bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is isometric mid-thigh pull associated with the competitive performance of striking high-level athletes?
Authors: Brito Ciro José , Teixeira Marques Lucas , Merino-Muñoz Pablo , Bustamante-Garrido Alejandro , Araya-Ibacache Mauricio , Nóbrega Otávio de Toledo , Miarka Bianca , Aedo-Muñoz Esteban Ariel
Published: September 2024

Background: The isometric mid-thigh pull test (IMTP) is commonly used in sports performance assessment, but it remains underutilized among combat sports athletes. Aims: to evaluate whether Pan-American medalists (PM) showed differences when compared with other athletes (NM) when performing the IMTP. Methods: a total of 72 Karate [n=35 (♀12)] and Taekwondo [n=37 (♀15)] athletes were measured (22.4±3.7 yrs.; 67.4±11.5 Kg; 1.7±0.1 m; 22.1±2.8 kg/m2). From the total, 32 athletes were PM of their specific combat sport (♀11). All participants performed the IMTP 60-90 days before the competition. The following variables were measured: a) Impulse Net at 50; 100; 150 and 200 ms (N*s); b) absolute (N) and relative peak force (PF; N/Kg) and; c) Rating of force development (RFD) at 50; 100; 150 and 200 ms (N/s). Results: PM showed a better performance on absolute (2,398.5±623.1 vs. 2,096.2±559.3 N; p=0.034) and relative PF (34.6±5.0 vs. 31.2±5.1 N/Kg; p=0.006); RFD at 150 (5,273.4±2,670.8 vs. 3,963.4±1,904.2 N/s; p=0.0018) and 200ms (4,870.3±2,184.6 vs. 4,022.1±1,574.8 N/s; p=0.05). Relative PF (Τ=0.249; p=0.011) and RDF at 150 ms (Τ=0.208; p=0.033) showed a positive and significative correlation with the competition result. Conclusion: PM showed a high PF and RFD at 150 and 200 ms. Furthermore, the competition result was correlated with relative PF and RDF at 150 ms. Based on our findings, we recommend that coaches incorporate the IMTP into their evaluation routine for striking athletes.
Keywords: martial arts, athletic performance, elite athlete, task performance and analysis.
Long-term high-intensity interval training reduces blood glucose in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients
Authors: Suryo Putro Waskito Aji , Hidayatullah Muhammad Furqon , Doewes Muchsin , Purnama Sapta Kunta , Riyadi Slamet , Umar Fadilah
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to demonstrate the long-term effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on reducing blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The research employs a preexperimental design with a one-group pretest‒posttest design. A total of 20 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, aged 40–60 years, participated in the study and received the HIIT intervention three times per week for eight weeks. Data collection involved measuring fasting blood glucose levels before and after the HIIT intervention via the ONE TOUCH™ BASIC™ Plus Meter. Data analysis was conducted via paired sample t tests with a significance level of 5%, and the effect size was evaluated via Cohen's d. Paired sample t test analysis between pre-HIIT and post-HIIT blood glucose levels (181.50±17.85 mg/dL to 99.50±8.26 mg/dL, p ≤ 0.001) revealed a significant reduction, with a large effect size (Cohen's d = 5.896). This study confirms that long-term high-intensity interval training is effective in lowering fasting blood glucose levels to normal ranges in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Keywords: Blood glucose, HIIT, insulin sensitivity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes patients
The development of 'Petanque match statistics': an android-based application for petanque matches analysis
Authors: Putra Nur Salsabila Rhesa Pandhadha , Al Ardha Muchamad Arif , Nurhasan Nurhasan , Ristanto Kolektus Oky , Bikalawan Sauqi Sawa , Utomo Rizki Satrio , Putra Kukuh Pambuka , Lin James , Irani Resfiana
Published: September 2024

The accelerated pace of technological advancement necessitates that many disciplines align themselves with these developments, whether directly engaged in the process or not. The field of sports provides an illustrative example of the profound impact of modern technology on various disciplines. This research aimed to develop an Android-based statistical application, designated "Petanque Match Statistic," which was designed to analyze Petanque matches. The research and development (R&D) methodology was employed to undertake six project stages. The application, constructed on the Kodular platform, offers real-time data capture, sophisticated statistical analysis, interactive visualization, and comprehensive performance reporting. The application was subjected to rigorous alpha and beta testing to ensure its accuracy, reliability, and usability. Following its deployment, user training and a support system were established. Continuous evaluation and user feedback facilitated ongoing improvements. The application significantly enhances match analysis, benefiting players, coaches, analysts, and fans by providing accurate, real-time data and comprehensive insights, thereby promoting the growth and development of the sport of petanque.
Keywords: Android Application, Match Statistics, Statistical Analysis, Real-Time Data, Sports Technology
Satisfacción de las necesidades psicológicas básicas de los estudiantes en función del modelo organizativo empleado en la asignatura de Actividades en el Medio Natural (Satisfaction of the basic psychological needs of the students according to the organisational model used in the subject of Activities in the Natural Environment)
Authors: Gómez-Barrios Virginia , Mediavilla-Saldaña Lázaro , Salinero-Martín Juan José , González García Jorge
Published: September 2024

