bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental Ethics in the Spiritual Perspective of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam
Authors: Pratama Yudha Pradheksa  , Hazyimara Karunia , Didid Haryadi  , Abu Samsudin
Published: September 2023

This article aims to examine the views of Hindu and Buddhist spiritualism related to efforts to deal with environmental damage in Indonesia and try to find common ground between Hindu and Buddhist spiritualism regarding environmental preservation with the teachings of Sufism in Islam. The method used in this article is library research with a descriptive-qualitative approach. The research shows that the ecological damage that has occurred in Indonesia is very worrying. This happens because humans have no concern for their environment, they only focus on taking the maximum benefit for profit alone. Religion has authority in environmental preservation by instilling ethics and morals in humans. Spirituality in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam is aimed at getting closer to God. There is a concept for each religion to increase one's spirituality, namely through bhakti marga yoga in Hinduism, hasta ariya magha in Buddhism, and Sufism in Islamic teachings. The concepts shared by each of these religions have in common to shape one's spirituality which can be reflected in a moral person. Immoral cases such as environmental damage are a big thing that can be solved by increasing one's spirituality.
Implementation of Digital Marketing Strategy in MSME Development in Candisari Ungaran Village
Authors: Rachmawati Meida , Widagdo Teguh Harso , Sudiyono Sudiyono , Nurcahyo Satria Avianda , Ali Ahmad
Published: September 2023

Candisari Village is a village where some of its MSMEs have utilized digital marketing platforms. With the rapid development of technology, the digital world and the internet have also impacted the field of marketing. The marketing trend, which was initially conventional (offline), has now shifted to digital (online). This study adopts a qualitative approach and descriptive analysis approach, which means using a qualitative approach to understand and describe the implications of analysis principles contained in MSMEs' digital marketing strategies. The research aims to gather information about digital marketing strategies for the development of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). The digital marketing strategies implemented by food and beverage MSMEs in Candisari Village include marketing through social media platforms and various e-commerce applications such as GrabFood, GoFood, and ShopeeFood. To promote their businesses, the majority of MSMEs utilize Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and WhatsApp as platforms to upload attractive photos and videos of their products on their Instagram accounts, including Instagram Reels, Instagram Feed, and Instagram Stories. Overall, MSMEs in Candisari Village have experienced progress and healthy competition in business development after implementing digital marketing strategies, leading to the advancement of their businesses
Customer Experience in Digital Banking: The Influence of Convenience, Security, and Usefulness on Customer Satisfaction and Customer Loyalty in Indonesia
Authors: Susanto Stefanus Andrew , Manek Michael Valensius , Setiawan Rheo Alfonso , Mustikasari Faranita
Published: September 2023

The emergence of digital banks in Indonesia, such as Blu by BCA, Bank Jago, Allo Bank, and Bank Neo Commerce has been driven by the positive response from the public and the increasing demand for digital banking services, especially in the Covid-19 pandemic. With the growth of digital banking in Indonesia, it is important to understand the factors that shape customer satisfaction and loyalty. This study aims to examine the influence of customer experience on satisfaction and loyalty in the digital banking industry, with focus in Indonesia (Makassar). Seven hypotheses are proposed to examine these relationships. The study utilizes a sample of digital banking customers through convenience sampling and collects data using electronic questionnaires. Structural equation modelling (PLS) is employed for data analysis, considering validity and reliability measures. The findings reveal that convenience and security significantly influence customer satisfaction, while the influence of usefulness is not supported. Additionally, customer satisfaction is identified as a significant mediator in the relationship between customer experience and loyalty. This study emphasizes the importance of improving convenience and security aspects in digital banking services to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. In conclusion, this research provides valuable insights for digital banks in Makassar, Indonesia, to enhance their services and cultivate strong customer relationships. Prioritizing convenience and security, along with understanding the influence of customer satisfaction on loyalty, can drive the success of digital banking firm.
Analysis of Conflict Control in The Development of UNESCO Global Geopark as Sustainable Tourism in Belitung Regency
Authors: Salsabil Savia Resa , Kristianto Yohanes , Ariana Nyoman
Published: September 2023

This study discusses conflict control analyze in sustainable tourism development in Belitung. The tourism development analyze were obtained using a qualitative descriptive approach. Data were collected through direct interviews with relevant stakeholders. The results of the analysis revealed three main conflicts that underlie the issues in sustainable tourism development, namely land disputes, partnership miscommunication or lack of synchronization, and mining problems. These three points give rise to various sub-issues and biased policies perceived by the local community and tourism actors and managers in Belitung Regency. Based on the findings, the researcher attempted to outline steps or strategies, including in the aspect of people: (1) Having a mindset of change and maturity, as well as concern for the next generation; (2) Willingness to introspect based on received criticism, and (3) Openness to criticism and suggestions. In the aspect of the planet: (1) Conducting education and training for the local community to raise awareness of tourism in each tourism destination. In the aspect of prosperity: (1) Establishing standardized indicators for income, price regulations, and well-structured business permits, accompanied by intensive supervision; (2) Supporting sustainable essence of alternative MSME funds; (3) Establishing government institutions to determine and regulate prices to remain competitive. In the aspect of peace: (1) Firmness in regulating various policies and avoiding overlapping.
Weekly sampler 9
Authors: Matheson Stephen
Published: September 2023

