bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of a community-based intervention to prevent childhood TB in Lesotho
Authors: Hirsch-Moverman Y. , Howard A. A. , Yuengling K. A. , Lebelo L. , Frederix K. , Hesseling A. C. , Nachman S. , Maama L. B. , El-Sadr W. M. , Mantell J. E.
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND: Child contact management (CCM) is a recognized strategy to prevent TB; however, implementation is suboptimal. PREVENT was a cluster-randomized trial that evaluated the effectiveness and acceptability of a community-based intervention (CBI) to improve CCM in Lesotho.METHODS:
Ten health facilities (HFs) were randomized to CBI or standard-of-care (SOC). CBI included nurse training/mentorship, health education by village health workers (VHW), adherence support, and multidisciplinary team meetings. Information on TB cases registered from February 2016 to June 2018
and their child contacts was abstracted. Outcomes were TB preventive treatment (TPT) initiation, TPT completion, and CBI acceptability. Generalized linear mixed models were used to test for differences between study arms and qualitative interview thematic analysis for acceptability.RESULTS:
Among 547 registered children (CBI: n = 399; SOC: n = 148) of 426 adult TB patients, 46% were <2 years, 48% female, and 3% HIV-exposed/positive, with no significant differences between study arms. A total of 501 children initiated TPT—98% at CBI and 88% at SOC HFs (P
< 0.0001). TPT completion was 82% in CBI vs. 59% in SOC sites (P = 0.048). Caregivers and providers reported that CBI was acceptable.CONCLUSION: The CBI was acceptable and significantly improved TPT initiation and completion in Lesotho, offering the opportunity to mitigate
the threat of TB among children.
Impact and treatment of exacerbations in adults with bronchiectasis
Authors: Oscullo G. , Gómez-Olivas J. D. , Beauperthuy T. , Bekki A. , Garcia-Ortega A. , Martinez-Garcia M. A.
Published: July 2022

Exacerbations have a negative impact on inflammatory diseases of the airways and, in patients with bronchiectasis, severe exacerbations are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Exacerbations are also associated with a decline in quality of life and lung function, greater
local and systemic inflammation and clinically more severe forms of the disease. As a consequence, the majority of therapeutic clinical trials carried out in patients with bronchiectasis are aimed at preventing exacerbations, but there is a scarcity of scientific evidence on the best treatment
once they occur. All of these elements, combined with the great heterogeneity of bronchiectasis and the influence of geographical and microbiological factors on its clinical presentations and aetiologies, mean that the recommendations of therapeutic guidelines vary. An international group
of experts has now reached agreement on the definition of exacerbation in bronchiectasis for the inclusion of patients in clinical trials, although its validity in clinical practice has yet to be demonstrated.
HEALTH STATUS AND GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF BROILER FINISHER FED VARIED CONCENTRATION OF Polyalthia longifolia LEAF EXTRACT IN PLACE OF CONVECTIONAL ANTIBIOTICS
Authors: SHITTU M. DANIEL , John Alagbe , OJEBIYI OLUSEGUN , Ojediran Taiwo , Adewale RAFIU
Published: July 2022

Study was conducted to investigate the effect of Polyalthia longifolia leaf aqueous extract (PLLAE) on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and blood profile of broiler chickens at finisher phase. 180 broiler chicks was used for the experiment and the birds were weighed and randomly allotted into 5 treatments, 3 replicates and 12birds/replicate using completely randomized design and data collected were subjected to analysis of variance using SPSS version 21 and significant means were separated using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test of the same software. Treatment group one birds were not given any medication except vaccine (negative control without PLLAE), T2 serve positive control (given synthetic antibiotic), and T3, T4 and T5 were given 15g, 30g and 45g of Polyalthia longifolia/litre of water, respectively. The inclusion of PLLAE had no significant (P>0.05) effect on growth performance, it improved the survivability of the broiler and PLLAE at concentration of 45g per litre of water numerically improved the growth performance of broiler chickens compared to control diets. This established the antibacterial quality of the PLLAE in broiler production. Nutrient digestibility parameters were significant differently and considering the broilers on PLLAE, value increase with increase in the concentration of PLLAE. Treatment 3–5 had significantly higher white blood cell, also, lymphocyte, neutrophil and red blood cell were significantly higher under treatment 3, this establish the health status of the animal to the PLLAE. Cholesterol increased with increase concentration of PLLAE, thus the research indicates the hypercholesterolemia quality of the PLLAE. It was concluded that PLLAE can be used in any concentration used in this study without causing an adverse effect on the growth performance hence provide alternative synthetic antibiotics.
Metodología de la investigación
Authors:   Universidad Nacional José Faustino Sánchez Carrión, Ruiz Huaraz Carlos Bernardino , Valenzuela Ramos Marisel Roxana ,   Universidad Nacional San Luis Gonzaga de Ica
Published: July 2022