El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la influencia del modelo organizativo utilizado para impartir la asignatura de Actividades en el Medio Natural sobre la satisfacción de las Necesidades Psicológicas Básicas en estudiantes universitarios. Para ello se diseñaron cuatro modelos y cada uno de ellos se aplicó a un grupo de la asignatura. La muestra estuvo formada por 125 estudiantes. La recogida de datos se realizó al comienzo y al final del curso a través de la Escala de las Necesidades Psicológicas Básicas en Educación Física adaptada al contexto universitario. Los resultados mostraron que, tras la intervención, existía una interacción estadísticamente significativa entre el modelo organizativo y el tiempo en las subescalas de autonomía (p = .006), competencia (p = .002), relación (p = .049) y en la puntuación total de la escala (p = .003). El modelo intensivo-continuado es el que mayores efectos significativos obtuvo sobre las subescalas de autonomía (p = .044) y competencia (p < .001) y sobre la puntuación total (p = .007). Se concluyó que un modelo organizativo basado en la educación en contacto directo y continuado con la naturaleza contribuye a la una mayor satisfacción de las Necesidades Psicológicas Básicas.
Palabras clave: Educación; Actividades en el Medio Natural; Aula naturaleza; Necesidades Psicológicas Básicas; Autonomía; Competencia; Relación.
Abstract.The aim of this study was to analyse the influence of the organisational model used to teach the subject of Outdoor Activities on the satisfaction of Basic Psychological Needs in university students. For this purpose, four models were designed and each of them was applied to a group of the course. The sample consisted of 125 students. Data collection was carried out at the beginning and end of the course using the Basic Psychological Needs in Physical Education Scale adapted to the university context. Results showed that, after the intervention, there was a statistically significant interaction between the organisational model and time on subscales of autonomy (p = .006), competence (p = .002), relatedness (p = .049) and on total scale score (p = .003). The intensive-continuous model had the largest significant effects on subscales of autonomy (p = .044) and competence (p < .001) and on total score (p = .007). It was concluded that an organisational model based on education in direct and continuous contact with nature contributes to higher Basic Psychological Needs satisfaction.
Keywords: Education; Activities in Natural Environment; Nature classroom; Basic Psychological Needs; Autonomy; Competence; Relation.
Espectro de gotas para aplicação da mistura 2,4-D e saflufenacil sobre o controle de buva (Conyza spp.)
Authors:   , Cebalho Gustavo Barbosa
Published: September 2024

A escolha de um espectro de gotas adequado é crucial para a eficácia na aplicação de herbicidas. Este estudo conduziu dois experimentos, um em laboratório e outro em campo, com o objetivo de avaliar o espectro de gotas da mistura de 2,4-D e saflufenacil, utilizando um analisador de partículas em tempo real e papel hidrossensível, além de determinar o espectro de gotas mais eficaz para o controle em pós-emergência de buva (Conyza spp.). No primeiro experimento, realizado em laboratório, o espectro de gotas foi avaliado por meio do diâmetro da mediana volumétrica (DMV) gerado pelas pontas de pulverização ATR 8004, JGT 11004, AVI 11003 e AVI 11004, operando individualmente nas pressões de 4,28, 4,21, 5,45 e 4,21 bar, respectivamente. No segundo experimento, conduzido em campo, avaliou-se a aplicação dos herbicidas 2,4-D + saflufenacil utilizando um pulverizador autopropelido com barra de 24 metros e 48 bicos espaçados a 50 cm, operando nas mesmas pressões do experimento laboratorial, para obter um volume de calda de 140 L ha -1. Durante a aplicação, foram avaliados o DMV, a porcentagem de cobertura e a densidade de gotas (gotas cm-2) em cartões de papel hidrossensível, utilizando o software Dropscan®️. As pontas ATR 8004, JGT 11004, AVI 11003 e AVI 11004 produziram DMV de 162,27 μm (fina), 277,43 μm (média), 458,8 μm (muito grossa) e 531,67 μm (extremamente grossa), respectivamente, no analisador de partículas em tempo real. No campo, observou-se que o papel hidrossensível é uma boa metodologia para avaliar a cobertura e densidade de gotas. No entanto, devido ao espalhamento, sobreposição de gotas e a não detecção de gotas abaixo de 100 μm, bem como à influência da composição da calda, os valores de DMV foram superiores aos encontrados no analisador de partículas. Para o controle de buva, não houve diferença significativa entre os tamanhos de gotas avaliados com o volume de calda de 140 L ha-1. Os resultados indicam que as pontas que produziram gotas muito grossas e extremamente grossas são as mais adequadas para a aplicação de 2,4-D e saflufenacil no controle de buva, por apresentarem menor potencial de deriva, além de adequada cobertura e densidade de gotas. Palavras-chave: DMV. Cobertura. Densidade de gotas.
ОҚУШЫЛАРДЫ СТАНДАРТТЫ ЕМЕС КВАДРАТТЫҚ ФУНКЦИЯ ЕСЕПТЕРІН ШЫҒАРУҒА БАУЛУДА ТЕХНОЛОГИЯЛЫҚ ҚҰРАЛДАРДЫ ҚОЛДАНУ
Authors: Уалишева Т , Атейбекова М , Балта Н
Published: September 2024

