bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rubricage et analyse des besoins des publics du Journal Kengele
Authors:   Faculté de Lettres et Sciences humaines, Université de l’Assomption au Congo, Butembo, P.O. Box 104, République Démocratique du Congo, Kasereka Kaniki Grace , Paluku Mayani Adélard ,   Faculté de Lettres et Sciences humaines, Université de l’Assomption au Congo, Butembo, P.O. Box 104, République Démocratique du Congo, Paluku Kamili Jean-Paul ,   Faculté de Lettres et Sciences humaines, Université de l’Assomption au Congo, Butembo, P.O. Box 104, République Démocratique du Congo
Published: October 2023

Cette étude tient d’un constat général sur les journaux de la presse écrite, publiés dans la région ou province du Nord-Kivu, spécialement dans sa partie dite « Grand-Nord ». En effet, nous sommes lecteurs des journaux de presse écrite. Néanmoins, une chose reste étonnante et inquiétante aux yeux d’un observateur averti : La presse locale ne relaie en grande partie que des informations politiques et sécuritaires. Elle traite rarement les autres domaines de la vie tels que l’économie, le social, la santé, la culture, le sport, etc. À lire cette presse l’on a comme l’impression que les autres domaines de la vie de la communauté ne font pas nouvelle ou, tout simplement n’intéressent pas le lecteur. Loin de là. Pourtant les commerçants et les consommateurs, les acteurs sociaux et les organisations non gouvernementales de développement (ONG-D) ou ONG de Droits Humains, les agronomes et agriculteurs, les professionnels de la santé et bien d’autres techniciens, etc. ont besoin d’être informés dans leurs domaines respectifs qui les intéressent au premier chef. Malheureusement, ils sont presque des « oubliés de la presse » ! Chaque être humain a besoin d’être informé. Certes, tous les humains ne sont pas friands d’informations politiques et sécuritaires qui sont, pour la plupart, dramatiques et susceptibles de décourager de bons citoyens dans leurs efforts de la construction d’un nouvel ordre social qui envisagerait l’avenir avec optimisme. Sans doute, une proportion croissante les lecteurs attendent du journal des informations sérieuses et complètes dans tous les domaines de l’intérêt humain. Nous tenons tout de même à souligner que le rubricage est lourd des conséquences : l’élargissement du champ journalistique, le capital médiatique des journalistes rubricards, c’est-à-dire leur professionnalisation ou spécialisation.
Les déterminants de la fidélité des clients aux services de Airtel en Ville de Butembo
Authors:   Faculté de Lettres et Sciences Humaines à l’Université de l’Assomption au Congo, Butembo P.O. Box 104, République Démocratique du Congo, Visesa Louez Muhindo
Published: October 2023

L’étude du comportement du consommateur peut offrir aux opérateurs économiques une possibilité d’ouvrir une action marketing afin d’atteindre leurs objectifs. Ce travail porte sur les déterminants de la fidélité des clients consommateurs des services de l’opérateur Airtel à Butembo. Cet article analyse les raisons pour lesquelles les clients, qui se lamentent pourtant de la qualité des services offerts, restent fidèles au réseau Airtel. Sur un Echantillon de convenance de 300 personnes, nous avons constaté que ces derniers sont fidèles parce qu’ils veulent conserver le contact facile avec leurs pairs.
Prosecutor's science: current state and development trends
Authors: Usov Aleksei Yur'evich
Published: October 2023

The article is devoted to the study of the history, current state and trends in the development of prosecutorial science in the Russian Federation. Currently, legal science is undergoing a reform associated with the process of consolidation of scientific specialties. The article defends the need to preserve prosecutorial science as an independent branch of legal knowledge, characterized by a whole galaxy of outstanding scientists engaged in the study of the theory of prosecutorial activity, an independent system of scientific and educational organizations that form scientific schools in this area, and, finally, a detailed elaboration of the scientific foundations of the functions and areas (areas) of the prosecutor's office, a doctrinal approach to the development and functioning of the prosecutor's system. The main conclusions of the conducted scientific research are the ideas that at present there is a steady trend towards the separation of prosecutorial science into an independent branch of scientific knowledge. The article also contains proposals for a more detailed definition of the scientific branch 5.1.2 – "Public law (state law) sciences" of the content of scientific research devoted to prosecutorial science, which, in addition, would make it possible to more accurately distinguish scientific research also devoted to the study of prosecutorial supervision, which, however, are conducted within the framework of scientific branch 5.1.4 "Criminal law sciences".
Optimization of 3,4-Dimethoxychalcone and Rutin Containing Gel with Simplex Lattice Design and In Vitro-In Vivo Test as a Sunscreen
Authors:   Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, Zulkarnain Abdul Karim
Published: October 2023