Sorry I'm late; busy week of grant-writing and deadline-beating, then sleep-compensating and dust-clearing. And I did get the Reasons To Believe posts done.1. Allan Harvey is a chemical engineer (Ph.D.) who regularly posts to the ASA listserv, and he has prepared some highly recommended materials on "Science and Nature in Christian Perspective" that he has used in adult education in his church in Boulder, Colorado.
On folk science and lies: Back to the basics
Authors: Matheson Stephen
Published: September 2023

Months ago, I was worrying about how to characterize creationist statements that are untrue or misleading. The claims in question are not merely false (mistakes of various kinds can generate falsehood) and are not statements of opinion with which I disagree. They are claims that are demonstrably false but have been asserted by people who are certain (or likely) to know this. In other words, they bear the marks of duplicity.
Word for the day - "transclusion"
Authors: Page Roderic
Published: September 2023

Stumbled across Project Xanadu, Ted Nelson's vision of the way the web should be (e.g., BACK TO THE FUTURE: Hypertext the Way It Used To Be). Nelson coined the term "transclusion", including one document in side another by reference.
Wieviel offene Wissenchaft ist drin? // Update zur Wiederholungswahl in Berlin 2023
Authors: Kindling Maxi
Published: September 2023

Open Access und Open Science in den Wahlprogrammen der Parteien zur Wahlwiederholung am 12. Februar 2023 Am 12. Februar 2023 findet die Wiederholung der Wahl zum Abgeordnetenhaus von Berlin und zu den Bezirksverordnetenversammlungen statt. Das OABB hat sich die Wahlprogramme der Parteien in Bezug auf die Themen Open Access und Open Science und die Wahlprüfsteine der Landeskonferenz der Rektoren und Präsidenten (LKRP) angesehen.
EOL Review
Authors: Page Roderic
Published: September 2023

Last month I was at the MBL in Woods Hole, taking part in the review of the Biodiversity Informatics Group. BIG is responsible for the EOL web site. I chair the Informatics Advisory Group, which provides advice to BIG, and it was our task to produce an evaluation of where things stood. I've written a post on the Encyclopaedia of Life blog about some of the big challenges facing EOL as it moves into its second year.
Berlin goes Open Research!?! Wir diskutieren mit Berliner Wissenschaftspolitiker*innen (4. Mai 2023)
Authors: Kindling Maxi
Published: September 2023

+++ Zur Veranstaltung ist hier im Blog ein ausführlicher Bericht zu finden +++  Termin: 4. Mai 2023, 17-19 Uhr mit anschließendem gemeinsamem Ausklang bei Getränken und Snacks   Ort: Henry-Ford-Bau an der Freien Universität Berlin (Garystraße 35),  Hörsaal C    (2. Etage)  Die im Jahr 2015 durch das Berliner Abgeordnetenhaus verabschiedete Open-Access-Strategie war ein Meilenstein
Fixing GBIF
Authors: Page Roderic
Published: September 2023

The more I play with GBIF the more I come across some spectacular errors. Here's one small example of what can go wrong, and how easy it would be to fix at least some of the errors in GBIF.
Spida of Love
Authors: Page Roderic
Published: September 2023

Systematics makes The Colbert Report.The paper describing  Aptostichus stephencolbertio  by Jason Bond and Amy Stockman has been published in  Systematic Biology  doi:10.1080/10635150802302443. Jason described also described  Aptostichus angelinajolieae  in the same paper, but I guess she is otherwise engaged.
International Open Access Week 2022 „Open for Climate Justice” – Veranstaltungen in Berlin und Brandenburg
Authors: Neufend Maike
Published: September 2023

#OpenForClimateJustice #OAWeek22 Die internationale Open Access Week findet vom 24.-30. Oktober 2022 unter dem Motto „Open for Climate Justice“ statt.  Das Open-Access-Büro Berlin sammelt wieder Aktionen der Berliner Einrichtungen.  Interviewreihe  : Auch in diesem Jahr setzt die Technische Universität die Interviewreihe  „Wie halten Sie es mit Open Access?“  auf dem eigenen Blog fort.
More GBIF errors, courtesy of FishBase
Authors: Page Roderic
Published: September 2023

Resurrecting iSpecies after moving it to a new folder on one of my servers, and browsing popular searches, I keep coming across clearly erroneous distributions. FishBase seems a major culprit. For example, the common pandora  Pagellus erythrinus  is a marine fish, yet GBIF displays numerous occurrences in mainland Africa (dots with black centre on map below).What gives?
Archiving blogs: Rogue Scholar and lessons from Biome
Authors: Edmunds Scott
Published: September 2023

GigaBlog is now archived in Rogue Scholar, a new service that provides what it calls “science blogging on steroids” through including full-text search, long-term archiving, DOIs and metadata for science blogs such as ours. While this July we celebrated the 11th anniversary of the launch of our first articles at ISMB in Lyon, it was actually the 12th anniversary of the launch of GigaBlog,
BNCOD 2008 Workshop
Authors: Page Roderic
Published: September 2023

