bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Media Capture: How Money, Digital Platforms, and Governments Control the News, Anya Schiffrin (ed.) (2021)
Authors: Tiffen Rodney
Published: June 2022

Review of: Media Capture: How Money, Digital Platforms, and Governments Control the News, Anya Schiffrin (ed.) (2021)

New York: Columbia University Press, 328 pp.,

ISBN 978-0-23118-882-1, h/bk, USD 120.00

ISBN 978-0-23118-883-8, p/bk, USD 30.00

ISBN 978-0-23154-802-1, e-book, USD 29.99
Engaging design for ecological citizenship: Informing approaches to human–nature interactions
Authors: Phillips Rob , Matsuda Naho
Published: June 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic forefronted public urban and suburban nature interactions. ‘Human–nature interactions’ produce positive health impacts, knowledge production, risk perception, sustainable behaviour, engagement in conservation and more. Governmental and charitable reporting documents ‘nature deficit disorder’. The Design Economy report (2021) highlights that social, environmental and economic design must engage communities. Ergo, building community empowerment, is paramount to catalyse and embed sustainable design practices. The authors define a contemporary design space, unpick strategies and present ‘approaches to human–nature interactions’ insights. The My Naturewatch (NW) project features an accessible DIY camera trap, fostering beneficial nature engagements regardless of location, technological and/or wildlife expertise. NW is central within the outlined design space. The article reports on NW deployment(s) and catalysing organizations and communities. Three studies include: (1) The Wildlife Trusts #30dayswild, digital campaign, (2) The Durrell Trust, placed-based activity and (3) Nova New Opportunities, working with re-located communities. The authors acknowledge communities are sacrosanct and a substantial sustainable design asset for regeneration. The work leverages contemporary ‘phy-digital’ engagements, highlighting practices of social, environmental and public design spaces. The findings insights benefit cultural institutions, practitioners, conservation projects and more.
Mucosal overexpression of thymic stromal lymphopoietin and pro-inflammatory cytokines in patients with autoimmune atrophic gastritis
Authors: Lenti Marco Vincenzo , Facciotti Federica , Miceli Emanuela , Vanoli Alessandro , Fornasa Giulia , Lahner Edith , Spadoni Ilaria , Giuffrida Paolo , Arpa Giovanni , Pasini Alessandra , Rovedatti Laura , Caprioli Flavio , Travelli Cristina , Lattanzi Georgia , Conti Laura , Klersy Catherine , Vecchi Maurizio , Paulli Marco , Annibale Bruno , Corazza Gino Roberto , Rescigno Maria , Di Sabatino Antonio
Published: June 2022

The immune mechanisms underlying human autoimmune atrophic gastritis (AAG) are poorly understood. We sought to assess immune mucosal alterations in AAG patients.

METHODS:

In 2017-2021, we collected gastric corpus biopsies from 24 AAG patients (median age 62 years, IQR 56-67, 14 females), 26 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HC), and 14 patients with H. pylori infection (HP). We investigated the lamina propria mononuclear cell (LPMC) populations and the mucosal expression of thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) and nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT). Ex vivo cytokine production by organ culture biopsies, under different stimuli (short TSLP and zinc-l-carnosine), and the gastric vascular barrier through plasmalemma vesicle-associated protein-1 (PV1) were also assessed.

RESULTS:

In the subset of CD19+ LPMC, CD38+ cells (plasma cells) were significantly higher in AAG compared to HC. Ex vivo production of TNF-α, IL-15, and TGF-β1 was significantly higher in AAG compared to HC. At immunofluorescence, both IL-7R and TSLP were more expressed in AAG compared to HC and HP, and short TSLP transcripts were significantly increased in AAG compared to HC. In the supernatants of AAG corpus mucosa, short TSLP significantly reduced TNF-α, while zinc-l-carnosine significantly reduced IFN-ɣ, TNF-α, IL-21, IL-6, and IL-15. NAMPT transcripts were significantly increased in AAG compared to HC. PV1 was almost absent in AAG, mildly expressed in HC, and over-expressed in HP.

Plasma cells, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and altered gastric vascular barrier may play a major role in AAG. TSLP and NAMPT may represent potential therapeutic targets, while zinc-l-carnosine may dampen mucosal inflammation.
Eksplorasi Senyawa Antiretroviral dari Biji Tanaman Calophyllum inophyllum L. sebagai Alternatif Obat AIDS secara In Silico
Authors: Wandi Ilham Aris , Samudra Jonathan Alva , Khoirul Umam Roiyan Nur , Asih Rina Sari , Nafiah Mursyidatun , Nur Jannah Siti , Ferniah Rejeki Siti
Published: June 2022

Retroviruses are a type of positive-sense RNA virus single-stranded with DNA intermediates and as obligate parasites that target host cells. The principle of DNA replication of retorvirus is not in a regular pattern but in an inverted pattern. Therefore, a study was conducted to find candidates for natural compounds from the seeds of the plant Calophyllum inophyllum L. and found that the most potential as a candidate for AIDS drugs was Calophyllolid. However, further research needs to be done and needs to be considered. This is because the binding affinity number is too small. Based on the Lipinski test, Calophyllolid does not meet all Lipinski's rules so that its use as a drug will be used by injection or other means than oral. In the toxicity test, Calophyllolid has the same value as the other 3 compounds, so a special test is needed to eliminate some of the possible carcinogenicity.
Molecular Characterization Of Phylloplane Mold From Avicennia marina Leaves
Authors: Lunggani Arina Tri , Mahardhika Wahyu Aji , Utomo Adi Budi , Kusdiyantini Endang
Published: June 2022