3,4-Dimethoxychalcone and rutin, a flavonoid that contains chromophore groups, can absorb UV light and thus can be developed as a sunscreen. The objective of this study was to determine the optimum formula of 3,4-dimethoxychalcone and rutin containing gel, evaluate its physical stability, and activity of 3,4-dimethoxychalcone and rutin gel as a sunscreen through in vitro and in vivo tests. HPMC, CMC-Na, and methylcellulose were formulated into a gel base to obtain good adhesion and a clear appearance gel. Simplex Lattice Design (SLD) with Design Expert software version 10 was utilized to determine the optimum gel formulation. UVA-PF protection, photostability with transpore method, and acute dermal irritation test were performed to evaluate sunscreen activity of 3,4-dimethoxychalcone and rutin gel. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. The results showed that the optimum formula for 3,4-dimethoxychalcone-rutin gel consisted of 1.5% HPMC, 1.8% CMC-Na and 0.6% methylcellulose, which showed a pH of 6.96, viscosity of 89.10 dpa.s, and spreadability of 16.30 cm2. The pH, viscosity, and spreadability of base and 3,4-dimethoxychalcone- rutin gel was stable for 4 weeks of storage. The UVA-PF value is 6.48 which according to the FDA is included in the category of a two star (**) sunscreen label. The sunscreen did not exhibit a shift in wavelength after 6 hours of irradiation. Based on the primary irritation test, 3,4-dimethoxychalcone- rutin sunscreen produced zero (0) erythema and edema index. Thus, it did not cause irritation to the skin of experimental animals. Therefore, the gel containing 3,4-dimethoxychalcone and rutin had potential as a sunscreen product based on in vitro-in vivo tests and was safe on animal skin.
Evaluation of Anti-VEGF and Pan-Retinal Photocoagulation Laser Therapies in Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors:   Faculty of Medicine, Sebelas Maret University, Surakarta, Central Java, Indonesia, Imani Namira Putri
Published: October 2023

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that is one of the top five causes of blindness in those over 50. The standard treatment is pan-retinal photocoagulation, which is effective but has established side effects. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy becomes an alternative to avoid the side effects caused by laser therapy. This systematic review aims to know the effectiveness of anti-VEGF therapy compared to the pan-retinal photocoagulation laser therapy in patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy. This review was carried out using a systematic review checklist on PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). The articles reviewed were randomized controlled trial articles that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, six articles were selected from a total of 215. Patients who received anti-VEGF medication had better visual acuity (positive values), whereas patients who received laser therapy had poorer visual acuity (negative values). Those results are because the laser directs light towards the retina, damaging photoreceptors and retinal cells as well as reducing visual acuity. On the contrary, anti-VEGF prevents damage to retinal endothelial cells and blood leaks in the vitreous by decreasing VEGF expression and thus resulting in improved visual acuity. Anti-VEGF proved to be a more practical alternative therapy in improving visual acuity than pan-retinal photocoagulation for patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy.
Microbiota plasticity in tilapia gut revealed by meta-analysis evaluating the effect of probiotics, prebiotics, and biofloc
Authors: Martinez-Porchas Marcel , Preciado-Álvarez Aranza , Vargas-Albores Francisco , Gracia-Valenzuela Martina Hilda , Cicala Francesco , Martinez-Cordova Luis Rafael , Medina-Félix Diana , Garibay-Valdez Estefania
Published: October 2023

