bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current technology landscape of biochar in carbon capture and storage research via bibliometric analysis
Authors: Lungkadee Thananat , Katongtung Tossapon , Pokkanta Pich-ramon , Onsree Tossaporn , Jaroenkhasemmeesuk Chawannat , Tippayawong Nakorn
Published: February 2024

This study explores the current technology landscape and intersection of biochar and carbon capture and storage (CCS) within the engineering field, presenting a meticulous analysis gleaned from the Scopus database through bibliometric analysis. In response to the urgent need to address the escalating climate crisis, biochar, with its high carbon content, emerges as a promising and resilient tool for carbon sequestration. A literature review establishes biochar's pivotal role in mitigating climate change with contributions including substantial carbon sequestration potential, economic benefits, and positive impacts on soil structure and crop yields. Distinguishing between the applications of biochar and CCS, this paper emphasizes their complementary roles in decarbonization. By employing VOSviewer, an advanced bibliometric tool, a quantitative exploration of global connections identifying prominent authors, highly cited literature, and research trends is provided. The results reveal a substantial increase in publications related to biochar in CCS, particularly during the rapid development phase from 2016 to 2023, reflecting a growing interest in utilizing biochar as a carbon sink. Key insights from the co-occurrence analysis of keywords shed light on evolving research focuses, with three distinct clusters demonstrating the interconnectedness of adsorption, biochar, and pyrolysis. The precise method highlights a shift in research focus towards more impactful areas, particularly water pollutant removal and adsorption. The conclusion emphasizes biochar's dual role in soil carbon sequestration and carbon capture technologies, showcasing its versatility as a valuable tool in climate change mitigation efforts. Despite challenges in large-scale implementation, biochar, especially in the context of direct air capture and bioenergy CCS, emerges as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly adsorbent. In summary, this bibliometric analysis encapsulates a rigorous exploration of biochar and CCS, contributing valuable insights for researchers, policymakers and practitioners. By navigating uncharted territory, this study guides future endeavors toward impactful and relevant areas of study in the pursuit of sustainable climate change mitigation.
Group sparse representation and saturation-value total variation based color image denoising under multiplicative noise
Authors: Jung Miyoun
Published: February 2024

In this article, we propose a novel group-based sparse representation (GSR) model for restoring color images in the presence of multiplicative noise. This model consists of a convex data-fidelity term, and two regularizations including GSR and saturation-value-based total variation (SVTV). The data-fidelity term is suitable for handling heavy multiplicative noise. GSR enables the retention of textures and details while sufficiently removing noise in smooth regions without producing the staircase artifacts engendered by total variation-based models. Furthermore, we introduce a multi-color channel-based GSR that involves coupling between three color channels. This avoids the generation of color artifacts caused by decoupled color channel-based methods. SVTV further improves the visual quality of restored images by diminishing certain artifacts induced by patch-based methods. To solve the proposed nonconvex model and its subproblem, we exploit the alternating direction method of multipliers, which contributes to an efficient iterative algorithm. Numerical results demonstrate the outstanding performance of the proposed model compared to other existing models regarding visual aspect and image quality evaluation values.
Fusion recognition of palmprint and palm vein based on modal correlation
Authors: Wu Wei , Zhang Yuan , Li Yunpeng , Li Chuanyang
Published: February 2024

Biometric authentication prevents losses from identity misuse in the artificial intelligence (AI) era. The fusion method integrates palmprint and palm vein features, leveraging their stability and security and enhances counterfeiting prevention and overall system efficiency through multimodal correlations. However, most of the existing multi-modal palmprint and palm vein feature extraction methods extract only feature information independently from different modalities, ignoring the importance of the correlation between different modal samples in the class to the improvement of recognition performance. In this study, we addressed the aforementioned issues by proposing a feature-level joint learning fusion approach for palmprint and palm vein recognition based on modal correlations. The method employs a sparse unsupervised projection algorithm with a "purification matrix" constraint to enhance consistency in intra-modal features. This minimizes data reconstruction errors, eliminating noise and extracting compact, and discriminative representations. Subsequently, the partial least squares algorithm extracts high grayscale variance and category correlation subspaces from each modality. A weighted sum is then utilized to dynamically optimize the contribution of each modality for effective classification recognition. Experimental evaluations conducted for five multimodal databases, composed of six unimodal databases including the Chinese Academy of Sciences multispectral palmprint and palm vein databases, yielded equal error rates (EER) of 0.0173%, 0.0192%, 0.0059%, 0.0010%, and 0.0008%. Compared to some classical methods for palmprint and palm vein fusion recognition, the algorithm significantly improves recognition performance. The algorithm is suitable for identity recognition in scenarios with high security requirements and holds practical value.
Vector-Based Realization of Area-Weight Proportional Multiplicatively Weighted Voronoi Diagrams With the ArcGIS Engine
Authors: Tian Song , Wei Zheng
Published: February 2024

In the geographical field, the studies have been on service areas using the Voronoi diagram and its derived models is extensive, but there is a lack of effective methods to achieve a good area-weight proportionality between generators and their exclusive regions. As a famous visualizing method, adaptive multiplicatively weighted Voronoi diagrams are able to achieve it, but are limited to displaying non-spatial data. The approach of the area-weight proportional multiplicatively weighted Voronoi diagram is proposed to solve these problems by allowing for spatial division with a point-fixed iteration approach and a vector-based multiplicatively weighted Voronoi diagram construction method from point features with spatial coordinates and references in GIS environments. It enables one to create a set of regions that is proportional to the weights of the generators. The method is successfully tested on a series of cases. The approach aims to establish a kind of spatial data model to represent demand and supply situations in real life.
Screening for Alcohol Use Disorder and Management of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome in Critical Care Patients
Authors: Mezzadri Lindsay
Published: February 2024

Background

Evidence-based research indicates that subjective questionnaires should be eliminated in screening for alcohol use disorder and management of alcohol withdrawal syndrome in critical care patients. However, transitioning clinicians away from these screening tools remains challenging.

