bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of β-cyclodextrin-based microgels for enhancing solubility of Terbinafine: An in-vitro and in-vivo toxicological evaluation
Authors: Akhtar Saira , Barkat Kashif , Shahid Nariman , Anjum Irfan , Badshah Syed Faisal , Shabbir Maryam , Ibenmoussa Samir , Bin Jardan Yousef A. , Bourhia Mohammed , Salamatullah Ahmad Mohammad , Dauelbait Musaab
Published: October 2024

Solubility enhancement of poorly aqueous-soluble drugs, like Terbinafine (TBN), is a critical challenge in formulating effective dosage forms. This study focused on developing β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and polyacrylamide (PAM)-based microgels to address the solubility issue of TBN, classified as a biopharmaceutics classification system class II drug. The microgels were crafted through free radical polymerization, employing methylene bisacylamide as a cross-linker and methacrylic acid as a monomer, initiated by ammonium persulfate. Comprehensive characterizations, including Fourier transform infrared, thermo-gravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscopy, powder X-ray diffractometry analysis, Zeta size, and Zeta potential, were conducted. In vitro studies, such as drug release and swelling, were performed at pH 1.2. Toxicity analysis in rabbits revealed zero toxicity. These β-CD/PAM microgels successfully enhanced the solubility of TBN.
Estimating molecular properties, drug-likeness, cardiotoxic risk, liability profile, and molecular docking study to characterize binding process of key phyto-compounds against serotonin 5-HT2A receptor
Authors: Bensaad Mohamed Sabri , Verma Devvret , Mitra Debasis , Helal Mahmoud , Banjer Hamsa Jameel , Shami Ashjan A. , Sami Rokayya , Moawadh Mamdoh S. , Alharbi Zeyad M. , Waggas Dania S. , Baakdah Fadi , AlHarthi Siraj B.
Published: October 2024

Nowadays, the physiopathological and molecular mechanisms of multiple diseases have been identified, thus helping scientists to provide a clear answer, especially to those ambiguities related to chronic illnesses. This has been accomplished in part through the contribution of a key discipline known as bioinformatics. In this study, the bioinformatics approach was applied on four compounds identified in Centaurea tougourensis, using two axes of research: an in silico study to predict the molecular characteristics, medicinal chemistry attributes as well as the possible cardiotoxicity and adverse liability profile of these compounds. In this context, four compounds were selected and named, respectively, 2,5-monoformal-l-rhamnitol (compound 1), cholest-7-en-3.beta.,5.alpha.-diol-6.alpha.-benzoate (compound 2), 7,8-epoxylanostan-11-ol, 3-acetoxy- (compound 3), and 1H-pyrrole-2,5-dione, 3-ethyl-4-methyl- (compound 4). The second part looked into molecular docking, which objective was to evaluate the possible binding affinity between these compounds and the serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A (5-HT2A) receptor. Results indicated that compounds 1 and 4 were respecting Pfizer and giant Glaxo-SmithKline rules, while compounds 2 and 3 exhibited an optimal medicinal chemistry evolution 18 score. The structural and molecular features of almost all tested compounds could be considered optimal, indicating that these phyto-compounds may possess drug-likeness capacity. However, only compounds 1 and 4 could be considered non-cardiotoxic, but with a level of confidence more pronounced for compound 1 (80%). In addition, these four biocompounds could preferentially interact with G protein-coupled receptor, ion channel, transporters, and nuclear receptors. However, the heat map was less pronounced for compound 2. Data also indicated that these four compounds could possibly interact with serotonin 5-HT2A receptor, but in an antagonistic way. This research proved once again that plants could be crucial precursors of pharmaceutical substances, which could be helpful to enrich the international pharmacopoeia.
Spillover Effects Between the Stock Market and the Real Economy in a Mixed-Frequency Agent-Based Macrofinancial Model
Authors: Kotb Naira , Brenneisen Jan-Niklas , Lengnick Matthias , Proaño Christian R. , Wohltmann Hans-Werner
Published: October 2024

This paper illustrates a behavioral mixed frequency macro-finance model where both real and financial variables are generated on a daily basis. Further, while financial sector data is collected at the same frequency as it is generated (i.e. daily), real data can only be collected on a quarterly basis. Under these circumstances, output and inflation, upon which data is available with a significant delay, become unsuitable as the sole information guide for monetary policy. We suggest that policy makers can deal with this information problem by reacting to the variable on which data is collected on high frequency basis: the stock price.
Computer aided diagnoses for detecting the severity of Keratoconus
Authors: Abdullah Osamah Qays , Boughariou Aicha , Al-Azawi Fadia W. , Al-Araji Ahmed Mohammed Khadum Abdulamer , Mehdy Mehdy Mwaffeq
Published: October 2024

Problem

Corneal topography instruments have limited parameter constraints for calculating precise defect ratios on the basis of the cone base area of the anterior axial curvature map for patients with Keratoconus (KC).

Aim

The aim of this study is to use thresholding-based segmentation and morphological techniques to calculate the pathological ratio of the keratoconic cornea through cone base area extraction for the detection of KC severity and tracking of disease development.