La metodología de la investigación se define como la herramienta teórico-práctica que tiene como objetivo la comprensión de los procedimientos de la investigación científica y el desarrollo de aptitudes y destrezas para realizar la investigación. Promover la investigación científica durante la formación profesional de los estudiantes, es uno de los fines fundamentales de la universidad. Los estudiantes que emprenden trabajos de investigación tienen la oportunidad de aplicar el arsenal teórico adquirido durante su formación profesional. Entregamos la presente obra a los estudiantes de pregrado de los últimos ciclos de estudios, así como a los egresados de las aulas universitarias, la que les permitirá elaborar y desarrollar con éxito su tesis o proyecto de investigación.
Pendidikan Nilai Moral Dalam Novel (Analisis Pembelajaran Sastra Di Sekolah)
Authors: Yanti Fitri , Putri Delia , Arianti Rita
Published: July 2022

This research is motivated by the low moral education in the community. Therefore, one of the media, namely novels, can be used to teach the value of moral education to students at school. Based on the results of the study, broadly speaking, there are 3 types of moral values ??in Reni Juniarti's Dia Husband My Novel, which refers to Nurgiantoro's theory (2013: 441-442), namely: (1) the relationship between humans and their gods is 10 data, which are classified into 3 types, namely trust 7 data, grateful 0 data and prayer 3 data. (2) human relationships with oneself as many as 11 data which are classified into 3 types, namely firm stance 2 data, optimistic 3 data, regret 6 data and (3) human relations with other humans as many as 17 data which are classified into 3 types, namely caring 12 data , thank 1 data and appreciate 4 data. Based on this analysis, the most dominant moral value is the moral value of human relations with other humans, especially the value of caring for data. It is proven that the most powerful is the moral value of Caring
Peran Wanita Dalam Kaba
Authors: Hermawan  , Nofrita Misra
Published: July 2022

This research exposes woman profile derives in Minangkabau Kaba as one of traditional literature works of Mi­nangkabau. The aim to exposes woman profile derives from an idea that woman in Minangkabau have vital role because its social system is matrilineal and literature work is a reflection of its social life. Therefore, woman profile is also expressed in the Kaba. To respond the above paradigm, the researcher choose the Kaba with the following samples: (1) Cindua Mato Kaba of M. Yusuf's philologic work under title 'Translitera­tion Problem and Story Edition of Tuanku Nan Muda Pagaru­yung (Cindua Mato Kaba)', (2) Anggun Nan Tungga Kaba of Ambas Mahkota's work, (3) Malin Deman Kaba of Nurizzati's philologic work under title 'Malin Deman Raba: A Philo­logic Study'. This choice is based upon a consideration that the above three Kaba can be said as a representative to illustrate or to represent the .existing Minangkabau Kabas. The kabas which are taken as samples of this research are still sung orally and printed many times up to now in the form of publication. To achieve the aim of this research, some approaches of literature sociology and psychology are used. A Kaba as a literature work is regarded as a 'reflection' of society; and therefore what is expressed through the kaba can not be rid of social condition as its background. Based on the above theory, the result of this research shows that woman roles in family as a wife, mo­ther, child, older sister, younger sister, and grandmoth­er. In society, a woman roles as a leader of family and member of society such as household servant, birth sha­man, businesswoman or manager of flower garden, foster mother, clothes drier, or local pastoralist. Woman profile in the Kaba has a close connection with individual personally of society according to Minangkabau social system. Moreover, woman in the Kaba role in giving initiation or inaugura­tion to members of Minangkabau society
Analisis Makna Mimpi, Di Desa Langkitin Kec.Rambah Samo Kab.Rokan Hulu
Authors: Wulan Dari Desi , Ningsih Asih Ria
Published: July 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengungkap makna kepercayaan pada masyarakat Desa Langkitin yaitu makna mimpi. Penelitian ini menggunakan penelitian kualitatif deskriptif. Sumber data penelitian ini adalah makna mimpi di Desa Langkitin. Secara metodologis, penelitian ini menggunakan pengumpulan data, yaitu (1) merekam, (2) mendengarkan, (3) mengklasifikasi, (4) mencatat, (5) menjelaskan. Teknik pengumpulan data yang diperoleh dari penelitian ini adalah data primer, yaitu data yang berhubungan langsung dengan subjek penelitian. Data primer ini diperoleh dari wawancara dengan informan dan pihak lain yang terkait dengan masalah yang diteliti. Data primer melalui penelitian ini adalah melalui wawancara mendalam. Pencatatan sumber data primer melalui wawancara, serta observasi merupakan hasil gabungan dari melihat, mendengar, dan bertanya. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa dalam kepercayaan masyarakat Desa Langkitin banyak terdapat kepercayaan tentang hal-hal yang bersifat supranatural, supranatural, atau di luar nalar manusia. Masalah supranatural penelitian ini adalah kepercayaan masyarakat Desa Langkitin
INULINA: SU USO COMO PREBIÓTICO EN LA NUTRICIÓN DE RUMIANTES
Authors: Hernández-Sánchez David , Rico-López Saraí , Sánchez-Santillán Paulino , Ayala-Monter Marco Antonio , Crosby-Galván María Magdalena , López-Garrido Serafín Jacobo
Published: July 2022

