bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Social Economy in Portugal: legal regime and socio-economic characterization
Authors: Monteiro Alcides A.
Published: December 2022

The main objective of this article is to provide an updated portrait of the Social Economy sector in Portugal. For this purpose, we first analyse how in Portugal the concept of Social Economy has been defined and delimited, particularly by legal means. The difficulties in establishing clear and unquestionable boundaries are highlighted, as well as the observation of the concept from the diversity that composes it, both in terms of guiding principles and of groups of entities that integrate this sector. Subsequently, a quantitative portrait of the Portuguese Social Economy is drawn, with the most recent data, made public in 2019 and for 2016, as a source. These data result from work done by the National Statistics Institute (INE - Statistics Portugal) through the Social Economy Satellite Account. In addition to the main general indicators of the sector (number of units, gross value added, main activities, groups of entities, total and paid employment), a specific analysis by groups of entities is also carried out. By making use of Satellite Account to draw this picture, we aim to provide conceptually structured statistical information with a form and content that may facilitate its subsequent use in the context of broader studies, both diachronic analysis as well as international comparisons.
La financiación del emprendimiento social: estudio de la comunicación y el uso de las redes sociales en la plataforma de crowdfunding "Goteo"
Authors: Espinosa Iniesta José María , Briones Peñalver Antonio Juan , Hernández Gómez Elena
Published: December 2022

El crowdfunding se ha convertido hoy en día en una práctica generalmente utilizada para financiar, entre otros, proyectos que produzcan un cierto impacto positivo en la sociedad y/o en el medioambiente. En la actualidad, no podría entenderse la financiación participativa sin la capacidad expansiva de las redes sociales. De este modo, el modelo de financiación colectiva ha sabido servirse de las fortalezas existentes en las redes sociales y en sus herramientas de información para facilitar la comunicación y el intercambio entre promotores de proyectos y potenciales contribuyentes. En este artículo se señalan las claves para una comunicación eficaz, analizando el papel de la comunicación y el uso de las redes sociales como factores determinantes en el éxito de la captación de fondos a través del crowdfunding.  Para ello, se sigue un enfoque teórico a través de la revisión de diversas fuentes bibliográficas relacionadas con el emprendimiento social, financiación, crowdfunding, comunicación y redes sociales. A continuación, se resaltan cuáles podrían ser los componentes comunicativos esenciales, extraídos de la literatura, que son necesarios considerar para obtener una campaña de crowdfunding exitosa. Dichos componentes comunicativos esenciales se analizan en un caso de campaña de la plataforma “Goteo” en búsqueda de financiación de proyectos solidarios con la finalidad de combatir los efectos derivados de la situación sanitaria ocasionada por la pandemia (SARS-CoV-2), con el objeto de corroborar si las características previamente identificadas se encuentran presentes. En definitiva, este artículo tiene como objetivos explorar el uso de la comunicación como estrategia para obtener fondos a través del crowdfunding y analizar cómo las redes sociales pueden ayudar a las organizaciones de Economía Social a financiar sus proyectos a través de la participación ciudadana. Así como mostrar los esfuerzos necesarios de estas organizaciones por disponer de vías eficaces de comunicación para facilitar campañas de captación de fondos financieros mediante el establecimiento de un proceso de decisión válido sobre la comunicación y utilización de redes sociales.
Segregación socio-espacial y neutralidad normativa en la gestión comunitaria del agua
Authors: Murcia-Castillo Paula Alejandra , Francel-Delgado Andrés Ernesto
Published: December 2022

Los acueductos comunitarios son construcciones populares que hacen parte de los territorios hidro sociales en veredas, resguardos indígenas, comunidades negras y barrios de las diferentes regiones y ciudades de Colombia. Integran el patrimonio público por su condición socio-cultural territorial y por su concepción del agua como bien común y derecho fundamental. Operan en condiciones desfavorables, lo que conduce al suministro de agua de baja calidad, por lo que es fundamental avanzar sobre el estudio de sus lógicas operativas y proponer soluciones a sus problemáticas. El acueducto de la vereda San Bernardo tiene las perores mediciones de riesgo para el consumo humano en Ibagué, por lo que se abordó su estudio a partir de la revisión del marco jurídico nacional, los mecanismos de inspección y vigilancia y la desarticulación entre las visiones normativas dominantes y las lógicas solidarias de las Juntas de Acción Comunal. La caracterización y análisis parte de los principios de diseño de Ostrom, las teorías de segregación socio-espacial en América Latina y la aplicación de entrevistas semiestructuradas con los líderes comunitarios para la reconstrucción del origen y condiciones del acueducto. Se ilustra cómo la acción colectiva sustituye al Estado en la prestación de servicios básicos en zonas rurales marginadas y se genera una propuesta inicial que incluye la acción de la academia para el mejoramiento de la situación.
Retorno Económico y Social de la Inversión en un Centro de Rehabilitación Laboral
Authors: Ballesteros Pérez Francisco , Polvorinos Galán Sonia , Cerezo Quintana Yaiza , Navarro Bayón Daniel
Published: December 2022

