bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between Estimated Small Dense Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol and Occurrence of New Lesions after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Japanese Patients with Stable Angina and Receiving Statin Therapy
Authors: Kanda Daisuke , Tokushige Akihiro , Ohishi Mitsuru
Published: June 2024

Background: Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is considered the most important risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). Although lipid-lowering therapy using high-intensity statins for patients with stable CAD is one of the cornerstones of medication therapy, there is still a risk of residual cardiovascular events, even after controlling for LDL-C. Recently, attention has focused on the association between small dense LDL-C as a residual risk factor for CAD, and it has been reported that a formula can be used to calculate the small LDL-C. Methods: We investigated the association between estimated small dense LDL-C (Esd LDL-C) and the occurrence of new lesions with myocardial ischemia ≤2 years after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in 537 patients with stable angina who underwent PCI. In this study, all patients had been prescribed statins. This study was based on previously reported data regarding the relationship between non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and stable angina pectoris after PCI. Results: Revascularization, including new lesions and in-stent restenosis, and new lesions appeared in 130 and 90 patients, respectively, ≤2 years after PCI. Age, diabetes mellitus (DM), LDL-C, and Esd LDL-C were associated with the occurrence of revascularization and new lesions ≤2 years after PCI. Multivariate logistic regression analysis models revealed that Esd LDL-C [odds ratio (OR) 1.03, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.004–1.048, p = 0.020; and OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.009–1.057, p = 0.007, respectively] were associated with the revascularization and occurrence of new lesions ≤2 years after PCI. Conclusions: As well as total cholesterol and LDL-C, Esd LDL-C was an independent risk factor for the revascularization and occurrence of new lesions ≤2 years after PCI for stable angina in Japanese patients receiving statin therapy. In patients with stable angina who are on lipid-lowering therapy with statins, calculating the Esd LDL-C may provide useful information for predicting revascularization and the occurrence of new lesions.
Association between the Serum Soluble Urokinase Plasminogen Activator Receptor and Peripheral Arterial Stiffness According to the Cardio-Ankle Vascular Index in Patients Undergoing Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Yang Hsiao-Hui , Chen Yen-Cheng , Ho Ching-Chun , Hsu Bang-Gee
Published: June 2024

Background: High soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) levels are correlated with cardiovascular (CV) disease. Arterial stiffness is associated with aging-related vascular diseases and is an independent risk factor for CV morbidity and mortality. It can be measured by the cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI). We evaluated the association between serum suPAR levels and arterial stiffness according to the CAVI in kidney transplantation (KT) recipients. Methods: In this study, 82 patients undergoing KT were enrolled. Serum suPAR levels were analyzed using an enzyme immunoassay. The CAVI was measured using a plethysmograph waveform device, and patients with a CAVI of ≥9.0 were assigned to the peripheral arterial stiffness (PAS) group. Results: Twenty KT patients (24.4%) had PAS, were of older age (p = 0.042), and had higher serum triglyceride (p = 0.023) and suPAR levels (p < 0.001) than the normal group. After adjusting for factors significantly associated with PAS by multivariate logistic regression analysis, serum suPAR levels (odds ratio [OR] 1.072, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.023–1.123; p = 0.004) were independently associated with PAS in KT patients. The logarithmically transformed suPAR level (log-suPAR) was also positively correlated with the left or right CAVI values (all p < 0.001) from the results of the Spearman correlation analysis in KT patients. Conclusions: Serum suPAR levels are positively associated with left or right CAVI values and are independently associated with PAS in KT patients.
Sustainable Environment: Green Human Resource Management Practices and Green Organisational Behaviour in Pakistani Hotels
Authors: Khalil Muhammad Ibrahim
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the attitudes towards sustainable practices in Pakistani hotels and explores the constructs of Green HRM Practices (GHRMP), Green Organizational Behavior (GOB), and Sustainable Environment (SE) as reliable and valid measures of these attitudes. A partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and ecocritical analysis of the language were used to describe the environment and the values and attitudes expressed towards it was conducted, providing valuable insights into the cultural understanding of the natural world and our place within it. The study's results show that Pakistani hotels have a positive attitude towards sustainable practices, with a majority of respondents holding positive views towards GHRMP and GOB, and a slight majority leaning towards a neutral stance. The study also found that the majority of respondents consider the sustainable environment in Pakistani hotels to be important and believe it is necessary to take steps towards an eco-friendlier environment. The constructs of GHRMP, GOB, and SE were found to be reliable and valid measures of attitudes towards sustainable practices in Pakistani hotels, with strong associations between the items in the constructs and high levels of internal consistency. Discriminant validity was also established, indicating good discriminant validity between the constructs. Overall, the study's findings suggest that promoting green HRM practices and encouraging green organizational behavior can lead to improved environmental sustainability practices and business performance in Pakistani hotels. These results have significant implications for the hospitality industry in Pakistan and can help future research and policy decisions aimed at promoting to invest in renewable energy sources and use environmentally friendly products to reduce their impact on the environment.
Self-Objectification as A Moderating Variable Between Online Dating Applications Use and The Mental Well–Being Of Filipino Young Adults
Authors: Gesmundo Sylvierose
Published: June 2024