Objective

To improve screening for alcohol use disorder and management of alcohol withdrawal syndrome in the critical care setting by implementing an evidence-based alcohol use disorder screening tool and alcohol withdrawal syndrome protocol for critical care patients.

Methods

The project site was a 17-bed adult medical intensive care unit in a large, southeastern US teaching hospital. Interventions consisted of the elimination of previously used tools such as the Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol–Revised and implementation of the Prediction of Alcohol Withdrawal Severity Scale for alcohol use disorder screening and the Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale and symptom-triggered benzodiazepine administration for alcohol withdrawal syndrome management.

Results

Alcohol use disorder screening among the critical care patient population increased by 49% from before to after the intervention. Of the patients at risk for withdrawal, 79% had an order for monitoring with the new intensive care unit alcohol withdrawal protocol in the postintervention group, compared with 35% who had an order for monitoring with the Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol–Revised in the preintervention group.

Conclusion

The elimination of previously used tools and the implementation of the Prediction of Alcohol Withdrawal Severity Scale and the new intensive care unit alcohol withdrawal protocol improved alcohol use disorder screening and alcohol withdrawal syndrome management among critical care patients.
Monometallic ‘zinc oxide and copper oxide’ nanoparticles by ecofriendly synthesis for suppression of mastitis-causing bacteria via ξ potential
Authors: Mahmoud Sara M. , Kortam Laila E. , Barakat Olfat S. , Eid Rasha H. , Aref Noha E.
Published: February 2024

Background

Metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) are extensively employed in biology and medicine because they may freely pass through organisms’ barriers. Monometallic zinc oxide (MM ZnO) and copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) by ecofriendly synthesis are safe, economical, and promising future alternatives as antimicrobial agents.

Objective

This study focused on the functioning zeta (ξ) potential (ZP) of (MM ZnO) and (CuO NPs) for suppression of mastitis-causing bacteria.

Materials and methods

Monometallic nanoparticles (MMNPs) were biosynthesized by Bacillus megaterium and characterized by UV-Vis spectra, SEM-EDS, TEM, particle size distribution, ZP, and particle concentrations calculated by ICP-AES. Then, the biocidal activity of MM ZnO and CuO NPs against some mastitis causing bacteria isolates was studied.

Results and conclusion

The obtained data reveal that the resulting cationic ZnO and anionic CuO are zero-dimensional (0-D) oval and spherical NPs with 5–17 and 10–34 nm in size, respectively. The IC50 of the biosynthesized ZnO and CuO NPs was 1717±33.7 μg/ml and 1493±42.52 μg/ml, respectively. The obtained results showed no cytotoxic effect of the MMNPs on somatic cells. Data suggested that a high dose of 100 μg/ml of cationic ZnO represents a highly significant effect (P<0.05) over anionic CuO for suppressing mastitis bacteria. The terminus point was in evaluating the toxicity of MMNPs by comet assay; the effects of the variation were based on the ZP and interactivity of layers carrying opposite charges. These findings elucidate that cationic ZnO NPs have advantages in targeting pathogenic bacteria because of enhanced delivery to the cells, which causes water dehydration and decreases the moisture required for bacterial viability and plasmolysis via ionic interactions.
Surgical intervention combined with weight-bearing walking training promotes recovery in patients with chronic spinal cord injury: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Zhu Hui , Guest James D. , Dunlop Sarah , Xie Jia-Xin , Gao Sujuan , Luo Zhuojing , Springer Joe E. , Wu Wutian , Young Wise , Poon Wai Sang , Liu Song , Gao Hongkun , Yu Tao , Wang Dianchun , Zhou Libing , Wu Shengping , Zhong Lei , Niu Fang , Wang Xiaomei , Liu Yansheng , So Kwok-Fai , Xu Xiao-Ming
Published: February 2024

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202412000-00032/figure1/v/2024-05-29T122840Z/r/image-tiff

For patients with chronic spinal cord injury, the conventional treatment is rehabilitation and treatment of spinal cord injury complications such as urinary tract infection, pressure sores, osteoporosis, and deep vein thrombosis. Surgery is rarely performed on spinal cord injury in the chronic phase, and few treatments have been proven effective in chronic spinal cord injury patients. Development of effective therapies for chronic spinal cord injury patients is needed. We conducted a randomized controlled clinical trial in patients with chronic complete thoracic spinal cord injury to compare intensive rehabilitation (weight-bearing walking training) alone with surgical intervention plus intensive rehabilitation. This clinical trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02663310). The goal of surgical intervention was spinal cord detethering, restoration of cerebrospinal fluid flow, and elimination of residual spinal cord compression. We found that surgical intervention plus weight-bearing walking training was associated with a higher incidence of American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale improvement, reduced spasticity, and more rapid bowel and bladder functional recovery than weight-bearing walking training alone. Overall, the surgical procedures and intensive rehabilitation were safe. American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale improvement was more common in T7–T11 injuries than in T2–T6 injuries. Surgery combined with rehabilitation appears to have a role in treatment of chronic spinal cord injury patients.
Eumycetoma, a report of two rare cases
Authors: Tambe Swagata A , Jangid Kirti M , Wanare Manali S , Bhoite Ketki S
Published: February 2024