Background. Prebiotics stimulate the growth and activity of the beneficial microbiota of the digestive tract, improve the health of the host and act as growth promoters. Inulin has prebiotic potential in ruminants, acts as an immunomodulator, improves intestinal health and productive behavior. However, its prebiotic effect on the ruminal microbiota is still unclear, given the little research carried out to date. Objective. This review focuses on the prebiotic effect of inulin and the benefits on the health and productive behavior of ruminants. Methodology. The bibliographic search was carried out in publications of international and national indexed journals, which have a strict peer review, written in English and Spanish, which included information related to inulin, its prebiotic effect, as well as the response of its use in health and ruminant performance. The scientific results of the reviewed articles were compared and contrasted. Main findings. The research analyzed demonstrate the potential use of inulin as a prebiotic in ruminants during lactation and weaning; benefits are shown on intestinal health and reduction in the incidence of diarrhea. In addition, improvements in animal behavior are observed. Inulin improves milk production in cattle. However, the little information available to date does not allow to determine the effect of this prebiotic on the ruminal microbiota. Implications. The information presented in this article shows that the effect of inulin as a prebiotic depends on its degree of polymerization, the age or growth stage of the ruminant, the doses used and, where appropriate, the probiotic population involved. Conclusions. The use of inulin as a prebiotic enhances the probiotic activity of beneficial bacteria, improving intestinal health and ruminant’s performance. However, more research is required on the effect of inulin in the rumen to know its prebiotic potential on the ruminal microbial.
PRODUCCIÓN DE BIOGÁS Y CARACTERÍSTICAS FERMENTATIVAS in vitro DE CONSORCIOS BACTERIANOS CELULOLÍTICOS RUMINALES OBTENIDOS DE DIFERENTES FIBRAS
Authors: Hernández-Sánchez David , Herrera-Pérez Jerónimo , López Garrido Serafín Jacobo , Torres-Salado Nicolás , Sánchez-Santillán Paulino
Published: July 2022

Background. Cellulolytic bacterial consortia (CBC) serve as additives to improve fiber degradation in ruminants, since they improve biogas production and in vitro fermentation characteristics. Objective. To evaluate the biogas production and fermentative characteristics in vitro of mulato grass inoculated with ruminal CBC obtained from ground sawdust, ground mulato grass or whole stem as substrates in the selective culture medium. Methodology. The CBC were obtained from ruminal fluid from a Suiz-Bu cow fitted with a ruminal cannula, which was transferred six times in a selective anaerobic medium. The test consisted of preparing sterile biodigesters with 0.5 g of mulatto grass with 63 d of regrowth, 45 mL of culture medium. The inoculation was with 5 mL of a type of CBC. The biodigesters were incubated 72 h at 39 °C. Biogas production was measured at 3, 6, 9, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h. In the culture media, ammonia nitrogen (N-NH3), total bacterial count, cellulase activity, pH, dry matter degradation (DMD) and neutral detergent fiber degradation (NDFD) were determined at 12, 24, 48 y 72 h. In the biogas production a completely random design was used; while in the rest of the variables a completely randomized design was carried out with a 3x4 factorial arrangement, with fiber source and incubation time as factors. Results. The biogas production of the CBC obtained from the ground grass showed higher (p<0.05) accumulated production in all the evaluated times. The CBC obtained from sawdust increased the biogas production by 175% from 24 to 48 h and by 313% from 48 to 72 h. There was an interaction effect (p <0.05) on DMD, NDFD, N-NH3, total bacterial count and cellulase enzymatic activity. The CBC obtained from ground mulatto grass at 72 h increased (p <0.05) the DMD and NDFD. The CBC obtained from sawdust increased DMD by 19.1% and NDFD by 33% from 48 to 72 h. The concentration of bacteria in the observed interactions is within the range of the ruminal ecosystem. The highest (p<0.05) content of N-NH3 was determined when the CBC obtained from grass stem with 12, 24 and 72 h of incubation were used. Implications. Using the same fiber source to obtain the CBCs improves the degradation of said fiber. Conclusion. The size and source of fiber are decisive in the type of bacteria that make up the cellulolytic bacterial consortia of ruminal origin under the conditions of this in vitro test.
Integration of the Civil Society Development of the Prophet Muhammad
Authors: Muhammad Husni
Published: July 2022

Because it is believed that intellectual intelligence alone is insufficient to make humans more civilized, many community-based educational institutions offer Islamic-based character education. This article introduces the Prophet Muhammad PBUH. as an exemplary figure that we should emulate through the following discussions: knowing the education obtained by Muhammad bin Abdullah prior to being appointed as Prophet and Apostle, and knowing the figure of the Prophet Muhammad. This study is based solely on qualitative library research (library research). Based on a search of numerous literatures pertaining to the formation of Islam during the Mecca period during the time of the Prophet Muhammad, First, the evolution of Islam as practiced by the Prophet Muhammad after he became a prophet and apostle. Second, understanding the evolution of the education development system implemented by the Prophet Muhammad for those who are educated beginning with their immediate family. Third, revealing the fruits of the Prophet Muhammad's education to members of the Arab community and Civil Society who are unfamiliar with Islam. This paper invites educators to revisit and implement the concept of Islamic education that has been exemplified and applied by the Prophet Muhammad in order to alleviate the concern that every teacher or educator in the millennial era has regarding the difficulty of maintaining student discipline in the midst of the rapid advancement of technology.
Strengthening the Social Element of Reading: Facilitating Conjunctions of Readers
Authors: George M. Jacobs  , Meng Huat Chau
Published: July 2022