Usage of online dating applications increased during the peak of the pandemic, and along with this are the concerns about the mental health of young adults. The study focused on the effects of self-objectification on the relationship between online dating application usage and the mental well-being of its users. A total of 204 participants were gathered from five cities within the bounds of Metro Manila: Quezon City (22%), Manila (44%), San Juan (14%), Mandaluyong (11%), and Caloocan (10%). This study treated the data quantitatively using regression and moderation analysis in Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings of the study revealed that there was a moderately negative relationship between online dating applications usage and mental well–being of Filipino young adults (r = -.315; p = .000). This further revealed that frequent usage of online dating applications resulted to lower levels of life and relationship satisfaction, self–esteem, and higher negative affect, body consciousness, and symptoms of eating disorders. However, the study revealed no moderating effect between self-objectification and the relationship between online dating application usage and its users' mental well–being (p = 0.3102). An action plan was proposed to aid online dating application users in dealing with the consequences of too much exposure to the objectifying world of social media in general.
Prevention of periprosthetic knee joint infections. Experience based on 590 patients treated before and after the introduction of a proprietary protocol
Authors:   Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, University Hospital in Krakow, Poland, Podhorecki Adam , Gądek Artur ,   Department of Orthopedics and Physiotherapy, Medical College Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland, Liszka Henryk ,   Department of Orthopedics and Physiotherapy, Medical College Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
Published: June 2024

Introduction. Total knee arthroplasty is a widely performed procedure in orthopedics. One of its complications is periprosthetic joint infection. Efforts should be made to reduce their frequency by implementing appropriate preventive protocols. Objective. To assess the incidence of infectious complications and their association with comorbidities and to retrospectively evaluate the effectiveness of a polymodal protocol for preventing periprosthetic infections implemented in 2015. Further the paper aims to evaluate the spectrum of pathogens responsible for these complications. Materials and methods. A total of 590 cases were analyzed, 277 of which were operated on before the preventive protocol was introduced and 313 after its implementation. Results. Eleven cases of periprosthetic joint infections were diagnosed. Prolonged wound healing was observed in older individuals and diabetic patients. Increased risk of periprosthetic infections was found in obese individuals and those with inflammatory arthropathies. The implemented protocol did not impact the overall incidence of infectious complications in the studied population but a reduction in complications was observed in diabetic patients. The most commonly isolated pathogens were coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, followed by Staphylococcus aureus. Conclusions. The implemented protocol was effective in diabetic patients. The identified pathogens corresponded to those typically observed in periprosthetic infections in Europe.
In-vitro evaluation of the pharmacological and therapeutic equivalence of some acetaminophen trademarks
Authors:   Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Cartagena, Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, Castellar-Buelvas Juan , Duran-Lengua Marlene ,   Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Cartagena, Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, Troncoso-Palacio Alexander ,   Dpto. Productividad e Innovación, Universidad de la Costa, Barranquilla, Colombia
Published: June 2024

There are currently many laboratories throughout the world that sell acetaminophen with legal registration. However, the fact that it is a legal drug does not ensure its quality, as it may undergo changes during its manufacture or marketing, which can affect its efficacy and pharmaceutical safety. Therefore, this project was developed, in which 30% of the brands of acetaminophen 500 mg tablets marketed in Colombia were analysed with the aim of determining their pharmacological and therapeutic equivalence. Know the pharmaceutical characteristics and therapeutic similarity between the different brands of acetaminophen analysed a methodology was followed in accordance with the parameters and guidelines of the United States Pharmacopeia 42, National Form 37, and Resolution 1124 of the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Colombian government. The samples' dissolving profiles at different pH values were then compared, and tests were run to check for impurities, content, uniformity, and dissolution. The results of these analyses are all totally consistent with the pharmacological and therapeutic equivalents. These comply both with the physical-chemical quality control parameters required as well as with therapeutic equivalence. From the findings of this investigation, it was concluded that since there is no evidence of significant differences between the brands analysed, it is recommended that those who need to buy acetaminophen or Tylenol from the brands surveyed can purchase any of them with complete confidence that any of them will have the same pharmaceutical quality and the same therapeutic performance.
Perceived Societal Discrimination among Immigrants across 17 European Countries: Extending the Integration Paradox?
Authors: van Tubergen Frank
Published: June 2024

This study contributes to the literature on immigrants’ perceived discrimination in two ways. First, while earlier work focused on personal or group-level discrimination, this paper develops and tests a theory of perceived societal discrimination, i.e., immigrants’ perceptions of how prevalent different types of discrimination are in their society. Importantly, immigrants’ views of societal discrimination encompass ‘out-group empathy’, i.e., beliefs about the frequency with which out-groups experience discrimination. Second, whereas existing literature relied on single-country designs, this study provides a cross-national examination, offering insights into the effects of country-level conditions on perceived discrimination. Based on survey data from 12,000 first- and second-generation immigrants in 17 European countries, results show differences between minority groups, with Muslim immigrants perceiving higher religious discrimination and black immigrants being more attuned to skin color discrimination in society. The study further reveals a positive association between immigrant integration and perceived societal discrimination. Evidence suggests that this ‘integration paradox’ holds for both Muslim and non-Muslim immigrants, black and non-black immigrants, and also for Muslim immigrants who wear traditional religious clothing and those who don’t. Finally, the study supports the ‘Tocqueville paradox,’ indicating that in countries with more extensive anti-discrimination laws, the relationship between integration and perceived societal discrimination is amplified.
Commentary on Meyer et al. (2023)
Authors: Carl Noah , Winegard Bo M
Published: June 2024