Tilapia species are among the most cultivated fish worldwide due to their biological advantages but face several challenges, including environmental impact and disease outbreaks. Feed additives, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and other microorganisms, have emerged as strategies to protect against pathogens and promote immune system activation and other host responses, with consequent reductions in antibiotic use. Because these additives also influence tilapia’s gut microbiota and positively affect the tilapia culture, we assume it is a flexible annex organ capable of being subject to significant modifications without affecting the biological performance of the host. Therefore, we evaluated the effect of probiotics and other additives ingested by tilapia on its gut microbiota through a meta-analysis of several bioprojects studying the tilapia gut microbiota exposed to feed additives (probiotic, prebiotic, biofloc). A total of 221 tilapia gut microbiota samples from 14 bioprojects were evaluated. Alpha and beta diversity metrics showed no differentiation patterns in relation to the control group, either comparing additives as a group or individually. Results also revealed a control group with a wide dispersion pattern even when these fish did not receive additives. After concatenating the information, the tilapia gut core microbiota was represented by four enriched phyla including Proteobacteria (31%), Fusobacteria (23%), Actinobacteria (19%), and Firmicutes (16%), and seven minor phyla Planctomycetes (1%), Chlamydiae (1%), Chloroflexi (1%), Cyanobacteria (1%), Spirochaetes (1%), Deinococcus Thermus (1%), and Verrucomicrobia (1%). Finally, results suggest that the tilapia gut microbiota is a dynamic microbial community that can plastically respond to feed additives exposure with the potential to influence its taxonomic profile allowing a considerable optimal range of variation, probably guaranteeing its physiological function under different circumstances.
Curi y los cuidadores: piloto de serie de ficción animada infantil educativa que promueve la visión de corresponsabilidad en las labores de cuidado con niños y niñas de la comuna de Santiago, Chile
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Nahuelhual Martínez Evelyn Marcela
Published: October 2023

El plan de acción CURI Y LOS CUIDADORES busca desarrollar un piloto de una serie de ficción animada infantil educativa que promueva una mirada biopsicosocial y corresponsable en las labores de cuidado con niños y niñas de la comuna de Santiago, Chile. Se busca abordar la necesidad de comunicación y educación surgida en el diagnóstico de la estrategia “Cuidar es Capital”, que se relaciona con la formación en materias de cuidados desde la infancia. Al episodio piloto construido en colaboración con niños y niñas, se suman el desarrollo de materiales complementarios para adultos mediadores (cuidadores y docentes) y una estrategia de difusión participativa (en redes sociales y de modo presencial). A modo de proyección, con el piloto se incentivará a que el mandante pueda postular a fondos concursables para desarrollar una serie que pueda ser emitida a través de otros medios.
Alfabetización en Retroalimentación de los Docentes de Enseñanza Media
Authors:   , Díaz Gordon Karen
Published: October 2023

El presente proyecto indaga en las percepciones de la alfabetización en retroalimentación en los docentes que imparten clases en los planes diferenciados de los niveles de tercero y cuarto medio. Este trabajo contribuye con abordar un tema que hasta el momento solo ha sido estudiado en el contexto de la educación superior. En específico, indaga aspectos relevantes sobre cómo los profesores otorgan retroalimentación a sus estudiantes, en concordancia con los cambios evaluativos que determinan los decretos publicados recientemente. Esta investigación se desarrolló desde un enfoque cualitativo, donde se utilizaron entrevistas como instrumento de recogida de información. En ellas participaron seis docentes, y los datos de la entrevista fueron analizados por medio de análisis temático. Los principales hallazgos indican que, si bien los docentes llevan a cabo prácticas de retroalimentación que se relacionan con su alfabetización, también declaran realizar dichas prácticas sin una intención clara orientada a desarrollar estas habilidades en los estudiantes. Como proyección del estudio, se propone indagar en el tema considerando la observación misma de las prácticas de retroalimentación de los docentes que implementan en el aula, así como también contemplar la perspectiva de los estudiantes en este tema.
Entre los afectos y el desgaste: Autoetnografía de mi experiencia docente
Authors:   , Corgini Donoso Francisca Andrea
Published: October 2023

