction conditions, providing the best isomerization selectivity results with the lowest amount of byproducts. The role of various metals and their supports will be explained mainly for bifunctional catalysts.
Characteristics and Kinetics Study of Glycerolabietate from Glycerol and Abietic Acid from Rosin
Authors: Hartanto Danang Tri
Published: December 2021

Rosin is a natural resin from the coniferous tree sap, which separated from its oil content (terpenes). Rosin is brittle. Therefore modifications are needed to improve its mechanical properties. The main content of rosin is abietic acid which has a carboxylic group, so it can form an ester group when reacted with polyhydric alcohol (polyalcohol) such as glycerol. The research aimed to study the kinetics of the esterification reaction between the hydroxyl group in glycerol and the carboxylic group in abietic acid from rosin at various reaction temperatures and reactant compositions. This reaction is carried out in a three-neck flask at atmospheric pressure without a catalyst. The reaction temperatures used were 180˚C, 200˚C, and 220˚C, and the ratio of rosin and glycerol was 1:1, 1:3, and 1:5. The reaction kinetics calculations were analyzed with acid number data over the reaction time using three different models. The calculations showed that this reaction involves positioning a hydroxyl group on glycerol, which the primary and secondary hydroxyl groups contribute to forming a rosin ester (glycerolabietate). The rate of reaction constants of primary hydroxyl of glycerol and abietic acid were in the range 6.25x10-4 - 3.90x10-3 g/(mgeq.min), while reaction rate constants of secondary hydroxyl and abietic acid were in the range 1.06x10-5 - 1.15x10-4 g/(mgeq.min). FTIR analysis showed a change in the hydroxyl, carboxylate, and ester groups which were assigned by a shift of wavenumber and a difference of intensity at 3200-3570 cm-1, 1697.36 cm-1, and 1273.02 cm-1.
The Effect of Nutrients Mixture on The Biomass and Lipid Production from Microalgae Botryococcus braunii Mutated by UV-C Rays
Authors: Soedarmodjo Thea Prastiwi , Aparamarta Hakun Wirawasista , Widjaja Arief
Published: December 2021

Nutrient is one of the most important factors in the growth of microalgae. This research was conducted to study the effect of nutrient mixture on the biomass and lipid production of Botryococcus braunii. Microalgae B. braunii was cultivated in the commercial nutrient medium of agricultural fertilizer combinations of ammonium sulphate (ZA), urea, and triple superphosphate (TSP). Before the cultivation process, B. braunii was exposed to UV-C rays (254 nm) for 3 minutes. The concentration and type of fertilizer as a nitrogen source divided into four types of mixtures, namely FM-1, FM-2, FM-3, and FM-4 were compared with Walne nutrients to study their effects on microalgae growth and lipids. FM-1 consisting of 150 mg/L of ZA, 7.5 mg/L of urea, and 25 mg/L of TSP led to the best growth for native and mutated microalgae strains compared to Walne nutrients and other nutrient mixtures. The mutated microalgae showed less growth than the native microalgae strains. However, the mutation process significantly increased the lipid content in the microalgae. In native microalgae strains, FM-4 consisting of 136.3 mg/L of urea and 50 mg/L of TSP produced the lowest lipid at 8.96%. After being exposed to UV-C rays, the lipids in FM-4 medium increased to 55.11%. The results show that the use of commercial fertilizers and exposure to UV-C rays on microalgae have high potential in preparing lipids as raw material for biodiesel which can be effectively applied in large-scale microalgae cultivation.
The Effect of Hydrochloric Acid Solution and Glycerol on The Mechanical, Hydrate Properties and Degradation Rate of Biofilm from Ripe Banana Peels
Authors: Ramadhany Putri , Hardono Justin Kenny , Kristanti Maria Gabriela
Published: December 2021