Mangroves are a habitat for organisms and microorganisms, including phylloplane molds. Phylloplane molds are known to have various potentials such as antimicrobial, enzyme, and pigment-producing. PFM19 is an orange pigment-producing phylloplane mold. Identification of the mold is needed to determine the species of the fungus so that it can be used for further research. This study aims to identify molecularly the PFM19 mold that produces orange pigment using ITS markers. The methods used in this study included the rejuvenation of isolates, DNA extraction, DNA amplification, and phylogenetic analysis. The results obtained that PFM19 has similarities with Talaromyces islandicus CBS 388.48 by 100% based on ITS markers.
Development of in-house phantoms from polyester resin and methyl ethyl ketone peroxide materials with various diameters:Investigation their CT numbers for various tube voltages and field of views
Authors: Shofiana Luthfi Nurrahma , Anam Choirul , Sutanto Heri , Asiah Rin Hafsatul , Nihayati Riski , Khaerul Ansory , Dougherty Geoff
Published: June 2022

Development phantoms with various sizes reflecting the variation among patients to investigate the accuracy size-specific dose estimate (SSDE)is essential. The aim of this work was to develop in-house phantoms from polyester resin (PR) and methyl ethyl ketone peroxide (MEKP) for various diameters and investigate the CT numbers of the phantoms with various tube voltages and reconstructed field of views (FOV). In-house phantoms with diameters of 8, 16, 24, and 32 cm were developed. The phantoms were made from the PR and MEKP materials. The composition of MEKP was 0.3 wt% and PR was 99.7%. The phantoms were scanned with a Siemens SOMATOM Emotion 6 CT scanner with various tube voltage (i.e. 80, 110, and 130 kVp), and various field of views (FOVs) (i.e. 35, 40, 45, 50 cm). CT numbersof the phantoms for various diameters, tube voltages and FOVs were investigated. It was found that the CT number was in range of 86 HU to 147 HU. The CT number increased with the increases of diameter and tube voltage. However, the CT number was independent with the FOV. The in-house phantom based on PR andMEKP with various diameters from 8 cm to 32 cm have been successfully developed. The CT numbers of the phantoms depend on diameter and tube voltage,but do not depend with the FOV.
Characteristics of colloid silver solution based on changes in concentration and electric field using electrooptic equipment
Authors: Sugito Heri , Firdausi Ketut Sofjan , Khumaeni Ali , Azahra Syifa
Published: June 2022

Research on the characteristics of colloidal silver solutions based on changes in concentration and electric field using electrooptic devices has been carried out. The purposes of this study was to determine the characteristic of colloidal silver solution based on variations in concentration and electrooptic effects. Electrooptics work based on changes in the polarization angle of the sample. The sample used is a colloidal silver solution with various concentrations. The colloidal silver solution was obtained by laser ablation method and then dissolved in aquabidest. The light source used is a laser pointer with = 532 nm. The electric field applied to the sample is 0-9 kV. The results showed that colloidal silver solution at an angle of 0º showed active plasmon resonance at the peak of polarization with concentrations of 1.9 ppm, 2.28 ppm, and 3.8 ppm. An angle of 90º also shows active plasmon resonance at the peak of polarization with a concentration of 3.8 ppm. From the results, it can be concluded that the characteristics of colloidal silver solution on change in the polarization angle due to an electric field show non-linier properties with increasing concentration.
Efektivitas Pelatihan Workshop Laboratorium Terhadap Asisten Laboratorium di Fakultas Pertanian UNS
Authors: Liswardani Sri , Sulistyo S , Anam Choirul
Published: June 2022

The laboratory is one of the strategic supporting elements of academic activities in universities. The laboratory is a means for students and lecturers to carry out educational, research, and community service activities. Laboratory users are practicum students, research and lecturers. For this reason, it is necessary to make a special strategy, namely providing provisions for practical assistants. In practicum assistants have a role of almost 85% in the practicum process, so the intensity of assistants with students is much more. The purpose of the study was to measure the effectiveness of assistant training through lab workshops to increase their competence by providing sufficient knowledge about knowledge of laboratory equipment, chemicals and occupational safety and health (K3) in the laboratory for practical assistants in the Laboratory of Animal Husbandry Study Program and Science Study Program. Food Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, UNS. The target for the achievement of this research activity is that the practical eye assistant has knowledge of knowledge of laboratory equipment, chemicals and K3 in the laboratory in a laboratory environment. The method of carrying out the activities is carried out in three procedures, namely (1) pretest and posttest, (2) briefing and discussion, and (3) training and practice on knowledge of laboratory equipment, chemicals and K3 in the laboratory. Data analysis used descriptive analysis, paired sample t-test. The results of this study obtained that the mean or average before the workshop was 86.67 and after the workshop was 90.86 it was very clear that there was an increase in the knowledge of lab assistants after the laboratory workshop. It can be concluded in this study that the training of assistants through lab workshops can be useful for practical eye assistants, increasing their competence in knowledge of laboratory equipment, chemicals and occupational safety and health (K3) in the laboratory at the Laboratory of Animal Husbandry Study Program and Technology Science Study Program. Food Faculty of Agriculture UNS.
Constrained Persuasion with Private Information
Authors: Kosenko Andrew
Published: June 2022