The proceedings of the BNCOD 2008 Workshop on "Biodiversity Informatics: challenges in modelling and managing biodiversity knowledge" are online. This workshop was held in conjunction with the 25th British National Conference on Databases (BNCOD 2008) at Cardiff, Wales.
PERBAIKAN PROFIL TEGANGAN DAN RUGI-RUGI DAYA DENGAN PENEMPATAN MULTI DG SECARA OPTIMAL BERBASIS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Authors: Ratuhaji Faruq , Muslihi Muhammad Takdir
Published: September 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memberikan perhitungan deskriptif dalam menentukan lokasi pemasangan dan kapasitas Distributed Generation (DG) secara optimal sebagai kompensasi daya aktif dan reaktif pada sistem tenaga listrik, sehingga dapat meningkatkan efisiensi dan keandalan sistem tenaga listrik. Menggunakan metode  optimasi metaheuristics berbasis kecerdasan buatan (Artificial Intelegence) yang diolah menggunakan software MATLAB, dengan membandingkan rugi-rugi daya (losses) dan level tegangan yang diperoleh sebelum dan setelah pemasangan DG dalam beberapa studi kasus pada sistem IEEE 12 Bus. Hasil pengujian menunjukkan kondisi paling optimal penempatan dan kapasitas multi DG tipe 1 pada sistem IEEE 12 bus, yakni berada pada bus 4, bus 10 dan bus 7 dengan kapasitas masing-masing 86, 318 kW, 136,37 kW, 131,63 kW. Dampak yang diakibatkan dari penempatan tiga unit DG tipe 1 ini adalah  penurunan rugi daya aktif  dari 20,545 kW menjadi 9,372  kW atau sebesar 54,38%, selain itu beberapa bus pada sistem mengalami perbaikan profil tegangan terlihat dari deviasi minimum tegangan turun dari 5,63% sebelum pemasangan DG menjadi 1,34%.
PENGEMBANGAN ALAT PENANAM BENIH PADI BERBASIS MIKROKONTROLLER
Authors: Najamuddin Faisal , Wahrini Retyana
Published: September 2023

Penelitian ini didasari oleh keperluan mata kuliah Praktik mikrokontroler dalam melakukan praktikum, sehinggga perlunya dibuat media pembelajaran berupa prototype alat penanam benih padi berbasis mikrokontroler. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah (1) mengembangkan prototype alat penanam benih padi berbasis mikrokontroleer sebagai media pembelajaran, (2) mengetahui tingkat kelayakan dari prototype alat berbasis mikrokontroller dan (3) mengetahui respon pengguna terhadap prototype alat yang telah dibuat. Adapun model pengembangan yang digunakan adalah model pengembangan ADDIE (Analyze, Design, Development, Implement, Evaluation). Kelayakan media pembelajaran pada penelitian ini menggunakan penngumpulan data instrumen penelitian yang diuji oleh ahli media, dan ahli materi. Kemudian dilakukan pengumpulan data pengguna atau responden menggunakan lembar angket. Penelitian ini menghasilkan produk berupa alat penanam benih padi berbasis mikrokontroler beserta modul praktikum dan buku panduan pada Program Studi Pendidikan Vokasional Mekatronika yang telah melakukan pengujian kelayakan oleh ahli media, ahli materi, dan respon pengguna yang dinyatakan secara keseluruhan dari penelitian ini sangat layak untuk digunakan.
The Control of Hyperglycemia by Estriol and Progesterone in Alloxan induced Type I Diabetes Mellitus Mice Model through Hepatic Insulin Synthesis
Authors:   Sinha Institute of Medical Science and Technology, India, Sinha Asru K. , Maiti Smarajit ,   Department of Biochemistry, Vidyasagar University, Midnapore, India, Bhattacharya Suman , Bank Sarbashri ,   Sinha Institute of Medical Science and Technology, India
Published: September 2023

As much as 20% of the women in menopause are reported to develop type I diabetes mellitus. The cessation of the ovarian syntheses of the female sex hormones is known to cause menopause in women, and the roles of estriol (one of the most abundant estrogens) and progesterone were investigated for hepatic insulin synthesis through estriol and progesterone induced synthesis of nitric oxide in the liver cells. Type 1 Diabetic mellitus mice were prepared by alloxan treatment, Nitric oxide was determined by methemoglobin method. Insulin was determined by enzyme linked immunosorbant assay. Injection of either 3.5 µM estriol or 3.5 nM progesterone to the diabetic mice which cannot synthesize pancreatic insulin, reduced the blood glucose level from 600 mg/dl to 120 mg/dl and 500 ± 25 mg/dl to 120 ± 6 mg/dl in 6 and 10 h respectively with simultaneous increase of the plasma insulin from 0 µunits/ml to 40 µunits/ml and 0 µunits/ml to 9.5 µunits/ml in the case of estriol and progesterone respectively with stimulated NO synthesis. The inhibition of the steroids induced NO synthesis by using NAME (NG-methyl-l-arginine acetate ester) in the reaction mixture resulted in the inhibition of hepatic insulin synthesis. Use of pure NO solution in 0.9% NaCl instead of either estriol or progesterone in the reaction mixture was found to stimulate the hepatic insulin synthesis. Both estriol and progesterone might be involved in the prevention of type 1 diabetes mellitus through the hepatic insulin synthesis even when the pancreatic insulin synthesis was impaired.
Is Laparoscopic Appendectomy Safe When Performed in a Low Volume Setting?
Authors:   Department of Clinical Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, Trinidad, Tobago, Cawich Shamir O. , Mohanty Sanjib K. ,   Department of Surgery, Health Service Authority, Grand Cayman, BWI, Simpson Lindberg K. ,   Department of Surgery, Kingston Public Hospital, Kingston, Jamaica, Ramdass Michael J. , Naraynsingh Vijay ,   Department of Clinical Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, Trinidad,Tobago
Published: September 2023