Banana peel is a biomass waste that has not been utilised optimally, despite its high starch content. Moreover, starch has potential as a raw material for biofilm or edible film production. This research focused on using the starch content from the mature banana peel to create a biofilm. Starch was extracted from the banana peel; then, it was hydrolyzed with a variation of hydrochloric acid solution (HCl) of 0.5 M (0, 2, 4 %-v/v Starch). Glycerol (0, 20, 40 %-w/w starch) was used as a plasticizer. It was found that the formulation of 4%-v/v HCl solution and glycerol 20%-w/w resulted in the highest biofilm’s tensile strength of 4.18 MPa. However, the elongation break percentage achieved the best result at 20,2% when the formulation of 0%-v/v HCl solution and 40%-w/w glycerol was applied. Increasing HCl solution and glycerol was proven to improve the biofilm’s solubility in the water, where 47.9% solubility was attained in the formulation of 40%-w/w glycerol and 4%-v/v HCl solution. The degradation rate of biofilm in the soil was measured using zero- and first-order kinetic rates. The zero-order resulted in the best model with a half-life time (t1/2) between 73 to 108 days.
Pemanfaatan Jerami Padi (Oryza Sativa L.) Sebagai Bahan Baku Dalam Pembuatan CMC (Carboximetil Cellulose)
Authors: NURLAILA RIZKA
Published: December 2021

Rice straw is a waste from rice plants that contains 37.71% cellulose, 21.99% hemicellulose, and 16.62% lignin. High cellulose content in rice straw can be used as raw material for the manufacture of Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC). CMC is a cellulose derivative widely used in food, pharmaceutical, detergent, textile and cosmetic products industries as a thickener, stabilizer of emulsions, or suspensions and bonding. This study aims to process rice straw waste into CMC with variations in sodium monochloroacetate of 5,6,7,8 and 9 grams. The method used in this research is by synthesis using 15% NaOH solvent, with a reaction time of 3.5 hours and 5 grams of rice straw. The results showed that the best CMC was obtained at a concentration of 9 grams of sodium monochloroacete with a yield characterization of 94%, pH 6, water content of 13.39%, degree of substitution (Ds) of 0.80, and viscosity of 1.265 cP.
A Review on Physical and Optical Properties of Zinc Tellurite Glasses Co-doped with different rare earth ions
Authors:   Physics Department, Madhyanchal Professional University, Bhopal-462044 (M.P.) (India), BAIRAGI SUKHDEV , ANSAR GHIZAL F. ,   Physics Department, Madhyanchal Professional University, Bhopal-462044 (M.P.) (India)
Published: December 2021

In this work we review the effect of physical and optical properties with different ion zinc contents of tellurite base glass. The physical properties of the glasses were evaluated and the change in density, molar volume and ionic packing density in these glasses indicates the effect of ZnO different content show on the glasses structure. The study of optical properties such as the optical band gap and refractive index of zinc tellurite glass were studied. Zinc Tellurite glasses doped with Er3+ ions were synthesized by varies researcher. The glasses were characterized by X- ray diffraction, optical absorption and photoluminescence spectra. The glassy nature of zinc Tellurite host glass has been confirmed through XRD measurements. The glasses doped or co-doped with rare-earth ions have generated much interest due to the possibility of several promising applications such as optical data storage, visible laser, fibre amplifier, optical communication and sensor devices
Optimization of Cutting Parameters for Milling Process of (4032) Al-Alloy using Taguchi-Based Grey Relational Analysis
Authors: Hammood Sami Abbas
Published: December 2021

The objective of this work is to study the influence of end milling cutting process parameters, tool material and geometry on multi-response outputs for 4032 Al-alloy. This can be done by proposing an approach that combines Taguchi method with grey relational analysis. Three cutting parameters have been selected (spindle speed, feed rate and cut depth) with three levels for each parameter. Three tools with different materials and geometry have been also used to design the experimental tests and runs based on matrix L9. The end milling process with several output characteristics is solved using a grey relational analysis. The results of analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that the major influencing parameters on multi-objective response were spindle speed and cutting tool with contribution percentage (52.75%, 24%), respectively. In addition, the optimum combination of end milling process parameters was then validated by performing confirmation tests to determine the improvement in multi-response outputs. The confirmation tests obtained a minimum (surface roughness and micro-hardness) and maximum metal removal rate with grey relational grade of 0.784 and improvement percentage of 2.3%.
Analysis and Evaluation of a Quasi-Passive Lower Limb Exoskeleton for Gait Rehabilitation
Authors: Al-Hayali Niaam Kh. , Nacy Somer M. , Chiad Jumaa S. , O. Hussein
Published: December 2021