Mycetoma is a chronic, slowly progressive, suppurative, granulomatous disease of the subcutaneous tissue characterized by a localized swelling with multiple sinuses discharging granules that are micro-colonies of the causative agents. Eumycotic mycetoma is caused by saprophytic fungi. It is responsible for considerable physical comorbidity, as many cases may require surgical interventions, including amputations. Facilities for tissue culture and sensitivity testing may not be available at resource poor settings, adding to the disease burden. Identification of organisms and appropriate therapy is essential for a successful treatment outcome. Here, we present two rare cases of eumycetoma caused by Aspergillus.
Trends of skin cancer incidence in Turkey: A hospital-based study
Authors: Katkat Çelik Esma , Baykal Selcuk Leyla , Ersöz Şafak , Aksu Arıca Deniz , Yaylı Savaş , Ferhatosmanoğlu Arzu
Published: February 2024

Background:

The incidence of skin cancers is increasing every year. The purpose of the study was to determine the change in the incidence of skin cancers and their subtypes over the years.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 1507 patients who applied to the Dermatology Clinic between January 1, 2010, and January 1, 2020, and were diagnosed with Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), and melanoma were included in the study. Sociodemographic characteristics of the patients, comorbidities, tumor type, tumor number, lesion size, lymph node or organ metastasis, number of recurrences, and number of previous surgeries were recorded.

Results:

A total of 1056 (52.4%) patients had BCC, 733 (36.4%) SCC, and 225 (11.2%) had melanoma. The mean age was 69.8 (±14.61) in females and 67.65 (±13.33) in males (P < 0.001) at the time of diagnosis. The highest rate of recurrence was detected in 39 patients (7.1%) and the earliest recurrence time (15.77 months (±14.24) was detected in SCC (P < 0.01, P = 0.01, respectively). The mean age of skin cancer was found to be significantly lower in those who had undergone organ transplantation and those who had autoimmune diseases (P = 0.004, P = 0.008, respectively). Also, organ metastases were more common (P = 0.005), and the mean tumor size was lower in patients with autoimmune diseases (P = 0.008).

Conclusion:

It was found that the frequency of SCC has increased and approached BCC over the years, and the frequency of malignant melanoma has been similar. Results support that more emphasis should be placed on skin cancer screening and prevention in high-risk groups.
Changes in the clinical and histopathological features of melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers after COVID-19 lockdown period
Authors: Ferhatosmanoğlu Arzu , Selcuk Leyla Baykal , Ersöz Şafak , Çelik Esma Katkat , Keskin Faysal , Arıca Deniz Aksu
Published: February 2024

Introduction:

Studies show that the number of skin cancers diagnosed and treated during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown periods has decreased.

Objectives:

Comparing demographic and histopathological changes in skin cancer cases after the COVID-19 lockdown period with the prepandemic period.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective observational study of skin cancers (basal cell carcinoma [BCC], squamous cell carcinoma [SCC], and malignant melanoma [MM]) diagnosed before the COVID-19 pandemic period (January 1, 2018–January 1, 2020) and after the COVID-19 pandemic period (June 1, 2022–January 1, 2023). A comparison was made between the two groups in terms of the duration of admission to the hospital, the tumor diameter at the time of admission, and the histopathological features of the tumor.

Results:

A total of 422 bcC, 257 SCC, and 67 MM cases were evaluated. After the COVID-19 pandemic period, the mean age at diagnosis was lower, and the mean time to diagnosis was shorter in BCC and SCC cases compared to the prepandemic period. There was no statistically significant difference in tumor thickness, tumor diameter, ulceration, lymphovascular invasion, or perineural invasion in nonmelanoma skin cancers before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Although there was no significant difference between melanoma cases in terms of age, gender, mean duration of diagnosis, location, and presence of ulceration or mitosis, the rate of in situ/invasive melanoma increased in the post-COVID period.

Conclusions:

This study may allow an assessment that the COVID-19 lockdown period does not have a negative impact on skin cancers. However, for a more accurate assessment, studies with a larger sample size and longer follow-up periods are needed.
Decubitus ulcers: A common problem in bedridden patients
Authors: Lodenyo Hudson A.
Published: February 2024

No Abstract
Pressure Ulcer Preventive Measures Utilized and Its Perceived Effectiveness Among Nurses in Selected Hospitals in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria
Authors: Ehwarieme Timothy A. , Abiodun Oluwaseun O. , Josiah Uzezi
Published: February 2024

Background: Pressure ulcers represent a largely  preventable patient safety issue, serving as an indicator of nursing care quality and patient safety within healthcare settings. This study aimed to assess the utilization and effectiveness of pressure ulcer preventive measures among nurses in selected hospitals.

Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional survey involved 304 nurses purposefully selected from surgical wards/units in the chosen hospitals. A well-structured, pretested questionnaire with a reliability index of 0.842 was employed for data collection. Descriptive statistics, including mean, frequency, and percentage, were used for data analysis.

Results: Findings indicated that risk assessment (mean 3.67±0.56) was the most frequently used preventive measure, followed by skin repositioning every 2 hours (3.46±0.71), use of barrier creams (3.35±0.71), and the utilization of pressure-relieving devices such as air beds (3.33±0.75). Prophylactic sacral dressing (3.14±0.76) and massaging of bony prominences (3.17±0.86) were also commonly employed. The most effective measures were risk assessment (mean 2.66±0.5), repositioning every 2 hours (2.56±0.54), and skin assessment (2.54±0.54). Barriers to preventive measures included limited equipment (3.31±0.96), nursing shortages (3.12±0.77), lack of skill/training (3.09±0.85), and heavy workloads (3.14±0.82).

Conclusion And Recommendation: This study highlights that risk assessment was the most used and effective preventive measure among nurses. Challenges, such as the lack of training and heavy workloads, hindered utilization. Recommendations include regular updates on best practices for staff, especially new nurses, to bridge the theory-practice gap and promptly implement research findings.
Screening for virulent and antibiotic resistant Escherichia coli in raw and ready-to-eat snails (Arachatina marginata) vended in selected markets in Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Okafor N.M. , Eruteya O.C.
Published: February 2024

This aim of this study was to screen for virulent and antibiotic resistant Escherichia coli in raw and ready-to-eat snails (Archachatina marginata) vended in selected markets within Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Proximate composition, isolation, identification and presence of virulent genes were done using standard methods. Raw snails from Choba market had Escherichia coli count ranging from 1.8x104 to 8.2x105 CFU/g, while the ready-to-eat samples were not contaminated with E. coli. Raw snails from Rumuokoro market had Escherichia counts ranging from 4.2 x104 to 6.9 x106 CFU/g while two of the ready-to-eat samples had counts of 3.602 x 103 CFU/g and 3.556 x 103 CFU/g. Raw snails from Oyigbo market had Escherichia counts ranging from 4.653 x 103 CFU/g to 5.579 x 103 CFU/g while one ready-to-eat sample had Escherichia. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing showed that 100% of Escherichia were resistant to cefuroxime, augmentin, cefixime and ceftazidime. Of the three-virulence genes (eae, ast and aggR) screened for in this study only aggR was detected in one Escherichia isolate. Proper blanching and heating should be employed during preparations of snails to curtail food poisoning.
Exploring the underlying mechanism of ethyl acetate extract of Annona muricata leaves via the NRF2 and NF-ΚB pathway in type 1 diabetic Wistar rats
Authors: Oriakhi K. , Ogbomo R.O. , Anyanwu C.I. , Agu K.C.
Published: February 2024

Type 1 diabetes mellitus is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the destruction of pancreatic beta cells, leading to impaired insulin production and regulation. Recent research has shown that medicinal plants with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties hold promise as potential therapeutic agents for managing complications of the disease. The aim of this study is to investigate the anti-diabetic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effect of ethyl acetate extract of Annona muricata leaves in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes in Wistar rats. Thirty five (35) male Wistar rats weighing 150-180g were used for this experiment. Group 1 (Normal control), Group 2 (STZ 40 mg/kg only Diabetic control), Group 3 (STZ+ metformin 500mg/kg bw), Group 4 (STZ + ethyl acetate extract 250 mg/kg bw), Group 5 (STZ + ethyl acetate extract (500 mg/kg bw). Fasting blood samples were collected by cardiac puncture for glucose estimation and liver tissues excised for both biochemical and molecular studies. The study demonstrated the extract's ability to modulate the NF-κB pathway, leading to the suppression of inflammatory responses in diabetic rats. These findings suggest that the ethyl acetate extract of A. muricata leaves may ameliorate type 1 diabetes by promoting antioxidant defense and reducing inflammatory processes through the NRF2 and NF-κB pathways. This research sheds light on the potential of natural compounds as adjunct therapies for type 1 diabetes and provides a foundation for further investigations into the development of novel treatments targeting oxidative stress and inflammation in autoimmune diabetes.
Epstein Barr Virus nuclear antigen and sociodemographical characteristics of HIV-infected individuals in two tertiary health facilities in Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Oketah E. N. , Cookey T. I. , Okonko B. J. , Adim C. C. , Onu E. N. , Frank-Peterside N. , Okonko I. O.
Published: February 2024