Methods

Data were collected from February 2022 to March 2023, comprising 97 cases from private clinics in southern Iraq. Disease severity was categorized into three stages, namely, mild, moderate, and severe, according to the topographic KC classification by a senior ophthalmologist. The Galilei system was used in obtaining the corneal topography images. The study proposed an image analysis method for corneal topography images using MATLAB R2020a. The method had four main steps: preprocessing, image segmentation, morphological processing, and pathological ratio calculation. Moreover, pathological ratio was compared with the KC severity through statistical analysis. A P-value less than 0.05 indicated statistically significant results.

Results

The majority of the cases in the mild category had a pathological ratio of ≤20%, and the moderate category had a higher prevalence ranging from 21 to 40%. The severe category had the highest distribution (<40%). A P-value of <0.001 indicated significant and clear link between KC stages and pathologic ratio.

Conclusion

The algorithm used for extracting the cone base area of the keratoconic cornea at different stages was validated by an ophthalmic specialist to ensure that the cone base area was appropriately extracted. The findings may help ophthalmologists to make informed decisions for patients with severe KC and assessments based on the percentage of corneal defects.
Antimicrobial resistance: A significant public health issue of both human and veterinary concern
Authors: Tiamiyu Adebisi Musefiu , Okocha Reuben Chukwuka , Adesina Isaac Ayodeji , Okon Ekemni Moses , Olatoye Isaac Olufemi , Adedeji Olufemi Bolarinwa
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The discovery of antibiotics and the subsequent realization that these medications are the most effective treatments for a wide range of illnesses affecting the health of humans and animals constituted a revolution in medical history.

Methods

A review of the literature was done, looking for pertinent studies, using an explorative review method to discuss how the widespread use of antibiotics often led to bacterial resistance and antibiotic residue in food animals, which negatively impacted humans and animals.

Results

The study showed that treating bacterial resistance is a therapeutic challenge for physicians and veterinary professionals. Increased treatment failure rates, the severity of disease-causing infections, the frequency of blood infections, the length of time patients were sick, and the death rate in both humans and animals are all signs that the overuse of antibiotics is becoming a catastrophe.

Discussion

To prevent the negative effects of antibiotics in people, animals, and the environment, especially in developing nations, this article ends by recommending that strict guidelines, laws, and regulations regarding the use of antibiotics in clinical human and veterinary medicine be implemented. Concern must be expressed about the effects of inactivity on public health, both now and in the future. We may attempt to reverse the global resistance issue by increasing the use of antibiotics and reducing the frequency of resistance genes at all levels. Ultimately, the safety of animal products depends on the proper use of antibiotics in animal husbandry under the supervision of a veterinarian.
“Gusto” or “Taste”? Anglicisms Change Perceived Product Risk and Product Appeal in Italian Print Advertising
Authors: Hu Zhimin , James Mark X. , Testa Giorgio , Navarrete Eduardo
Published: October 2024

This research investigates the influence of anglicisms on the Product Appeal in Italian print advertising. Despite the pervasive use of anglicisms in the Italian advertising industry, little is known about their impact on the precursors to Product Appeal. Two original studies were conducted involving potato chips (convenience product) and stereo speakers (shopping product). The results showed no effect of anglicisms on the relationships between Perceived Product Differentiation, Perceived Price Fairness, Perceived Product Globalness, or Perceived Product Modernity and Product Appeal. However, Anglicisms consistently altered the relationship between Perceived Product Risk and Product Appeal. Specifically, while anglicisms decreased Perceived Product Risk for potato chips, they increased Perceived Product Risk for stereo speakers, suggesting the impact of anglicisms on Perceived Product Risk can operate in an independent mechanism and be product-dependent. This research provides a novel insight on how anglicisms can affect consumer psychology and adds a more nuanced understanding to previous literature regarding language choice in advertising.
Role of Membrane Estrogen Receptor Alpha on the Positive Feedback of Estrogens on Kisspeptin and GnRH Neurons
Authors: Faure Mélanie C. , Corona Rebeca , Roomans Céline , Lenfant Françoise , Foidart Jean-Michel , Cornil Charlotte A.
Published: October 2024

Estrogens act through nuclear and membrane-initiated signaling. Estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) is critical for reproduction, but the relative contribution of its nuclear and membrane signaling to the central regulation of reproduction is unclear. To address this question, two complementary approaches were used: estetrol (E4) a natural estrogen acting as an agonist of nuclear ERs, but as an antagonist of their membrane fraction, and the C451A-ERα mouse lacking mERα. E4dose- dependently blocks ovulation in female rats, but the central mechanism underlying this effect is unknown. To determine whether E4acts centrally to control ovulation, its effect was tested on the positive feedback of estradiol (E2) on neural circuits underlying luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion. In ovariectomized females chronically exposed to a low dose of E2, estradiol benzoate (EB) alone or combined with progesterone (P) induced an increase in the number of kisspeptin (Kp) and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons coexpressing Fos, a marker of neuronal activation. E4blocked these effects of EB, but not when combined to P. These results indicate that E4blocked the central induction of the positive feedback in the absence of P, suggesting an antagonistic effect of E4on mERα in the brain as shown in peripheral tissues. In parallel, as opposed to wild-type females, C451A-ERα females did not show the activation of Kp and GnRH neurons in response to EB unless they are treated with P. Together these effects support a role for membrane-initiated estrogen signaling in the activation of the circuit mediating the LH surge.
A Stochastic Dynamic Operator Framework That Improves the Precision of Analysis and Prediction Relative to the Classical Spike-Triggered Average Method, Extending the Toolkit
Authors: Smith Trevor S. , Abolfath-Beygi Maryam , Sanger Terence D. , Giszter Simon F.
Published: October 2024