Background: Similar to global trends, laparoscopic appendectomy has gained favor across the Caribbean but there is a paucity of published data evaluating its outcomes in the region. This study seeks to document the outcomes of laparoscopic appendectomies performed by community surgeons in a low volume setting in the Caribbean. Methods: Data were recorded prospectively from all consecutive laparoscopic appendectomies performed from June 1, 2006 to May 30, 2011. Complicated appendicitis was considered present when the appendix was gangrenous, perforated, phlegmonous and/or associated with a peri-appendiceal abscess. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 19. Results: Appendectomies were performed by one of three surgeons in 167 patients (mean case volume 11 cases per surgeon per year) at mean age of 31.8 ±9.67 years and mean BMI of 29.3 ± 2.59 Kg/m2. There was a 14% negative appendectomy rate. Of 143 patients with confirmed appendicitis, 73% were uncomplicated cases and 24% were complicated appendicitis. The mean operating time was 50.1 ±18.4 minutes for uncomplicated cases and 98.8 ±21.6 minutes for complicated appendicitis. The overall morbidity rate was 4.2% (1.8% morbidity in uncomplicated cases and 14.7% for complicated appendicitis. Post-operatively, 69% patients required no supplemental parenteral opioids. After discharge, 7% patients required no oral analgesia and 90% stopped their analgesics within 48 hours. Conclusions: Laparoscopic appendectomy is a safe operation when performed by community surgeons at low volumes and should be considered as a part of the surgical armamentarium.
Strategies for Treating Compensatory Articulation in Patients with Cleft Palate
Authors:   Cleft Palate Clinic of the Hospital Gea Gonzalez, Mexico City, Pamplona María del Carmen , Ysunza Antonio ,   Beaumont Health System, Royal Oak, MI, USA, Morales Santiago ,   Department of Psychology, Penn State University, USA
Published: September 2023

Patients with cleft palate frequently show compensatory articulation (CA). CA requires a prolonged period of speech intervention. Some scaffolding strategies can be useful for correcting placement and manner of articulation in these cases. The purpose of this paper was to study whether the use of specific strategies of speech pathology can be more effective if applied according to the level of severity of CA. Ninety patients with CA were studied in two groups. One group was treated using strategies specific for their level of severity of articulation, whereas in the other group all strategies were used indistinctively. The degree of severity of CA was compared at the end of the speech intervention. After the speech therapy intervention, the group of patients in which the strategies were used selectively, showed a significantly greater decrease in the severity of CA, as compared with the patients in whom all the strategies were used indistinctively. An assessment of the severity of CA can be useful for selecting the strategies, which can be more effective for correcting the compensatory errors.
Dopamine-β-Hydroxylase Activity and Levels of Its Cofactors and Other Biochemical Parameters in the Serum of Arsenicosis Patients of Bangladesh
Authors:   Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka-1000, Bangladesh, Rahman M. Khalilur , Choudhary M. Iqbal ,   Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan, Arif M. , Morshed M. Monzur ,   Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka-1000, Bangladesh
Published: September 2023

Dopamine-B-hydroxylase (DBH) is a neurotransmitter (catecholamine)-mediating enzyme, which catalyzes the formation of norepinephrine from dopamine. The levels of DBH activity, its coenzyme (ascorbic acid) and cofactor (Cu++) and other biochemical parameters were measured in the serum of 32 arsenicosis patients of Bangladesh at three different age groups, namely, group 1 (10–18 years, 9 patients), group 2 (19–40 years, 14 patients) and group 3 (41–70 years, 9 patients) of the locality of Stadium Para of Meherpur district of Bangladesh. The values were compared with the same number of age-matched normal healthy individuals of the respective group. DBH activity was markedly decreased in the patients of group 1 as compared to that of the normal healthy people. The activities of DBH were decreased to lesser extents for the other two age groups. The total protein contents in the serum of arsenicosis patients were also significantly low as compared to that in the age-matched control groups. The levels of ascorbic acid and copper were found to be decreased in the serum of arsenicosis patients. The serum glucose levels were elevated in arsenicosis patients, as compared to that of the respective healthy controls. Other parameters, such as zinc and vitamin A levels were also decreased in the serum of arsenicosis patients. It was evident from the results of drinking of the arsenic contaminated water of shallow tube wells that the levels of DBH activity decreased significantly as compared to the control healthy persons. The levels of proteins, ascorbic acid, copper, zinc and vitamin A were decreased in the serum of people drinking the arsenic contaminated tube wells water as compared to that in the control healthy people with the exception that the levels of glucose were elevated in the serum of these patients. The pathophysiological significance of the results could be correlated with the decreased in proteins and that in DBH activities as DBH deficiency is characterized by lack of sympathetic noradrenergic function.The general physiologic findings of autonomic function indicate that complete DBH deficiency include minimal or absent plasma norepinephrine and epinephrine.
Socio-Demographic, Clinical and Behavioral Characteristics Associated with a History of Suicide Attempts among Psychiatric Outpatients: A Case Control Study in a Northern Mexican City
Authors:   Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juarez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico, Alvarado-Esquivel Cosme , Sánchez-Anguiano Luis Francisco , Hernández-Tinoco Jesús ,   Institute for Scientific Research, Juarez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico, Arnaud-Gil Carlos Alberto , Molina-Espinoza Luis Fernando ,   Hospital of Mental Health "Dr. Miguel Vallebueno", Secretary of Health. Durango, Mexico, Rábago-Sánchez Elizabeth ,   Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juarez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico
Published: September 2023