Lower extremity exoskeletons can assist with performing particular functions such as gait assistance, and physical therapy support for subjects who have lost the ability to walk. This paper presents the analysis and evaluation of lightweight and adjustable two degrees of freedom, quasi-passive lower limb device to improve gait rehabilitation. The exoskeleton consists of a high torque DC motor mounted on a metal plate above the hip joint, and a link that transmits assistance torque from the motor to the thigh. The knee joint is passively actuated by spring installed parallel with the joint. The action of the passive component (spring) is combined with mechanical output of the motor to provide a good control on the designed exoskeleton while walking. The results show that muscles' efforts on both the front and the back sides of the user's leg were decreased when walking using the exoskeleton with the motor and spring.
An Overview on Composition and Therapeutic Potentials of the Black Seed (Nigella sativa)
Authors: S Yusra Tafheem
Published: December 2021

Abstract: Nigella sativa is an annual herbaceous plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family and produces seeds known as black seed or black cumin. Black seed has been used in various civilization around the world for centuries to treat various ailments. It is widely used in a variety of traditional medical systems, including Unani, Ayurveda, and Siddha. Black seed is considered to be nutritionally dense, with high levels of fat, protein, dietary fibre, calcium, and iron. The seed is known to have a wide range of pharmacological properties which are supported by numerous studies. Extensive research has been carried out over decades to confirm the seed’s anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, antilipidemic, anti-cancer, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective properties etc. Black seed has earned a position among the top ranked evidence-based herbal medicines due to its marvellous healing properties. Studies have revealed that the presence of thymoquinone, a major bioactive component of the seed essential oil, is responsible for the majority of its therapeutic properties. Consumption of the seeds for an extended period of time has been shown to have significant effects on lowering blood glucose levels, improving lipid profiles, and other biochemical parameters. The minor or negligible toxicological effects of black seed and its active constituent, thymoquinone, support its long-term use in traditional food and medicine. Because of their low toxicity, black seed is frequently used in food as a flavouring agent, additive in breads, and pickles. The current review summarises the composition, important pharmacological studies, dosage and toxicity of the Blackseed and its application in food industry.
Handwritten English Alphabet Recognition
Authors: Abhale Poonam Bhanudas
Published: December 2021

Abstract: Character recognition is a process by which a computer recognizes letters, figures, or symbols and turns them into a digital form that a computer can use. In moment’s terrain character recognition has gained a lot of attention in the field of pattern recognition. Handwritten character recognition is useful in cheque processing in banks, form recycling systems, and numerous further. Character recognition is one of the well- liked and grueling areas of exploration. In the unborn character recognition produce a paperless terrain. In this paper, we describe the detailed study of the being system for handwritten character recognition. We give a literature review on colorful ways used in offline English character recognition. Keywords: Character; Character recognition; Preprocessing; Segmentation; Point birth; Bracket; neural network; Convolution neural network.
Calcium and Phosphate Homeostasis in Patients with Recurrent Nephrolithiasis
Authors: Masser Jawad Abdul-Hassan , Mousa Mazin J. , Makki Hayder Abdul-Amir , Al-Khafaji Noor S.K. , Al-Dahmoshi Hussein O.M. , Mahdi Zena Abdul-Ameer , Kadhum Samah Ahmed , Hameed Safa Jihad , Obeed Suhad H.
Published: December 2021

Objective:
The aim of the study was to evaluate the Calcium (Ca) and Phosphate (Ph) homeostasis and their association with plasma 25(OH)2 vitamin D3 (VitD3) and parathyroid hormone (PTH) in patients with recurrent nephrolithiasis.
Methodology:
A cross-sectional involved 100 confirmed patients with renal stones (RS). Their serum levels of Ca, PTH, Ph, and VitD3 had assessed. Biochemical analysis of renal calculi and crystals had been investigated also. The summary measures had described as mean+/-SD for continuous variables and frequencies/percentage for nominal variables. The mean serum Ca, Ph, PTH, and VitD3 were (8.01Â±2.2mg/dl, 2.9Â±1.2mg/dl, 56.7Â±24.7pg/dl, and 7.03Â±4.2pg/ml), respectively.
Results:
Almost all patients (97%) had a positive history of the previous RS with a predominant family history in most instances (82%). There was a positive non-significant correlation between VitD3 with serum Ph and Ca. Whereas an inverse non-significant correlation between PTH with serum Ca and VitD3 had observed. Urinary crystals analysis revealed that uric acid represented 53% of the total crystals, followed by Ca-oxalate. Stone analyses revealed that around 3/4th of the cases had Ca-oxalate stone, followed by Ca-oxalate with uric acid, then Ca-phosphate and the least type was mixed stone types.
Conclusion:
There was a positive non-significant correlation between VitD3 with serum Ph and Ca. There was an inverse non-significant correlation between PTH with serum Ca and VitD3. Serum Ca, and Ph were non-significant predictors of renal stones and/or urinary crystals.
ESTIMATION OF THE DEFECT HAZARD CLASS IN BUILDING STRUCTURES: A DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEM
Authors: Kats Vladislav , Adamtsevich Liubov
Published: December 2021