This short paper responds to arguments made in Meyer et al. (2023; Hastings Center Report).
Report: Open Forum #WeDoSTS: Fighting Abuses of Power in STS
Authors: Mewes Julie Sascia , Schwarz Claudia Gertraud , Lippert Ingmar
Published: June 2024

During the Open Forum #WeDoSTS, we invited our academic community to collectively engage with questions of power and its abuse in our own field and wider academia. We set out from the assumption that STS has the potential to critically analyze relations and distributions of power, including abuses and struggles within STS itself. By reflexively applying the lessons of such studies on itself, STS might become a vital force in fighting the abuse of power in academia and other hierarchical societal structures. While the Open Forum focused on the structures and infrastructures of STS within German academia, abuse of power in academic settings is a global problem that therefore needs to be tackled in transnational collaborations. We ask (but cannot answer conclusively here): What are problematic patterns of power distribution and what reconfigurations of our ethos, practices, and infrastructures are needed to counter unbalanced power dynamics inscribed in our systems, and to prefigure and create more just structures?
The Role of Islamic Boarding Schools in Character Formation Generation Z in Indonesia
Authors: Masula Muhammad Robba
Published: June 2024

The objectives of this research are: (1) What are Islamic boarding school learning methods in educating santri? (2) What is the role of Islamic boarding schools in forming the character of Generation Z? This research method uses qualitative research and uses a literature study approach, with the aim of seeing and describing the role of Islamic boarding schools in forming the character of students by looking at various sources. The conclusion of this research shows that Islamic boarding schools use several methods, one of which is teaching the Yellow Book and providing role models in the boarding school environment. Character cultivation can be formed because there is good interaction between the kyai and the students.
senatebR: coletando dados do Senado Federal brasileiro
Authors: Santos Vinicius
Published: June 2024

Este artigo introduz um novo pacote em linguagem R criado com o propósito de simplificar a interação com as APIs e a obtenção de dados por meio de web scraping do Senado Federal/Congresso Nacional. O objetivo central é disponibilizar à comunidade acadêmica uma ferramenta que permita o acesso eficiente a dados legislativos. A proposta é acompanhada por uma nota técnica que detalha a implementação do pacote, seu escopo e a metodologia empregada e estudos de caso elucidando seu potencial de uso. Assim, a iniciativa visa facilitar o processo de pesquisa e análise para estudiosos e profissionais interessados no acompanhamento das atividades legislativas do Senado Federal brasileiro.
Factors associated with time to first birth after marriage: A systematic review
Authors: Shrestha Ishwar Kumar , Khanal Shankar Prasad
Published: June 2024

First birth interval after marriage is a particularly interesting subject, because it unveils both the social behaviors and fertility patterns. Though, for a woman, who marry at an early age and get sooner childbearing can be the health threat for both mother and child. The objective of this study is to systematically investigate significant predictors associated with time to first birth after marriage. Following the PRISMA guidelines; three database Scopus, PubMed and EMBASE were used to capture relevant articles. A total of 21 articles with the thorough assessment of 326 articles published in English up to 10 January 2024 were included in final review. Thirty-nine significant predictors associated with first birth interval after marriage have been explored. Predictors, such as age at marriage, education, residence, contraceptive, religion, wealth index were observed as some of the major significant predictors. The findings indicate to take care of those factors in order to deal with time to first birth after marriage. Understanding the impact of influential factors can be considered as important reference to formulate appropriate policy to intervene effective program as well as to plan such studies based on primary data with special reference to certain country or region.
GPR investigation of the cause of persistent failure of a university road
Authors:   Department of Earth Sciences, Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba-Akoko, Akungba Akoko Town, Ondo State, Nigeria, Aminu Muslim Babatunde , Ologunaye Femi ,   Department of Earth Sciences, Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba-Akoko, Akungba Akoko Town, Ondo State, Nigeria
Published: June 2024

We present the results of a multi-frequency ground-penetrating radar (GPR) survey over a university road in south-western Nigeria that has experienced persistent failures. The goal was to evaluate causes of failure to aid remediation efforts. Data was collected concurrently at 250, 500, and 1000 MHz using a UTSI electronic trivue system. Data were processed and interpreted using Reflex-Win. Visual observations of major features apparent on the road surface including failed sections were noted. Imaged features included possible bases of the surface course, base course and sub-base, subsurface projections of an outcropping and buried basement rocks, three deeply cut and back-filled sections that lie beneath sections of the road that have experienced persistent failure, and the ringing effects and rebar-associated reflection hyperbolae of two reinforced concrete drains. Indications of preferential wetting of the shallow subsurface beneath much of the failed sections suggest that failure is due to excessive moisture content in these sections. These failed sections generally correspond to regions of deep cut and backfill, and regions cut and filled for the construction of reinforced concrete drains. Apparently, the backfills at these locations have failed to prevent water influx into the subsurface and more effective remediation measures need to be deployed.
Research on households’ willingness to pay for the options of price calculation of household solid waste management services in Hanoi
Authors:   Hanoi University of Natural Resources and Environment, 41A Phu Dien Street, Phu Dien Ward, Bac Tu Liem District, Hanoi, Vietnam, Thi Hue Hoang , Hong Hanh Nguyen Thi ,   Hanoi University of Natural Resources and Environment, 41A Phu Dien Street, Phu Dien Ward, Bac Tu Liem District, Hanoi, Vietnam, Thu Trang Bui Thi ,   Hanoi University of Natural Resources and Environment, 41A Phu Dien Street, Phu Dien Ward, Bac Tu Liem District, Hanoi, Vietnam, Hoai Thuong Nguyen Thi ,   Hanoi University of Natural Resources and Environment, 41A Phu Dien Street, Phu Dien Ward, Bac Tu Liem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Published: June 2024