This article discusses methods of increasing students’ involvement/participation in the process of teaching mathematics and training students in solving non-standard problems. We are focused on the impact of engaging students with technology tools on students' academic performance and solving non-standard problems. Currently, the lack of interest of students in mathematics lessons is one of the main problems of pedagogical researchers. While writing this article and comparing the results of several works, we have identified that the ability to solve non-standard problems often remains “ignored” during training. We have already considered these two areas and we are proposing solutions to these issues in this article. After analyzing various literature of recent years, research work from different countries and studying the impact of technological tools in teaching, we have found that incorporating technology for student engagement have a positive impact on students ' academic performance.
TO USE OR NOT TO USE: INSTAGRAM AS A FACILITATOROFDEVELOPING ENGLISH WRITING SKILLS
Authors: Omarova Aigerim
Published: September 2024

Developing writing skills may be challenging for the majorityofstudents while learning English. They easily get bored of typical writingstructures and often neglect such tasks. In order to engage students in the writingprocess and boost their interest, teachers always try to search for new modernteaching tools. One of the contemporary instruments to develop English as aforeign language (EFL) learners’ writing skills might be using social media. Thecurrent article attempts to conduct an overview of the studies devoted to theinvestigation of Instagram as a tool to practice writing as well as to facilitate thedevelopment of writing skills
COMMEMORATORIES DEDICATED TO OUTSTANDING CULTURAL AND ART FIGURES, IN THE HEROIC PARADIGM OF THE CHELYABINSK REGION
Authors: TASKAEVA A.V. , PITINA S.A.
Published: September 2024

The study makes an attempt to present commemorative toponyms of the Chelyabinsk region, dedicated to prominent figures of culture and art, as components of the heroic paradigm of the region. Unique local commemorative anthroponyms, being part of the regional linguistic landscape, reflect the ideology and history of the development of the region and allow us to trace the features of local glorification. The main function of monuments dedicated to outstanding personalities is to preserve the memory of professional heroes as examples of devotion to their profession and the fatherland. It was found that all-Russian commemorative practice has been realized in Chelyabinsk and Magnitogorsk because of dedications to generally recognized composers, writers and poets. The regional component is not represented in commemorative toponyms dedicated to prominent figures of culture and art.
The Mediating Effect of Mindfulness in the Relationship between Work-family Conflict and Depression of Dual-income Parents in Jeju
Authors:   Society for Jeju Studies, Kim Mi-Ju , Yun Joonmo
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study is to explore the correlations between work-family conflict, depression, and mindfulness among dual-income parents in the Jeju region, as well as to investigate how work-family conflict affects depression through the mediation of mindfulness and the implications of these results. The study targeted 150 dual-income parents residing in Jeju who have children in elementary school or younger. Through a survey conducted with these participants, the correlations between work-family conflict, depression, and mindfulness were examined, and the mediating role of mindfulness in the relationship between work-family conflict and depression was explored. The main findings of the study are as follows. First, work-family conflict and depression showed a positive correlation, while work-family conflict and depression each showed a negative correlation with mindfulness. Second, mindfulness was found to significantly mediate the relationship between work-family conflict and depression. Lastly, when examining the mediating effect by considering the entire sample of dual-income parents and by separating the parents by gender, it was found that mindfulness completely mediated the relationship between work-family conflict and depression in all cases. The implications of these findings and directions for future research were then discussed.
A Study on the Perception of Visitors to Improve the Value of Use a Jeju Gotjawal Provincial Park : An Application of IPA
Authors:   Society for Jeju Studies, Kim So-Eun , Kang Ha-Na , Nam Yoon-Seob
Published: September 2024

This study was conducted to prepare a plan to improve the value of use through an IPA on the perception of visitors at the Jeju Gotjawal Provincial Park. Jeju Gotjawal Provincial Park is operated by establishing a basic plan for efficient use based on a legal management system for conservation. It is managed as an important environmental asset of Jeju Island, and 200,000 visitors visit Gotjawal every year to enjoy its vegetation and environment.
In this study, considering the variables related to the use of natural parks in previous studies, we extracted items to prepare measures to improve the characteristics and use value of Jeju Gotjawal Provincial Park and constructed a scale by dividing them into playfulness, comfort, convenience, and economic factors. IPA was implemented through a survey, and implications were derived for each matrix.
Currently, Jeju Gotjawal Provincial Park's playfulness as a natural resource showed high satisfaction, and it was found that it was necessary to prepare improvement measures to improve convenience. In addition, it was found that additional research in terms of economic feasibility was necessary to improve the value of use.
If future research is conducted to overcome the fact that the data collection period of this study is limited to a specific period, it is expected that field applicability will be further increased.
Completion Rates in Secondary Schools in Kenya: Influence of School and Home Based Factors.
Authors: Ndayi Mark Alukutsa , Mackatiani Caleb Imbova , Ejore Paul Ekeno
Published: September 2024