Technical condition monitoring of building structures located on hazardous facilities is a necessary requirement for their sustainable functioning. In this regard, the problem of development intellectual monitoring systems that allow to detect and classify operating defects by the hazardous level becomes very urgent. The study presents an approach of building decision support system (DSS) for detecting defects in building structures and estimation of their hazard class. Proposed approach is based on multi-criteria assessment of consecutive measurements acquired by acoustic emission method. A distinctive characteristic of the proposed approach is the ability to take into account the evolution of defects by mapping each AE time-series to diagnostic features matrix and analysing these matrices in sliding windows with overlay. Each matrix is validated by two criteria that form the necessary and sufficient conditions of the existence the evolving defects in building structure. They include the criterion for changing the number of clusters and the criterion for changing the acoustic emission activity. Proposed method was verified on the experimental data acquired from the technical condition monitoring of the vertical oil tanks. The results obtained fromthe experiment confirm the proposal that this approach can be utilized for effectively solving the problem of conditionalmonitoring of building structures located on the hazardous facilities allowing to detect and classify defects by theirhazardous level.
Antibacterial activity in three Chaetoceros microalgae species cultures by using antibiotics
Authors: Tapia-Gallardo Yira D. , Del Río-Portilla Miguel A. , Molina-Cárdenas Ceres A. , Sánchez-Saavedra M. del Pilar
Published: December 2021

Diatoms, such as Chaetoceros, grow in a mutualistic relationship with bacteria. However, in some cases, it is necessary to grow them in bacteria-free cultures. To reduce bacterial load, antibiotics are used, and on certain occasions it is necessary to use a mixture with more than one antibiotic. This work aimed to obtain a quick and effective protocol to reduce the bacterial load and evaluate the response of three Chaetoceros species with aquacultural importance. Single and mix antibiotics were used. Microalgal and bacterial growth was measured. The growth parameters for diatoms showed that the significantly highest cell concentration was for C. muelleri (3.15 x106 cells mL-1) and the lowest values to C. calcitrans (2.98 x106 cells mL-1). The significantly highest growth rate was for C. calcitrans (0.77 divisions per day), and the lowest values for Chaetoceros sp. (0.60 divisions per day). The growth parameters for heterotrophic bacteria showed that the significantly highest bacterial load was for Chaetoceros sp. (19.16 x106 CFU (Colony-Forming Units) mL-1) and the lowest values were for C. calcitrans (12.23 x106 CFU mL-1). The growth rate of the heterotrophic bacteria present in Chaetoceros cultures was similar among the three studied species. Streptomycin® and sulfate G41® produced a partial reduction of bacterial load. The most effective treatment for all three species was the use of an antibiotic mix composed of ampicillin® (250 μg mL-1), kanamycin® (200 μg mL-1), neomycin® (50 μg mL-1), and streptomycin® (100 μg mL-1) for three days. The mix prepared with the highest antibiotic concentration produced a reduction of bacteria (100%) for three days; however, it also induced a significant reduction of the growth of the three Chaetoceros species.
Genetic variation in the small bivalve Nuculana inaequisculpta along a retreating glacier fjord, King George Island, Antarctica
Authors: Muñoz-Ramírez Carlos P. , Beltrán-Concha Maribel , Pérez-Araneda Karla , Sands Chester J. , Barnes David K. A. , Román-González Alejandro , De Lecea Ander M. , Retallick Katherine , Van Landeghem Katrien , Sheen Katy , Gonnelli Kelly , Scourse James , Bascur Miguel , Brante Antonio
Published: December 2021

Climate change is strongly influencing regions of Antarctica but the consequences on microevolutionary processes have been little studied. Patterns of population genetic diversity were analysed in the Antarctic bivalve Nuculana inaequisculpta (Protobranchia: Nuculanidae) from a fjord with 70 years of documented climate-forced glacier retreat. Thirty-nine individuals from five sites at different distances from the glacier terminus were collected, and the COI gene was sequenced from each individual. No statistically significant genetic differentiation was found between sites nor a significant correlation between the proximity of glaciers and genetic diversity, suggesting a high dispersal capability and therefore, a planktonic larval stage for this species. Nevertheless, we encourage increasing the sample size and number of loci in future studies to confirm our findings.
Problems of social support for graduates of orphanages in a pandemic (regional aspect)
Authors:   The Far-Eastern State Medical University, Cherevko M. A.
Published: December 2021