I study a model of strategic communication between a privately informed sender who can persuade a receiver using Blackwell experiments. Hedlund (2017). “Bayesian Persuasion by a Privately Informed Sender.” Journal of Economic Theory 167 (January): 229–68, shows that private information in such a setting results in extremely informative equilibria. I make three points: first, the informativeness of equilibria relies crucially on two features – the mere availability of a fully revealing experiment, and a compact action space for the receiver. I show by examples that absent these features, equilibria may be uninformative. Secondly, I characterize equilibria in a simple model with constraints for the sender (only two experiments available, none are fully revealing) and the receiver (discrete action space). I argue that noisy experiments and discrete actions are the norm rather than the exception (and therefore, private information need not result in information revelation). Thirdly, I define a novel refinement that selects the most informative equilibria in most cases.
Redistributive Unemployment Benefit and Taxation
Authors: Esfahanian Homa , Moghaddasi Kelishomi Ali
Published: June 2022

This paper suggests a simple rule which identifies the coordination between optimal unemployment benefits paid and the tax system in the case of risk neutral workers but with moral hazard and hidden information on the worker’s type. Our model posits that, given a universal, linear income tax scheme, the optimal unemployment benefits paid does not depend on workers’ types. Standard government policy pays a positive replacement rate to unemployed workers. Optimal redistribution, taking moral hazard and adverse selection into account, instead suggests that the benefit paid should be the same for all and only depends on the underlying tax structure.
Intimate Contracts and Choice Theory
Authors: Dagan Hanoch
Published: June 2022

Contract is one of the key tools liberal law employs in the service of its core mission of enhancing people’s autonomy, and choice theory conceptualizes this task as contract’s telos. It thus prescribes three principles – proactive facilitation, regard for the future self, and relational justice – for guiding the legal constitution of contract law in all spheres of human interaction. Spousal contracts are no exception. Thus, the law governing intimate agreements both allows people to adjust the default rules governing their marital estates and provides people off-the-shelf options for structuring their interpersonal interaction as spouses. In turn, the law of marital contracts ensures that free exit from marriage is, as it should be, immutable. Finally, relational justice guides, albeit still imperfectly, both law’s normative defaults for marital contracts and the rules that govern premarital, marital, and cohabitation agreements.
A study on automatic correction of English grammar errors based on deep learning
Authors: Qin Mengyang
Published: June 2022

Grammatical error correction (GEC) is an important element in language learning. In this article, based on deep learning, the application of the Transformer model in GEC was briefly introduced. Then, in order to improve the performance of the model on GEC, it was optimized by a generative adversarial network (GAN). Experiments were conducted on two data sets. It was found that the performance of the GAN-combined Transformer model was significantly improved compared to the Transformer model. The F
0.5 value of the optimized model was 53.87 on CoNIL-2014, which was 2.69 larger than the Transformer model; the generalized language evaluation understanding (GLEU) value of the optimized model was 61.77 on JFLEG, which was 8.81 larger than that of the Transformer model. The optimized model also had a favorable correction performance in an actual English essay. The experimental results verify the reliability of the GAN-combined Transformer model on automatic English GEC, suggesting that the model can be further promoted and applied in practice.
Tuning carrier density and phase transitions in oxide semiconductors using focused ion beams
Authors: Mei Hongyan , Koch Alexander , Wan Chenghao , Rensberg Jura , Zhang Zhen , Salman Jad , Hafermann Martin , Schaal Maximilian , Xiao Yuzhe , Wambold Raymond , Ramanathan Shriram , Ronning Carsten , Kats Mikhail A.
Published: June 2022

We demonstrate spatial modification of the optical properties of thin-film metal oxides, zinc oxide (ZnO) and vanadium dioxide (VO2) as representatives, using a commercial focused ion beam (FIB) system. Using a Ga+ FIB and thermal annealing, we demonstrated variable doping of a wide-bandgap semiconductor, ZnO, achieving carrier concentrations from 1018 cm−3 to 1020 cm−3. Using the same FIB without subsequent thermal annealing, we defect-engineered a correlated semiconductor, VO2, locally modifying its insulator-to-metal transition (IMT) temperature by up to ∼25 °C. Such area-selective modification of metal oxides by direct writing using a FIB provides a simple, mask-less route to the fabrication of optical structures, especially when multiple or continuous levels of doping or defect density are required.
The Role of Institutional Quality in Military Spending and Unemployment Nexus in Nigeria
Authors: Raifu Isiaka Akande , Obijole Emmanuel Olubowale , Nnadozie Obianuju Ogochukwu
Published: June 2022

This paper adopts the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) estimation method to investigate the moderating role of institutional quality in military spending and the unemployment rate nexus in Nigeria for the period from 1984 to 2019. It also tests the direction of causality between military spending and unemployment using the Toda-Yamamoto Granger non-causality method. The causality results show that the direction of causality depends on the measure of military spending used. The main results indicate that military spending only reduces unemployment in the short run and worsens unemployment in the long run. The results further show that institutional quality does not play any significant moderating role in the relationship between military spending and unemployment. Based on our findings, we advocate that the government should allocate its expenditure properly, especially to the most productive sectors of the economy instead of increasing military spending that has no long-run effect on unemployment. Besides, the government needs to strengthen the institutional apparatuses in the country.
The Stoic Theory of Sign and the Semantic Modulation of Models
Authors: López-Astorga Miguel
Published: June 2022