Here we test the stochastic dynamic operator (SDO) as a new framework for describing physiological signal dynamics relative to spiking or stimulus events. The SDO is a natural extension of existing spike-triggered average (STA) or stimulus-triggered average techniques currently used in neural analysis. It extends the classic STA to cover state-dependent and probabilistic responses where STA may fail. In simulated data, SDO methods were more sensitive and specific than the STA for identifying state-dependent relationships. We have tested SDO analysis for interactions between electrophysiological recordings of spinal interneurons, single motor units, and aggregate muscle electromyograms (EMG) of major muscles in the spinal frog hindlimb. When predicting target signal behavior relative to spiking events, the SDO framework outperformed or matched classical spike-triggered averaging methods. SDO analysis permits more complicated spike–signal relationships to be captured, analyzed, and interpreted visually and intuitively. SDO methods can be applied at different scales of interest where spike-triggered averaging methods are currently employed, and beyond, from single neurons to gross motor behaviors. SDOs may be readily generated and analyzed using the providedSDO Analysis Toolkit. We anticipate this method will be broadly useful for describing dynamical signal behavior and uncovering state-dependent relationships of stochastic signals relative to discrete event times.
An Investigation of Classical Model Predictive Controller Path Tracking Performance of a Two-Wheel and Four-Wheel Steering Vehicle
Authors: Shamsudin H. Che , Ishak Muhammad Izhar , Heerwan P. M. , Zakaria M. A.
Published: October 2024

Studies on self-driving vehicles have become a trend in recent years, and many systems have been developed to enable autonomous manoeuvre. Various methods have been used to improve path-tracking algorithms which increase vehicle performance, including tracking accuracy and stability. Path tracking is one of the primary problems for autonomous vehicles where the vehicle deviates from target paths, which leads to unnecessary counter-correction. Conventional front wheel steering is unable to satisfy the manoeuvre with a high lateral acceleration since the front steering angle is limited in accurately responding to vehicle dynamics. Moreover, the characteristics of front wheel steering vehicles affect handling stability due to the fact that the turning radius is larger than the vehicle itself. This disadvantageous can compromise safety during under-steer and over-steer situations. The main objective of this preliminary study is to investigate the performance of a four-wheel steering system (4WS) in path tracking for autonomous vehicles using a classical model predictive controller (MPC). Conventional two-wheel steering (2WS) tracking performance following the desired driving system with the same MPC controller is compared with 4WS vehicles. The driving system is developed using Driving Scenario Designer to extract the desired yaw angle and lateral position for controller references constructed in Matlab Simulink. Fixed MPC constraint, prediction, control horizon, yaw angle and lateral position weights were used to compare the performance between 2WS and 4WS vehicles. The simulation results show that 4WS is three times better than 2WS vehicles in tracking predetermined paths. 4WS vehicle show 74.55% better performance in lateral position tracking and 68.75% better performance in trailing predetermined yaw angle value. The simulation data from the preliminary study will be used as a guideline to develop an advanced controller of 4WS vehicles.
Analisis Pemanfaatan Jurnal Elektronik Bidang Teknik Sipil oleh Mahasiswa Program Studi Pendidikan Teknik Bangunan Universitas Negeri Semarang sebagai Sumber Belajar menggunakan Technology Acceptance Model (TAM)
Authors: Hendriyanto Bagus , Qudus Nur , Tugino  , Kristianto Virgiawan Adi
Published: October 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui faktor yang dominan dan tingkat kepuasan pemustaka dalam mengakses jurnal elektronik yang dilanggan Universitas Negeri Semarang bidang teknik sipil oleh mahasiswa Program Studi Pendidikan Teknik Bangunan Universitas Negeri Semarang serta mengetahui pengaruh dari variabel faktor-faktor pemanfaatan terhadap tingkat kepuasan pemustaka dalam mengakses jurnal elektronik.Penelitian ini mengunakan analisa data statika deskriptif, uji t dan uji regresi linear sederhana untuk pengujian hipotesis serta menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif serta desain penelitiaan Ex-post Facto. Populasi dalam penelitian ini yaitu mahasiswa Program Studi Pendidikan Teknik Bangunan Universitas Negeri Semarang angkatan 2020 sampai 2023. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan kuesioner. Dari hasil penelitian faktor yang dominan dalam pemanfaatan jurnal elektronik yaitu kemampuan menggunakan komputer sebesar 84,64%. Tingkat kepuasan pemustaka dalam mengakses jurnal elektronik tertinggi yaitu pada relevan dengan kebutuhan pemustaka sebesar 75,08%. Berdasarkan hasil uji t didapatkan bahwa terdapat pengaruh antara faktor-faktor pemanfaatan jurnal elektronik terhadap tingkat kepuasan pemustaka dalam mengakses jurnal elektronik dan berdasarkan hasil uji koefisien determinasi besaran pengaruh dari faktor-faktor pemanfaatan terhadap tingkat kepuasan pemustaka dalam mengakses jurnal elektronik yaitu sebesar 48,1%, dan sisanya dipengaruhi oleh variabel lain yang tidak diteliti.
Pengaruh Minat Mahasiswa Pendidikan Teknik Bangunan Universitas Negeri Semarang Terhadap Kesiapan Menjadi Guru Sekolah Menengah Kejuruan
Authors: Ningsih Melisa Setiya , Kristianto Virgiawan Adi , Handayani Sri , Sugiyarto Bambang
Published: October 2024