The article is devoted to the issues related to the study of problems of orphans and children left without parental care in the context of a pandemic (COVID-19). Analysis of the existing situation in this problem field testifies to the exacerbation of traditional contradictions, on the one hand, and the emergence of completely new ones, complicating the difficult situation with this category of the population, on the other. The article analyzes the problems faced by graduates of orphanages, generated by the conditions of the pandemic and aspects of social policy in this direction (problems of social adaptation in society, violation of the basic rights of graduates, problems of legal nihilism, the lack of a fundamental federal and regional legal framework on this issue, the lack of technical capabilities of graduates in receiving remote social support). The article highlights the need to develop mechanisms for interdepartmental interaction for post-boarding support on the territory of the Khabarovsk territory. The empirical data obtained as a result of the conducted expert survey actualizes the need for a radical change in the vector of solving problems in relation to graduates of orphanages and social support for this category of persons in the short term. The revealed contradictions in legal regulation indicate the absence of unified approach to the concept of post-boarding support as a type of social support. It was found that the organization of post-boarding support belongs to the powers of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation, which, in turn, differently carry out the legal regulation of social relations in the field of post-boarding support of orphans. The article draws the main conclusions and proposals for improving the activities of subjects on post-boarding support for orphans and children left without parental care.
The anti-crisis policy in Japan during the COVID-19
Authors:   the Economic Research Institute of FEB RAS, Suslov D. V.
Published: December 2021

The parameters and assessment of the state economic policy measures to eliminate the economic shocks of the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan from Jan., 2020 till Jul., 2021 are carried out. It was revealed that the economic policy of responding to the shocks of the COVID-19 pandemic was timely and adequate to the current crisis. It was confirmed that in 2020, compared to other developed countries, it was possible to effectively use its health care system in the fight against COVID-19 and reduce economic losses in the initial stage of the pandemic. This was due to the correct choice of both epidemiological strategies and monetary and structural policies. It is also confirmed that the package of anti-crisis measures turned out to be one of the largest in the world in terms of volume and that in the coming years its implementation will lead to a sharp increase in the budget deficit and public debt. It was found that timely measures of fiscal policy within the framework of additional budgets and monetary policy of the Bank of Japan, in general, led to the return of the Japanese economy by the second quarter of 2021 to a development trajectory with positive growth rates (about 2% a year). However, the Japanese economic recovery remains fragile due to the low rates of vaccination of the population and restrictions on the pandemic, which are holding back the activity of private sector of the economy.
The Far Eastern resource projects in the context of modernization of the mechanisms of the Russian-Chinese cooperation: new assessments
Authors:   the Economic Research Institute of FEB RAS, Antonova N. E. , Lomakina N. V. ,   the Economic Research Institute of FEB RAS
Published: December 2021

Some elements of modernization of the key mechanisms of the Russian-Chinese investment cooperation in 2014–2020 are investigated in the context of the prospects for the development of resource industries in the Far Eastern federal district (mineral and forest complexes). The priorities and directions of bilateral cooperation in the investment sphere, due to the institutional changes, have been identified. The structural drift of investment interests in the sectoral and spatial aspects, determined by the improvement of the mechanisms of the Russian-Chinese cooperation, is shown. The article examines the characteristics of bilateral investment cooperation in the resource sector of the Far-Eastern federal district in the context of combination of simultaneously implemented models of its stimulation at the state (new model of development of the Far East) and interstate (activation of the Russian-Chinese economic relations) levels. Different trends in the formation of sector structure of investment interests of the Russian-Chinese cooperation for the national (RF) and regional (the Far-Eastern federal district) levels are revealed. The predominance of priorities for implementation of the resource-transit scenario for the development of the East of Russia, including through the modernization of the Russian-Chinese cooperation, is shown.
Kemajuan Penelitian Pemodelan Prediksi Demam Berdarah Dengue menggunakan Faktor Iklim di Indonesia : A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Mamenun Mamenun , Koesmaryono Yonny , Hidayati Rini , Sopaheluwakan Ardhasena , Dasanto Bambang Dwi
Published: December 2021