Esta investigación autoetnográfica busca explorar la relación afectiva entre mi proceso de subjetivación como docente y la idea de educación inclusiva, centrándose en cómo llegué a sentirme incompetente en mi profesión y percibir posibles exclusiones en mi labor docente. Mediante un enfoque evocativo y analítico, empleando el análisis narrativo holístico de la documentación, se analiza la situación en un contexto nacional donde las políticas de educación inclusiva generan segregación y ejercen un cumplimiento normativo que contrasta con realidades disidentes. Los hallazgos revelan que esta sensación de incompetencia surge de las expectativas profesionales que me impongo, influenciadas por las demandas sociales y las exigencias de la labor docente. Además, se identifica un problema estructural que inicialmente creí poder resolver por mí misma, pero que supera mis capacidades individuales, generando una sensación de incapacidad. Abordando teóricamente, las perspectivas de la política cultural de las emociones de Sara Ahmed y el optimismo cruel de Lauren Berlant, así como los enfoques de Matus y Rojas en educación inclusiva y de Goodley y Runswick-Cole en dis/capacidad. Esta investigación contribuye al campo al proponer recomendaciones para la acción profesional, como la desarticulación de espacios que perpetúen la "otredad" y la transformación del paradigma inclusivo para promover el agenciamiento docente mediante la resolución del problema estructural. Resumiendo, este estudio destaca la compleja interacción entre experiencias personales, expectativas sociales y desafíos estructurales en el ámbito de la educación inclusiva.
Recursos gramaticales para favorecer la escritura bajo un enfoque comunicativo
Authors:   , Müller Becker Josefina Andrea
Published: October 2023

El presente trabajo surge a partir de la necesidad didáctica de ofrecer oportunidades para que estudiantes de sexto básico mejoren sus competencias en la escritura, por medio del aprendizaje de recursos gramaticales. Así, se evidencia un proceso que tuvo como objetivo desarrollar un trabajo validado por expertos, pares y empíricamente, para el que se produjeron datos a través de un estudio de caso para fundamentar la propuesta. La propuesta consistió en un cuadernillo de aprendizaje gramatical, enfocado en agregar detalles a las producciones escritas, por medio de recursos gramaticales como los adverbios, locuciones adverbiales y sintagmas preposicionales con valor de circunstancia. La propuesta que se presenta fue validada por expertas en la enseñanza de la lengua y otros pares docentes. Además, se implementó con una estudiante de sexto básico, en una modalidad de estudio de caso. Es así como, a partir de estas instancias se concluyó que la propuesta diseñada fue una buena oportunidad para que la estudiante aprendiera recursos gramaticales y los utilizara en su escritura, logrando un 57% de avance en el uso de circunstancias como medio para añadir detalles en su producción.
Computational upscaling of 1-g physical test of semi buried buidings and retaining systems to study dynamically induced earth pressures
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Zamorano Véliz Francisco Javier
Published: October 2023

Esta investigación presenta una evaluación experimental de la interacción dinámica sueloestructura (DSSI por sus siglas en inglés) para edificios construidos con muros de corte bajo diferentes configuraciones de altura y número de subterráneos. También se presenta el caso de muros de excavaciones no arriostrados parcialmente enterrados. Modelos físicos a escala reducida fueron realizados en una caja laminar sobre una mesa vibradora. La principal característica de la caja laminar es que posee uno de sus costados transparentes. Estos ensayos fueron sometidos a cargas dinámicas caracterizadas por ondas Ricker. Posteriormente, estos ensayos fueron reproducidos mediante modelos computacionales de elementos finitos que fueron calibrados tomando como referencia los resultados de los modelos físicos constituyendo un gemelo digital. Luego de hacer esta calibración, los modelos computacionales fueron llevados a la escala de prototipo, con el objetivo de evaluar su comportamiento a un nivel de tensiones más realista. Los resultados muestran en general que los edificios en escala aumentada tienen una respuesta consistente con las leyes de escalamiento, como, por ejemplo, la distribución de presiones del suelo sobre los subterráneos, tanto estática como dinámica. El movimiento de los edificios en general presenta una respuesta mucho más amortiguada en comparación con el movimiento esperado en base a los modelos originales. Finalmente, los edificios con escala aumentada fueron sometido a registros sísmicos reales, para comparar el empuje lateral sobre los subterráneos frente a la normativa vigente. Estos resultados muestran un aumento del empuje en función de la masa de la superestructura, lo cual no se ve reflejado en los parámetros normativos actuales.
La importancia del flujo de turistas y sus efectos en el desarrollo sostenible
Authors: Falcones Ana Cecilia Vélez , Cevallos Daniel Armando Vergara , Plazo Jorge Gonzalo Pérez , Velásquez Jesús Merino , Rosado Derli Francisco Álava , Okafor Christopher Chukwugozie , Olives Gladys Germania Salazar , Macías José Darwin Zambrano
Published: October 2023