Minat menjadi guru dapat timbul berdasarkan respon positif diri, pengalaman dan keberadaan profesi guru dipandang dari sudut pribadi individu. Ketertarikan kepada suatu profesi dalam hal ini guru, diukur menggunakan indikator fungsi jiwa diantaranya; kognisi (pengetahuan), emosi (perasaan, dan konasi (tindakan). Berdasarkan observasi awal menunjukkan bahwa tingkat minat mahasiswa progam studi Pendidikan Teknik Bangunan belum terukur. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh secara parsial minat terhadap kesiapan menjadi guru pada mahasiswa angkatan 2020 progam studi Pendidikan Teknik Bangunan Universitas Negeri Semarang. Metode penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dengan desain korelasional dan menggunakan hipotesis asosiatif untuk melihat hubungan antar variabel. Populasi pada penelitian ini adalah mahasiswa progam studi Pendidikan Teknik Bangunan angkatan 2020 yang berjumlah 55 mahasiswa dengan kriteria telah menempuh mata kuliah kependidikan dan sudah melaksanakan praktik mengajar. Teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan total sampling atau sampel keseluruhan dari populasi penelitian yaitu 55 mahasiswa. Metode pengumpulan data menggunakan kuesioner dengan skala likert. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa secara parsial minat berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap kesiapan menjadi guru sebesar 51,9 % dan taraf signifikansi 0,000 < 0,05.
Analysis of Student Graduation Prediction Using Machine Learning Techniques on an Imbalanced Dataset: An Approach to Address Class Imbalance
Authors: Hermanto Dedy , Desy Iba Ricoida  , Desi Pibriana  , Rusbandi  , Muhammad Rizky Pribadi
Published: October 2024

Purpose: Machine learning is a key area of artificial intelligence, applicable in various fields, including the prediction of timely graduation. One method within machine learning is supervised learning. However, the results are influenced by the distribution of data, particularly in the case of imbalanced classes, where the minority class is significantly smaller than the majority class, affecting classification performance. Timely graduation from a university is crucial for its sustainability and accreditation. This research aims to identify a suitable method to address the issue of predicting timely graduation by managing class imbalance using SMOTE (Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique).
Methods: This study uses a five-year dataset with 26 attributes and 1328 records, including status labels. The preprocessing stages involve applying five classification algorithms: Decision Tree (DT), Naive Bayes (NB), Logistic Regression (LR), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), and Random Forest (RF). Each algorithm is used both with and without SMOTE to handle the class imbalance. The dataset indicates that 60.84% of the cases represent timely graduations. To mitigate the imbalance, over/under-sampling methods are employed to balance the data. The evaluation metric used is the confusion matrix, which assesses the classification performance.
Result: Without SMOTE, the accuracies were 89.12% for DT, 79.65% for NB, 89.47% for LR, 87.72% for KNN, and 90.88% for RF. With SMOTE, the accuracies were 88.89% for DT, 81.48% for NB, 91.05% for LR, 92.59% for KNN, and 89.81% for RF. The algorithms NB, LR, and KNN showed improvement with SMOTE, with KNN yielding the best results.
Novelty: Based on the comparison results, a comparison of five algorithms with and without SMOTE can reasonably classify several of the algorithms being compared.
Unification as a Cause of Division. Once again about Polish-Lithuanian History
Authors: Wisner Henryk
Published: October 2024

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The Role of Soviet Propaganda Constructed "Soviet Hero" and its Dispersion in Eastem Europe. Rec.: Silke Satjukow, Reiner Gries. Sozialistische Helden. Eine Kulturgeschichte von Propagandafiguren in Osteuropa und der DDR. Berlin, 2002
Authors: Kačiuška Žilvinas
Published: October 2024

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Christian Images and Motifs in the Kizhi Plots of Russian Prose in 1960 — Early 1970-s
Authors: Shilova Natalya
Published: October 2024

The article presents an analysis of Christian topics in prose works about the island of Kizhi. Methodologically, the study combines the approaches of studying the local text that have already become conventional, with the principles of historical poetics, bringing back the possibilities of diachronic analysis. This allows to take into account both the timeless semantic constants of the Kizhi Island image in literature, and the intellectual context of late Soviet literature, which is now attracting the attention of many researchers. 1960–70s are the period when the largest number of texts about the island appeared. The article offers a classification of the Christian topoi in the texts of that period. Three works by different authors are considered in more detail (Yu. Kazakov’ short story Adam and Eve, I. Mazuruk’s short story Kizhi, and V. Pul’kin’s book The Kizhi Tales), in which the Christian topic is represented both explicitly and implicitly — in the images of the church, icons, biblical story about Adam and Eve, gospel images of the apostles. In Soviet prose and poetry, the primordial religious meaning of Christian topoi is most often concealed in the subtext. The depiction of Christian symbols is ambivalent and requires legitimization: through folklore, through the theme of historical memory, dialogue of the past and present, etc. This kind of ambivalence clearly illustrates the complexity of the intellectual and spiritual atmosphere of the Thaw and the contradictory attitude of Russian literature towards the Christian traditions.
“Objectification” as a Cycle-Forming Constant in the Motley Tales of Prince V. F. Odoevsky
Authors: Sytina Yuliya
Published: October 2024