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is one of the opportunistic pathogens that affects HIV infected individuals. Although high prevalence of EBV has been well documented in Africa and some parts of Nigeria, such data are sparse from Rivers State, Nigeria. Thus, this study aimed at determining the Epstein Barr virus nuclear antigens and the sociodemographical characteristics of HIV-infected individuals in two tertiary hospitals in Rivers State, Nigeria. Plasma from 182 HIV-infected individuals attending the Retroviral Clinics of UPTH and RSUTH in Rivers State, Nigeria were tested for antibodies specific for EBNA by IgM ELISA assays. Overall prevalence of IgM antibodies against Epstein Barr Nucleic Acid (EBNA) was 20.9%. The study showed sex-related statistical variances in the seropositivity of anti-IgM (females 23.5% vs. males 16.4%, p<0.05). Higher seropositivity occurred in age range 0-20 years (25.0%) than other age range, divorced and widowed (50.0%) than the married (25.7%) and singles (10.1%), among tertiary education (24.7%) than secondary (20.5%) and primary education (8.3%), Islamic religion (56.3%) than Christian religion (17.5%), and social/healthcare workers (37.5%) than other occupational groups. Summarily, higher seropositivity of anti-IgM antibodies against EBV was observed in HIV-infected individuals in UPTH than their counterparts in RSUTH. Nevertheless, 20.9% of the HIV-infected individuals in this study that were categorized with current/ongoing primary infection, owed to VCA-IgM detection, were positive for EBNA IgM antibodies. In conclusion, this study clearly confirmed that EBV seropositivity considerably increased with age, sex, marital status, educational level, religion, and occupation. Thus, this study verified earlier studies that presented high EBV seroprevalence, touching >50.0%the populace in Nigeria. Future larger and multi-center clinical research are suggested to address some unanswered seroepidemiological questions.
Arachis hypogaea seed powder ameliorated 1, 2-dimethylhydrazine-induced oxidative stress in exposed rats
Authors: Isoje A.O. , Obi F.O.
Published: February 2024

This study evaluated the effect of Arachis hypogaea seeds on 1, 2 – dimethylhydrazine-induced oxidative stress in the colon and liver of male and female rats. Eighty-four rats of both sexes were used for this study and were divided into seven groups of 6 rats each. 1, 2- dimethylhydrazine (DMH) was administered subcutaneously at a dose of 25 mg/kg body weight. Group A (control) rats of both sexes were maintained on normal rat feed. The Group B rats were maintained on normal feed and administered DMH once weekly for 12 weeks. The Group C rats were provided normal feed and administered DMH weekly for 24 weeks. Group D rats were administered DMH and normal feed for 12 weeks followed by a peanut-supplemented diet for the next 12 weeks. The Group E rats received DMH weekly and peanut-supplemented diet concomitantly for 24 weeks. Group F rats had a peanut-supplemented diet for 12 weeks before DMH administration for another 12 weeks. Group G rats were maintained only on a peanut-supplemented diet for 24 weeks. The result shows that DMH significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased malondialdehyde level in the colon but the increase was reversed by the incorporation of peanut in the diet. There were significant (p ≤ 0.05) decreases in antioxidant enzyme activities and reduced glutathione levels in the groups that received DMH alone which were reversed in the group of rats exposed to DMH and peanut-supplemented diet. The findings indicate that the consumption of peanut-supplemented diet reduced in rats, the increase in lipid peroxidation occasioned by DMH.
Endophytic Fungi from Salt Adapted Plants Confer Salt Tolerance in Barley
Authors: Kouadria Rabiaa , Bouzouina Mohammed , Lotmani Brahim
Published: February 2024

Endophytic fungi are known to improve plant tolerance under stressful conditions including salt stress. Considering this, the endophytic  fungi, Alternaria chlamydospora, Embellisia phragmospora, Phomabetae, Chaetomium coarctatum, Fusarium equiseti and Fusarium  graminearum, was isolated from roots of plants growing in salt environments and then, evaluated for their contribution in conferring salt  stress tolerance in barley plants. The influence of inoculation with endophytic fungi, on germination, root and shoot lengths of barley  seeds under different NaCl levels (0, 200, 300 and 400 mM) was investigated. Results showed that seed germination and root and  shoot lengths were higher in seeds pretreated with endophytic fungi cultures than their controls under saline conditions. This study  suggests that the tested endophytic fungi might be applied as a strategy for mitigating the stress-imposed salt in plants and, therefore,  improving crop growth and productivity.
Is the Camino Just? Conclusions Drawn from the Survey Conducted Among Polish Pilgrims
Authors: Seryczyńska, Berenika , Duda Tomasz
Published: February 2024

Familiarising the reader with the range of factors connecting Polish pilgrims with others on the Way of Saint James (Spanish: Camino de Santiago) will be grounded on the teaching of Saint Thomas Aquinas on the virtue of justice which will put in order encounters of the Slavic pilgrim with others on the way. The analysis will also be based on the author’s own empirical research on the experience of Polish pilgrims on the Way of Saint James, namely, in-depth interviews conducted in the summer of 2019 in Santiago de Compostela (n=50).

The virtue of justice will be shown as the empowering of the pilgrim’s will, thanks to which he can be guided by right principles in his actions and his behavior is good, as well as he is able to give everyone what is rightly due to him under the law. The entire argument will be confronted with manifestations of injustice leading to conflict, discomfort and judgment resulting from significant discrepancies in experiencing the Camino pilgrimage.
The Third Mission of the University as a Continuation of the Polish Intelligentsia Ethos. The Case Study of The Jagiellonian University
Authors: Abassy Małgorzata
Published: February 2024

The objective of this study is to examine to what extent the attitudes of university lecturers are a continuation of Polish intelligentsia ethos and to what extent – they are a response to contemporary socio-economic challenges of an academic environment. The research hypothesis put forward by the author stipulated that the third mission of the university should be perceived as having more axiological than practical dimension as cooperation with the economic and social environment of the university encompasses the values developed by the culture of education in the process of historical growth of the nation.