Background: Little is known about the epidemiology of suicide attempts among psychiatric outpatients in Mexico. This study was aimed to determine the socio-demographic, clinical and behavioral characteristics associated with suicide attempts in psychiatric outpatients in two public hospitals in Durango, Mexico. Methods: Two hundred seventy six psychiatric outpatients (154 suicide attempters and 122 patients without suicide attempt history) attended the two public hospitals in Durango City, Mexico were included in this study. Socio-demographic, clinical and behavioral characteristics were obtained retrospectively from all outpatients and compared in relation to the presence or absence of suicide attempt history. Results: Increased prevalence of suicide attempts was associated with mental and behavioral disorders due to psychoactive substance use (F10-19) (P=0.01), schizophrenia, schizotypal and delusional disorders (F20-29) (P=0.02), mood (affective) disorders (F30-39) (P<0.001), and disorders of adult personality and behavior (F60-69) (P<0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that suicide attempts were associated with young age (OR=1.21, 95% CI: 1.06-1.39; P=0.003), female gender (OR=2.98, 95% CI: 1.55-5.73; P=0.001), urban residence (OR=2.31, 95% CI: 1.17-4.57; P=0.01), memory impairment (OR=1.91, 95% CI: 1.07-3.40; P=0.02), alcohol consumption (OR=2.39, 95% CI: 1.21-4.70; P=0.01), and sexual promiscuity (OR=3.90, 95% CI: 1.74-8.77; P<0.001). Conclusions: We report the association of suicide attempts with socio-demographic, clinical and behavioral characteristics in psychiatric outpatients in Mexico. Results may be useful for an optimal planning of preventive measures against suicide attempts in psychiatric outpatients.
Brain Na+, K+-ATPase Activity In Aging and Disease
Authors:   Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencias "Prof. E. De Robertis", CONICET-UBA Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155, 1121-Buenos Aires, Argentina, de Lores Arnaiz Georgina Rodríguez , Ordieres María Graciela López ,   Cátedra de Farmacología, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Junin 956, Universidad de Buenos Aires, 1113-Buenos Aires, Argentina
Published: September 2023

Na+/K+ pump or sodium- and potassium-activated adenosine 5'-triphosphatase (Na+, K+-ATPase), its enzymatic version, is a crucial protein responsible for the electrochemical gradient across the cell membranes. It is an ion transporter, which in addition to exchange cations, is the ligand for cardenolides. This enzyme regulates the entry of K+ with the exit of Na+ from cells, being the responsible for Na+/K+ equilibrium maintenance through neuronal membranes. This transport system couples the hydrolysis of one molecule of ATP to exchange three sodium ions for two potassium ions, thus maintaining the normal gradient of these cations in animal cells. Oxidative metabolism is very active in brain, where large amounts of chemical energy as ATP molecules are consumed, mostly required for the maintenance of the ionic gradients that underlie resting and action potentials which are involved in nerve impulse propagation, neurotransmitter release and cation homeostasis. Protein phosphorylation is a key process in biological regulation. At nervous system level, protein phosphorylation is the major molecular mechanism through which the function of neural proteins is modulted in response to extracellular signals, including the response to neurotransmitter stimuli. It is the major mechanism of neural plasticity, including memory processing. The phosphorylation of Na+, K+-ATPase catalytic subunit inhibits enzyme activity whereas the inhibition of protein kinase C restores the enzyme activity. The dephosphorylation of neuronal Na+, K+-ATPase is mediated by calcineurin, a serine / threonine phosphatase. The latter enzyme is involved in a wide range of cellular responses to Ca2+ mobilizing signals, in the regulation of neuronal excitability by controlling the activity of ion channels, in the release of neurotransmitters and hormones, as well as in synaptic plasticity and gene transcription. In the present article evidence showing Na+, K+-ATPase involvement in signaling pathways, enzyme changes in diverse neurological diseases as well as during aging, have been summarized. Issues refer mainly to Na+, K+-ATPase studies in ischemia, brain injury, depression and mood disorders, mania, stress, Alzheimer´s disease, learning and memory, and neuronal hyperexcitability and epilepsy.
Association of Inflammatory Sialoproteins, Lipid Peroxides and Serum Magnesium Levels with Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Obese Children of South Indian Population
Authors:   Department of Biochemistry, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth [SBV], Pillaiyarkuppam, Puducherry-607402, India, Niranjan G. , Venkatesh C. ,   Department of Pediatrics, JIPMER, Puducherry-605006, India, Anitha D. , Srinivasan A. R. , Velu V. Kuzhandai , Babu M. Sathish , Ramesh R. , Saha S. ,   Department of Biochemistry, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth [SBV], Pillaiyarkuppam, Puducherry-607402, India
Published: September 2023