Motley Tales (1833) is one of the completed cycles by V. F. Odoevsky. The writer wished to create a number of cycles, but did not complete a significant number. The article substantiates the importance of viewing Motley Tales as an aesthetically integrated whole due to the order of their arrangement, and common themes and motifs, and despite their “motley” nature. The author discusses the diversity of subject matter in fairy tales, but focuses on only one motif — that of “objectification”. It is important for the entire corpus of work by Odoevsky. The author substantiates the cyclical nature of this motif in the Motley Tales. The term “objectification” is understood in the article in accordance with the concept put forth by M. M. Bakhtin. This scientist called “objectification” of various transformations of a person into an object, or the reduction of a person to an object. The “objectification” motif will be vital for F. M. Dostoevsky, and will already emerge in N. V. Gogol’s work, but even before that — in V. F. Odoevsky’s Motley Tales. “Objectification” is immediately mentioned in the prefaces by the publisher and the writer. Subsequently, this motif manifests itself in all the fairy tales, whose characters are either inclined to objectify others, or are themselves subjected to objectification. Sometimes they do not notice it or even find pleasure in it, yet at other times they recognize their position with horror. The motif of revival is also present in the cycle: a person throws the death veil off his soul, while objects proclaim their humanity. On the whole, however, the deadness of the world in Motley Tales remains unresolved. Inert captivity fetters objects and people who are increasingly more immersed in everyday life. At the same time, the bleak state of the ethically tense world of characters is overcome in its own way in the cycle’s aesthetic reality. Awareness of materiality, its humorous play upon it, conviction in the inexhaustibility of the eternal poetry of being, open up a scintillating opportunity for the resurrection of “living life.”
The Idea of Social Christianity in N. A. Klyuev’s Early Lyric Poetry
Authors: Seregina Svetlana
Published: October 2024

. The article is devoted to the analysis of the early lyrics of N. A. Klyuev: its socio-political motifs are considered, both in the context of the poet’s biography, and through the prism of Modern slavery, a work by the ideologist of social Christianity F.-R. Lamennais. This kind of rapprochement is rooted in the content of Klyuev’s works, as well as a number of circumstances related to the place of publication of Lamennais’ work in Russian, namely, the revolutionary publishing house “Seyatel’,” well-known among socialist revolutionaries, to whom Klyuev was close in the mid-1900s. The integration of Klyuev into the circle of socialist revolutionaries in 1905–1907 suggests that the poet was familiar with the literature that was widespread in this circle, including Lamennais’ work Modern Slavery. This work of the ideologist of social Christianity is considered one of the sources of the life-creating pathos of Klyuev’s early lyrics, aimed at the universal transformation of being. The article conditionally identifies and reveals two stages of the formation of Klyuev’s social Christianity poetics. At the first stage, Klyuev’s works reproduce the main message of Lamennais’ work: the rejection of slavery inherited through the “modern slave’s” awareness of his human dignity and his rebellion, against the established sociohistorical tradition. At the second stage, the most important categories of Lamennais’ work — brotherhood, co-labor, and sacrifice — find their full meaning in Klyuev’s works: practical revolutionary work “for the brothers” now becomes a form of co-laboring with God, and the experience of difficulties and hardships on the revolutionary path — a form of spiritual co-crucifixion with Christ.
Surgical approach to closure of orosinusal communication with pedunculated Bichat adipose tissue, case report and literature review
Authors: González Zulay Palima , Salazar Annamaris del Valle , Cautela Jesús Pérez , Makhlouf Jessika , Urdaneta Daniela T.
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Orosinusal communications are pathological conditions that are characterized by the loss of hard and soft tissues that separate the oral cavity from the maxillary sinus. It is more common between the third and fifth decade of life, with predominance in the left upper jaw area due to the Uncomfortable work position and poor visualization. There are different treatments that can be used for this closure, such is the case of closure with a pedicled Bichat bag because one of the main advantages of this technique is the excellent blood supply of the flap, the lower morbidity of the donor site and the preservation of the normal anatomy of the oral mucosa. Objective: To perform a surgical approach to close the orosinusal communication using a pedicled Bichat bag in a patient who attended the Salazar Cordero Dental Center. Materials and methods: Data collection through interviews, in addition to using instruments such as clinical history, informed consent, radiological studies, clinical photographs, complementary examinations and surgical treatment. Result: A satisfactory result was obtained, with good tissue closure, without complications, the patient is evaluated every 15 days to see his healing process. Conclusion: Knowledge and management of the techniques in closing the orosinusal communication is of vital importance when presenting this type of complications and thus providing appropriate treatment to our patients.
General classification and nomenclature of sedimentary deposits and rocks, a review
Authors: Cruz Guevara Luis Enrique , Cruz-Ceballos Luis Felipe , Avendaño-Sanchez Gladys Marcela
Published: October 2024