The theory of mental models is a current cognitive approach trying to describe the way people make inferences. According to this theory, people reason from possibilities or models linked to sentences. Sometimes, such possibilities or models are transformed by the action of a semantic modulation. The point this paper is intended to make is that Stoic logic also has the machinery to explain semantic processes such as that of modulation. This is shown by means of the criterion Chrysippus of Soli provided for conditional sentences and the theory of sign related to that criterion.
Medical students’ opinions on career planning course: evaluations of the relationship between course and faculty attributes and student characteristics
Authors: Çalışkan S. Ayhan , Durmaz Seyfi , Akçiçek Selahattin Fehmi , Batı Ayşe Hilal , Kalyoncu Ebru , Karabilgin Öztürkçü Özlem Sürel , Altun Köroğlu Özge , Onay Hüseyin , Göksel Sibel , Önen Sertöz Özen , Sertöz Rüçhan , Şahin Sevnaz , Sağın Ferhan
Published: June 2022

Objectives

The Presidency of the Republic of Turkey Human Resources Office has stated that a Career Planning Course (CPC) should be implemented in higher education curricula by 2020. An institutional CPC consisting of 10-online sessions was designed and implemented in at Ege University Faculty of Medicine (EUFM) curriculum. This study reports the design, implementation, and evaluation of this new CPC at EUFM.

Methods

A descriptive, cross-sectional research design was used in this study. An online questionnaire (n=253) focusing mainly on Kirkpatrick-model Level 1 was administered to gather students’ feedback on CPC as well as perceptions regarding the concept of “Career Planning”. Percentage distributions were used for categorical variables and mean ± standard deviation calculations were used for numerical variables. Student’s t-test was used to compare students’ characteristics with career planning and important factors, and Pearson correlation test was used to evaluate competency areas with the mean scores of important factors in career planning. Statistical significance level was accepted as p<0.05. Thematic analysis was applied to qualitative data.

Results

The perception of the term “career planning” revealed 12 themes of which “life” was the most common (140/245; 57.1%), followed by “professional life” (102/245; 41.6%). Participants’ total satisfaction rate was found 65.6% (Mean=39.36 ± 14.88) for the course. Students were most satisfied with the goals and content appropriateness (7.77 ± 3.08). The stimulating and motivating attribute of the CPC was the least satisfactory item.

Conclusions

An evaluation report, based on students’ feedback, was shared with the faculty members involved in education via an interactive web page. The survey not only benefitted course educators but also helped students to reflect on the course content. CPC can help students to address their strengths and weaknesses and hopefully to take supportive initiatives at the beginning of their career.
Case report: Fasciola Hepatica worm swims in the gallbladder
Authors: Hawrami Tahir
Published: June 2022

Human infestation with liver flukes is rare, as they are accidental host by ingestion of con-taminated water & vegetables. To document the presence of this disease in Iraq/ Kurdistan region, we are reporting this case of Fasciola Hepatica infestation to a young lady with recurrent attacks of Rt. Abdominal pain. The worm was found, during cholecystectomy, swimming in the bile of gallbladder.
Effect of some antimicrobial agents on isolated bacteria from patients with urinary tract infection in Kurdistan Region
Authors: Al- Barzinji Rukia , Esmahil Sazan , Sulaiman Shukria , Raheem Shler
Published: June 2022

Background and objective: Urinary tract infection (UTI) defines as a condition in which the urinary tract is infected with a pathogen causing inflammation. UTI affects all age groups, but women are more susceptible than men, it is the second most common form of infection. This study was designed to isolation and identification of common uropathogenic bacteria and determining the sensitivity of infectious urinary isolated strains to different antimicrobial agents. Methods: This study included 350 patients (125 males and 225 females) with sign and symptoms of UTI, who were referred to the Teaching Hospital in Erbil and Sulaimania cit-ies, from March till May 2007. Also, 25 healthy individuals were included in the study as a control group. Api tests and several biochemical tests were used for identification different isolated bacteria from UT. Results: The bacterial cultivations revealed positive results for 119 (34%) urine speci-mens, 56 (47.05 %) in males and 63 (52.94 %) in females compared to control group (0%). The highest percentage of infection was observed in females in age group (20-39) years (44.44%). The highest rate of uropathogenic isolates was E. coli 53 (41.08%) fol-lowed by S. aureus, Proteus sp., Klebsiella sp., Enterobacter sp., and Pseudomonas sp. 23(17.82%), 23(17.82%), 11(8.52), 10(7.75) and 9(6.97) respectively. The uropathogenic bacterial isolates showed different susceptibility to antimicrobial agents, ciprofloxacine was the most efficient to inhibit UTI. Conclusion: Incidence of UTIs in females is more than in males with a higher rate in the 20-39 years age group. E. coli was the commonest pathogenic bacteria isolated from uri-nary tract.
Risk factor for perforated duodenal ulcer in sulaimania city
Authors: Hawrame Taher , Fathalah Zanko , Mahmood Muhammed
Published: June 2022