The purpose of the study was to evaluate factors influencing completion rates in day and boarding secondary schools in Kikuyu sub-county, Kenya. Factors that positively influence completion rates include school infrastructure, student motivation and counselling as well as improved interpersonal relationships between teachers and students. However, inadequacy of the aforesaid lead to completion rates in a negative manner. The study adopted a descriptive survey and targeted 14,000 students, 225 teachers and 25 principals. The study sampled 5 principals and deputy principals, 25 teachers and 140 students from the population. The main instruments of data collection comprised questionnaires and interview schedules. The study findings revealed that School-based factors of culture, norms and values influenced completion rates on a high scale. Besides, the study indicated that home based factors of household economic activities, and chores had a crucial role to play. The study recommended the marshalling of resources for the improvement of general infrastructure and assistance of needy students as well as offering guidance and counselling, improving student-teacher relations and continuous motivation to students. The Study findings might enhance the current body of knowledge on completion rates and will contribute in policy and legislative development wherever possible.
Unveiling Blockchain Technology in Construction Supply Chain Management: The What, When, Who, Where, and How Towards Digitalization
Authors: Mong Sylvia Gala , Ejau Ruth Lua , Ikau Roseline , SendiIbil Evie
Published: September 2024

Digitalization and technology disruptions have ushered in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR 4.0), which is now required for many sectors. On the other hand, the building sector is seen to be among those that is resistant to change. The possibility of implementing blockchain technology in the building sector has not received much attention. The cryptocurrency space is not new to blockchain technology. In essence, it is a public ledger or distributed database that contains all the executed and shared digital events or transactions between all involved parties. Herein lies the utility of blockchain technology, particularly in the highly transactional construction sector.Blockchain technology records every transaction and arranges all the “blocks” into a “chain,” acting as a middleman in every transaction we make to foster trust. In the construction business, supply chain management spans a range of stakeholders, including contractors, manufacturers, consultants, and clients. It also covers numerous construction organization activities, starting with planning, design, construction, and maintenance. Numerous activities lead to a large volume of transactions that impede communication and cooperation between these parties and result in expensive arbitration or lawsuit cases. It has been acknowledged that blockchain technology is one of the cutting-edge innovations that have the potential to revolutionize several sectors.Using blockchain technology has several benefits, such as lower transaction costs, protection against data tampering and falsification, and more flexibility. Because it involves so many transactions between many parties, the construction sector is typically seen as having a lot of potential for using blockchain technology. There aren’t many examples of blockchain uses in the construction sector, despite its apparent benefits.
Is it Irrational to Assume Rationality in Business?
Authors: Elkhal Khaled
Published: September 2024

Purpose: Academic research continuously introduces new theories, methodologies, etc. to improve upon prior studies. Researchers commonly base their theories on the assumption that managers and stakeholders have calculated motives and make well-educated decisions. However, they ignore the fact that certain corporate decisions are completely random with no logical explanations. Researchers still are not comfortable with this idea and always try to justify business decisions by advancing new sophisticated theories while in fact, many executives and stakeholders are not that sophisticated. This paper discusses such instances of irrationality.
Methodology: This paper discusses several instances of irrational business decisions in various aspects of finance including capital budgeting, capital structure, stock buybacks, executive compensation, overinvestment, and stock market irregularities. By examining a historical set of corporate events, it is shown that various forms of irrationality, when abundant, may cause empirical studies to refute theories.
Findings: Theories cannot always be justified by empirical work not necessarily because of flaws in these theories but possibly because of irrational behavior of ill-informed executives and stakeholders. That is, if the assumption of rationality commonly imbedded in academic studies does not hold, then it may be the culprit, at least in part, behind the discrepancy between theory and empirical findings.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This paper postulates that the discrepancy between theory and empirical findings may, in part, be caused by the common assumption of rationality that may not hold true. By discussing numerous instances of irrational behavior in various aspects of business, this paper attempts to show that irrationality is not uncommon and should be considered in the design of academic research.
Possibilistic linear and quadratic regression analysis for fuzzy random data and application
Authors: Sahoo Mrutyunjaya , Chakraverty S.
Published: September 2024

Regression is the study of how the distribution of response varies as the values of its predictors change. Regression models are employed in almost every area of science and engineering and are essential tools for analyzing data. Sometimes obtained data may be in the form of fuzzy uncertainty along with the associated probabilities. As such, it may be interesting and required to develop the corresponding regression models to figure out the process. Accordingly, in this work, the perception of fuzzy random variables (FRV) and associated expectations are discussed in the regression models. Linear and quadratic fuzzy random regression models have been investigated based on fuzzy random data to approximate the fuzzy coefficients. Trapezoidal fuzzy numbers have been considered to express both fuzzy input and fuzzy output variables. Finally, some problems have also been solved to illustrate the application of the current approach.
Error function Burr XII distribution : Quantile regression, classical and Bayesian applications
Authors: Ajongba Kingsley Kuwubasamni , Nasiru Suleman , Kobilla Abdul-Aziz Adam , Abubakari Abdul Ghaniyyu
Published: September 2024