When most people picture reading, they picture someone sitting alone holding a book or a screen of some type, such as a smartphone or tablet. In other words, reading is not seen as a social activity. Just the opposite, reading can be seen as an anti-social act; instead of talking with others, people go off alone to read, maybe even as a means of escape. However, reading is inherently a social activity. It represents an interaction between writers and readers. Writers attempt to put their ideas into words and maybe images, too. Readers develop their own interpretations of what the writers wrote, and they connect these interpretations to their own lives and thoughts. In this article, we propose that extensive reading, which involves students doing large quantities of reading, be combined with cooperative learning as an important way to strengthen the existing social nature of reading. We discuss supporting theories, research, and principles of extensive reading and cooperative learning, before providing and illustrating ideas on how to integrate extensive reading and cooperative learning in the classroom. We hope that the examples provided, based on knowledge of principles from cooperative learning and extensive reading, will inspire and sustain teachers’ efforts to strengthen the social element of their students’ reading, thereby making reading a more beneficial and enjoyable activity for their students that may continue for the rest of their lives.
Eigentümlich wirtschaften
Authors: Moldenhauer Joschka , Micken Simon
Published: July 2022

Der Beitrag beschäftigt sich mit Silke Helfrichs Diskussion des Eigentumsbegriffs und den damit zusammenhängenden Verständnissen von Eigentumsverhältnissen und ihren Implikationen für unser Handeln. Diese werden einerseits in Bezug zu soziologischen Theorien gesetzt und andererseits mit ethno- und anthropologischen Forschungen. Daran anschließend werden (institutionelle) Bedingungen alternativen Wirtschaftens dargestellt und mit Silke Helfrichs Ansatz der Muster des Commoning bzw. der Mustersprache zusammengeführt. Der Beitrag zeigt auf, welche vielfältigen Denkanstöße sich aus Silke Helfrichs zahlreichen Publikationen ziehen lassen und wie diese unser (Nach-)Denken beeinflusst haben und weiterhin beeinflussen werden.
Freiwillige Institutionen zur Überwindung der Tragödie der Allmende im Lichte erweiterter begrenzter Rationalität?!
Authors: Beckenkamp Martin , Vohle Peter
Published: July 2022

Vielen globalen Problemen droht die Tragödie der Allmende. Es bedarf dringend Lösungen. Die spieltheoretische Analyse zeigt, wie die Rationalität des homo oeconomicus unweigerlich in die Katastrophe führt („Soziales Dilemma“). Es fehlt die Vernunft, mit Blick auf Gemeinwohl und soziale Adaptation, die im Homo Sapiens durchaus nachweisbar ist. Modelle sollten daher berücksichtigen unter welchen Bedingungen Akteure Gemeinschaftsregeln folgen. Entsprechende moderne Institutionen zeichnen sich durch erheblich reduzierte Reaktanzreaktionen aus. Die Nutzung der institutionellen Designprinzpien Elinor Ostroms ist dabei sehr hilfreich. Sie können mit jüngeren Erkenntnissen zu evolutionär gewachsener Kooperationsbereitschaft verbunden werden, um das Verhalten der wirtschaftlich aktiven Akteure im Sinne kollektiver Vernunft nachhaltig zu verändern.
Fungal Pectinases in Food Technology
Authors: Bassim Atta Mohamed , Ruiz-Larrea Fernanda
Published: July 2022

Pectins contribute to the firmness of plant tissues and confer rigidity to cell walls, protecting the plant from droughts and withering. Fungi have been endowed with an array of extracellular pectolytic enzymes that provide them valuable tools for infecting their host. Pectolytic enzymes are broadly referred to as “pectinases” because they act upon pectin and pectic substances. Pectinases are the most frequently and widely used enzymes in food processing and winemaking. Currently, pectinases are applied in the food industry either to create new products or to improve physicochemical and organoleptic characteristics of conventional products, as well as to increase the yield. This review aims at casting some light on the classification and biochemical aspects of pectinases, especially those of interest in winemaking and food industries. Additionally, it gives a comprehensive summary of current applications of fungal pectinases in the field of food and beverage technology.
Classification of Clay Minerals
Authors: Akisanmi Praise
Published: July 2022

The versatility of natural clay and their ability to adsorb a variety of environmental contaminants present in the water effluents has attracted esthetic concern among environmentalist. These practical applications rely primarily on the diversity of natural clay structure to retain harmful and undesirable substances from the immediate environment. The adsorptive capability of natural clays is related to the fundamental units of the clay-sized crystalline minerals which present in different combinations.
Biofilm Development in Gram-Positive and Gram-Negative Bacteria
Authors: Dwivedi Deepak , Sehgal Trishla
Published: July 2022