El presente trabajo es un estudio piloto que tiene como objetivo el análisis del retorno social y económico que se produce en un Centro de Rehabilitación Laboral. Este análisis se lleva a cabo siguiendo la metodología de Retorno Social de la Inversión. Se analizaron los retornos de un Centro de Rehabilitación Laboral que en el año 2017 atendió a un total de 93 personas (35,5% mujeres) y a 27 familiares. Los resultados mostraron un retorno en un año de un 137%, es decir 1,37€ por cada euro invertido. Los stakeholders que más retornaron son las propias personas atendidas (0,48€ por 1€ invertido), la administración Pública (0,31€ por 1€ invertido) y los trabajadores del centro (0,26€ por 1€ invertido). Los proyectos sociales de apoyo a la inserción laboral a personas con trastornos mental grave son económicamente sostenibles y con impacto en la sociedad. Análisis de este tipo complementan la evaluación de efectividad y favorecen la toma de decisiones en la inversión pública.
Relación entre valores cooperativos y la RSC. Caso Corporación Mondragon
Authors: Querejeta Agirre Izaskun , Gómez Nieto Begoña
Published: December 2022

La contribución de las cooperativas vascas a su comunidad desde diversos ángulos es un hecho patente desde hace décadas. La responsabilidad social está presente en su ADN, estableciéndose desde sus orígenes y, con el paso del tiempo evolucionando y adaptándose a las necesidades de la sociedad. En la actualidad, el compromiso no solo se circunscribe al entorno, sino que se amplía a cuestiones medioambientales, personas y comunidades con escasos recursos, la pandemia mundial o el euskera entre otros. La internacionalización y el cambio de mentalidad en las organizaciones ha propiciado que esa responsabilidad se haya extendido hasta adoptar la forma y denominación de Responsabilidad Social Corporativa (RSC). Mediante este estudio, de carácter descriptivo y bajo una metodología mixta, se analiza la relación entre los principios y valores cooperativos y la RSC para conocer sus diferencias conceptuales, si la responsabilidad está integrada dentro de cada empresa de Mondragon, cuál ha sido su evolución, características, cómo se desarrolla en la actualidad y qué percepción tienen las personas trabajadoras sobre ella.
How the public sector buys small things: direct procurement in the European Union and the opportunities for the Social Economy organizations
Authors: Mendoza Jiménez Javier , Hernández López Montserrat
Published: December 2022

Direct (or low value) procurement can foster the participation of SMEs in public procurement. However, although they all come from the same Directive, a review of the national legislations shows that there is not a common model for this type of procedures. The thresholds in the national legislations vary without a visible explanation for it. To assess if countries can be grouped a hierarchical analysis was performed. Meanwhile, to research whether economic and social factor can influence the establishment of different conditions for direct public procurement in each Member State a regression model was applied. The results contradict the widely proclaimed intention of promoting SMEs in public procurement, since there is not direct relation between the percentage of SMEs in the economic fabric and the thresholds for the contracts. The limitations on direct procurement have probably more to do with cultural reasons and legislative traditions than with economic and social factors. Higher thresholds and specially the differentiation for, social services that present some Member States could be an opportunity for social entities. The legislative modifications of several countries point in the direction of favoring a minimum number of competitors. The study shows that noticeable divergences can be found in the way Member States regulate direct procurement, contrary to the convergency that can be observed generally in the field of public procurement.
The phylogenetic trees of Florentino Ameghino and cladograms: a case for multiple discovery?
Authors: Casinos Adrià
Published: December 2022

The topology of the phylogenetic trees used by Florentino Ameghino in his works Filogenia and Contribución al conocimiento de los mamíferos fósiles de la República Argentina, is analysed. The similarities with the topology of the present day cladograms, branching orthogonal diagrams with dichotomies, are highlighted and discussed.
The confirmed fossil record of the blue shark Prionace glauca (Linnaeus, 1758) from the South Eastern Pacific
Authors: Villafaña Jaime A. , Kindlimann René , Chavez-Hoffmeister Martin
Published: December 2022

We offer the first formal description of fossil specimens of the blue shark Prionace glauca from Chile. The teeth described in this study were collected from the Mina Fosforita locality and preliminary assigned to the late Miocene.  The confirmation of the presence of the blue shark in the Neogene sediments of Chile is a significant contribution to our global knowledge of the past distribution of chondrichthyans, being the first well-documented record of the species for the southern hemisphere. Our work shows that future studies are still necessary to better understand the evolutionary history of this shark species in the region.
Uso estratégico de los ‘social media’ en un conflicto bélico (y II)
Authors: Martínez Martínez Silvia
Published: December 2022

Ante el uso de las plataformas de social media en el conflicto bélico de forma estratégica, las propias empresas se han visto en algunos casos en la necesidad de pronunciarse sobre su postura ante determinado empleo. La manera de actuar y reaccionar ha sido diferente, pero evidencia las medidas que estos entornos pueden poner en marcha para fomentar o limitar el alcance de algunos perfiles y contenidos.
Étienne Decroux e a artesania de ator: caminhadas para a soberania
Authors: Braga Bya
Published: December 2022