The Incidence of childhood obesity and metabolic syndrome is increasing even in rural and semi-urban regions of India. Adipose tissue mass secretes several inflammatory proteins, which could potentially alter the metabolic processes, leading to several complications at the later stages of life. With limited studies on protein bound sialic acid (PBSA) as a marker of oxidative stress mediated inflammation in obese children, this study was aimed to assess and correlate PBSA with lipid peroxidation and other cardiometabolic risk factors like Insulin Resistance (IR), serum magnesium, and high sensitive C reactive Protein (hsCRP) levels in order to provide an insight into the degree of systemic inflammation and oxidative stress. This study included 62 obese children (≥95% percentile of the CDC chart) and 60 non obese controls. This study documents significant higher levels of PBSA, IR, Malondialdehyde (MDA), hsCRP and uric acid in obese children (p<0.001). PBSA was associated with IR, hsCRP, uric acid, hypomagnesaemia. Higher degrees of oxidative stress, Insulin resistance and low serum magnesium levels were noted in obese children. PBSA and hsCRP levels were elevated and were associated with Insulin resistance in obese children of South Indian population.
Comparative Radiographic Assessment of Root Canal Obturation Quality: Manual Verses Rotary Canal Preparation Technique
Authors:   The Aga Khan University Hospital Karachi, Pakistan, Robia Ghafoor
Published: September 2023

Objective: To compare the technical quality of root canal obturation in relation to rotary and manual root canal preparation techniques. Study Design: Cross sectional, analytical study. Place and Duration of Study: The Aga Khan University Hospital Karachi from January till December 2011. Methodology: Data was retrospectively retrieved by periapical radiographs of 60 root canal treated molars for assessment of obturation quality. Data was divided into two groups, 30 radiographs in each group. Group 1 and 2 teeth were prepared with rotary and manual canal preparation technique respectively followed by obturartion with cold lateral condensation technique. Postobturation radiographs were assessed to evaluate technical quality of obturation in term of length, density and taper of root filling. Mann Whitney-U and Chi- square test was applied to compare the difference in technical quality of obturation between two canal preparation techniques. Results: Amongst Thirty molar prepared with rotary instruments, 27 had achieved acceptable length, 25 had adequate density and 27 had achieved adequate taper. Amongst 30 molars prepared manually, 18 had achieved acceptable length, 14 had adequate density and 12 had adequate taper. Conclusion: Radiographic technical quality of the obturation (length, density and taper) was better with rotary technique as compared to manual canal preparation technique.
Comparison between Single Dose Azithromycin and Six Doses, 3 Day Norfloxacin for Treatment of Cholera in Adult
Authors:   National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Disease, Kolkata, India, Bhattacharya M. K. , Sinha A. , Bhattacharya A. ,   ID and BG Hospital, Kolkata, India, Sarkar B. Sharma ,   Bankura Sammilani Medical College, India, Kanungo S. , Ramamurthy T. , Rajendran K. ,   National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Disease, Kolkata, India
Published: September 2023

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of single dose Azithromycin (1 gram) in treatment of cholera in adults. A randomized, controlled clinical trial on 120 adults with acute watery diarrhoea and moderate to severe dehydration compared the efficacy of azithromycin (1 gram) single dose and Norfloxacin (400 mg) twice daily for three days in treating cholera. Data were analysed for 64 patients who were stool culture positive for Vibrio cholerae. In conjunction with rehydration therapy, 32 patients received Azithromycin and 32 patients received Norfloxacin. Patients in the two treatment groups had comparable clinical characteristics on admission. Conclusions: Result shows Azithromycin and Norfloxacin has got almost similar efficacy in reducing stool output, duration of diarrhoea and fluid requirement in cholera positive cases.
Role of Brushing and Occlusal Forces in Non-Carious Cervical Lesions (NCCL)
Authors:   Dental College, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia, Sadaf Durr E. , Ahmad Zubair
Published: September 2023

Objective: To assess the association of occlusal forces and brushing with non-carious cervical lesions (NCCL). Methodology: It was a Cross-sectional study. The study was conducted in Dental clinics, Department of Surgery, The Aga Khan University Hospital Karachi. The study duration was from 1st January 2009 to 28th Feb 2009. Ninety patients visiting dental clinic were examined clinically. Presence of Non- carious cervical lesions, broken restorations, fractured cusps, presence of occlusal facets, brushing habits, Para functional habits were assessed. All the relevant information and clinical examination were collected on a structured Performa and was analyzed using SPSS version 14.0. . Chi square X2 test was applied to assess association among different categorical variables. Result: Twenty three (26%) females and 67 (74%) males were included in the study. Thirty five of them (38.9%) were found to have Non-carious cervical lesions. Presence of NCCL has no association with gender (P value 0.458). A significant association was found between NCCL and teeth sensitivity (P value 0.002).The association between use of hard tooth brush and Non-carious cervical lesions was found significant (P value <0.001). However the association among Non-carious cervical lesions and fractured cups, broken restoration, teeth grinding, jaw clenching, pan chalia chewing and frequency of teeth brushing were insignificant. Conclusion: Hard tooth brushing and teeth sensitivity have significant association with Non-carious cervical lesions. The role of occlusal wear in the formation of NCCL is not significant.
Low Seroprevalence of Toxocara Infection in Schizophrenic Inpatients in Durango, Mexico: A Case Control Study
Authors:   Biomedical Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico, Alvarado-Esquivel Cosme , Hernández-Tinoco Jesús , Sánchez-Anguiano Luis Francisco ,   Institute for Scientific Research, Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad S/N. 34000 Durango, Dgo. Mexico, Cisneros-Martínez Jorge Arturo ,   Biomedical Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico
Published: September 2023