Biofilms are the communities of microorganisms, especially bacteria attached to a biotic or abiotic surface. These biofilms live in a self-sustained matrix and produce different substances called extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) which are responsible for the pathogenicity of a number of bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Vibrio cholerae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, etc. These EPS substance makes it difficult to eradicate the biofilm present on the surface. Biofilm formation is a five-step process. Biofilms can be monospecies or multispecies. In biofilms, cells communicate via Quorum Sensing (QS). QS is the regulation of gene expression in bacteria with respect to changes in cell population density. In QS, bacteria produce various signaling molecules called Auto-inducers (AI). AI concentration increases as the bacterial population increases. Bacteria respond to these AIs results in an alteration of gene expression, which results in the release of various virulence factors. QS involves a two-component signaling process which is different for both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. QS and EPS make the bacteria resistant to various antibiotics, which make the eradication difficult and hence requires more effective treatment. This article discusses the biofilm structure, phenomenon of biofilm formation, signaling, and pathogenicity to highlight the understanding of processes involved in biofilm formation.
Effect of the Mass Distribution of ITNs in an Endemic Area with a High Entomological Index, the Case of Bandundu-City, Kwilu, DRC
Authors: Metelo-Matubi Emery , Zanga Josue , Nsabatien Victoire , Mbala Aimé , Ngamukie Solange , Agossa Fiacre , Hadji Amadou Niang El , Maniania-Nguya-Kalenga Jean , Basimike Mulenda
Published: July 2022

The bio-efficacy of Yorkol-branded ITNs collected from Bandundu-city was assessed on the Kisumu strain and wild specimens of Anopheles gambiae. The susceptibility of the wild An. gambiae s.l. was tested to select insecticides. Adult An. gambiae s.l. sampled by PSC and HLC were screened for the presence of Plasmodium falciparum. Blood samples were diagnosed by microscopy and RDTs. ITN distributed in Bandundu-city were fully effective on the Kisumu strain, but on wild An. gambiae s.l. population (22.3 ± 11.5%). Anopheles gambiae s.l. was the main vector in Bandundu. No significant difference was observed between the entomological indices before and after the deployment of nets (OR = 0.8; p = 0.39). Wild An. gambiae s.l. populations were resistant to pyrethroids and DDT, with the restoration of the susceptibility to pyrethroids post pre-exposure to PBO. Plasmodium falciparum was the main parasite species and was found alone or mixed with. P. malariae or P. ovale. The confirmation rates by microscopy and RDT were respectively 57.9% and 53.6%. Nets deployed in Bandundu-city were not effective on wild An. gambiae s.l. populations. This operational failure is likely explained by the observed resistance to pyrethroids. In the future only PBO-net should be deployed Bandundu-city.
Advanced, Imageless Navigation in Contemporary THA: Optimising Acetabular Component Placement
Authors: P. Kurmis Andrew
Published: July 2022

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) stands as a reliable and effective way to manage end-stage hip disease secondary to a number of aetiologic conditions. While target ‘safe zones’ are widely quoted and endorsed, an increasingly robust body of evidence suggests that such idealised implantation goals have limited utility in patient-to-patient considerations and that even with a precise goal in mind, surgeons perform inconsistently in achieving these targets intra-operatively. Inter-patient variability, the concept of ‘functional’ safe zones and the largely under-appreciated impact of poor patient positioning (and progressive loss of position during the case) are all recognised and evidence-supported opponents of conventional ‘40/15’ approaches. In an environment whereby accountable cost utility, maximised surgical consistency (i.e., outlier minimisation), improved attainment of target position, and awareness of the radiation exposure burden of many pre-operative templating regimes are all paramount, there appears to be an increasing role for the application of imageless ‘mini’ intra-operative navigation systems for primary (and revision) THA procedures. This chapter reviews the evolution of THA navigation and discusses contemporary applications, defines the challenges associated with unanticipated pelvic movement, and explores potential future directions in the use of this exciting technology.
Perspective Chapter: Surgical Management of Symptomatic Rectocele
Authors: María Cano Pecharromán Esther , Teresa Calderón Duque A. , Carlos Santiago Peña Juan , Balsa Marín Tomás
Published: July 2022

Rectocele is defined as a herniation of the anterior rectal wall through the posterior vaginal wall into the vaginal lumen caused by rectovaginal septum weakness. This entity is more common in postmenopausal female patients. Approximately one-third of adult women affected with pelvic organ prolapse have a significant impact on their quality of life and emotional well-being. Up to more than 90% of woman can be asymptomatic. In symptomatic cases, constipation, defecatory disorders such as obstructed syndrome (ODS) or incontinence, vaginal mass, and pelvic discomfort are the main complaints. Surgical treatment is indicated after failure of conservative management. Talking about ODS, nearly 20% of the patients need surgery. Surgical options can be classified as abdominal (being laparoscopic colposacropexy the technique of choice) or perineal approach. In the latter group, the alternatives are transanal (TA), transperineal (TP), and transvaginal (TV) approaches with or without prosthetic material or grafts. Native-tissue transvaginal approach should be preferentially performed as it has shown better results. Nowadays, there is no consensus on what the gold-standard technique is given the lack of strong evidence.
Utilization of Biopolymers in Water Based Drilling Muds
Authors: Ali Imtiaz , Ahmad Maqsood , Hussain Arain Aftab , Atashbari Vahid , Zamir Asif
Published: July 2022

With the increase in energy demand, deeper wells drilling is one of the solutions to fulfill the energy demand, which demands specialized drilling mud formulation. These muds are composed of thermally stable materials that can sustain in high-temperature conditions. Biopolymers are widely used out of various mud additives for improving the rheology and filtration characteristics of mud. Owing to the high temperature and poor thermal stability of such additives, these additives lose their primary functions, resulting in the nonproductive time and irreversible problems. The book chapter highlights the uses of water-based mud, its limitations, and the degradation of biopolymers. Various additives’ significance and susceptibility in harsh borehole conditions have been discussed. The existing additives used for the rheological and filtration characteristics improvements and their shortcomings are presented. Furthermore, the field applications of native and modified polymeric-based mud formulations have been further examined and presented.
Remediation of Soil Impacted by Heavy Metal Using Farm Yard Manure, Vermicompost, Biochar and Poultry Manure
Authors: Rani Neeraj , Singh Mohkam
Published: July 2022