Since discovered firstly in 1968, number of cases and areas affected by DHF in Indonesia has been increased. In 2019, dengue cases have found in all provinces within 481 districts/cities (94%). Our research is conducted to analyze the current status and gaps of climate relationship and its modeling to DHF in Indonesia. A systematic searching of literature was carried out through the search engine PubMed and Google Scholar. The method includes determining questions, publication period, keywords, and criteria of literature. Thirty-two literatures have been selected according to the criteria. The study area has covered all provinces in Java, Bali and West Nusa Tenggara, several locations in Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, while the eastern region has still limited study. Spatial and temporal variations were used predominantly at the city with monthly data scale. Relationship analysis between DHF cases and climate/non-climate has been used the Spearman’s and Pearson’s correlation. DHF prediction modeling involves dominant climate parameters such as rainfall, temperature, humidity and non climate parameters using linear/non-linear relationships and static/dynamic models. Climate model development needs to be improved with a narrower spatial resolution and shorter time scale, elevation, mobilization, regional climate, and climate change scenarios to get appropriate model on a specific location.
Gambaran Tingkat Latihan Fisik Jemaah Haji sebelum Keberangkatan di Kabupaten Lumajang, Provinsi Jawa Timur, Tahun 2017
Authors: Rudyanto Chandra
Published: December 2021

Abstract

Adequate health condition urgently required by pilgrims because pilgrimage process involves a very heavy physical activity.  Hajj pilgrims with good physical fitness  classified as pilgrims who fulfill health istiţā'ah.  Participation of  pilgrims in a fitness improvement program could be observed through physical exercise behaviour. This study aimed to describe the level of pilgrims’physical exercise in Lumajang District and analyse the relationship between the characteristics, knowledge, and attitudes of the pilgrims with physical exercise.  This research used a quantitative method with a cross sectional design. Primary data collected through a survey from 185 respondents. Data analysis was performed using a statistical test of multiple logistic regression. The results showed that most of the pilgrims (61.8%) had high knowledge of physical exercise. More than 86 % of pilgrims have a supportive attitude towards physical exercise. In conclusion, this study found there was no significant relationship between knowledge and attitudes with physical exercise (p>0.05). Participation in physical exercise of pilgrims showed that 12,9% of pilgrims have a good and very good level of physical exercise. Physical exercise behavior provides an indication of the active participation of pilgrims in hajj health improvement program before departure. It was recommended that the the measurement of the level of physical exercise that took into account the factors of frequency, duration and intensity could be part of the policy on hajj health management in Indonesia.
FORMACIÓN PARA LA SANTIDAD. TESTIMONIOS Y CASOS EJEMPLARES EN EL OPUS DEI
Authors: Bargo María
Published: December 2021

Este artículo explora la función formativa que los casos ejemplares tienen dentro de la Prelatura Personal del Opus Dei. Para ello repasa los procesos de canonización de la Obra y su importancia para validar el carisma e indaga sobre exposiciones testimoniales en instancias dirigidas a mujeres caritativas y niñas o jóvenes que participan de acciones solidarias en una ONG ligada a la Prelatura. El trabajo se compone tanto de la revisión de fuentes oficiales del Opus Dei como de la observación participante en las actividades mencionadas. La perspectiva etnográfica permite comprender el afán de formar integralmente a quienes asisten a dichas instancias mediante las exposiciones. Así, tanto los ejemplos “oficiales” propios de la Obra como los testimonios expuestos en las iniciativas descritas permiten formar a las niñas y jóvenes voluntarias o a las mujeres caritativas ofreciendo modelos imitables que demuestran la viabilidad de la pospuesta de santidad del Opus Dei: desempeñarse adecuadamente en las tareas cotidianas y adquirir habilidades para desenvolverse correctamente en sus ocupaciones ordinarias futuras que son vía propicia para la santificación propia y del entorno.
SECULARISMO BRASILEIRO À LUZ DAS CATEGORIAS DE "INJÚRIA" E "INTOLERÂNCIA RELIGIOSA"
Authors: Montero Paula
Published: December 2021

O propósito neste texto é identificar a especificidade brasileira do problema clássico da “intolerância religiosa”, a partir dos casos locais tais como o não reconhecimento das práticas afro como religiosas pelo campo jurídico. Quando comparados às tensões provocadas pela presença islâmica na Europa analisadas por Saba Mahmood é possível compreender porque a neutralidade estatal se torna o lugar do silenciamento jurídico da intolerância religiosa no Brasil.