This study used the contingent valuation method (CVM) to investigate and analyse the current status of household solid waste management and evaluate people’s consensus and willingness to pay (WTP) for household solid waste collection, transportation, and treatment services among urban, rural, and mountainous areas in Hanoi. It also utilised regression analysis to assess factors affecting people’s WTP. The study surveyed a sample size of 405 households. To ensure a basis for comparison among urban, rural, and mountainous areas, the study distributed and conducted an equal number of 135 surveys in each area through random sampling. The research results indicate that the average household solid waste in Hanoi is highest in urban areas at 1.27 kg/household/day, followed by rural areas at 1.21 kg/household/day, and mountainous areas at 1.067 kg/household/day. However, most household solid waste has not been classified at the source. Regarding WTP for household solid waste collection, transportation, and treatment services, the results show that 85% of urban households agreed to pay higher than the proposed price, with an average WTP of 1,136 VND/kg. In rural households, 47% agreed to pay 778.96 VND/kg, and 11% of mountainous households agreed to pay an average of 673.04 VND/kg. These insights can guide tailored waste management pricing strategies across diverse urban and rural settings.
Development and validation of quantitative procedure of clotrimazole and eugenol in gel product using high-performance liquid chromatography
Authors:   Yersin University, 27 Ton That Tung Street, Ward 8, Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province, Vietnam, Tran Mong To Tam , Dinh Thi Thanh Vy ,   Yersin University, 27 Ton That Tung Street, Ward 8, Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province, Vietnam, Vo Hoai Hieu ,   Yersin University, 27 Ton That Tung Street, Ward 8, Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province, Vietnam, Pham Thi Hoang Yen ,   Yersin University, 27 Ton That Tung Street, Ward 8, Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province, Vietnam, Le Thi Loan ,   Yersin University, 27 Ton That Tung Street, Ward 8, Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province, Vietnam, Nguyen Dinh Nga ,   University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, 217 Hong Bang Street, Ward 11, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Published: June 2024

Vulvovaginitis is a prevalent gynaecological ailment worldwide, often attributed to bacteria, Candida fungi, or Trichomonas. The synergistic action of antifungal agents and essential oils can enhance the efficacy against pathogenic microorganisms. In this study, a simultaneous quantitative method for determining clotrimazole and eugenol in a laboratory-compounded gel product was developed using high-performance liquid chromatography with a photodiode array detector (HPLC-PDA). The HPLC-PDA system utilised in this study was the Shimadzu LC-20AD, with a HiQ Sil RP C18 HS column (250 x 4.6 mm, 5 μm), and a mobile phase consisting of methanol-water in an 80:20 (v/v) ratio, employing isocratic elution at a flow rate of 1.0 ml/min. The injection volume was set at 20 μl, and detection was performed at a wavelength of 229.0 nm. The analytical procedure was validated in accordance with ASEAN guidelines for the validation of analytical procedures, successfully meeting the criteria for specificity, accuracy, system suitability, repeatability, intermediate precision, and linearity within the concentration range of 2.25 to 36.00 ppm for eugenol and 12.00 to 200.00 ppm for clotrimazole. Subsequently, this validated procedure was applied to quantify the clotrimazole and eugenol content in bulk materials and three different lots of gel products. The results for clotrimazole and eugenol content in both the raw materials and the gel product lots fell within an acceptable range, with deviations of less than ±10% compared to the labelled content.
Chemical structure of steroidal saponin isolated from the leaves of Dracaena draco L.
Authors:   Faculty of Biology, Thai Nguyen University of Education, 20 Luong Ngoc Quyen Street, Quang Trung Ward, Thai Nguyen City, Thai Nguyen Province, Vietnam, Nguyen Hung Duc , Tu Tan Quang ,   Faculty of Biology, Thai Nguyen University of Education, 20 Luong Ngoc Quyen Street, Quang Trung Ward, Thai Nguyen City, Thai Nguyen Province, Vietnam, Chu Mau Hoang ,   Faculty of Biology, Thai Nguyen University of Education, 20 Luong Ngoc Quyen Street, Quang Trung Ward, Thai Nguyen City, Thai Nguyen Province, Vietnam
Published: June 2024