Soil contamination by organic and inorganic compounds is a universal concern nowadays. One such contamination is heavy metal exposure to the soil from different sources. The discharge of effluents from various factories in Punjab like tanning industries, leather industries, and electroplating industries generate a large volume of industrial effluents. These industrial units discharge their effluents directly or through the sewer into a water tributary (Buddha Nallah) and this water is being used for irrigating the crops. The heavy metals enter into the food chain thus contaminating all resources i.e. air, soil, food, and water. Preventive and remedial measures should be taken to reduce the effects of heavy metals from soil and plants. Organic soil amendments like FYM, Vermicomposting, Biochar, and poultry manure have been used to deactivate heavy metals by changing their forms from highly bioavailable forms to the much less bioavailable forms associated with organic matter (OM), metal oxides, or carbonates. These amendments have significant immobilizing effects on heavy metals because of the presence of humic acids which bind with a wide variety of metal(loid)s including Cd, Cr, Cu, and Pb.
A Modern Review of Wavelet Transform in Its Spectral Analysis
Authors: Bulnes Francisco
Published: July 2022

The spectral analysis, in much aspects as are the wavelet transform in its numerous versions and its relation with other transforms and special functions requires a special review, since the exploration in the frequency domain to the wavelet transform is more detailed and majorly more specific in different applications. For example, the wavelet transform of special function can be very useful to create and design special signal filters or, for example, to the interphase between reception-emission devices with sensorial parts of the human body. Also the quantum wavelet transform is very useful in the spectral study of traces of particles. Likewise, in this chapter, these aspects are considered as an inherent property of the wavelet transform in the spectral exploration of some phenomena. Finally, general results to the discrete case are given, which is analyzed to the wavelet transform and its spectra.
Possibility of Using a VR System as an Action Observation Therapeutical Technique
Authors: Langer Jaroslav , Šorfová Monika , Ravnik David
Published: July 2022

In recent years, 3D virtual reality (VR) systems are increasingly finding their way into biomedical applications. Nevertheless, in most cases a 3D VR is being used as an interactive system (such as Xbox Kinect or Playstation VR). These interactive systems, however effective they may have proven, not only limit use of 3D VR in patients incapable to engage in these systems due to their physical or mental disability, but also put significant requirements on medical institutions for an equipment, medical personal, and therefore institutional budget. In this article, we are proposing a 3D VR as an stand-alone action observation training device, which could limit requirements associated with abovementioned interactive systems due to its capability to stimulate a mirror neuron system of human brain, while adding minimal demands on both patient and medical facility. Research studies that confirm activity in the motor cortex will be described. We focus on the literature that describes theories, models, and experimental studies dealing with the effects of motion observations that are involved in the control and final performance of motor skills.
Development and Usage of Electronic Teaching Technologies for the Economic Training of Students in a Technical University
Authors: Semenov Valeryi
Published: July 2022

In this chapter, the experience of the Department of Economic Theory in the development and use of electronic technologies in teaching economic theory for students of technical directions is described. The necessity of electronic testing in the context of the concept of practice-oriented teaching has been substantiated. The stages of development and structure of electronic testing are presented. The process of forming the base of test tasks is described. The structure of the software is stated. The experience of approbation and application of testing technology is presented. The influence of electronic testing technology on teaching methods is shown. The issues of electronic support of business games are considered. Electronic technologies are considered as a necessary and essential element in the organization and implementation of business games developed at the department. An assessment of the impact of electronic testing and electronic support of business games on the quality of the educational process is given.
Deep Multiagent Reinforcement Learning Methods Addressing the Scalability Challenge
Authors: Kravaris Theocharis , A. Vouros George
Published: July 2022

Motivated to solve complex demand-capacity imbalance problems in air traffic management at the pre-tactical stage of operations, with thousands of agents (flights) daily, even in a restricted airspace, in this paper, we review deep multiagent reinforcement learning methods under the prism of their ability to scale toward solving problems with large populations of heterogeneous agents, where agents have to unavoidably decide on their joint policy, without communication constraints.
Use of Computed Tomography in the Assessment of Severity of Aortic Valve Stenosis
Authors: Weininger Cohen David , S. Aronow Wilbert
Published: July 2022

The workhorse in the diagnosis of aortic stenosis (AS) has been transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) with clear-cut validated threshold values for grading it mild, moderate, or severe. However, up to one-third of patients may present with discordant findings on echo sonogram and may need further evaluation with other imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT). CT is useful in determining aortic valve area (AVA) by planimetry and outperforms TTE in identifying severe AS in bicuspid aortic valve (BAV), but it is not routinely ordered for those purposes. It has been widely used in helping, determining, and grading the severity of AS by calculating aortic valve calcium (AVC) load with a scoring system. AVC scores of 2000 AU or more for men and 1300 AU for women are highly indicative of severe AS and have been associated with the poor outcomes. AVC score will underestimate AS in a minority of circumstances where the process is driven more by fibrosis than calcification. CT use is limited by its recent adoption into medical practice and, therefore, is still not universally available in every center. It requires additional training for providers and low-dose radiation exposure may be a concern for some patients.
Power Consumption in CMOS Circuits
Authors: Luet Ng Len , Ho Yeap Kim , Wan Ching Goh Magdalene , Dakulagi Veerendra
Published: July 2022