Statistical distributions form the bedrock of many parametric analyses. Thus, identifying an apt model is key in parametric statistical inference. This study formulates the error function Burr XII (EFBXII) model. The EFBXII model is parsimonious compared to other extended forms of the Burr XII model. The EFBXII model density and hazard functions display desirable shapes. The bivariate appendage of the EFBXII model was formulated for studying bivariate data. Maximum likelihood estimators of the EFBXII model parameters were proposed and simulations carried out to assess their behaviours. The simulation results revealed the estimators are well behaved. A quantile regression model is contrived by re-parametrizing the EFBXII model. Utility of the EFBXII model and its corresponding regression are illustrated utilizing data. Empirical findings in both cases reveal that the developed models offer better fit compared to some existing distributions for the given data sets. Bayesian illustrations were carried out and in all cases the estimates are quite close to those from the classical method.
An initial exploration of market dynamics and financial investment strategies in the cultural industries
Authors: Chen Xi , Chen Chih-Kai
Published: September 2024

The current cultural industry is an important driver of economic growth and has received widespread attention and emphasis from countries around the world. According to reports from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the global cultural industry output has reached 12 trillion US dollars, and has been steadily growing since 2000. In this context, exploring the market dynamics and financial investment strategies of the cultural industry has become a popular and intriguing topic. Although countries have different definitions, names, and scopes for the cultural industries, it can generally be divided into sub-industries such as film, broadcasting, cable, music, publishing, professional sports, performing arts, gambling, online games, theme parks, and fashion and luxury. Regardless of any of these cultural industry sub-industries, the supply and demand relationship is the core of market dynamics and directly affects the direction of cultural industry development and market opportunities. At the same time, financial investment strategies are the basis for investors to make investment decisions, and investment objectives are achieved through optimizing investment portfolios and reducing risks. Therefore, this work attempts to explore the market dynamics and financial investment strategies in the cultural industry. Through market supply and demand factors and general economic principles, it proposes differences and suggestions for the market dynamics and financial investment strategies of different cultural industry sub-industries.
Stochastic modeling of spreading an infection with standard incidence rate
Authors: Parsamanesh Mahmood , Abukhaled Marwan
Published: September 2024

This paper studies and models the random spread of an infection in a population. It extends the traditional deterministic modeling approach by incorporating discretetime stochastic modeling using Markov chains. The probability of extinction and disease persistence is then investigated using the branching chain method, with a focus on a quantity in the non-random model, which is called the basic reproductive number. Moreover, the random model is transformed into a system of stochastic differential equations by approximating the probability distribution function using the forward Kolmogorov equation. An equivalent stochastic differential system is also introduced and examined for the stochastic model. Finally, numerical simulations of the stochastic models are conducted to evaluate the theoretical findings presented in the paper.
Nomogram for predicting reflux esophagitis with routine metabolic parameters: a retrospective study
Authors: He Tao , Sun Xiaoyu , Duan Zhijun
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The prevalence of reflux esophagitis (RE) is relatively high around the world. We investigated routine metabolic parameters for associations with RE prevalence and severity, creating a user-friendly RE prediction nomogram.

Material and methods

We included 10,881 individuals who had upper gastrointestinal endoscopy at a hospital. We employed univariate and multivariate logistic regression for independent risk factors related to RE prevalence, and conducted ordinal logistic regression for independent prognostic factors of RE severity. Subsequently, a nomogram was constructed using multivariate logistic regression analysis, and its performance was assessed through the utilization of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration curves, decision curve analysis (DCA), and clinical impact curve (CIC) analysis.

Results

In this study, 43.8% (4769 individuals) had confirmed RE. Multivariate analysis identified BMI, age, alcohol use, diabetes, Helicobacter pylori, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), glucose, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), albumin, uric acid (UA), fT3, and fT4 as independent RE risk factors (p < 0.05). The personalized nomogram used 17 factors to predict RE, with an AUC of 0.921 (95% CI: 0.916–0.926), specificity 84.02%, sensitivity 84.86%, and accuracy 84.39%, reflecting excellent discrimination. Calibration, decision, and CIC analyses affirmed the model’s high predictive accuracy and clinical utility. Additionally, ordinal logistic regression linked hypertension, diabetes, HDL-C, LDL-C, TG, and TC to RE severity.

Conclusions

Our study highlights the association between the routine metabolic parameters and RE prevalence and severity. The nomogram may be of great value for the prediction of RE prevalence.
Polymorphism rs662 (Q192R) of paraoxonase-1 and susceptibility to atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries
Authors: Baranska Malgorzata , Rychlik-Sych Mariola , Dudarewicz Michał , Wiktorowska-Owczarek Anna , Owczarek Jacek
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The present study concerns a connection of the Q192RPON1 polymorphism with atherosclerosis requiring percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in the Polish population.

Material and methods

A total of 282 individuals who underwent coronary angiography took part in this study. The polymorphism was determined with the PCR-RFLP method.