A new general and genetic classification is proposed that can be applied to sedimentary deposits and rocks (sedimentites), in six main groups depending on the processes that originate them, this classification seeks the standardization and systematization of the criteria and the most used terms, and proposes some new terms: (1) detrital sedimentites formed by  fragmentation of rocks “in situ”; (2) clastic sedimentites formed by erosion, transport and sedimentation of solid materials; (3) biogenic sedimentites formed by biological productivity and activity “in situ”; (4) chemical sedimentites formed by crystal precipitation from solutions “in situ” within the basin; (5) mixed sedimentites, those formed by mixed sedimentary processes, e.g., biogenic accumulation and clastic sedimentation, among others; and (6) diagenetic modification-transformation sedimentites, entities formed “in situ” by compaction- reorganization, alteration-transformation, dissolution-collapse, precipitation-cementation, crushing and grinding, or deformation-remobilization processes.  Additionally, a new compositional-mineralogical classification of the sedimentites in eleven groups are proposed: silicate; carbonate; phosphate; iron, manganese, aluminum and titanium oxides and hydroxides; sulfate and salts; organic rich; nitrate; sulphide; borate; native rich (metals and the non-metals); and mixed. This systematization offers the advantage of allowing a better and easier sequencing of the classification of the sedimentites and facilitates the improvement in the teaching and learning processes. This systematization offers the advantage of allowing a better and easier sequencing of the classification of sedimentary deposits and rocks and facilitates the improvement in the teaching and learning processes.
Intercomparison of multisource actual evapotranspiration satellite products in Bilate watershed, Ethiopia
Authors: Yimer Alemeshet Kebede , Hatiye Samuel Dagalo , Haile Alemseged Tamiru
Published: October 2024

Recent advancements in satellite remote sensing have led to increased spatial and temporal resolution of actual evapotranspiration (AET) estimates across scales. Yet, the accuracy of AET products remains unknown for many regions, prompting further investigation to guide selection. This study intercompares five AET products within Ethiopia’s Bilate watershed, focusing on the 2009-2018 period. The products assessed include TerraClimate, Food and Agriculture Organization Water Productivity (FAO WaPOR), Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer Operational Simplified Surface Energy Balance (ModisSSEBop), and Synthesis of Global AET. Reference evapotranspiration estimated using ground station climate data served as a basis for comparing the Satellite Products (SP). The intercomparison was conducted using descriptive statistics, scatter plots and Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient to assess correlation, standard deviation, and root mean square error. Additional error statistics were also considered. Findings reveal higher AET values in the highlands compared to the lowlands of the Bilate watershed. A weak correlation (<0.35) exists between ETo and satellite-derived AET, potentially due to the averaging of AET values across diverse land cover classes, contrasting with point-scale reference measurements. The variance among AET products was varied across seasons and elevation ranges. While the annual patterns of AET were consistent across the products, large discrepancies in magnitude (average AET varies from 25 to 83 mm per month in the lower part) were detected. The ModisSSEBop global and continental products showed minimal mismatches, whereas the Synthesis of Global and FAO WaPOR products displayed slight differences. Notably, the FAO WaPOR’s AET estimates showed relatively closer agreement with many products in terms of magnitude and variability of AET. In conclusion, the study highlights significant random and systematic differences between the AET products. The substantial mismatch between the products underscores the necessity for continued research to refine AET product accuracy through improved input dataset and revisiting the algorithms.
Geophysical modeling of the middle Bogotá River Basin with support from interpretation of electrical resistivity, gravity, seismic and borehole data to evaluate potential deep aquifers
Authors: Hernandez Pardo Orlando , Atapuma Paola , Ochoa Gutiérrez Luis Hernán
Published: October 2024

The main objective of this research was to develop a geological and geophysical modeling to infer the geometry and thickness in the sedimentary sequence of the middle basin of the Bogotá River with emphasis on the Guadalupe Group, reconstructing the stratigraphic sequence, structural setting, hydrogeological modeling, and potential geothermal uses. Various geophysical methods were applied, including vertical electrical soundings (VES), and magneto telluric soundings (MT-VES), whose results were complemented with the interpretation of seismic lines, regional and local gravity anomaly maps, and borehole data, among others, which allowed to model the subsurface from the surface to depths beyond 3000 meters, with emphasis on the interval between 500m to 1000m depth. Integrated models were developed from interpretations of electrical resistivity data, gravity and magnetic data, reflection seismic and borehole data. Based on the results, potential deep aquifers have been proposed to be confirmed by drilling. These deep aquifers can contribute to satisfy the need for water, which historically has been explored and overexploited from shallower aquifers in this sector of the basin. A recommendation was also made to consider the potential of low enthalpy thermal energy for agro-industrial purposes associated with groundwater’s temperature at the depth of this research. As a result, the modeled sedimentary sequence is characterized by a thick quaternary overburden overlying an intensively folded and faulted Neogene, Paleogene, and upper Cretaceous formations, mainly composed of siltstone, sandstones, and shale sequences of fluvial and marine environment, including facies of marine regressions and transgressions near the coastline. The penetration obtained allows establishing a high hydrogeological potential in the first 2000m depth, especially associated with the Guadalupe group, where the Labor and Tierna and Arenisca Dura formations have the highest hydrogeological potential. In addition, the preliminary estimation of thermal gradients suggest that low enthalpy geothermal energy potential is feasible to be used for the agro-industrial demand of energy of the study area.
Artificial neural networks in the retention of anthocyanins and total phenolics in the osmotic pre-treatment of Biloxi variety blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) jam
Authors: Obregón Domínguez Jesús Alfredo , Minchón Medina Carlos Alberto , Barraza Jáuregui Gabriela del Carmen
Published: October 2024