In this chapter, we explain the two types of power consumption found in a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) circuit. In general, a CMOS circuit tends to dissipate power at all times—be it active or inactive. The power consumed by the circuit when it is performing computational tasks is known as dynamic power. On the contrary, the power lost due to current leakage during which the circuit is dormant is referred to as static power. By carefully and properly designing the circuit, current leakage can be suppressed to its minimum. Hence, dynamic power consumption is usually significantly higher than its static counterpart. Some of the techniques that could be adopted to save dynamic power consumption include reducing the supply voltage, clock frequency, clock power, and dynamic effective capacitance. By probing into the activity factors of the design modules, the techniques can be applied to those with high power consumption.
Antimicrobial Residues in Meat and Meat Products
Authors: Alewy Almashhadany Dhary , I. Mohammed Hero , Abdulwahid M. Muslat Thaera , F. Rashid Rzgar , R. Hassan Rawaz , O. Hassan Abdullah
Published: July 2022

The presence of antimicrobial residues (AMRs) in meat is considered a serious threat to public health in the twenty-first century. This work aims at addressing the problem of AMRs in meat regarding their sources, negative effects, detection tests, and prevention and control practices. The health risks associated with such residues include direct toxicity, drug allergy, hypersensitive reactions, and the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Moreover, disturbance of gut microbiota and bone marrow disorders are also direct consequences of continuous exposure to small quantities of antimicrobial residues (AMRs). Due to long-term exposure to antibiotic residues during gestation, various congenital anomalies were also seen in newborn children. Carcinogenic impacts and mutagenic effects are other negative impacts of antibiotic residues on the food. Different practices are known to introduce AMRs into meat and meat products, such as misuse of chemotherapeutic medications, violating withdrawal periods, even with the proper administration of anti-infective agents, and usage of antibiotics as growth promoters and feed additives. The prevention of this problem requires multi-sector cooperation to restrict the improper use of antimicrobial drugs, standardize the rationale usage, and development of alternative chemicals or biologics for the purposes of preservation of meat products and as growth promoters for food-producing animals.
Clinical Application of Repetitive Peripheral Magnetic Stimulation in Rehabilitation
Authors: Ushio Ryu , Tamura Kousuke , Fujikawa Shoya , Ohsumi Chihiro , Sawai Shun , Yamamoto Ryosuke , Nakano Hideki
Published: July 2022

Repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation (rPMS) is a noninvasive method involving the repetitive magnetic stimulation of peripheral nerves and muscles. Recently, its potential as a new neuromodulation technique for sensory motor disorders has been recognized. Its advantages include less pain than with electrical stimulation and that neuromuscular stimulation can be performed over clothing. These advantages make it a practical and straightforward adjunct tool widely used in clinical practice. In particular, the combination of rPMS and general rehabilitation reportedly promotes functional improvement in stroke patients with difficult involuntary contractions. This chapter reviews rPMS and its potential clinical applications in rehabilitation.
Vitamin D Deficiency in Childhood Obesity: Behavioral Factors or Altered Metabolism?
Authors: Durá-Travé Teodoro , Gallinas-Victoriano Fidel
Published: July 2022

Obesity childhood is related to vitamin D deficiency, but the mechanisms for this association still remain questionable. We hypothesized that behavioral factors would be decisive in reducing the body content of vitamin D in patients with obesity. A cross-sectional clinical and analytical study (calcium, phosphorus, calcidiol, and parathyroid hormone) was carried out in a group of 377 patients with obesity (BMI-DS >2.0), 348 patients with severe obesity (BMI-DS >3.0), and 411 healthy children. The place of residence was categorized as urban or rural. Vitamin D status was defined according to the US Endocrine Society criteria. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in severe obesity (48.6%) and obesity groups (36.1%) than in the control group (12.5%). Vitamin D deficiency was more frequent in severe obesity and obesity groups living in urban areas than in those living in rural areas (not in the control group). The patients with obesity living in urban residence did not present significant seasonal variations in vitamin D deficiency throughout the year in contrast to those patients with obesity living in rural residence. These findings suggest that the most probable mechanism for vitamin D deficiency in children and adolescents with obesity, rather than altered metabolic, is the behavioral factors (sedentary lifestyle and lack of adequate sunlight exposure).
Pharmacological Efficacy and Mechanism of Vitamin D in the Treatment of “Kidney-Brain” Disorders
Authors: Zhang Jia-Li , Wang Yong-Jun , Zhang Yan
Published: July 2022