Pela primeira vez um livro apresenta, em língua portuguesa, um conjunto de reflexões em torno da obra singular do artista francês Etienne Decroux (1898-1991), aliado, de modo instigante, ao pensamento filolosófico de Georges Bataille em sua noção de arte soberana e à pesquisa prática cênica da autora. Decroux, ator-artesão, conviveu e atuou ao lado de importantes nomes do teatro e cinema, como Copeau, Dullin, Jouvet, Baty, Artaud, Barrault, Herrand e Carné. Seu grande valor artístico está na criação da Mímica Corporal Dramática mais do que uma técnica, uma arte inovadora que reflete a visão de Decroux sobre o teatro como arte de ator. Trata-se de um livro bem documentado, rigoroso e original em sua essência, escrito com competência e humor, sempre pautado pelo teatro contemporâneo, em contínua construção.
A method for low-coverage single-gamete sequence analysis demonstrates adherence to Mendel’s first law across a large sample of human sperm
Authors: Carioscia Sara A , Weaver Kathryn J , Bortvin Andrew N , Pan Hao , Ariad Daniel , Bell Avery Davis , McCoy Rajiv C
Published: December 2022

Recently published single-cell sequencing data from individual human sperm (n=41,189; 969–3377 cells from each of 25 donors) offer an opportunity to investigate questions of inheritance with improved statistical power, but require new methods tailored to these extremely low-coverage data (∼0.01× per cell). To this end, we developed a method, named rhapsodi, that leverages sparse gamete genotype data to phase the diploid genomes of the donor individuals, impute missing gamete genotypes, and discover meiotic recombination breakpoints, benchmarking its performance across a wide range of study designs. We then applied rhapsodi to the sperm sequencing data to investigate adherence to Mendel’s Law of Segregation, which states that the offspring of a diploid, heterozygous parent will inherit either allele with equal probability. While the vast majority of loci adhere to this rule, research in model and non-model organisms has uncovered numerous exceptions whereby ‘selfish’ alleles are disproportionately transmitted to the next generation. Evidence of such ‘transmission distortion’ (TD) in humans remains equivocal in part because scans of human pedigrees have been under-powered to detect small effects. After applying rhapsodi to the sperm data and scanning for evidence of TD, our results exhibited close concordance with binomial expectations under balanced transmission. Together, our work demonstrates that rhapsodi can facilitate novel uses of inferred genotype data and meiotic recombination events, while offering a powerful quantitative framework for testing for TD in other cohorts and study systems.
DNA damage independent inhibition of NF-κB transcription by anthracyclines
Authors: Chora Angelo Ferreira , Pedroso Dora , Kyriakou Eleni , Pejanovic Nadja , Colaço Henrique , Gozzelino Raffaella , Barros André , Willmann Katharina , Velho Tiago , Moita Catarina F , Santos Isa , Pereira Pedro , Carvalho Silvia , Martins Filipa Batalha , Ferreira João A , de Almeida Sérgio Fernandes , Benes Vladimir , Anrather Josef , Weis Sebastian , Soares Miguel P , Geerlof Arie , Neefjes Jacques , Sattler Michael , Messias Ana C , Neves-Costa Ana , Moita Luis Ferreira
Published: December 2022

Anthracyclines are among the most used and effective anticancer drugs. Their activity has been attributed to DNA double-strand breaks resulting from topoisomerase II poisoning and to eviction of histones from select sites in the genome. Here, we show that the extensively used anthracyclines Doxorubicin, Daunorubicin, and Epirubicin decrease the transcription of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB)-dependent gene targets, but not interferon-responsive genes in primary mouse (Mus musculus) macrophages. Using an NMR-based structural approach, we demonstrate that anthracyclines disturb the complexes formed between the NF-κB subunit RelA and its DNA-binding sites. The anthracycline variants Aclarubicin, Doxorubicinone, and the newly developed Dimethyl-doxorubicin, which share anticancer properties with the other anthracyclines but do not induce DNA damage, also suppressed inflammation, thus uncoupling DNA damage from the effects on inflammation. These findings have implications for anticancer therapy and for the development of novel anti-inflammatory drugs with limited side effects for life-threatening conditions such as sepsis.
Overcoming the cytoplasmic retention of GDOWN1 modulates global transcription and facilitates stress adaptation
Authors: Zhu Zhanwu , Liu Jingjing , Feng Huan , Zhang Yanning , Huang Ruiqi , Pan Qiaochu , Nan Jing , Miao Ruidong , Cheng Bo
Published: December 2022

Dynamic regulation of transcription is crucial for the cellular responses to various environmental or developmental cues. Gdown1 is a ubiquitously expressed, RNA polymerase II (Pol II) interacting protein, essential for the embryonic development of metazoan. It tightly binds Pol II in vitro and competitively blocks the binding of TFIIF and possibly other transcriptional regulatory factors, yet its cellular functions and regulatory circuits remain unclear. Here, we show that human GDOWN1 strictly localizes in the cytoplasm of various types of somatic cells and exhibits a potent resistance to the imposed driving force for its nuclear localization. Combined with the genetic and microscope-based approaches, two types of the functionally coupled and evolutionally conserved localization regulatory motifs are identified, including the CRM1-dependent nucleus export signal (NES) and a novel Cytoplasmic Anchoring Signal (CAS) that mediates its retention outside of the nuclear pore complexes (NPC). Mutagenesis of CAS alleviates GDOWN1’s cytoplasmic retention, thus unlocks its nucleocytoplasmic shuttling properties, and the increased nuclear import and accumulation of GDOWN1 results in a drastic reduction of both Pol II and its associated global transcription levels. Importantly, the nuclear translocation of GDOWN1 occurs in response to the oxidative stresses, and the ablation of GDOWN1 significantly weakens the cellular tolerance. Collectively, our work uncovers the molecular basis of GDOWN1’s subcellular localization and a novel cellular strategy of modulating global transcription and stress-adaptation via controlling the nuclear translocation of GDOWN1.
Oncogene expression from extrachromosomal DNA is driven by copy number amplification and does not require spatial clustering in glioblastoma stem cells
Authors: Purshouse Karin , Friman Elias T , Boyle Shelagh , Dewari Pooran Singh , Grant Vivien , Hamdan Alhafidz , Morrison Gillian M , Brennan Paul M , Beentjes Sjoerd V , Pollard Steven M , Bickmore Wendy A
Published: December 2022

Extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) are frequently observed in human cancers and are responsible for high levels of oncogene expression. In glioblastoma (GBM), ecDNA copy number correlates with poor prognosis. It is hypothesized that their copy number, size, and chromatin accessibility facilitate clustering of ecDNA and colocalization with transcriptional hubs, and that this underpins their elevated transcriptional activity. Here, we use super-resolution imaging and quantitative image analysis to evaluate GBM stem cells harbouring distinct ecDNA species (EGFR, CDK4, PDGFRA). We find no evidence that ecDNA routinely cluster with one another or closely interact with transcriptional hubs. Cells with EGFR-containing ecDNA have increased EGFR transcriptional output, but transcription per gene copy is similar in ecDNA compared to the endogenous chromosomal locus. These data suggest that it is the increased copy number of oncogene-harbouring ecDNA that primarily drives high levels of oncogene transcription, rather than specific interactions of ecDNA with each other or with high concentrations of the transcriptional machinery.
Doublecortin and JIP3 are neural-specific counteracting regulators of dynein-mediated retrograde trafficking
Authors: Fu Xiaoqin , Rao Lu , Li Peijun , Liu Xinglei , Wang Qi , Son Alexander I , Gennerich Arne , Liu Judy Shih-Hwa
Published: December 2022

Mutations in the microtubule (MT)-binding protein doublecortin (DCX) or in the MT-based molecular motor dynein result in lissencephaly. However, a functional link between DCX and dynein has not been defined. Here, we demonstrate that DCX negatively regulates dynein-mediated retrograde transport in neurons from Dcx-/y or Dcx-/y;Dclk1-/- mice by reducing dynein’s association with MTs and disrupting the composition of the dynein motor complex. Previous work showed an increased binding of the adaptor protein C-Jun-amino-terminal kinase-interacting protein 3 (JIP3) to dynein in the absence of DCX. Using purified components, we demonstrate that JIP3 forms an active motor complex with dynein and its cofactor dynactin with two dyneins per complex. DCX competes with the binding of the second dynein, resulting in a velocity reduction of the complex. We conclude that DCX negatively regulates dynein-mediated retrograde transport through two critical interactions by regulating dynein binding to MTs and regulating the composition of the dynein motor complex.
Rostral and caudal basolateral amygdala engage distinct circuits in the prelimbic and infralimbic prefrontal cortex
Authors: Manoocheri Kasra , Carter Adam G
Published: December 2022

Connections from the basolateral amygdala (BLA) to medial prefrontal cortex (PFC) regulate memory and emotion and become disrupted in neuropsychiatric disorders. The diverse roles attributed to interactions between the BLA and PFC may reflect multiple circuits nested within a wider network. To examine these circuits, we first used retrograde and anterograde anatomy to show that the rostral BLA (rBLA) and caudal BLA (cBLA) differentially project to prelimbic (PL) and infralimbic (IL) subregions of the mouse PFC. Using ex vivo whole-cell recordings and optogenetics, we then assessed which neuronal subtypes are targeted, showing that rBLA preferentially drives layer 2 (L2) cortico-amygdalar (CA) neurons in PL, whereas cBLA drives layer 5 (L5) pyramidal tract (PT) neurons in IL. We next combined in vivo silicon probe recordings and optogenetics to confirm that cBLA mainly influences IL L5, whereas rBLA primarily activates PL L2, but also evokes polysynaptic activity in PL L5. Lastly, we used soma-tagged optogenetics to explore the local circuits linking superficial and deep layers of PL, showing how rBLA can engage L2 CA neurons to impact L5 PT neuron activity. Together, our findings delineate how subregions of the BLA target distinct networks within the PFC and differentially influence output from PL and IL.
Sex ratio and relatedness in the Griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus) population of Serbia
Authors: Davidović Slobodan , Marinković Saša , Hribšek Irena , Patenković Aleksandra , Stamenković-Radak Marina , Tanasković Marija
Published: December 2022

Background

Once a widespread species across the region of Southeast Europe, the Griffon vulture is now confined to small and isolated populations across the Balkan Peninsula. The population from Serbia represents its biggest and most viable population that can serve as an important reservoir of genetic diversity from which the birds can be used for the region’s reintroduction programmes. The available genetic data for this valuable population are scarce and as a protected species that belongs to the highly endangered vulture group, it needs to be well described so that it can be properly managed and used as a restocking population. Considering the serious recent bottleneck event that the Griffon vulture population from Serbia experienced we estimated the overall relatedness among the birds from this population. Sex ratio, another important parameter that shows the vitality and strength of the population was evaluated as well.