El propósito de la investigación es medir la importancia de flujo de turistas en las comunidades rurales Manabitas, y su aporte al desarrollo sostenible de las mismas, con ello diagnosticar las necesidades de cada lugar turístico, que contribuya a la innovación, y al fomento de nuevas alternativas de servicios turísticos, con la utilización sus recursos culturales y naturales del sector. A partir del estado del arte y el método analítico-descriptivo, cuali-cuantitativa, se demuestra el análisis de la situación actual de turistas y como este aporta significativamente al desarrollo de los pueblos del Ecuador. El resultado de   los datos indica que un 52% el motivo para viajar es turismo comunitario, por el valor de sus recursos, naturales y culturales de las comunidades. Se concluye que el flujo de turistas a nivel nacional es de vital importancia para el crecimiento económico, político, social y el cuidado y protección medioambiental; El interés expresado por el 88% de los encuestados en experimentar un tipo de turismo que resalte las bondades de una comunidad y sus recursos sugiere un mercado prometedor, y que la diversidad de preferencias se refleja en los resultados que demuestran una variedad de preferencias y motivaciones entre los visitantes de las comunidades.
Investigation of how the quality of service provided in private gyms is perceived by users (example of Yalova province)
Authors: Özaras Ferdağ , Ayılgan Ercan , Yıldız Yeliz Ay , Şahin İbrahim
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study is to examine how the quality of service provided in private sports halls in Yalova is perceived by users. The sample of our study consists of a total of 121 people, 69 women and 52 men, who are voluntarily participated the study, over the age of 18 who is using private GYM’s in Yalova. The study was carried out with the survey model, which is one of the quantitative research methods, and the survey method was used. Data regarding the study were collected with the Service Quality Assessment Scale. The analysis of the data was made with the SPSS 25.0 program, and 5 sub-dimensions were analyzed according to gender data from demographic variables. According to the normality test results, suitable non-parametric tests, Mann Whitney-U test and Kruskal Wallis-H test were used(p<0.05). It was observed that female members had higher perceptions about personnel, programs, locker rooms, training facilities and physical facilities than male members. As a result of this, marketing and target audience orientation, environmental, service quality and personnel as well as individual differences can be considered to cause this perception.
Association of D-dimer Level with Renal Parameters and Cardiovascular Events in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Patel Kinjal P , Patel Nishant B , Patel Silky A
Published: October 2023