Blueberries are a fruit that is an important source of bioactive components beneficial to the human diet, such as anthocyanins and total phenolics, which are altered by the use of high temperatures during processing. This study aimed to evaluate the use of artificial neural networks in the optimization of sucrose concentration and time for the osmotic pre-treatment of blueberries of the Biloxi variety, to retain the greatest amount of anthocyanins and total phenolics in the subsequent preparation of jam. Artificial neural networks of the feedforward type were used, with a Backpropagation training algorithm with Levenberg-Marquardt weight adjustment, to achieve the optimal predicted combination that maximizes the retention of these bioactive components. The model achieved its best performance with 11 neurons in the hidden layer, achieving an R2 coefficient of 0.98 and a mean square error of 4.76, indicating a strong ability for generalization. Artificial neural networks allowed to obtain the best optimal combination of predicted multiple responses of factors consisting of a sucrose concentration of 1.64 M and a time of 211.52 min, which retained a higher content of total monomeric anthocyanins with 70.98 mg cyanidin-3-O-glucoside 100 g-1 of jam and total phenolics with 110.54 mg GAE g-1 of jam. On the other hand, through single-response optimization was obtained that the combination of experimental factors that maximized total anthocyanins (71.59 mg cyanidin-3-O-glucoside 100 g-1 of jam) was 1.54 M of sucrose and 232.73 min and for total phenols (111.06 mg GAE g-1 of jam) 1.79 M of sucrose and 196.36 min. The use of artificial neural networks is an excellent alternative for modeling phenomena, compared to traditional methods.
Coating of oxidized banana starch and olive oil for the preservation of cherry tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum cv. Cerasiforme)
Authors: Cedeño Sares Luis Alberto , Casariego Año Alicia , García Pérez Mario A. , Jumbo Peña Ney David , Machuca Román Jennifer Viviana
Published: October 2024

Postharvest conservation of fresh fruits and vegetables is a constant challenge in the food industry. Biodegradable coatings represent an innovative and sustainable solution to extend their shelf life. In this context, this research evaluated the influence of a coating based on oxidized banana starch (Musa paradisiaca L. group AAA, cv. Cavendish) and olive oil on the conservation of cherry tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum cv. Cerasiforme) during their storage at ambient conditions. Coating-forming emulsions were prepared using starch (4% m v-1) with a high degree of oxidation, glycerol, Tween 80, and olive oil. The products were dip coated. The starch extraction yield was 27.26% by the wet milling method. The contents of lipids, crude fiber, proteins, carbohydrates, and ashes tended to decrease in oxidized starches with increasing reaction time, the opposite behavior for humidity (P≤0.05). Solubility and oil absorption capacity increased in oxidized starches, while water absorption and swelling power decreased (P≤0.05). The best combination for the formulation of oxidized starch coatings was 3% (m v-1) of glycerol and 0.3% (m v-1) of oil. This coating reduced weight losses and delayed the ripening process. The results suggested that the use of coatings based on oxidized banana starch and olive oil is an effective strategy for maintaining the quality and freshness of the fruits during a longer storage period.
Promoting food security and sustainability with a transportable indirect evaporative solar pre-cooler
Authors: Elkaoud Nabil Shaban Mahmoud Ali , Mahmoud Ragab Kassem , Taraby Hassan Hafiz , Adam Mahmoud Saad
Published: October 2024

Perhaps one of the most important goals of sustainable development for developing countries is to enhance the utilization of renewable energy sources in all sectors in general and the agricultural sector in particular. The pre-cooling process helps to maintain quality and extend the shelf life of the fruits and vegetables. The aim of this study was to fabricate an indirect evaporative solar precooler (IESP) to reduce post-harvest loss for agricultural products. Tomato crop was chosen to be pre-cooled as an example of agricultural value chains. Experimental variables included three temperatures of cooling water (15, 10 and 5 °C) and two air velocities that passed through the cooling cabinet (1.5 and 2.5 m s-1). The results showed that at 1.5 m s-1 air velocity, the actual coefficient of performance was 19.4, 25.5 and 34.7% at cooling water temperatures 15, 10 and 5 °C, respectively. At 2.5 m s-1 air velocity, the actual coefficient of performance was 23.1, 28.8 and 37.2% at cooling water temperatures 15, 10 and 5 °C, respectively. The performance of the IESP under these conditions was 15.4 °C, 91.5% RH, 0.338 TR refrigeration load and 37.2% COPcyc. Total energy consumption was 6.4 kWh day-1. The solar pre-cooler performance proved a very feasible solution to the demands of small and medium horticultural holdings, especially in cities with a very hot climate to keep vegetables and fruits from deteriorating after harvest.
Broiler feed proposal with vinasse
Authors: Giraud Nicolle , Rodríguez María Alejandra
Published: October 2024