Saponins are naturally occurring compounds ubiquitously present in various organisms, predominantly in plants. They are noted for forming colloidal solutions in water, which foam on shaking and precipitate cholesterol. Several in vitro and in vivo tests on mixtures and individual saponins have revealed a broad spectrum of biological and pharmacological activities, including cancer-related activity, antiphlogistic and antiallergic, immunomodulating, antihepatotoxic, antiviral, hypoglycemic, antifungal and molluscicidal activities. The Dracaena genus is renowned for an abundance of steroidal saponins utilized in treating digestive and hematological disorders. Previous studies on this genus revealed the presence of steroidal saponins, some of which showed cytotoxic activities against cultured tumor cells and interesting biological activities. This study procured steroidal saponin from the foliage of D. dracoL. using various chromatographic techniques and 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic analysis. The structure was deduced as 26-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-22-O-methylfurosta-5,25(27)-diene-1β,3β,22α,26-tetrol 1-O-{O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→2)-α-L-arabinopyranosyl}; a compound previously isolated from the underground parts of Ruscusaculeatus in Japan. Future evaluation of the saponin’s biological activity is imperative to enhance chemotaxonomic data concerning the chemical composition and biological functionality of D. draco L. and, by extension, the Dracaena genus.
Stochastic modelling of material variability in structural dynamics: A threefold comparison of Monte Carlo, polynomial chaos, and random sampling techniques
Authors:   Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, NH 62, Surpura Bypass Street, Karwar - 342030, Jheepasani, Rajasthan, India, Kumar Rakesh
Published: June 2024

This article investigates the influence of random elastic modulus on beam eigenfrequencies using multiple simulation techniques: Monte Carlo simulations (employing Cholesky decomposition (MCS-CD) and Kosambi-Karhunen-Loève expansion (MCS-KKL)), Polynomial Chaos expansion (PCE), and a proposed Random Sampling method (RSM). Anomalies in Monte Carlo simulations, where normally distributed elastic modulus led to negative values and imaginary eigenfrequencies, were effectively addressed by adopting a log-normal distribution. Comparative analyses focused on covariance variation of the first three eigenfrequencies with correlation length and standard deviation of the random field, highlighting nuanced differences between normal and log-normal distributions. PCE exhibited distinct responses, showcasing variations in covariance with different distributions. The study culminates in eigenfrequency estimation using the proposed RSM, wherein the beam is discretised into n elements with randomly assigned elastic moduli. The mean and variance of eigenfrequencies are compared with existing methods, which represent an alternative method for achieving similar outcomes.These comparative studies provide a comprehensive understanding of how different statistical treatments and simulation methods impact the reliability and accuracy of eigenfrequency predictions in beams with random elastic properties, thus contributing valuable insights for structural analysis and design under uncertainty.
Comprehensive analysis of cement-stabilised dredged marine soil: Evaluating physical, microstructural, and mechanical characteristics
Authors:   Department of Civil Engineering, Pulchowk Campus, Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University, TU Pulchowk, Lalitpur, Nepal, Dahal Bhim Kumar , Zheng Jun Jie ,   Institute of Geotechnical and Underground Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Luoyu Street 1037, Wuhan, China
Published: June 2024

This study evaluates the index, microstructural, and mechanical behaviour of cement-stabilised soft soil. The marine soil dredged from Hangzhou is taken for the study. Different percentages of ordinary Portland cement (OPC)by dry mass were added to the soils during reconstitution, i.e., 5, 10, 15, and 20%. The reconstituted samples were analysed in the laboratory to determine basic properties such as moisture content, void ratio, density, specific gravity, consistency limits, and particle size distribution. The microstructures of the reconstituted samples were also evaluated through scanning electron microscopy. Results inferred a significant impact on the physical properties of the soil. An increase in cement content increases the consistency limits. Additionally, the specific gravity, plasticity index, and density of the treated soil initially decreased but increased upon further addition of cement content. The microstructure of the soil transformed from a dispersed to a flocculated structure, with larger and denser particles. The change in microstructure was also evident in the particle size distribution, with an increase in cement content leading to larger size particles. Finally, the unconfined compression test conducted on the reconstituted soil indicates a substantial enhancement in strength with higher cement content and prolonged curing periods.
Determination of critical properties of orange peel for a polymer reinforcement material
Authors:   Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, University of Lagos, University Road, Akoka, Yaba Local Government, Lagos, Nigeria, Ajibade Oluwaseyi Ayodele , Agunsoye Johnson Olumuyiwa ,   Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, University of Lagos, University Road, Akoka, Yaba Local Government, Lagos, Nigeria, Oke Sunday Ayoola ,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Lagos, University Road, Akoka, Yaba Local Government, Lagos, Nigeria
Published: June 2024

Accurately determining the critical properties of orange peels ensures composite engineers can successfully monitor and control in-service composite failures. However, the current approaches to property determination are deficient, lack critical analysis, and are not wide-ranging. Thus, they fail to accurately establish the important properties of orange peels. To overcome this challenge, this article establishes the compressive strength, heat absorption, and electrical conductivity of an orange peel polymer to understand the behaviour of the material in lightweight composite applications. Three experimental sets were used to determine the three mentioned properties. The results obtained showed that the average heat energy absorbed by the samples of collected orange peels in 28 poly bags was 79.32 J. The highest and lowest heat absorbed by the samples was found to be 162.03 and 11.08 J, respectively. The average electrical conductivity was measured at 0.025σwhile the average resistance, length, and surface area of 20 orange peel samples were found to be 27.24Ω, 2.92 cm, and 7.02 cm2, respectively. The resistance of the orange peels had the greatest influence on their electrical conductivity. Lastly, the compressive shear strengths of the 0.300, 0.425, and 0.600-mm orange peel particulates were found to be 41.86, 14.82, and 9.58 kN/m2, respectively. With this information, composite design engineers using orange peel reinforcements could improve their design accuracies and extend in-service composite lives.
Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation revealed potential compounds in Salvia miltiorrhiza for inhibiting enzymes and receptors in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors:   Pharmacology Department, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam National University - Hanoi, 144 Xuan Thuy Street, Dich Vong Hau Ward, Cau Giay District, Hanoi, Vietnam, Thanh Tung Bui , Dai Trang Vu ,   Pharmacology Department, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam National University - Hanoi, 144 Xuan Thuy Street, Dich Vong Hau Ward, Cau Giay District, Hanoi, Vietnam, Thi Huong Le ,   Pharmacology Department, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam National University - Hanoi, 144 Xuan Thuy Street, Dich Vong Hau Ward, Cau Giay District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Published: June 2024