Psychiatric patients have a higher seroprevalence of toxocariasis than general population. However, there is poor knowledge about any specific psychiatric diagnosis associated with toxocariasis. The aim of the study was to determine whether seropositivity to Toxocara was associated with schizophrenia. Through an age and gender-matched case-control seroprevalence study in Durango City, Mexico, 50 schizophrenic inpatients in a public psychiatric hospital and 100 control subjects of the general population were compared for the presence of anti-Toxocara IgG antibodies. One of the 50 (2%) schizophrenic inpatients, and 3 (3%) of the 100 controls were positive for anti-Toxocara IgG antibodies. No statistically significant difference in Toxocara seroprevalence among cases and controls was found (P=0.59). The Toxocara positive schizophrenic patient suffered from paranoid schizophrenia (F20.0) and had a number of putative risk factors for Toxocara exposure including contact with cats, dogs and other animals, worked in agriculture, and consumed undercooked meat, unwashed fruits and vegetables, and untreated water. Results suggest that seroprevalence of Toxocara infection was low and not associated with schizophrenia in psychiatric inpatients in Durango, Mexico. However, further studies to elucidate the association of toxocariasis with schizophrenia are needed.
Multiple Engagement Supportive Strategy (MESS) to Foster Ghanaian Language Delivery
Authors: Oppong Anthony , Cobbinah Sophia Efua , Armoo Anthony Kwaw , Asamoah–Poku Felicia
Published: September 2023

This paper examined multiple engagement supportive strategy (MESS) designed to foster the delivery of Ghanaian language (GHL), focusing on preserving and promoting linguistic diversity in Ghana. Language preservation and revitalization are crucial for the cultural identity and sustainable development of a nation. The MESS strategy integrates multiple engagement components to ensure a holistic and inclusive approach to language delivery. This investigation revealed that there were limited resources and infrastructure, low societal prestige. It was identified that there was limited integration in formal setting. Design adapted for the investigation was descriptive. Qualitative approach was used since extensive figures are not going to be used for the analysis. Interview and focus group discussion were the data collection strategies. In total, three hundred (300) participants were involved for the investigation. Primary source of data was the adapted coupled with readings of the scholar’s work. Purposive sampling snowball techniques were used. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration and partnership between key stakeholders. This includes involving local communities, language experts, educational institutions, and governmental organizations to collectively develop and implement language revitalization initiatives. Theoretical framework that underpinned this investigation was socio-cultural theory propounded by Lev Vygotsky (1978). This theory emphasizes the importance of social interactions, cultural tools (such as language, symbols, and artifacts), and the role of more knowledgeable individuals in supporting a learner's development.
The Impact of the Development of the Sasak Sade Traditional Tourism Village Destination in Rembitan Village, Pujut District, Central Lombok Regency
Authors: Wiharno Muhamad Rendy , Antara I Ketut , Sudana I Putu
Published: September 2023

The Sade Traditional Tourism Village is one of the mainstay tourist villages on Lombok Island, especially in the Central Lombok region. With local traditions, villages that are still natural and complete with traditional buildings, as well as ancestral heritage that continues to be maintained today, the privilege and added value of tourism for this village, are still being maintained. Tourism development in an area will have an impact on society, both positive and negative. This research was conducted in the Sasak Sade Traditional Tourism Village, in Rembitan Village, Pujut District, Central Lombok Regency. This study aims to determine the impact of tourism development on the economy, socio-culture and environment for the local community of the Sasak Sade Traditional Tourism Village, both positive and negative. This study uses qualitative data, with secondary and primary data sources, data collection through observation, documentation and in-depth interviews and literature studies. This study also used descriptive qualitative data analysis with the determination of informants carried out using a purposive sampling technique with key informants including: Head of Rembitan Village, Head of Management of Sasak Sade Traditional Tourism Village, Head of Local Guides, Traders, Hamlet Heads, Academics, and Communities involved in the development of the Sasak Sade Traditional Tourism Village. The results of processing data from 13 indicators, research results from the development of Sasak Sade Traditional Tourism Village tourism are considered to have a positive impact on economic, socio-cultural development and no negative impacts on the environment were found.
Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Yield and its Related Traits in Maize (Zea mays L.) Inbred Lines as Influenced by Drought and Heat Stress Conditions in Sudan Savannah of Nigeria
Authors: Dawaki K. D. , Magashi A. I. , Daraja Y. B. , Yawale M. A. , Garko M. S. , Fulani M. S. , Saad A. M. , Abdussalam S. S.
Published: September 2023