Results

The odds ratio for atherosclerosis in carriers of the 192RR genotype was 2.50 (p = 0.002). The median HDL-C concentration was significantly lower in the study group than the control group (p = 0.02).

Conclusions

The presence of the 192RR genotype and 192R allele are indicative of at least a two-fold increased risk of atherosclerosis requiring PCI or CABG in the Polish population.
Por uma política dos afetos
Authors: Santos Eraldo Souza dos
Published: September 2024

O seguinte ensaio discute como a questão democrática é abordada em Crítica dos Afetos, de Filipe Campello. Ao focar sobretudo em debates internos à tradição da filosofia social, Campello não esclarece com precisão o papel dos afetos na vida democrática. Campello se aproxima, além disso, da tradição liberal que critica ao identificar democracia e justiça.
Risk Assessment and Heavy Metals Accumulation in Organs of Clarias Gariepinus and Heterobranchus Longifilis from Omambala River, Anambra State Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Agricultural Bio-environmental Engineering Federal Polytechnic Oko Anambra State Nigeria., C. O Udoye , T. P. Egboka , C. A Anukwuorji , C.R Egboka ,   Department of Botany Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka Anambra State Nigeria
Published: September 2024

Heavy metals are toxic to organisms even at low concentrations. In recent times, there has been the high occurrence of cancer cases locally, traceable to heavy metal contaminations of foods consumed by man and animals. The experimental site for this study was Omambala River which serves as a source point of many fresh fishes as well as its distribution throughout the state both in dry and rainy seasons. One hundred (100) samples each of Clarias gariepinus and Heterobranchus longifilis, with the size of 17–21 cm were selected from Omambala River. Heavy metal determination was done using the digestion method. All the digested samples were analyzed three times for heavy metals using SP-V21A Vis Spectrophotometer and the instrument was calibrated with standard solutions. For Risk assessment analyses, the target hazard quotients (THQ) index was applied to assess the potential non-cancer risk associated to consumption of the different species of marine organisms sampled. While the total target hazard quotient (TTHQ) was calculated as the arithmetic sum of each THQ value. The lifetime cancer risk (TR) was calculated by multiplying the daily dose by the cancer slope factor (CSF) derived by response-dose curve for toxicant ingestion. The bioaccumulation factor (BAF) was determined by dividing the metal concentration in the tissue of the organism by the metal concentration in the environment or medium. From the correlation analysis, there was a positive correlation between the four different organs of the fish species and the selected heavy metals. The toxicity of magnesium and zinc are higher in C. gariepinus while the toxicity of iron is higher in H. longifilis. The degree of toxicity is zinc > iron > magnesium > lead > cadmium > copper > mercury > chromium. The water quality index (WQI) for all the heavy metals in four different organs of the two fish species was found to be less than 1 (WQI < 1) meaning low pollution; which further means that the consumption of C. gariepinusand H. longifilis may not pose any health risk to the people of the area. However, there are reports of lifetime cancer risk on daily consumption of Chromium, Cadmium, Lead and Mercury in fish. Chemicals when found in large quantities.
Invitro antioxidant and antidiabetic assay of Methanol stem extract and synthesized Silver nanoparticles of CissusquadrangularisL.stem
Authors:   Department of Botany, Anwarul Uloom College, New Mallepally, Hyderabad, Nazneen Sumera
Published: September 2024

Cissus quadrangularis is a succulent plant belonging to the family Vitaceae and is native to tropical regions like Asia, Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula. It has been in use in almost all the traditional systems of medicine, especially in Ayurveda. The Cissusquadrangularis stem-mediated silver nanoparticles are also being studied for their potential pharmaceutical benefits. The secondary metabolites in both the methanol stem extract and synthesized silver nanoparticles contribute to the antioxidant and antidiabetic properties of the plant. The present study provided a comparative quantitative analysis of alkaloid, tannin, and phenolic content of the methanol stem extract and synthesized silver nanoparticles. Furthermore, the free-radical scavenging and blood sugar-lowering effects were evaluated employing standard protocols. The results revealed the total alkaloid and phenolic content was higher in the synthesized AgNPs and tannin content was higher in the methanolic stem extract. The glucose utilization was found to be more efficient in the Cissusquadrangularis stem-mediated AgNPs, whereas the methanol extract was shown to have more antiradical properties.
Prediction of Inter-Well Petrophysical Properties from Seismic Model: A Case of Egbem Field, Niger Delta, Nigeria
Authors: E. K Anakwuba, , H. M Yakubu, , A. I. Chinwuko, , C. U. Onyekwelu, , C.J. Odiegwu, , C.N. Igwebudu,
Published: September 2024