Considering previous studies on the potential use of vinasse in the agricultural sector, this study seeks to design a feed for broilers in three presentations according to the stages of the animal’s feeding program (start 1-14, growth 15-30 and end 31-42 days) that includes vinasse in the formulation. To this end, soybeans were considered as a source of protein, a diet with metabolizable energy between 12,351.06 and 14,025.78 kJ•kg-1. The granulometry was determined according to the broiler management manuals, and the feed manufacturing process was specified in a block diagram and a flow diagram; in the same way, a test protocol for the use of the feed formulated in a sample of broilers of the Cobb breed. This research suggests that using vinasse in feed formulations for broilers could provide significant benefits to the agricultural sector.
First report of bacteria associated with soft rot in yellow pitahaya (Selenicereus megalanthus haw.) in Colombia crops
Authors: Lizarazo Forero Luz Marina , Másmela Mendoza Julián Esteban
Published: October 2024

Colombia is the ninth largest producer of dragon fruit in the world and the department of Boyacá is the largest with 440 hectares planted. Bacterial phytopathogens can cause pitahaya fruit losses and low yields by producing stem soft rot. This research aimed to study and identified possible agents of bacterial diseases of pitahaya in Boyacá, Colombia. Thirteen farms in the region were selected to take 20 samples by means of a targeted and random sampling of stem and fruit tissues with soft rot symptoms in the early stages of the disease. A process of microbiological isolation, biochemical and molecular taxonomic identification of the isolated bacteria. The 16s rRNA gene sequences of the V2-V5 region were edited by removing the primers, assembling and obtaining the consensus sequence of the primers 1100R-337F and 800R -518F. The phylogenetic analysis was performed by BLAST at NCBI, using the “Classifier” and “SeqMatch” tools from the RDP website, and phylogenetic trees were created by multiple alignment using the MUSCLE algorithm and the Tamura Nei distance method was performed. Signs like blisters and mucilaginous fluids, symptoms like yellow and brown chlorotic spots, soft rot, and liquefaction were identified, and possible vectors like flies and ants were report. Twenty-five bacterial morphotypes were identified classifieds in 4 phyla, 9 families and 13 genera. The analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequences of the bacterial strains showed a 98 to 100% identity with Enterobacter cloacae, Pectobacterium carotovora and Paenibacillus glucanolyticus, reported in other studies as causing the soft rot of the pitahaya stem and fruit. New species were reported as possible pathogenic bacteria of pitahaya: Pantoea cypripedii, Kluyvera intermedia and Klebsiella oxytoca. Infectivity assays did not have positive results. The microbiota identified in the stages of the necrotrophic phase or final stage of soft rot of the stem belong to the genera Achromobacter, Sphingobacterium, Pseudomonas, Klebsiella, Paenibacillus, Bacillus, Stenotrophomonas and Microbacterium. In the fly Leptoglossus zonatus associated with the crop were identified Pseudomonas fulva and Lysinibacillus fusiformis were identified. This is also the first official report of a complex of possible phytopathogen bacteria of the order Enterobacterales (Enterobacteriacea, Erwiniaceae and Pectobacteriaceae family) in symptoms by bacterial disease on pitahaya Colombian crops. Identification of the bacteria in a pathogenic system can guide chemical and biological control practices in order to increase the productive and export potential of exotic and orphan crops from small local farmings.
Enzymatic biocatalysis processes on the semicrystalline and morphological order of native cassava starches (Manihot esculenta)
Authors: Figueroa Flórez Jorge , Cadena Chamorro Edith , Salcedo Mendoza Jairo , Rodríguez Sandoval Eduardo , Ciro Velásquez Héctor , Serna Fadul Tiana
Published: October 2024

Enzymatic biocatalysis has emerged as a green technology in starch modification with divergent results at the morphological level depending on the origin of the starch source. Therefore, various enzymatic biocatalysts were implemented to evaluate their effect on the morphological and semi-crystalline characteristics of native cassava starches. The degree of affinity of the biocatalysts and the conversion rate on native cassava starches were determined by kinetic parameters such as the Michaelis-Menten constant, whose results revealed the following order of affinity from highest to lowest: α-amylase, amyloglucosidase, pullulanase, and β-amylase. In addition, greater biocatalytic activity of α-amylase and β-amylase was evidenced on the amorphous zones of the polymer associated with the decrease in the amylose content and a significant increase in the degree of relative crystallinity. According to morphological analyses and XDR, the action of amyloglucosidase promoted exo-erosion phenomena and the appearance of lacerations on the granular surface of starch with the consequent decrease in the semicrystalline order. The pullulanase caused slightly eroded fragmented granules with greater biocatalytic activity on the crystalline lamellae, associated with a significant increase in the apparent amylose content. FTIR analysis in the 1,200-900 cm-1 region, corresponding to the starch fingerprint, allowed us to detect notable changes in the degree of molecular order after the enzymatic attack; this result was consistent with the degree of relative crystallinity estimated by X-ray diffraction. Likewise, the results allowed us to notice significant changes in the semi-crystalline order and morphological characteristics during the modification with α-amylase (AAM) and amyloglucosidase (AMG) associated with their greater affinity and preferential action on the amorphous structures located on the granular surface of native cassava starch.