Methods

During the annual monitoring that was performed in the period from 2013–2021, we collected blood samples from individual birds that were marked in the nests. In total, 169 samples were collected and each was used for molecular sexing while 58 presumably unrelated birds from different nests were used for inbreeding and relatedness analyses. The relatedness was estimated using both biparentally (10 microsatellite loci) and uniparentally (Cytb and D-loop I of mitochondrial DNA) inherited markers.

Results

The level of inbreeding was relatively high and on average it was 8.3% while the mean number of relatives for each bird was close to three. The sex ratio was close to 1:1 and for the analysed period of 9 years, it didn’t demonstrate a statistically significant deviation from the expected ratio of 1:1, suggesting that this is a stable and healthy population. Our data suggest that, even though a relatively high level of inbreeding can be detected among the individual birds, the Griffon vulture population from Serbia can be used as a source population for restocking and reintroduction programmes in the region. These data combined with previously observed genetic differentiation between the populations from the Iberian and Balkan Peninsulas suggest that the introduction of foreign birds should be avoided and that local birds should be used instead.
Unraveling the Collision of Rigid Religious Mindsets: Towards ‘Cross-Religious Tabernacling’ within a Praxis of Interpathetic Transspection in Pastoral Caregiving – a Hermeneutical Approach
Authors: Louw Daniel J
Published: December 2022

Within the context of global pluralism and cultural diversity, religions can and should play a decisive role in creating safe spaces for meaningful encounters and interreligious dialogue in pastoral and interpathetic caregiving. In this regard, a hermeneutic of networking understanding should be rendered critical for promoting meaningful interreligious dialoguing because enmity, prejudice and suspicion, fed by rigid doctrinal stances and autocratic forms of rather imperialistic God-images, contribute in most cases to schismatic estrangement, as well as static, paralyzing thinking (stringent mindsets). In order to contribute to constructive forms of crossing over to the religious other, it is argued that David Augsburger’s notion of interpathetic care (1986) should supplement the traditional understanding of the cure/care of human souls (cura animarum). To foster a culture of mutual exchange of paradigmatic convictions, a diagnostic chart is developed. The argument is that a comprehensive framework of conceptional and cognitive networking (patterns of thinking) opens up new vistas, i.e., on seeing the ‘bigger picture’. It is further argued that a theological and religious understanding of ‘tabernacling’ could help to create concrete, communal spaces for significant interreligious encounters and interfaith cooperation. Keywords: Apathy, Cross-religious tabernacling, Diagnostic chart, Interpathetic caregiving, Schemata of interpretation, Transspection, Presencing as mode of compassionate being-there
Joseph the Divine Trickster
Authors: Lee Hoseung
Published: December 2022

On the one hand, the story of Joseph’s deception has a close relationship with the other deceitful events in Genesis. On the other hand, the story of Joseph’s deception has its unique aspect in the narrative. Although the character of Joseph himself has many unique aspects within the narrative, the deception of Joseph itself also tells a unique story of salvation in Genesis. Keywords: Genesis, Deception, Joseph, Trickster, Salvation
Rulers or Servants?: A Re-Reading of Psalm 8 Concerning the Place of Humankind in the Age of the Anthropocene
Authors: Bosman Tiana
Published: December 2022