Background and objective: This prospective study was to evaluate the probable risk factors for perforation of duodenal ulcer, highlighting any prevalent one in the occurrence of perforation in Sulaemania city. The study was designed to be performed on patients with perforated duodenal ulcer attending the emergency department in Sulaemania teaching hospital over the period of this study. Methods: This study was conducted between 1st of March 2009 till the 1st of October 2009 involving 50 patients with perforated duodenal ulcer attended the emergency department in Sulaemania teaching hospital. A number of probable risk factors for the patients were studied. Results: Out of 50 patients, 41(82%) were males, 9(18%) were females and the male to female ratio was (4.5:1), about 32% of the patients were more than 60 years old. Patients described themselves as having a nervous personality were 31(62%) and the number of patients lived in city center were 28(56%). Smoker patients were 36(72%) and 33 patients (66%) had a history of NSAIDs ingestion. Conclusion: Smoking, NSAIDs ingestion, sex, age and stress played a major role as risk factors in the occurrence in duodenal ulcer perforation. There is a seasonal variation in incidence of perforation including high incidence during spring and autumn.
Comparison of Hysterosalpingography and Diagnostic Laparoscopy in the assessment of tubal patency for the investigation of subfertility
Authors: Al-Altrushi Nasreen , Zangana Amanj
Published: June 2022

Background and objective: Infertility is common in our community . Infertility has become nowadays not only a medical, but a social problem as well .Fallopian tube problem is among one of the common causes of infertility. Hysterosalpingography and laparoscopy are used as a screening test for diagnosis of tubal patency . Hysterosalpingography is an out patient X-ray procedure, has for many years been an invaluable procedure for the assessment of tubal pathology and intra-uterine pathology. Laparoscopy is an invasive procedure used since 1944 by Raoul Palmer,of Paris for gynecological examination. We aimed in this paper to explore the role of hystrosalpingography in the evaluation of tubal patency in the diagnosis of the cause of female infertility in our society and to reduce the need for laparoscopy . Methods: One hundred fifty seven infertile women with fallopian tubes problem out of one thousand three hundred fifty patients who underwent HSG had given consent to undergo Laparoscopy in Sulaimaniea Maternity Teaching Hospital and in Hatwan Private Hospital during 2nd may. 2007 to 3rd may. 2008. For infertility not less than 2 years duration. Results: 1350 infertile patients with age range (20 – 39) years underwent HSG, 157 patients show pathology of the fallopian tubes. Diagnostic laparoscopy was performed for them after the HSG procedure to confirm the abnormalities diagnosed by HSG. ,The results showed non insignificant difference P value, the HSG gave 92,4% sensitivity and 100% specificity, while laparoscopy showed 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity. Conclusion: We conclude the feasibility of using HSG as a diagnostic method for investigating tubal patency in subfertile women when compared to the use of diagnostic laparoscopy.
Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Ablation Using Circular Irrigated Ablation Catheter
Authors: Al-Jefairi Nora , Martin Ruairidh , Sellal Jean-Marc , Pillois Xavier , Denis Arnaud , Derval Nicolas , Sacher Frédéric , Hocini Mélèze , Haïssaguerre Michel , Jaïs Pierre
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Persistent atrial fibrillation (PsAF) ablation remains time consuming, even when guided by non-invasive mapping. We investigated the role of a multielectrode irrigated circular radiofrequency (RF) catheter for PsAF ablation. Methods: A circular catheter (nMARQ®, Biosense Webster, Inc) with 10 irrigated simultaneous mapping and ablation electrodes was used in 50 patients with PsAF (age 60 ± 11 years, left atrial (LA) size 21.8 ± 9.7 cm2 and atrial fibrillation (AF) maximum duration 10.6 ± 9.3 months). Ablation was guided by non-invasive mapping (ECUVETM, Cardioinsight Inc.) in 32 (64%) patients. Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) was systematically performed. Results: After targeting additional non-PV regions including 3 ± 2 indicated by ECVUETM (1-6), AF terminated in 37 (74%) patients, into atrial tachycardia (AT) in 22 and directly into sinus rhythm (SR) in 15 patients. Thirteen patients were in SR during the procedure. PVI required 8.01 ± 5.27 minutes of RF. Eleven patients required direct current (DC) shock to terminate AF. Linear lesions were performed for AT: 14 LA roof lines, 13 mitral isthmus lines and 27 cavo tricuspid isthmus (CTI). Using total of 20.24 ± 17.25 minutes of RF. Interestingly, 5/8 roof line block, 4/5 mitral isthmus line block and 19/24 CTI line block, were blocked with circular catheter only with 5.08 ± 4.58, 3.30 ± 2.56 and 3.26 ± 2.12 minutes of RF duration, respectively. A single tip conventional ablation catheter was required to complete linear lesions and obtain the block in 3 roof lines, 1 mitral isthmus line and 5 CTI. Mean procedure duration was 3.18 ± 1.03 hours. Complications included 1 pericardia effusion managed conservatively and 1 transient ischemic attack (TIA) resolved without any neurological sequelae. One year follow up data was available in 27 (54%) patients, 18 (67%) patients were in SR and 9 (33%) patients had AF recurrence in whom 1 (3%) patient had AT recurrence. Conclusion: Circular radiofrequency ablation catheter demonstrated encouraging results for rapid, safe and effective PsAF ablation when guided by non-invasive phase mapping. The catheter can be used for linear ablations and CTI in addition to PVI, thus obviating the need for an additional ablation catheter in the majority of patients.
Omega 3 and Azadirachta Indica J. Seed Oil Inhibit Hemoglobin Polymerization and Modulate Erythrocyte Membrane Atpases in Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)
Authors: NA Nantchouang , TC Kotue , FM Djouhou , SF Ngo , AC Pieme , G Kansci , E Fokou
Published: June 2022