We have generated a seismic model for the prediction of inter-well petrophysical properties of Egbem Field; in the Niger Delta, Nigeria. Acoustic Impedances (AI) were calculated from sonic and density logs in the available 24 wells. Reflection Coefficients (RC) determined from the acoustic impedances were convolved with modelled wavelet to produce synthetic seismograms at various well locations. A top structure map of a reservoir from the field was used to define the position of faults, which served as key pillars in gridding the reservoirs of the field into geocellular blocks of 50 x 50 meters each. Petrophysical analysis of the field showed an average porosity of 24.8% and volume of shale of 19.9%. Petrophysical parameters were geostatistically distributed on the generated framework model using Sequential Gaussian Simulation (SGS). The result of the Acoustic Impedance classification reveals four lithologic facies namely, shale, sandy shale, shaley sand and sand facies. The facies model indicates high and low acoustic impedances for sand and shale respectively. This model indicates that sand which is a good reservoir is concentrated in the central part of the field. The result of synthetic seismic generation showed a very good match between acoustic impedance and lithology. Comparison of porosity obtained from the porosity model with conventional well log porosity showed similarities in their histogram distribution. Finally, Three-dimensional seismic model of Egbem Field has been constructed using log data from twenty four wells. The application of geostatistical analyses extrapolated and interpolated these log data to cover the entire field.
Alkohol in kri v Milićih jeseni 1914
Authors: Matić Dragan
Published: September 2024

During World War I, the Austro-Hungarian Army, in cooperation with its auxiliary units (Shukor), committed numerous crimes against the civilian population in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The orders and instructions issued by the High Command and the War Administration represented the basis for judicial and extrajudicial killings. The procedure before the summary court was utterly simplified. Soon, however, even this was no longer compulsory. Instead, the independent application of the “law of force in war” (Kriegsnotwehrrecht) without the involvement of a judge was left to the discretion of the individual commander. After the war, Captain Alfonz Svetek, who served as a stage commander in Milići in the autumn of 1914, was accused of ordering many executions of Bosnian Serbs. The documents from the court file reveal the gruesome methods and the number of executions he decided on as a true master of life and death.
»Za otroka« - Kolonije kot del mladinskega skrbstva mestne občine ljubljanske med svetovnima vojnama
Authors: Šorn Mojca , Gašaprič Jure , Pančur Andrej
Published: September 2024

After incorporating youth welfare in the framework of public social welfare in 1923, the Ljubljana municipality included in its remit the organisation of holiday colonies for sick children from socially disadvantaged families. The recommendations and precepts of the relevant theory were diligently translated into practice (even during the financially unstable times of the economic crisis and its consequences). Although it did not manage to obtain all the desired or planned resort sites, the children’s colonies became a regular feature of the interwar period. Year after year, the Ljubljana municipality provided for an increasing number of girls and boys, and it should be underlined that they did not only receive medical but also social and educational care.
Žensko perilo kot vzpodbuda za nastanek novomeške tekstilne industrije
Authors: Granda Stane
Published: September 2024

Labod, in the city of Novo mesto, was one of the leading textile factories in Yugoslavia. It was severely impaired and practically destroyed by the European textile industry crisis and the Slovenian social transition after 1991. It was established by the peddler Ivan Medic and tailor Joško Povh. Medic took advantage of the demand for women’s underwear after World War I. Using a supply system that remained a permanent characteristic of his business operations, he raised enough capital and loans to build the first textile factory in the Dolenjska region. Later, his company specialised in the production of men’s shirts. Shortly before World War II, he established another textile factory, which was later renamed Novoteks.
Ivan Medic’s activities and business operations represent an example of the remarkable success of a man from the countryside who, thanks to the considerable lingerie demand, rose from a mere peddler and raw materials supplier to become a leading trans-regional entrepreneur of his time.
Analiza nekaterih tem iz modernega italijanskega zgodovinopisja
Authors: Troha Nevenka
Published: September 2024

The article is based on the book The Order Has Already Been Carried Out – Rome, the Ardeatine Caves, Memory by Alessandro Portelli, whose translation by Nevenka Troha will be published by the ZRC SAZU. In this article, the author analyses specific topics discussed by contemporary Italian historiography and Portelli’s book. These include the following: the outlook on the wars waged by Fascist Italy between 1935 and 1943; the capitulation of Italy in September 1943; the German occupation of Rome and the local resistance with a particular focus on the attack against a convoy of German policemen in Rome on 23 March 1943, during which 33 policemen were killed; the repression of the German occupation forces, especially the massacre of 335 people in the Ardeatine Caves in Rome the day after this attack; the events following the massacre, including the reactions to it; the question of guilt, especially the response of those who shifted the blame from the Nazis to the partisans; the structure of the victims; the problem of the victims’ burial and the mourning of those left behind; the commemorations; the legal epilogues and the attitude towards the representatives of the resistance movement in post-war Italy.
Tsuneko Marija Skušek kot posrednica japonske kulture na Slovenskem
Authors: Gabrič Aleš
Published: September 2024

After moving to Ljubljana in 1920, Tsuneko Kondō Kawase, later officially Marija Skušek, was the first promoter of Japanese culture in Slovenia, and many knew her as the “Ljubljana’s Japanese woman”. She learned Slovenian and lectured on Japan, Japanese women, and Japanese customs in many cities in the 1930s. Cultural institutions representing the Far East would ask her for help. She would lend objects from the collection she and her husband owned for exhibitions and explain the particular features of the exhibits on display. She advised the producers during the preparations for the performance of Puccini’s opera Madama Butterfly in Ljubljana. When representatives from Japan visited Slovenia, Marija Tsuneko Skušek was usually invited as a translator. During the last years of her life, she worked on her domestic collection of mostly Chinese and Japanese artefacts and participated in the preparation of exhibitions in the central Slovenian museums, which opened shortly after her death.
Analysis of the Competitiveness of Coastal Space Using Taxonomic Methods
Authors: KLOSKOWSKI Dariusz , KOSEK Weronika
Published: September 2024