With the Age of the Anthropocene and the clear signs of ecological destruction that have resulted from this rule of humans over the creation of God, it is essential that biblical scholars revisit the texts, both in the Old and the New Testament, that have so often been used to justify the superior position of humans over creation. Within communities of faith and also within academic circles, the well-known Psalm 8 has often been used to underscore the role of mankind as rulers over creation. Coming from the field of biblical studies, I endeavour to do a re-reading of this Psalm that highlights the importance of an attitude of awe and humility rather than superiority. This will be done through in-depth exegesis of the psalm and will aim to offer a translation that accentuates a life-affirming attitude towards creation while still staying true to the text. Through exegesis, I will offer translation possibilities, hoping to provide hermeneutical tools for ministers who find themselves on the front line of preaching and teaching communities of faith about what it means to be responsible stewards and servants of the earth in crisis, instead of depleting and destroying her resources through arrogant domination. Keywords: Anthropocene, Psalm 8, Creation psalm, Ecological hermeneutics, Green reading
Resilience of Healthcare Providers during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Rapid Assessment using Digital Platform
Authors: Ray Anirban , Gupta Debjani Sen , Choudhury Jayasree Sar , Ghosh Pramit
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic exposed the health workforce to an unprecedented occupational hazard. While taking care of patients they always had to be conscious simultaneously for safeguarding themselves and their family members against the highly infectious virus. In West Bengal, cases were first reported in the last week of March2020 and reached the peak around October-2020 in the first wave, once the lockdown was lifted. During the initial months, the staggering number of cases, prevailing uncertainty over case management, and untimely demise of colleagues and relatives, took their toll on the physical and mental health of doctors, paramedics, or support staff, both in the government and private sectors. Aim: To measure perceived stress, resilience and psychological well-being of healthcare providers using standard psychometric tools. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional observational study carried out among healthcare workers in hospitals located in West Bengal, India. A self-administered questionnaire was circulated through a digital platform between June-November 2020. The questionnaire was designed using Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Kessler-6 (K6), and Brief Resilient Coping Scale (BRCS) to assess perceived stress, psychiatric morbidity, and resilience of the person. It had three parts, one to capture sociodemographic details of the participants including age, sex, marital status, occupation, family history of psychiatric morbidity, place of stay etc. Second part consisted of psychometric scales and third was designed to capture the views of participants on the coping strategies. Calculated sample size was 189. Results: Based on standard cut-off values, it was found that 65.6% subjects were under moderate or severe stress; 56.6% had compromised mental well-being and 64% were not coping well with the pandemic situation. PSS were significantly poor for females (p-value <0.001), single (p-value <0.001) and those without history of psychiatric morbidity (p-value <0.001) and low resilient copers (p<0.0001). Mental well-being was compromised more among married (p-value=0.01), doctors (p-value=0.008), aged <40 years (p-value=0.003), high resilient copers (p-value=0.02). Popular means of stress reliever were music and yoga/exercise. Correct and updated knowledge on disease transmission, availability of personal protective equipment, pursuing hobbies like music and gardening were few suggested measures to improve coping with stress associated with patient care. Conclusion: The study revealed that majority of the health workers experienced moderate to heavy degree of stress and compromised psychological well-being during the first wave of pandemic. Relationship of stress and psychological wellbeing with resilience and socio-demographic variables was not always linear.
Formulation of In-situ Thermoreversible Gel with Moringa oleifera Lam Extract as a Local Drug Delivery System for Adjunct Periodontal Treatment
Authors: Ramamurthy Shanmuga Priya , Sekar Priyadharshini , Ulaganathan Arunmozhi , Varghese Sheeja , . Kadhiresan
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Periodontal disease is an outcome of a plethora of molecular mechanisms associated with oxidative stress, inflammation and oral microorganisms is managed by surgical or non surgical therapies with systemic antibiotics. However, local drug delivery system is known to augment the currently available therapies and improves prognosis. Although, there are several local drug delivery systems available, the search for an ideal agent with antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties continues. Moringa oleifera Lam extracts is one such wonder plant with all the above mentioned effects. Aim: To formulate an in-situ thermoreversible gel with Moringa oleifera Lam extract that could be used as a local drug delivery system as an adjunct to periodontal treatment. Materials and Methods: This in-vitro study was conducted in Nanotechnology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology at Saveetha Dental College, from May 2022 to June 2022. For preparation of thermoreversible gel the 19% of thermogelling polymer poloxamer 407 (15% to 30%w/v) which the least concentration that demonstrates thermoreverisibility at 36°C and 0.2% which is the least concentration of mucoadhesive polymer carbapol 934 (0.2% to 0.5% w/v) which forms sol-gel transition and 5% aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera and cold deionised water were used. Surface pH, gelation temperature, syringeability, in-vitro drug release, stability, gelation time and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis was done Results: The surface pH of the gel was 6.94±0.091 with a gelation temperature of 34°C±0.5. The gel was flowable with good stability and fast release of eight hours. The chemical components compatability study of Moringa oleifera Lam powder, thermoreversible gel without extract and thermoreversible gel with extract were subjected to FITR analysis. The spectral analysis showed no significant chemical interaction between the Moringa oleifera and thermoreversible gel. Conclusion: The study concluded that the thermoreversible gel with Moringa oleifera Lam extracts could be used as an adjunct for the management of periodontal disease with good bioavailability. However, future clinical studies have to be conducted to validate the results of the present study.
Production and Marketing of Betel Leaf in Odisha: An Economic Analysis
Authors: Dey Anwesha , Sharma Avdhesh , Gautam Yash , Swain Krishna Gopal , Singh H. P.
Published: December 2022

Betel Leaf is a commercial horticultural crop with unleashed economic potential. It is not only part of our cultural traditions but also has great significance in the Ayurveda. Odisha being one of the prominent betel leaf growing state the crop has economic impact on the betel leaf growers of the state. Multistage random sampling technique was adopted to select 60 betel leaf growers. In the initial first year the cost incurred by respondents is more because of additional cost incurred on baroj construction. Net return was calculated by subtracting total costs from total returns; in the following years it gets amplified with the increase in economic life of the crop. Resource use efficiency was analyzed by examining production by Cobb-Douglas production function. All the resources used are significant but seed is the only resource whose use is being ill afforded. Of the two major marketing channels prevalent in the area, the channel that was comparatively more efficient was Producer-Wholesaler- Retailer – Consumer. The other channel that was prevalent was Producer- Pre-harvest contractor- Wholesaler- Retailer – Consumer. To identify the constraints Garett’s ranking method was employed. The prime constraint that caused hindrance in optimum production and marketing of betel leaf were disease severity and price fluctuations respectively. The crop despite the capacity to earn foreign currency has been of less interest to both researchers as well as policy makers. This paper tends to analyze the economic potential of this horticultural crop to enable the policymakers understand its role in the rural economy.
Value-added Analysis and Marketing of Fish Otak-Otak “Selaras”
Authors: Junianto . , Ayuda F. Resvia Annisa , Budiono Jasmine Priyanka , Syukur Iqro Permadi , Ramadhani Gilbran Muhammad , Bentali Abiomi Ciptoning , Islamiati Azahra
Published: December 2022