Back ground: Functional foods/Nutraceuticals efficacy depends on both its composition and the physicochemical properties of the components that used in their formulation. Vegetable oil can play an important role. Several studies are shown that omega 3 (0.2%) and Azadirachta indica J. seed oil (0.4%) have antisickling, antioxidant and anti-haemolytic properties. Objective: The purpose of this present study was conducted to determine effects of omega 3 and Azadirachta indica J. seed oil on hemoglobin polymerization and erythrocyte membrane ATPases in Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). Method: The ability for the omega 3 and Azadirachta indica J. seed oil to inhibit sickle cell hemoglobin polymerization and improve the Fe2+/Fe3+ ratio of HbS blood were assed using spectroscopic method. The activities of three ATPases (Na+/K+; Ca2+; and Mg2+-ATPases ) were investigated by the kinetic method following the release of inorganic phosphate (Pi) by ATP taking into account the determination of the total membrane proteins of erythrocytes by Bradford’s method. Results: The lowest potential was obtained with Azadirachta indica J. seed oil (AO: 0.4% v/v) corresponding significantly (p <0.05) to the highest potential of inhibition of polymerization (83.11 ± 8%) compared to that obtained with omega 3 (ω3 0.2% v/v) estimated at 68.15±7%. The greatest Fe2+Fe3+ ratio was obtained (6.65±1.68) with AO (0.4% v/v) corresponding significantly (p <0.05) to the greatest rate of increase of oxyhemoglobin (79.05±3%) compared to that obtained with ω3 (0.2% v/v) estimated at 70.58±5%. As for the activities of Na+/K+, Ca2+ and Mg2+-ATPases expressed in μmole Pi/mg protein/hour x 10-3, there was an increase in the activities of Na+/K+ and Ca2+-ATPases (203.82±41 and 190.48±32) with AO (0.4% v/v), but without any significant difference (p>0.05) compared to those obtained with ω3 (0.2% v/v) (188.66±9 and 235.61±52). However, for Mg2+-ATPase, there was rather a significant decrease (p <0.05) in these activities ranging from 181.9±32 for ω3 (0.2% v/v) to 124.00±21 for AO (0.4% v/v). Conclusion: The Azadirachta indica J. seed oil at a concentration of 0.4% v/v offered the best potential inhibition of hemoglobin S polymerization, oxyhemoglobin increase rate and the best ATPastic activities. Keywords: Omega 3 - Azadirachta indica J. seed oil - sickle cell disease - polymerization - Fe2+/Fe3+ ratio - ATPase activities.
Nutritional Impact on Embryo Implantation. Review of the Literature
Authors: Tsantsaridou Angeliki , Tsantsaridou Olga , Asprogianni Maria , Potamianos Spyros , Spiliopoulos Kyriakos , Tsilimingas Nikolaos , Skoularigis Ioannis , Kalantaridou Sophia , Valsamakis Georgios
Published: June 2022

The implantation procedure involves a “biofilmic” mechanism of organism protection against threat. Immune-inflammatory procedures expressed by nutritional, molecular and biochemical factors related to homeostasis ensure successful incorporation of blastocyst in the uterine ecology. The feeding chain of the host mother, the embryo and their microbiota modifies the human intrinsic environment, hormone levels, fetal characteristics and growth. This study was conducted to provide information about the effects of diet on implantation quality in an attempt to therapeutically synchronize the development of blastocyst within the nourishing mothers. The issue is generalized to all “windows of alien implantations”. The formation of life (: fertilization) and its development is a consequence of biochemical reactions (: mitochondrial cycle, replication, regeneration, oxidation, apoptosis, etc.). Homeostasis is called the body’s ability to keep its internal ecosystem stable despite exo orendogenous changes. The whole process involves energy consumption, operative coordination of various organs, especially between the nervous and endocrine systems. Instability of homeostasispredisposesto“miscarriages”. Key elements that enhance acid-base equilibrium, oxygen demands and indirectly implantation success are proteins, trace minerals, vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, enzymes, fruit and vegetable phytonutrients, probiotics. Restriction of processed or foods polluted with endocrine disrupting chemicals and microbes, sugar, saturated and trans fatty acids prevents genetic deterioration, ageing and troublesome implantations. Balanced diet, digestion and hormone-dependent metabolism identifies the efficiency of our reproductive system and homeostatic implantation procedure. Key words: Implantation; Nutrition; Diet; Microbiota; Oxidative Stress; Inflammation;Immunity.
Coronavirus-19 (Covid-19) Knowledge, and the Influence on Infants and Young Children Feeding Behaviors and Practices in the Mifi Health District, West Cameroon: Qualitative Study
Authors: Gael Bita Andre Izacar , Tsapi Tiotsia Armand , Metchehe Djommo Doria Loic , Tala Nintidem Vanila Audrey , Zachee Ndombol Gotlieb Ivan , Sonkeng Momo Zelie Pernelle , Edjimbi Nnanga Rose Yvana , Zeufack Gautler Arsene Dombou , Nyenty Agbornkwai Agbor , Gianluca Russo , Sanou Sobze Martin
Published: June 2022