The primary source of the research were the results of a questionnaire survey conducted on a sample group of students and lecturers at one of Poland’s largest universities.

The results indicate the tendency to return to the classic ethos of the Polish intelligentsia in which the protection of diversity and national identity came first, contrary to global trends.
Особливості підготовки бакалаврів при викладанні дисципліни “Механіко-технологічні властивості сільськогосподарських матеріалів”
Authors: Корчак Микола
Published: February 2024

Розглянуто результати оптимізації навчально-методичного комплексу для підготовки бакалаврів при викладанні дисципліни «Механіко-технологічні властивості сільськогосподарських матеріалів». Описано результати вивчення дисципліни та перелік основних компетентностей, необхідних для її засвоєння. Розглянуто основні результати оптимізації навчально-методичного комплексу викладання дисципліни «Механіко-технологічні властивості сільськогосподарських матеріалів» та запропоновано напрями вдосконалення навчального процесу. Навчальний процес необхідно здійснювати на основі нових методів навчання. Одним із перспективних методів, який використовується в інноваційній інженерній освіті є «контекстне навчання», коли мотивація до засвоєння знань досягається шляхом побудови відносин між конкретними знаннями і їх застосуванням. Метод навчання на основі досвіду – це можливість здобувачів вищої освіти пов’язувати свій досвід з предметом вивчення. Це дозволяє зосередити увагу здобувачів вищої освіти на аналізі і вирішенні певної конкретної ситуації, що є важливим в процесі навчання. Проблемна ситуація максимально мотивує студентів на отримання знань, необхідних для її вирішення. Результати досліджень впроваджені в навчальний процес Закладу вищої освіти «Подільський державний університет». Отримано подальший розвиток досліджень з підготовки здобувачів вищої освіти освітнього ступеня «Бакалавр» при викладанні дисципліни «Механіко-технологічні властивості сільськогосподарських матеріалів».
The Implications of Nahum 1:12-2:2 for the Case of Religious Discrimination in Indonesia
Authors: Mokoagouw Henny , Rouw Randy Frank , Brown Lisa
Published: February 2024

The book of Nahum is full of the news of God’s judgment upon Nineveh; this book looks gloomy and hopeless, but one will find the theme of restoration as well. This article analyzes Nahum 1:12-2:2 as a basis for addressing the problem of religious discrimination in Indonesia.  Using the literature study method, the results from this article are divided into theological and practical implications. Theologically, the text of Nahum 1:12-2:2 provides believers with hope for restoration from the One who brings true restoration: God himself. Practically, this text encourages God's people to remain steadfast and not despair but have hope, for there will come a time when God restores them. In addition, when true restoration occurs, believers should return to God and not continue to indulge themselves in pleasure and self-satisfaction.
A Theological Review of the Practice of Abortion among Unmarried Women in India
Authors: Tanhidy Jamin , Pasaribu Ronal , Vishal Praveen , Simon Simon
Published: February 2024

In 2022, the Supreme Court of India has legalized abortion for all women, regardless of marital status. Consequently, all women in India are free to terminate their pregnancy without having to face a legal case. This decision is a breakthrough for new laws in India, including the issue of upholding women's rights. Even so, the act of arbitrary abortion is contrary to morals and Bible teachings. This article aims to discuss the legalization of abortion carried out by the Indian government from a biblical theology perspective by using a literature review approach. The findings of this research indicate that legalizing abortion through legislation is contrary to the biblical principle of the right to life. The government must guard abortion cases not only from political and socio-economic roles but also from religious beliefs and provide good sex education and a healthy environment for its people to suppress unwanted abortions. The role of parents in educating children and the role of the church in maturing the faith of the younger generation can prevent free sex and unsafe abortion in India. The contribution of this research is related to abortion, the right to life of the fetus, women's rights, sex education for the younger generation, parenting and government law.
IMPLEMENTATION OF THE STRUCTURAL-FUNCTIONAL MODEL OF THE SYSTEM OF EDUCATION OF SOCIAL VALUES IN FUTURE TEACHERS OF PRE-SCHOOL EDUCATION
Authors: Kapustina Olena
Published: February 2024

The article proves the relevance of education of social values in future teachers of preschool education, which should lay the foundations of the child’s moral, aesthetic, physical, and environmental development. Based on the results of surveys and scientific-pedagogical analysis, a 539 conclusion was made about the importance of social values in the development of the personality of the future teacher of preschool education. The process of implementation of the structural-functional model of the system of education of social values in future teachers of preschool education is presented. The article highlights the content of educational components, presents one of the classes of the special course and educational activities with the use of group forms of work and interactive methods. In order to achieve the expected result, methods and forms of work with future teachers of preschool education were introduced to educate them in social values: work in small groups, workshop, case method, method of panel, plenary discussion, «carpet of ideas», 6x6x6, «flying posters». The practical significance of the research results lies in the possibility of using them to increase the effectiveness of the education of social values in future teachers of preschool education, in particular, through the implementation of a structural-functional model of the system of education of social values in future teachers of preschool education.
RESILIÊNCIA E INTELIGÊNCIA EMOCIONAL
Authors: Araújo Dirty Paula de , Galvão Larissa Cruz de Macêdo Coelho , Melo Márcia Cristina Reis Campos , Castro Roberta Araújo de , Almeida Tamires Mendes
Published: February 2024