The goal of this research is to study the added value of processing mackerel into otak-otak in “Otak-Otak Selaras” at Cicendo, Bandung and to analyze its market. This study is done at one of the producers processing mackerel fish in Cicendo, Bandung City, West Java Province. The method used in this research is the case study method. Primary data is used in this research. Location is chosen through the purposive method, where it is chosen on purpose beforehand. Respondents in this research are also determined through the purposive sampling method, where key informants are chosen on purpose beforehand and they are able to grant information that align with the goal of this research. The data collection methods used in this research are interviews, logging, and observation. Data analysis used in this research is the quantitative descriptive analysis method. This research has found that mackerel, if processed into a product, can give a positive value and added value that is bigger than 0, which means that this business is worth running. Otak-otak, the processed product, has an added value of Rp 100,749 / kg and an added value ratio of 55%. The added value and profit of the industry is determined largely by the production cost spent. The market segmentation of “Otak-Otak Selaras” is geographical. The competitors identified are rival and substitute competitors. Pricing by“Otak-Otak Selaras” is done by using the Cost-Plus Pricing. Promotion used by this business is done through placing commercials in e-commerce platforms and by placing a banner in front of the store.
Another Look of Rings Domination in Ladder Graph
Authors: Ruaya Kyle Kenneth B. , Jr. Isagani S. Cabahug, , Eballe Rolito G.
Published: December 2022

For a nontrivial connected graph \(G\) with no isolated vertex, a nonempty subset \(D \subseteq V(G)\) is a rings dominating set if each vertex \(v \in V-D\) is adjacent to at least two vertices in \(V-D\). Thus, the dominating set \(D\) of \(V(G)\) is a rings dominating set if for all \(v \in V-D,|N(v) \cap(V-D)| \geq 2\). The cardinality of minimum rings dominating set of \(G\) is the rings domination number of \(G\), denoted by \(\gamma_{r_i}\) whereas the cardinality of maximum rings dominating set is the upper rings domination number and is denoted by \(\gamma_{r i}^{\prime}\). Here, we determine how the rings dominating set is constructed in the ladder graph with the inclusion of generated conditions for this type of domination and give new approach for its parameter.
Overview of Evaluation of Prophylactic Antibiotics in Patients with Hernia Cases at a Private Hospital in South Tangerang, Indonesia, during the Period January 2019 – December 2020
Authors: Lumbantobing Romauli , Maulia Sherina Hana , Novelyn Silphia
Published: December 2022

Surgical Site Infection (SSI) is one of the complications of surgery in a hospital. The SSI can increase the morbidity and mortality of patients. The primary prevention in the SSI case is to give the right prophylactic antibiotics following the applicable guidelines, which include the proper indication, the right type, the correct dose, the right time, and the right route for giving prophylactic antibiotics. One of the recommended surgical operations using prophylactic antibiotics is a hernia. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of giving preventative antibiotics to patients with hernia cases at a private hospital in South Tangerang from January 2019 - December 2020. This study retrospectively used medical records, and the type of research used was non-experimental with a descriptive design. Based on the data obtained, the administration of prophylactic antibiotics to patients with hernia cases at a private hospital in South Tangerang showed 100% correct indication, 45% correct type, 100% correct dose, 68% timely, 100% correct route of administration of prophylactic antibioti cs.
Under Recognized Respiratory Tract Infections in Non-Neutropenic Fever Children with Cancer: Real-World Insights from Mass Religious Gatherings and Influenza Seasons
Authors: AlAzmi Aeshah , Jastaniah Wasil , AlDabbagh Mona , Elimam Naglla , AlHindi Mohammed
Published: December 2022

Background: No existing research has addressed respiratory tract infections (RTIs) in children with non-neutropenic fever (NNF) who are present during seasons of religious mass gatherings (Hajj, Ramadan), especially if this coincides with the influenza season. The treatment approach for RTI cases in NNF children during mass religious gatherings may not be applicable in the normal season.

Methods: This study includes a retrospective analysis of RTI in NNF children who were present during mass religious gathering seasons and/or flu season, and who were being treated for malignancy at Princess Noorah Oncology Center from May 1, 2016 through December 2017.

Results: A total of 4599 spikes in fever were identified in 124 non-neutropenic children in whom 455 spikes (9.9%, 455 out of 4599) were documented during mass religious gatherings and/or the flu season. NNF secondary to RTIs was documented in 59.7% of patients during the study seasons with a total of 245 fever spikes recorded. Ceftriaxone-based therapy was the main treatment approach for NNF including the RTI cases that were associated with 50% of subsequent hospitalization for further management. Among all the examined risk factors, a prolonged fever of more than three days was significantly associated with NNF secondary to RTI during mass religious gatherings if coincident with the flu season, OR=0.034 [95% CI, 0.013 - 0.09] P-value <0.001.