Accumulating evidences have shown that serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations were inversely correlated with the incidence or severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and that vitamin D deficiency might be associated with an increased susceptibility to many of the complications accompanied by COVID-19, such as disorders in kidney and brain. Our previous experimental studies demonstrated that vitamin D and its analogs could protect from kidney diseases, neuroinflammation, and musculoskeletal disorders such as osteoporosis and muscle atrophy, through the suppressive effects on overactivation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in tissues. Moreover, we published a review describing the therapeutic effects of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for organ injuries associated with COVID-19 by interfering with RAS. In the TCM principle “Kidney dredges brain,” this chapter will emphasize the potential preventive and therapeutic effects of vitamin D on both renal injuries and central nervous system disorders in COVID-19 patients and further elucidate the pharmacological effects with underlying mechanisms of vitamin D in “Kidney-Brain” disorders.
Thermoelectricity Properties of Tl10-x ATe6 (A = Pb) in Chalcogenide System
Authors: Muhammad Khan Waqas , Hussain Shah Wiqar
Published: July 2022

The different elements are doping in the tellurium telluride to determine the different properties like electrical and thermal properties of nanoparticles. The chalcogenide nanoparticles can be characteristics by the doping of the different metals which are like the holes. We present the effects of Pb doping on the electrical and thermoelectric properties of Tellurium Telluride Tl10-xPbxTe6 (x = 1.000, 1.250, 1.500, 1.750, 2.000) respectively, which were prepared by solid state reactions in an evacuated sealed silica tubes. Structurally, all these compounds were found to be phase pure as confirmed by the x-rays diffractometery (XRD) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. The thermo-power or Seebeck co-efficient (S) was measured for all these compounds which show that S increases with increasing temperature from 295 to 550 K. The Seebeck coefficient is positive for the whole temperature range, showing p-type semiconductor characteristics. Similarly, the electrical conductivity (σ) and the power factors have also complex behavior with Pb and Sn concentrations. The power factor (PF=S2σ) observed for Tl10-xPbxTe6 compounds are increases with increase in the whole temperature range (290 K-550 K) studied here. Telluride’s are narrow band-gap semiconductors, with all elements in common oxidation states, according to (Tl+) 9 (Pb3+)(Te2−)6. Phases range were investigated and determined with different concentration of Pb and Sn with consequents effects on electrical and thermal properties.
Antimicrobial Peptides Derived from Ascidians and Associated Cyanobacteria
Authors: Pushpabai Rajesh Rajaian , Vanathi M Grace
Published: July 2022

Ascidians belonging to Phylum Chordata are the most largest and diverse of the Sub-phylum Tunicata (Urochordata). Marine ascidians are one of the richest sources of bioactive peptides. These bioactive peptides from marine ascidians are confined to various types of structures such as cyclic peptides, acyclic peptides (depsipeptides), linear helical peptides with abundance of one amino acid (proline, trytophane, histidine), peptides forming hairpin like beta sheets or α-helical/β-sheet mixed structures stabilized by intra molecular disulfide bonding. Cyanobactins are fabricated through the proteolytic cleavage and cyclization of precursor peptides coupled with further posttranslational modifications such as hydroxylation, glycosylation, heterocyclization, oxidation, or prenylation of amino acids. Ascidians are known to be a rich source of bioactive alkaloids. β-carbolines form a large group of tryptophan derived antibiotics. Pyridoacridines from ascidians are tetra- or penta- cyclic aromatic alkaloids with broad range of bioactivities. Didemnidines derived from ascidian symbiotic microbes are inhibitors of phospholipase A2 and induce cell apoptosis. Meridianins are indulged in inhibiting various protein kinases such as, cyclindependent kinases, glycogen synthase kinase-3, cyclic nucleotide dependent kinases, casein kinase, and also implicate their activity of interfering with topoisomerase, altering the mitochondrial membrane potential and binding to the DNA minor groove to inhibit transcriptional activation. Most of these bioactive compounds from ascidians are already in different phases of the clinical and pre-clinical trials. They can be used for their nutraceutical values because of their antineoplastic, antihypertensive, antioxidant, antimicrobial, cytotoxic, antibacterial, antifungal, insecticidal, anti-HIV and anti-parasitic, anti-malarial, anti-trypanosomal, anti-cancer etc. This chapter mostly deals with antibacterial compounds from ascidian and their associate symbiotic cyanobacteria.
Antimicrobial Peptides: Mechanism of Action
Authors: Singh Tanu , Choudhary Princy , Singh Sangeeta
Published: July 2022

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a diverse class of small peptides that are found in most life forms ranging from microorganisms to humans. They can provoke innate immunity response and show activity against a wide range of microbial cells which includes bacteria, fungi, viruses, parasites, and even cancer cells. In recent years AMPs have gained considerable attention as a therapeutic agent since bacterial resistance towards conventional antibiotics is accelerating rapidly. Thus, it is essential to analyze the mechanism of action (MOA) of AMPs to enhance their use as therapeutics. The MOA of AMPs is classified into two broad categories: direct killing and immunological regulation. The direct killing action mechanism is categorized into membrane targeting and non-membrane targeting mechanisms. There are several models and biophysical techniques which determine the action mechanism of antimicrobial peptides.
Náš model obstojí, ale bílých míst je stále mnoho: odpověď autorů
Authors: Benák Jaroslav , Hanych Monika , Smekal Hubert , Vyhnánek Ladislav
Published: July 2022

Článek předkládá reakci autorů knihy na příspěvky v sympoziu. Vysvětluje některé metodologické otázky a v debatě s autory ostatních textů rozvíjí zejména témata jmenování soudců, kolegiality a vztahu soudců a médií.