Introduction: COVID-19 presents immediate and long-term nutritional challenges. Improving infant and young children feeding (IYCF) at the community level is a key priority for optimizing the survival, growth, and development of children. The study assessed the influence of the Covid-19 pandemic on the feeding behaviors and practices of children under five in households of the Mifi Health District. Methods: This qualitative study used the non-random sampling technique; data was collected during focus groups (FG) among mothers & fathers, face-to-face individual interviews with Key informants (KI), and In-depth interviews (ID), and document review. Discussions were transcribed verbatim and repeated data was deleted. A thematic analysis was carried out. Results: Forty-five participants (76% Female; 24% male), 03 FG, and 30 face-to-face individual interviews were conducted (15 KI; 15 ID). Demographically, 82.2% were Christians; 11.1% Muslims and 6.7% traditionalists. Mothers knew that it’s necessary to exclusively breastfeed children up to six months and incorporate complementary foods beyond six months even during COVID19. They however believe that breastfeeding in public places exposes babies to COVID19; complementary foods from markets are a potential source of infection and an infected mother should not breastfeed. Participants mentioned a reduction in the consumption of meat and fruit in households. The spread of rumors led to increased demand for foodstuff. Mothers reported the need to wash their hands and wear face masks before breastfeeding. Equally, a decrease in attendance of vaccination services was noted. Conclusion: Creating breastfeeding rooms in public places and an intensive sensitization on nutrition in the COVID19 context can improve IYCF. Keywords: Infant and young child feeding; Health crisis; COVID-19; Cameroon, Knowledge attitudes practices
Electroconductive properties of carbon biocomposites formed by the deposition method
Authors: Hrubiak Andrii , Moklyak Volodymyr , Yavorsky Yurii , Onuskiv Bogdan , Chelyadyn Volodymyr , Karpets Miroslav , Moklyak Maria , Ivanichok Natalia , Ilnitsky Nazar
Published: June 2022

The temperature-frequency dependences of the electrical conductivity for biocomposite formed systems are obtained, and the influence of the carbon temperature type on the changes of the electrically conductive systems is observed. It has been established that the electrical conductivity at a direct current of 1.2 Ohm-1 • m-1 is formed for CNT/aspartate biocomposites. Such electrical conductivity is weakly dependent on frequency. The temperature dependence of the conductivity of CNT/aspartate allowed to set the activation energy at the level of Eg=0,037 eV, which indicates the predominant role of the mechanism of translucency. For biocomposites, TEG / aspartate obtained by ultrasonic dispersion of components in an aqueous medium, the nature of the frequency dependences of the electrical conductivity reflects the combination of the inputs in the material of two component components with different types of mechanisms. Namely: electronic for the carbon temperature and semiconductor for the organic component. This type of dependence at lower temperatures is due to the desorption of water molecules from the surface, through which the charge is transferred by the migration of the proton to the hydroxyl groups. The next increase in temperature causes the activation of electrons and their contribution to the electrical conductivity of the biocomposite. For the TEG / aspartate biocomposite, the calculated value of activation energy will be 0.170 eV.
Compressive strength prediction for glass aggregates incorporated concrete, using neural network and reviews
Authors: Ngandu Cornelius Ngunjiri
Published: June 2022

Production of concrete by use of conventional materials is unsustainable due to high demand. Henceforth, there is need to upscale the use of alternative materials, including those from waste streams, in concrete. This research aims at developing a suitable predictive model of concrete having partial or 100% glass aggregates. 50 datasets reviewed from 9 sources were adopted and artificial neural network (ANN) models were developed in GNU Octave. The trial models had 7 input variables and 1 output variable (compressive strength) and 1 hidden layer. The selected model, having 24 nodes in the hidden layer and 90.000 iterations, indicated overall root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute errors (MAE), mean absolute percentage errors (MAPE) and absolute factor of variance (R2) of 2.679 MPa, 1.422 MPa, 6.951% and 0.996 respectively. The glass fine aggregates between >40% and 50% indicated just over 11% average strengths from the controls. Generally, RMSE, MAE, MAPE and R2 values showed that the selected model had a good accuracy level and good generalization, particularly considering that the datasets were not from the same experimental program. The study recommends research and utilization of glass fine aggregates up to 50% by weight, with consideration to other influencing factors and also research in cost-effective and environmentally friendly additive and assessment on waste glass aggregates incorporated concrete.
Hacia una crítica del dispositivo estético: identidad, política y emancipación en América Latina y el sur global
Authors: Camargo Cifuentes Juan Sebastián
Published: June 2022

Recientemente, se han vuelto a reavivar las discusiones sobre la estética en Latinoamérica, se mantiene latente la pregunta por una estética con sello propio, libre de los modelos e ideas de belleza impuestos por la europea en el mundo colonizado de la periferia. Este artículo se propone, por un lado, cuestionar la idea según la cual la estética es comprendida solo como un discurso privilegiado de algunos filósofos del siglo XVIII, que se aventuraron a crear un corpus conceptual con ideas sobre el gusto y la belleza, para mostrar, por otro lado, más bien el contenido crítico y emancipador que nace con la estética entendida como régimen de visibilidad. Se trata de redefinir el campo de experiencia de la estética (aisthesis) como dispositivo y prestar atención a los elementos que pueden entrar en juego en una discusión sobre su valor en Latinoamérica y el Sur global.
El hombre es bestia para el animal
Authors: Pimentel Chacón Jonathan
Published: June 2022

El artículo afirma que en la obra El Jaul de Max Jiménez se plantea que el rasgo más característico de los hombres y las mujeres que conforman la patria costarricense es la bestialidad que se manifiesta, de modo particular, contra los animales. En consecuencia, el inusual bestiario de Jiménez disputa el carácter apacible y benévolo de la relación entre animales y humanos que sería un rasgo fundamental del “más puro linaje nacional”.
Animalismo y Feminismo: Una alianza contra el supremacismo humanista
Authors: Torres Acevedo Ronny
Published: June 2022