Conclusions: The present study showed that the prevalence rate of NNF of RTI in NNF children increased during periods of mass gathering. There is need therefore for a national consensus to address NNF management during mass religious gatherings, particularly if coincident with the flu season.
Increasing Consumption of Korean Dramas during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Chandra Yuliyanto
Published: December 2022

This qualitative study focuses on Indonesian transnational fans’ consumption of Korean dramas (hereafter K-dramas) during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study highlights the fans’ lived experiences, thoughts, and interpretation of Korean culture in watching K-dramas as well as how they construct identities through their consumption and articulation in their everyday lives. This study used qualitative questionnaire as the instrument to collect the data for the study. Using thematic analysis, the study reveals that there were four emerging motivating factors to watch K-Dramas among Indonesian viewers: fresh substitutive choice, easy access, interesting stories and visuals, and cultural factors. Additionally, the study also showed four outcomes of their consumptive behavior: language acquisition and motivation to learn Korean, cultural understanding and new perceptions of Korea, pursuit of education, and pure entertainment and stress-reliever. Hence, this study contributes to the body of literature on K-Dramas consumption, especially in the era of COVID-19 pandemic.
Correlation between Dielectric Constant Change and Oxidation Behavior of Silicon Nitride Ceramics at Elevating Temperature up to 1,000 °C
Authors: Yong Seok-Kin , Ko Seok-Young , Jung Wook Ki , Shin Dahye , Park Jin-Woo , Choi Jaeho
Published: December 2022

In this study, the high-temperature dielectric constant of Si3N4 ceramics, a representative non-oxide-based radome material, was evaluated and the cause of the dielectric constant change was analyzed in relation to the oxidation behavior. The dielectric constant of Si3N4 ceramics was 7.79 at room temperature, and it linearly increased as the temperature increased, showing 8.42 at 1,000 °C. As results of analyzing the microstructure and phase for the Si3N4 ceramics before and after heat-treatment, it was confirmed that oxidation did not occur at all or occurred only on the surface at a very insignificant level below 1,000 °C. Based on this, it is concluded that the increase in the dielectric constant according to the temperature increase of Si3N4 ceramics is irrelevant to the oxidation behavior and is only due to the activation of charge polarization.
A Study of Real-time Semantic Segmentation Performance Improvement in Unstructured Outdoor Environment
Authors: Kim Daeyoung , Ahn Seunguk , Seo Seung-Woo
Published: December 2022

Semantic segmentation in autonomous driving for unstructured environments is challenging due to the presence of uneven terrains, unstructured class boundaries, irregular features and strong textures. Current off-road datasets exhibit difficulties like class imbalance and understanding of varying environmental topography. To overcome these issues, we propose a deep learning framework for semantic segmentation that involves a pooled class semantic segmentation with five classes. The evaluation of the framework is carried out on two off-road driving datasets, RUGD and TAS500. The results show that our proposed method achieves high accuracy and real-time performance.
Launching Liver Exchange and the First 3-Way Liver Paired Donation
Authors: Salman Saad , Arsalan Muhammad , Dar Faisal Saud
Published: December 2022

This article discusses the successful implementation of a liver exchange mechanism that led to 3 liver allotransplants and 3 hepatectomies between 3 incompatible patient-donor pairs.
Laser Micro/Nano‐Structuring Pushes Forward Smart Sensing: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Zhang Yabin , Wang Xiangyu , Yan Kai , Zhu Hai , Wang Ben , Zou Bingsuo
Published: December 2022

Post‐pandemic era poses an imperative demand on progressive sensing devices whose performance largely relies on the morphologies and structures of sensing materials. Despite substantial efforts and advances that have been made in sensing materials with different micro/nanoscale dimensionalities, it is still challenging to couple micro/nano platforms with sensing materials together for the precise and scalable production of high‐performance sensors toward practical application scenarios. Owing to noncontact, precise, and high‐efficiency features, laser micro/nanofabrication offers a promising solution to achieve high‐quality micro/nano sensors with novel functionalities in a relatively short time. Herein, this review begins with a glance over the development of micro/nano‐structured sensors and briefly discusses the importance of laser micro/nanostructuring technology for micro/nano‐engineering of the sensors. Next, representative processing methods are elaborated in detail from a laser‐pulse‐type point of view, with potential applications toward chemical, physical, and biological targets based on different sensing mechanisms summarized. Finally, the perspectives on the opportunities and challenges of laser micro/nanostructuring strategies and materials for micro/nanosensors are presented.
Fast and Dynamic Mapping of the Protein Corona on Nanoparticle Surfaces by Photocatalytic Proximity Labeling
Authors: Zhang Zibin , Ren Junji , Dai Wenbing , Zhang Hua , Wang Xueqing , He Bing , Zhang Qiang
Published: December 2022

Protein corona broadly affects the delivery of nanomedicines in vivo. Although it has been widely studied by multiple strategies like centrifugal sedimentation, the rapidly forming mechanism and the dynamic structure of the protein corona at the seconds level remains challenging. Here, a photocatalytic proximity labeling technology in nanoparticles (nano‐PPL) is developed. By fabricating a “core‐shell” nanoparticle co‐loaded with chlorin e6 catalyst and biotin‐phenol probe, nano‐PPL technology is validated for the rapid and precise labeling of corona proteins in situ. Nano‐PPL significantly improves the temporal resolution of nano‐protein interactions to 5 s duration compared with the classical centrifugation method (>30 s duration). Furthermore, nano‐PPL achieves the fast and dynamic mapping of the protein corona on anionic and cationic nanoparticles, respectively. Finally, nano‐PPL is deployed to verify the effect of the rapidly formed protein corona on the initial interaction of nanoparticles with cells. These findings highlight a significant methodological advance toward nano‐protein interactions in the delivery of nanomedicines in vivo.