The experiments were conducted during the dry seasons of 2021 and 2022 at research farm of Kano University of Science and Technology Wudil and Farmers field at Dambatta Local Government Area, to evaluate the genetic analysis of maize inbred lines under combined drought and heat stress conditions. The parental materials comprise of eight inbred lines that were crossed in a partial diallel pattern. The 64 genotypes were arranged in a 99 lattice design with three replications at each location. Each plot consists of two rows 4 m long, with inter and intra row spacing of 75 cm x 25 cm respectively. Sowing was done manually in February 2022; two seeds per hill were sown 0.25 x 0.75m, with a seed bed of 2.5 x 2.5m (6.25m2) and later thinned to one plant per hill. Irrigation water was applied to field capacity once every week to all the conditions during the first 5 weeks (35 days) after sowing. The well- watered and stress conditions were separated from each other by 2.5m alley to prevent spill-over at the water stress sites during the period of imposed water and drought stress and at the beginning and end of each replication; non experimental lines were raised to minimize the edge border effects. The results of analysis of variance revealed that the genotypes exhibited highly significant differences for plant aspect, ear aspect, grain weight and grain yield across the two locations indicated the existence of sufficient genetic variability among the selected materials and scope for improvement in maize. High GCV and PCV was recorded in anthesis silking interval and grain yield showing high variability of the trait, while moderate GCV and PCV was observed for ear height, ears per plant, plant aspect and ear aspect indicating moderate variability among the genotypic trait. Other trait recorded low GCV and PCV. The result shows high heritability accompanied by high genetic advance as percent of mean (GAM) for as to 50% flowering and days to 50% silking which indicated the preponderance of additive gene action in controlling the traits. Hence direct selection of such characters would be effective in improving for the inheritance of the affected traits. Therefore trait could be improved through breeding method such as simple selection, single seed decent. Low heritability and GAM observed for other traits were influenced by non-additive gene effects for the inheritance of the trait and could be dependable for their improvement in maize.
Double-locked narrowband hybrid locally-excited and charge-transfer emitter exhibiting amplified spontaneous emission
Authors: Chen Long , Tang Xun , Liu Ruihong , Zheng Qi , Yu Youjun , Zhou Dongying , Yang Shengyi , Adachi Chihaya , Liao Liangsheng , Jiang Zuoquan
Published: September 2023

Hybrid Locally-excited and Charge-Transfer (HLCT) materials have garnered significant attention for their high exciton utilization efficiency in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). However, conventional HLCT materials suffer from broad emission, which limits their applications. In this study, we report a narrowband HLCT emitter, namely 10-(dimesitylboranyl)-8,8,12,12-tetraphenyl-8,12-dihydrobenzo[9,1]quinolizino[3,4,5,6,7-klmn]phenoxazine (PXZ-DL), incorporated by double-locked intramolecular connection. PXZ-DL exhibits a narrow emission spectrum with a small full width at half-maximum (FWHM) of 35 nm and 47 nm in solution and as an OLED emitter, respectively. Moreover, PXZ-DL demonstrates a high photoluminescence quantum yield of 100% and an external quantum efficiency of 8.0%. Additionally, PXZ-DL demonstrates excellent performance in amplified spontaneous emission with a low threshold of 5.7 μJ cm-2 and a narrow FWHM of 11 nm. The intramolecular lock strategy offers a promising approach for the development of HLCT materials with high color purity.
The COVID-19 Pandemic as a Trendsetting Factor for the Book Publishing Industry
Authors:   Faculty of Journalism and Mass Communication, Alexandrov Georgi
Published: September 2023

The paper examines the trends in the book publishing industry which have been set or accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic within the two-year period of 2020-2021. The territorial span covers the United States and the key European book markets in Germany, The United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Sweden. The main objective of the research is to examine the long-term impact of the pandemic on book publishing. The methodology consists mainly of the empirical investigation of market data. The paper verifies the hypothesis that the pandemic has not only accelerated the digitalization of the book industry but has also reaffirmed the sustainability of the print book format.
Digital transformation challenge of transversal competencies of information society: the case of the National Library of Lithuania
Authors:   Vilnius University, Faculty of Communication, Jokūbauskienė Saulė
Published: September 2023

Information society in our days displays digital transformation from both individual and organizational perspectives which explores the challenge of creation and need for transversal competencies to fit into changing world and state policies within strategic intelligence decisions in upcoming years. The aim of the paper is related to strategic objectives emerging within public discourse in the case of the National Library of Lithuania determining the relation of public communication to strategic guidelines emerging during the process of such communication and collaboration and other important key transversal competencies.
Types of User Interface Copywriting Texts
Authors:   Faculty of Journalism and Mass Communication, Karapenchev Yordan
Published: September 2023

The study of UI copywriting texts requires their categorization by type, depending on the various functions that they perform in the user interface. A scientific contribution of this study is the attempted typology of UI copywriting texts based on their dominant function. The functions of the texts are defined, following the work of R. Jakobson, while the components of the user interface largely follow those, described by A. Vinogradova. Based on this, a total of 8 different categories of texts are differentiated – texts with a denotative function, texts with an expressive function and texts with an appellative function.