Una característica que comparten los movimientos sociales de izquierda alienados con el humanismo es que, pese a promover valores progresistas como la igualdad, la justicia y la paz, son marcadamente retrógrados en lo que respecta a la consideración de los animales no humanos. Si bien la crisis ecológica actual ha llevado a que exista una mayor proximidad entre las luchas por la justicia social y ciertas causas ecologistas, los animalismos abolicionistas y los veganismos han sido sistemáticamente excluidos de estas alianzas por ser considerados movimientos extremistas. Esta marginación va en línea con la lógica fragmentaria de estos movimientos, que tienden a plantear demandas en términos de raza, género, orientación sexual u otros criterios similares, en lugar de buscar objetivos comunes y apelar a la solidaridad entre diversos frentes.
Orientación grupal desde el enfoque cognitivo conductual con personas menores de edad en consumo de sustancias psicoactivas del Programa Residencial de Casa Jaguar del Instituto sobre Alcoholismo y Farmacodependencia
Authors: González Palacios Zeanne
Published: June 2022

This article aims to systematize the implementation of the cognitive conduct approach in a group called Circle of Peace in an effort to contribute to theoretical and epistemological reflection at Casa Jaguar Center for Underage People. The methodology was based on systematizing experiences. Its central axis was the following question: What factors influence the participation of minors at the Casa Jaguar Residential Program in the intervention process of the Circle of Peace group? The participating minors were 15 males and 10 females from the Casa Jaguar Residential Program and a professional counselor who facilitated the space. The instruments for data collection were logs, monthly plans, emails, and minute books, between 2011 and 2015. In the framework of conclusions, the factor affecting the group process in the initial approaches provided by the professional guidance was the absence of an affective and horizontal relationship with the group. Notwithstanding, in subsequent approaches, based on lessons learned, the counselor focused her interest on establishing an affective bond with the group based on mutual respect. This procedure made it possible to open adequate spaces for the underage participants to express their feelings, thoughts, and needs with self-efficacy.
Experiencias en el proceso de fortalecimiento de la organización Aguasana para su posible replicación en otras zonas del país
Authors: Baldioceda-Garro Álvaro Jesús , Guillén-Watso Anny Vannesa
Published: June 2022

As a result of problems in wastewater management in Costa Rica, and more specifically in the coastal zones of Santa Cruz and Carrillo municipalities, in the province of Guanacaste, various social actors of community water systems, the Asociación Confraternidad Guanacasteca [Guanacaste Fellowship Association], and the Centro de Recursos Hídricos para Centroamérica y el Caribe [Water Resources Center for Central America and the Caribbean] of the National University joined forces to create the Asociación de Desarrollo Específico de Saneamiento y Protección de los Mantos Acuíferos de Guanacaste [Association for the Specific Development of Sanitation and Protection of the Guanacaste Aquifers] or AGUASANA in 2013. The development and strengthening of this organization from 2013 to 2019 have generated infinite lessons learned, experiences, and conclusions. The main idea of producing this document is to synthesize all these processes and provide ideas and recommendations for replicating the project elsewhere in the country. The methodological procedure used was based on Jara’s book titled “La sistematización de experiencias: práctica y teoría para otros mundos posibles” [Systematization of Experiences: Practice and Theory for Other Possible Worlds] (2018). Thus, among the main conclusions and recommendations, the project provided benefits to the social and cultural image and the environmental philosophy of the communities thanks to the different synergies the community social actors had established. It is recommended to work and strengthen the community bases and move away from local political figures that can generate rifts between the different members. Additionally, working with these communities is also an opportunity to conduct business endogenously and replicate it elsewhere in the country.
Calidad de agua del sistema de potabilización de una comunidad de alta montaña en el marco de las prácticas sociales educativas
Authors: Medina Marcela F. , Rodríguez Mónica I. , Vera María S. , Argañaraz Gerardo R. , Busellato Leandro I. , Bellido María C. , Torres Gladys M. , Torres María C.
Published: June 2022

Currently, the extension activities as part of the university program are the focus of Argentina’s Universities. Our group in the Faculty of Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Pharmacy has been working on this topic for more than two decades. We have emphasized that the students learn in extension activities across different extension projects.Our work seeks to begin the incorporation of extension activities in the mandatory program of each faculty career through the development of social educative practices (SEP) in Las Carreras, a little town in Tafi del Valle (Tucumán, Argentina), a high-mountain community.In this place, the quality of the safe water system was evaluated; this system provides drinking water to 122 families.Experimental research methodologies were used to monitor physicochemical and microbiological water parameters. The samples were taken in 4 successive campaigns during 2018. Samples were taken at 3 different points: (1) The Alisos river, (2) the decanter, and (3) the water tap of the School N° 22. The results showed that the physicochemical parameters were within the reference range of the Argentinian Food Code. Likewise, the microbiological parameters showed that the decanter and the filter of water worked well. However, the results revealed the necessity of adding biocide compounds to prevent some pathologies. The SEP, as pedagogical and innovative strategies, can contribute to the integral formation of the students in the faculty. They can perform different functions in the same activity: teaching, extension, and investigation. The synergy between the academic and social activities shows that the university is part of society.