Valorization of space in the investment aspect is the main direction of verification of areas that can be differentiated or show emerging poles of economic growth in the local, regional context, and even with an impact on the functioning of the country’s economy. For this purpose, this study attempts to show the competitiveness of the seaside space and the impact of port functions on all changes in the environment, showing the determinants that differentiate municipal areas.
Are Changes in Crude Oil Prices Predictable?
Authors: STASIAK Michał Dominik , STASZAK Żaneta
Published: September 2024

The oil prices influence the transport sector, and subsequently the profitability of trade and the condition of countries’ economies. Therefore, the prediction of future price changes is of high importance. Said prices can be forecasted by macroeconomic or technical methods of analysis, yet both of those are often questioned. In the article, we present a method for a complex verification of the hypothesis that current prices are not influenced by historical changes in oil prices. To do so we applied an alternative and more precise representation of prices than the most commonly used candlestick representation, i.e. the binary temporal representation and utilized advanced statistical testing. In the paper, we also present the results of empirical research performed on the oil price quotations, with the use of advanced software in C++. The research confirms the sensibility of using technical and fundamental analysis.
Bridging gas and aerosol properties between the northeastern US and Bermuda: analysis of eight transit flights
Authors: Soloff Cassidy , Ajayi Taiwo , Choi Yonghoon , Crosbie Ewan C. , DiGangi Joshua P. , Diskin Glenn S. , Fenn Marta A. , Ferrare Richard A. , Gallo Francesca , Hair Johnathan W. , Hilario Miguel Ricardo A. , Kirschler Simon , Moore Richard H. , Shingler Taylor J. , Shook Michael A. , Thornhill Kenneth L. , Voigt Christiane , Winstead Edward L. , Ziemba Luke D. , Sorooshian Armin
Published: September 2024

Abstract. The western North Atlantic Ocean is strongly influenced by continental outflow, making it an ideal region to study the atmospheric transition from a polluted coastline to the marine environment. Utilizing eight transit flights between the NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) in Hampton, Virginia, and the remote island of Bermuda from NASA's Aerosol Cloud meTeorology Interactions oVer the western ATlantic Experiment (ACTIVATE), we examine the evolution of trace gas and aerosol properties off the US East Coast. The first pair of flights flew along the wind trajectory of continental outflow, while the other flights captured a mix of marine and continental air mass sources. For measurements within the boundary layer (BL), there was an offshore decline in particle N<100 nm, N>100 nm, CH4, CO, and CO2 concentrations, all leveling off around ∼900 km offshore from the LaRC. These trends are strongest for the first pair of flights. In the BL, offshore declines in organic mass fraction and increases in sulfate mass fraction coincide with increasing hygroscopicity based on f(RH) measurements. Free troposphere measurements show a decline in N<100 nm, but other measured parameters are more variable when compared to the prominent offshore gradients seen in the BL. Pollution layers exist in the free troposphere, such as smoke plumes, that can potentially entrain into the BL. This work provides detailed case studies with a broad set of high-resolution measurements to further our understanding of the transition between continental and marine environments.
Cloud water adjustments to aerosol perturbations are buffered by solar heating in non-precipitating marine stratocumuli
Authors: Zhang Jianhao , Chen Yao-Sheng , Yamaguchi Takanobu , Feingold Graham
Published: September 2024

Abstract. Marine low-level clouds are key to the Earth's energy budget due to their expansive coverage over global oceans and their high reflectance of incoming solar radiation. Their responses to anthropogenic aerosol perturbations remain the largest source of uncertainty in estimating the anthropogenic radiative forcing of climate. A major challenge is the quantification of the cloud water response to aerosol perturbations. In particular, the presence of feedbacks through microphysical, dynamical, and thermodynamical pathways at various spatial and temporal scales could augment or weaken the response. Central to this problem is the temporal evolution in cloud adjustment, governed by entangled feedback mechanisms. We apply an innovative conditional Monte Carlo subsampling approach to a large ensemble of diurnal large-eddy simulation of non-precipitating marine stratocumulus to study the role of solar heating in governing the evolution in the relationship between droplet number and cloud water. We find a persistent negative trend in this relationship at night, confirming that the role of microphysically enhanced cloud-top entrainment. After sunrise, the evolution in this relationship appears buffered and converges to ∼-0.2 in the late afternoon. This buffering effect is attributed to a strong dependence of cloud-layer shortwave absorption on cloud liquid water path. These diurnal cycle characteristics further demonstrate a tight connection between cloud brightening potential and the relationship between cloud water and droplet number at sunrise, which has implications for the impact of the timing of advertent aerosol perturbations.