Alzheimer’s disease is an age-related neurodegenerative disorder that leads to cognitive and functional decline. Potential target proteins for managing Alzheimer’s disease include Acetylcholinesterase (AChE), Butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), Beta-secretase cleavage enzyme (BACE1) and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. In this study, we conducted in silico evaluations of the inhibitory effects of Salvia miltiorrhiza’s compounds on AChE, BuChE, BACE1, and NMDA receptors. The Lipinski's rule of five was employed to compare phytochemicals with drug-like and non-drug-like properties. Based on previous publications, we compiled a list of 30 compounds from S.miltiorrhiza with potential for improving Alzheimer’s disease. Among these 30 compounds, six natural compounds exhibited potential inhibition of all four target proteins. Five of these six compounds, namely Tanshinone I, Tanshinone IIA, Isotanshinone I, Dihydroisotanshinone I, and Dihydroisotanshinone II, possessed drug-like properties, good absorption potential, and the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. In conclusion, these five compounds show the highest potential as future drug candidates for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
Perancangan Dashboard Untuk Visualisasi Data Gempa Berpotensi Tsunami Di Indonesia Dengan Metode Business Intelligence Roadmap
Authors: Irwan Thomas Jeffrey , Trisnawarman Dedi
Published: June 2024

Gempa bumi adalah sebuah bencana alam yang sering terjadi di Indonesia karena terletak di Cincin Api Pasifik, oleh karena itu perlu dirancang sebuah dashboard interaktif yang dapat memberikan sebuah gambaran visualisasi data gempa yang memiliki potensi terjadinya tsunami dengan menggunakan metode business intelligence roadmap. Metode business intelligence roadmap memiliki 6 tahap justifikasi, perencanaan, analisa bisnis, desain, konstruksi, deploy. Data yang digunakan adalah tanggal, kekuatan magnitudo, kedalaman dan lokasi. Tujuan dari pengembangan dashboard interaktif ini untuk memungkinkan penggunanya mengetahui data gempa yang berpotensi terjadinya tsunami dikarenakan magnitudo yang besar sehingga dapat membantu masyarakat dalam meningkatkan upaya mitigasi serta dapat membantu dalam mengambil keputusan untuk menetap pada suatu tempat yang berpotensi terjadinya tsunami. Pembuatan dashboard ini akan menggunakan aplikasi Microsoft Power BI. Fitur yang dihasilkan pada dashboard ini yaitu visualisasi grafik statistik yang mencakup informasi dengan data gempa bumi yang didapat melalui Badan Meteorologi, Klimatologi, dan Geofisika (BMKG).
Rancangan Sistem Operasional Perusahaan Otobus Mahendra Transport Indonesia Menggunakan Metode Agile
Authors: Putra Mohammad Faraditya Eka , Trisnawarman Dedi , Sutrisno Tri
Published: June 2024

Sistem operasional perusahaan bus merupakan hal yang sangat penting dalam bisnis transportasi. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengimplementasikan sistem berbasis web untuk Mahendra Transport Indonesia, sebuah perusahaan bus antarkota dan antarprovinsi. Dengan menggunakan model Agile, Pekerjaan berulang yang berfokus pada pengembangan aturan dan solusi secara kolaboratif yang telah disetujui oleh setiap anggota tim adalah dasar dari pengembangan perangkat lunak tangkas, yang dilakukan dengan cara yang terorganisir dan terstruktur. Komponen utama dari temuan penelitian ini termasuk menciptakan platform yang lebih mudah dan lebih efektif bagi agen untuk memesan tiket, menyediakan data jadwal bus terbaru melalui antarmuka yang ramah pengguna, dan mengotomatisasi prosedur untuk meningkatkan efisiensi manajemen gaji staf. Sistem ini diharapkan dapat menawarkan layanan yang mudah digunakan dan mendorong komunikasi internal yang lebih baik di antara para karyawan, sehingga meningkatkan efektivitas operasional secara keseluruhan.
USULAN PERBAIKAN TATA LETAK PADA GUDANG KANTONG MEMAKAI ANALISIS ABC DAN METODE CBS DI PT XYZ
Authors: Syah Mohammad Arif Alfriyan , Jufriyanto Moh. , Hidayat Hidayat
Published: June 2024