O presente trabalho tem como foco abordar o tema resiliência e inteligência emocional, que é a capacidade de o indivíduo perceber seus sentimentos e a partir dessa percepção, saber lidar com as emoções no ambiente organizacional, conquistando um equilíbrio em que existam ações humanas que incluem autoconhecimento, controle emocional, capacidade de automotivação, empatia e sociabilidade, que demonstram sua eficácia tanto na vida pessoal quanto na profissional. Resiliência diz sobre o quanto uma pessoa pode suportar de pressão ou de estresse, antes de apresentarem abalo psicopatológico consistente. Sabemos que há pessoas que sofreram um abalo, se transformaram sob uma pressão e se recuperaram posteriormente. Como resultado do trabalho destacam-se o controle emocional e automotivação, mesmo diante de estresse, frustrações e desilusões ao meio ambiente organizacional. Esse trabalho é relevante tendo em vista a importância da resiliência e inteligência emocional como um processo natural do ser humano, o presente estudo não visa esgotar a temática, mas, estimular a reflexão sobre a importância da resiliência e inteligência emocional, tanto para as organizações quanto para o indivíduo. Foi elaborado por meio de revisão bibliográfica.
Analisis Faktor yang Mempengaruhi Pengambilan Keputusan Konsumen dalam Pembelian Makanan Sehat di Kabupaten Gresik pada Masa Pandemi Covid-19
Authors: Shania Mashunna Noor , Nurlaela Luthfiyah , Tri Pangesthi Lucia , Gita Miranti Mauren
Published: February 2024

PandemisCOVID-19 terjadi semenjak tahun 2020 hingga sekarang, yang membahayakan bagi kesehatan. Penyebaran COVID-19 yang cepat menyebabkan kematian. Telah dilakukannya berbagai upaya pencegahan untuk mengurangi kasus positif COVID-19, salah satunya bisa dengan mengonsumsismakanan sehat dan bergizi. Konsumsi makanan sehat bisa diusahakan dengan banyak cara salah satunya dengan membeli. Tujuan dari penelitianoini adalah untuk mengetahuir faktor eksternal dan internalmsecara parsial dan simultan terhadap pilihan konsumen untuk membeli makanan sehat pada saat pandemi COVID-19. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif lyang menggunakan penelitian asosiatif kausal dengan menggunakan metode survei, dan metode pengambilan sampel untuk penelitiankini adalah purposivel sampling. Jumlah responden adalah 100. Data diambil secara online menggunakan Google Forms yang disebar melalui WhatsApp, Twitter dan Instagram. Teknik analisa data dilakukan dengan menggunakan uji paired sample t-test dan f-test(Anova). Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa: 1) Keputusan konsumen dalam membeli makanan sehat di Kabupaten Gresik pada masa pandemi COVID-19 dipengaruhi oleh faktor eksternal: keluarga, kelas sosial, dan faktor kemudahan. (signifikan 0,0). 2) Tidak adanya pengaruh faktor internal dalam pengambilan keputusan konsumen saat membeli makanan sehat di Kabupaten Gresik selama pandemi COVID-19: pengetahuan, gaya hidup dan persepsi (signifikanc 0,687). 3) Pengambilan keputusan konsumen dalam membeli makanan sehat di Kabupaten Gresik pada masa pandemi COVID-19 dipengaruhi oleh kombinasi faktor eksternal dan internal (signifikan 0,000).
MAGNESIUM-THERMAL METHOD OF SPONGE ZIRCONIUM OBTAINING
Authors: Pylypenko M.M. , Yanko T.B. , Drobyshevska A.O.
Published: February 2024

The results of research on magnesium-thermal technology of sponge zirconium obtaining on the laboratory apparatus are represented. The magnesium-thermal method for reduction and apparatus are briefly described. The results of research on the optimization of the processes of obtaining zirconium sponge and obtaining zirconium metal are presented. The results of the conducted investigations are recommended for development of industrial technology of sponge zirconium production and equipment for its production.
Analisis Kebutuhan untuk Pengembangan Video Animasi Pembelajaran TPACK pada Mata Kuliah K3 di Universitas Negeri Jakarta
Authors: Aulia Fajrina , Murtinugraha R. Eka , Saleh Rosmawita
Published: February 2024