Permasalahan dalam industri manufaktur semakin kompleks karena pertumbuhan sektor industri yang disertai oleh kemajuan teknologi yang begitu pesat. PT. Xyz bergerak di sektor pupuk. Perinsip penataan produk gudang existing memakai metode randomized storage, yang menyebabkan tingginya proses penerimaan dan pengeluaran barang. Tujuan dari penelitian ini yaitu dalam memberi rekomendasi terkait cara memperbaiki tata letak gudang agar proses penerimaan dan pengeluaran barang bisa dioptimalkan dan agar kegiatan penyimpanan bisa dilakukan secara efisien dan efektif. Penelitian ini memakai analisis ABC dan metode Class Based Storage dalam menyelesaikan masalah. Setelah dilakukan usulan tata letak gudang dengan mengelompokkan produk mengacu pada analisis ABC didapatkan hasil sejumlah 9 produk kelas A, 5 produk kelas B, 9 produk kelas C dan metode Class Based Storage didapatkan nilai jarak pada layout Existing sejumlah 516.849 m dan nilai jarak layout usulan sejumlah 415.531 m maka penurunan total jarak layout usulan sejumlah 101.318 m.
Pencegahan Serangan Berbasis Kata Sandi: Studi Komprehensif Tentang Implementasi Hash Pada Aplikasi Web
Authors: Ramadhan Muhammad Adri , Arpinda Arpinda , Saputra Deny , Mulyana Dadang Iskandar
Published: June 2024

Dalam era digital yang semakin berkembang, keamanan informasi menjadi suatu aspek krusial dalam pengelolaan data, terutama di lingkungan aplikasi web. Serangan berbasis kata sandi merupakan salah satu ancaman utama yang dapat mengakibatkan akses tidak sah terhadap sistem informasi. Untuk mengatasi risiko ini, penggunaan metode enkripsi menjadi penting, dan salah satu pendekatan yang umum digunakan ialah teknik hash. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memberikan pemahaman komprehensif mengenai implementasi hash pada aplikasi web sebagai langkah pencegahan serangan berbasis kata sandi. Hashing merupakan metode matematis yang digunakan untuk mengubah kata sandi menjadi nilai hash, yang sulit untuk diurai kembali menjadi kata sandi asli. Namun, penggunaan hash dalam aplikasi web seringkali tidak optimal, sehingga memerlukan peninjauan dan perbaikan dalam implementasinya. Studi ini akan melakukan analisis mendalam terhadap berbagai algoritma hash yang umum digunakan, serta mengevaluasi kelemahan dan kelebihan masing-masing. Selain itu, penelitian ini akan mempertimbangkan faktor-faktor keamanan lain yang dapat memengaruhi efektivitas perlindungan kata sandi, seperti manajemen kunci, kebijakan kata sandi yang kuat, dan prosedur pemulihan akun. Penelitian ini mengeksplorasi penerapan metode keamanan adaptif yang dapat mengidentifikasi dan merespons secara dinamis terhadap tren serangan berbasis kata sandi terkini. Dengan mengintegrasikan teknologi kecerdasan buatan atau pembelajaran mesin, sistem dapat secara proaktif meningkatkan keamanan kata sandi berdasarkan pola-pola serangan yang terdeteksi. Melalui pendekatan ini, hasil dapat dikembangkan menjadi suatu pemahaman yang lebih baik mengenai perlindungan kata sandi dalam konteks aplikasi web, serta menyusun pedoman praktis untuk meningkatkan keamanan dan mengurangi risiko serangan berbasis kata sandi. Dengan demikian, hasil dari penelitian ini dapat memberikan kontribusi positif terhadap pengembangan teknologi keamanan informasi dalam menghadapi ancaman yang semakin kompleks di era digital ini.
Kata Kunci: Keamanan Informasi, Enkripsi, Hashing, Kata Sandi, Algoritma, Aplikasi Web, Manajemen Kunci, Teknologi Keamanan.
Battle Grounds: The Female Body as a Site of War
Authors: Mironas Alexandrina
Published: June 2024

On February 24, 2022, Russia escalated the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war to a full-blown invasion of Ukraine. As a war tactic, Putin endorses gender-based violence by employing rape rhetoric to frame Ukraine as a powerless woman, and to demand the submissiveness that he believes is owed to him. To elucidate the socio-political forces behind gender-based violence as a war tactic, I reveal the relationship between traditional gender roles in Eastern Europe and how they establish the female body as the property of a nation. Through the examination of relevant literature, I draw a theoretical perspective that identifies the female body as nationalized, objectified as property, and inscribed as a site of violence. Applying this lens to the invasion of Ukraine, I identify the social and political forces that allow Russian soldiers to objectify the Ukrainian female body as a battle ground on which national wars are fought. Further, I discuss how gender-based violence, while apparent during peacetime, becomes amplified during conflict, and how this violence physically inscribes the Ukrainian female body as “Other.” To conclude, I discuss how the lived experiences of Ukrainian women become embodied through fear, yet silenced through the ongoing nature of this war, and I pose several questions that aim at creating space for women to share their painful experiences as an act of liberation.
*Re-Print: The NS-3 Mixture of δ-Tocotrienol, Vitamin D3 and Resveratrol Modulates Gene Expression of Several Novel MicroRNAs Identified by Transcriptomic Analyses in People with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: A Qureshi Asaf
Published: June 2024

Aims: Type 2 diabetes mellitus is due to hyperglycemia, therefore fasting glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels are used as biomarkers to determine onset of diabetes. RT-PCR estimation of pooled total mRNAs of EDTA treated whole blood (plasma) obtained after the treatment of NS-3 mixture of d-tocotrienol, vitamin D3, resveratrol of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) for 24 weeks, showed significant down-regulation of gene expression of several diabetes biomarkers (IRS-1, SOD-2, GCKR, IGFBP-2) and cytokines (IL-4, IL-6) as compared to pre-treatment values. Present study investigates the effectiveness of NS-3 on gene expression of mRNAs, miRNAs, and paired mRNA-miRNA in people with T2DM. Methods: Present study is an extension of a randomized placebo controlled double-blinded clinical trial of T2DM (n = 56/group) given two capsules/d of cellulose/olive oil (placebo), or NS-3 for 24-weeks. Pure mRNAs and miRNAs of plasma of pre-dose versus post-dose of NS-3 treated samples were analyzed by next generation sequencing (NGS). Data was uploaded into “Ingenuity Pathways Analyses”. Results: A total of 4000 genes are considered significant, based on > 2-fold gene expression changes. Out of which 1373 genes are significantly differentially expressed in pre-dose vs post-dose (P < 0.02) samples, 20 are up-regulated and 27 are down-regulated of NS-3 treated RNAs of T2DM. Gene expression of up-regulated miR-29b-3p modulates (GLUT4, insulin resistance), miR-624-5p (nephropathy biomarker), miR-361-5p (chronic inflammation), miR-130a-3p (glucose metabolism, insulin secretion), miR-3912-3p (lipid metabolism), and miR-11401 (cellular transcription). The miR-374c-5p (insulin resistance), miR-4326 (HbA1c level)), miR-874-3p (b-cell function) are down-regulated of NS-3 treated people with T2DM. Whereas messengerR-ML-1621513 (oxidative/stress), mR-CTD-2349P217 (insulin-mediated glucose-uptake), are up-regulated, and mR-CTC-246B1810 (b-cell/biology) are down-regulated in T2DM after NS-3 treatment. Venn diagrams have established genetic regulatory network images and canonical signaling pathways for mRNA, miRNA, and paired mRNA-miRNA of gene expression profiles of pre-dose vs post-dose of NS-3 treatment group. Conclusions: The NS-3 treatment of people with T2DM indicates up- or down-regulation of several new miRNAs (miR-29b-3p, miR-624-5p, miR-361-5p, miR-130a-3p, miR-3912-3p, miR-374c-5p, miR-4326 [HbA1c], miR-1247-3p, miR-874-5p) which may be used to identify onset of T2DM. Overexpression of mRNA-AL1621513 indicates oxidative stress in people with T2DM, resulting in complications of diabetes (neuropathy, retinopathy, and stroke).
Bile Duct Injury in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy; A Multi Centre Experience
Authors: Singhal Vinod Kumar
Published: June 2024

Background: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), a minimally invasive gallbladder removal surgery, has revolutionized the field with benefits like quicker recovery. However, it is not without risks, and bile duct injury (BDI) is a severe but rare complication. BDI incidence during LC varies (0.4%-0.9%), with potentially life-threatening consequences. Surgeon experience, intraoperative cholangiography, and careful handling are crucial in preventing and managing BDIs. Aim of the study: This study aims to present and analyze a Multi centre experience regarding the management of these bile duct injuries in LC. Methods: This retrospective study, conducted at UAE medical institutions from 2014 to 2024, analyzed 2400 Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy surgeries over ten years. Out of 18 patients, thirteen patients were treated with ERCP, while five required additional surgery. Inclusion criteria involved patients aged 30 to 70+, of both genders, with BDIs. Exclusion criteria included minor BDIs and comorbidities. Two diagnostic techniques, including intraoperative cholangiography and postoperative assessments, identified BDIs. Treatment varied based on Strasberg classification, involving suturing, ERCP, stent placement, and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy. Data analysis employed SPSS, presenting results through tables and graphs with statistical parameters. Result: The study focused on Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy-related Bile Duct Injuries (BDI), with a cohort primarily aged 51-70 (66.67%). This age group showed higher susceptibility to BDI. The average participant age was 55.21±12.54 years, with a male majority (55.56%). Among 18 Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) cases, five had BDI, diagnosed intra/postoperatively. Two patients with clinical symptoms had postoperative diagnosis through Percutaneous Transhepatic Cholangiography (PTC). Strasberg classification revealed 60% Type A injuries; Types E1 and E2 each constituted 20%. Treatment modalities varied, with ERCP for Type A injuries (60%) and Roux-en-Y Hepaticojejunostomy (RYHJ) for Types E1 and E2. Conclusion: ERCP is a valuable method for diagnosing and managing Bile Duct Injuries (BDIs). The predominant type of BDIs, specifically Type A, is typically diagnosed after surgery. ERCP demonstrates its efficacy in addressing the majority of Strasberg Type A BDIs. In substantial and intricate BDIs, the Roux-en-Y Hepaticojejunostomy is a secure and efficient approach.
Book review ‘why cancer occurs’
Authors: Iqbal Uqbah
Published: June 2024

While other cases are caused by a virus usually gives a picture like the condition of a network infected by a virus, in the form of a nodule and ulcer and its various types can be a carcinoma or sarcoma. Examples caused by viral infections are nasopharyngeal carcinoma, lymphoma maligna where the main causative factor is Epstein Barr virus. In other types caused by viruses such as Kaposi's sarcoma, where many are associated with HIV virus infection in AIDS patients.