Saat ini, peserta didik yang lebih menyukai literasi teknologi menganggap pembelajaran konvensional dalam teknik bangunan, terutama yang berkaitan dengan keselamatan dan kesehatan (K3), tidak menarik bagi mereka. Akibatnya, pencapaian nilai menjadi lebih rendah. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengevaluasi kebutuhan pembelajaran K3 melalui pengembangan media pembelajaran berbasis Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) di Fakultas Teknik Bangunan Universitas Jakarta. Dengan harapan dapat meningkatkan kualitas pendidikan di institusi ini, tujuannya adalah untuk mengembangkan media pembelajaran yang lebih menarik dan efektif. TPACK dirancang untuk meningkatkan pembelajaran, meningkatkan pemahaman tentang materi K3, dan meningkatkan kesadaran akan keselamatan dan kesehatan kerja. Penelitian ini menggunakan penelitian dan pengembangan (R&D) untuk mengumpulkan data tentang preferensi peserta didik, gaya belajar, dan strategi pembelajaran yang efektif untuk memahami mata kuliah K3. Dengan hasil penelitian menunjukkan dominasi metode ceramah (65,5%), preferensi peserta didik terhadap gaya belajar visual/spasial (79,3%), dan memerlukan sebuah pengembangan media berupa video pembelajaran berbasis TPACK untuk memahami K3.
Advances in the Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy with Anti-VEGF Therapy
Authors:   Universidad de Guadalajara, Garcia Matt Partida , Jiménez Mildred Palacios ,   Universidad de Guadalajara, CUCS, Jalisco., Saucedo Rizo Jorge Santiago ,   Universidad Anáhuac Mexico, Gutierrez Felipe de Jesús Martín del Campo ,   Universidad de Guadalajara, Islas García Evelyn Monserrat ,   Instituto Politécnico Nacional
Published: February 2024

Objective: This narrative review seeks to compare the advances and efficacy of various anti-VEGF therapies in the treatment of diabetic retinopathy, using the PICO format. Methods: A comprehensive search of medical and scientific literature was conducted to identify studies investigating the efficacy of anti-VEGF therapies in the treatment of diabetic retinopathy. The PICO format guided the research question and review process. Accurate diagnosis, side effects, quality of life, and patient satisfaction were analyzed and compared for each treatment option. Results: Anti-VEGF therapies were shown to be effective in reducing the progression of diabetic retinopathy, improving visual acuity and decreasing macular edema. Although generally safe, differences in side effect profiles were observed between the different anti-VEGF agents. Conclusion: The selection of an appropriate Anti-VEGF therapy for diabetic retinopathy should consider accurate diagnosis, side effects, quality of life, and patient satisfaction. Although anti-VEGF therapies are promising, more research is needed to optimize their use and fully understand their benefits and limitations.
A Simple Analysis and Scoring of Zebrafish Larvae Cardiac Performance in Teratogenicity Study using Light Microscopy and ImageJ Software
Authors:   Master Program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Atifa Rahmi Koyuki , Khotimah Husnul ,   Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Jl. Veteran, Ketawanggede, Lowokwaru, Malang City, East Java, Indonesia 65145, Saifur Mohammad ,   Rohman Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Brawijaya - Saiful Anwar General Hospital
Published: February 2024

Background: Zebrafish is one of the suitable model organisms for teratogenicity study. One of the organs assessed during the study is the heart. There has been an established scoring system for the cardiac morphology, but not cardiac performance. Furthermore, the assessment of cardiac function in zebrafish often use expensive instruments and complicated methods. Materials and Methods: Cardiac performance scoring method and system was proposed for zebrafish larvae aged 5 dpf. Observation was done using light microscope and the video of the observation was taken using smartphone or camera. The videos were then converted and rendered to be compatible with the ImageJ program using the measure function and time series analyzer plugin. The assessed parameters were the heart rate and rhythm, strength of heart contraction, and synchronicity between atrium and ventricle. Results: The scoring system was formulated based on the assessments towards healthy control 5 dpf zebrafish larvae and references. The score for cardiac performance ranged from 3 – 6, with score 3 representing arrhythmic, weak, and asynchronous contractions, while score 6 representing rhythmic, strong, and synchronous contraction. The scoring system was also valid to point out the difference in cardiac performance between healthy control zebrafish larvae and larvae that previously exposed to lithium as teratogenic agent (p = 0.000). Conclusions: The scoring methods and system developed in this study allowed for a non – expensive and simple assessment of cardiac performance in zebrafish larvae aged 5 dpf, especially for a teratogenicity study.
The Ageing Crisis Threatening Farming in Ethiopia: An Analysis of Youth Involvement in Agriculture
Authors:   Department of Agricultural Economics, Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Hailu Daniel
Published: February 2024

This study examined youth labor force participation in agriculture and factors impeding effective participation in Ethiopia using the 2011-2018 data from the Living Standards Measurement Survey-Integrated Survey of Agriculture (LSMS-ISA). The analytical tools included both descriptive statistics and econometric analysis. Summary statistics show that the average age of the respondents was 47 years, thus they are not at an economically active age. This is an upward trend of 52 years in 2018 compared to 44 years in 2011. The ordinary least square (OLS) regression result indicated that for every 1 unit increase in the independent variable (time), there will be a 1.01 increase in the dependent variable (farm age). The result showed that the increase in time affected age of the farming positively and significantly. The evidence suggested farming population in Ethiopia is growing older and reduced involvement of youth (14.4%). The results also revealed low participation of youth in agriculture activities which increases youth unemployment. In turn, the total dependency ratio in the population equals 102.7. This high dependency ratio means that the ‘dependents’ in society are more reliant on a smaller number of working-aged people, which suggests that for every 1027 dependents, there are roughly 1000 working-age people providing them food through farming. The review result showed youth participation in Ethiopian agriculture is influenced by limited access to land, low attitude on agriculture (attitudinal problems), inadequate access to financial services, problems of rural life, and backwardness of agricultural tools. The study suggests that efforts to shape future work in Ethiopian agriculture should include among other things, access to land and provision of credit facilities. The study pointed out that the efforts to shape the future of agricultural work in Ethiopia should ensure the availability of land and credit.