Introduction: D-dimer is a biomarker that can detect early stages of renal and cardiovascular dysfunction in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). It serves as a key indicator and is readily available in laboratory settings, along with other risk factors. Aim: To investigate the association between D-dimer levels and renal parameters, as well as cardiovascular events, among T2DM subjects. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted at Visnagar’s Nootan Medical College and Research Centre, Visnagar, Gujarat, India, involving subjects who visited the centre for health checks between September 2021 and December 2022. Screening was performed on all adult individuals with T2DM. Clinical records of 550 consecutive T2DM patients, aged between 18 and 80 years, receiving care at the centre were analysed. After applying exclusion criteria, 155 patients with T2DM diagnosis were enrolled. Parameters such as cystatin C, D-dimer, serum creatinine, urea, estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR), and albuminuria were evaluated in all subjects. Bivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine whether renal indicators are associated with high D-dimer levels, generating an odds ratio. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was then performed, correcting for sex and age, to determine which kidney indicators are linked to high D-dimer levels. Results: A total of 155 participants were included in this study, and were divided into high and low D-dimer groups. The mean ages of the low and high D-dimer groups were 40±13 years and 55±10 years, respectively. Compared to the low D-dimer group, the high D-dimer group had a higher frequency of males (p-value <0.001). Patients with high D-dimer levels exhibited significantly increased levels of HbA1c, creatinine, urea, cystatin C, and UAE compared to patients with low D-dimer levels (p-value=0.001, p-value=0.001, p-value <0.001, p-value <0.001, and p-value=0.001, respectively). Conclusion: D-dimer may be beneficial in identifying patients with early-stage diabetic kidney disease, thereby promoting the early adoption of renal and cardioprotective therapy. Additionally, elevated D-dimer levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Analysis of Postoperative Complications of Minimally Invasive Surgery for Carcinoma of Oesophagus: A Single Centre Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kakati Sonai Datta , Chintey Dokne , Das Gaurav , Ninu Marie
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Traditional transthoracic oesophagectomy is associated with high perioperative morbidity. Minimally Invasive Oesophagectomy (MIE) techniques have been shown to have a decreased incidence of respiratory complications and an improvement in perioperative outcomes, such as length of hospital stay and wound infection rates. Aim: To evaluate the incidence of postoperative respiratory complications, 30-day mortality, and length of hospital stay among patients with carcinoma of the oesophagus undergoing, VideoAssisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) oesophagectomy. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Anaesthesiology in a new thoracic oncology unit at a Tertiary Cancer care centre, Dr. B. Borooah Cancer Institute, Guwahati, Assam, India. A total of 67 patients with resectable oesophageal cancer who underwent VATS oesophagectomy from September 2019 to December 2021 were included. Patients who had surgery by open thoracotomy and inoperable cases were excluded. The patients’ clinicodemographic profile, intraand postoperative variables, and complications were studied. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. A p-value ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant at a 5% level of significance. Results: Out of 67 patients, 45 (67.2%) were male, and 22 (32.8%) were female. The age ranged from 33 to 78 years with a median age of 55 years (IQR 47-61). The median body weight was 45 kg (IQR 42-53). Nineteen (28.4%) patients developed postoperative complications, including respiratory distress in 7 (10.4%) and anastomotic leakage in 5 (7.5%) patients. Other complications included symptomatic Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection, pneumonia, mediastinitis, Multiorgan Dysfunction Syndrome (MODS) with sepsis, seizure and cardiac arrest, and surgical re-exploration. The 30-day mortality was 2.98%. The median length of hospital stay was 19 days (Interquantile Range (IQR) 16-22), which was higher in those with complications (p<0.001). One-lung ventilation was associated with a higher risk of postoperative respiratory complications (p=0.077). Conclusion: VATS oesophagectomy, even in a new thoracic oncology unit, was associated with lower perioperative complications, a shorter hospital length of stay, and decreased mortality compared to historical controls.
Adsorption of Lead from Effluents Using Synthesized ZnO Nanoparticles: A Comprehensive Study for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Abbas Haider , Iqbal Samar , Nadeem Muhammad , Jabeen Tabinda , Yasin Adan , Abbood Nabeel Kadhim , Irfan Muhammad , Ihsan Muhammad , Ismaeel Muhammad
Published: October 2023

Water is essential for maintaining life, making up about 60% of the human body. Sadly, water pollution brought on by different industrial processes and human activities seriously jeopardizes our health. The degradation of water quality, which results in lower oxygen levels, is caused by the release of organic and inorganic compounds, pathogens, herbicides, pesticides, medicines, heavy metals, and visual contaminants into water bodies. Heavy metals are among these contaminants that are of special concern to the environment because of their toxicity and bioaccumulative characteristics. The amazing capacity of the adsorption technique to eliminate hazardous metals has attracted the attention of researchers. Through physicochemical interactions, adsorbates are bound to the solid surface of adsorbents using this technique. To eliminate lead from contaminated water, ZnO nanoparticles will create in the current work utilizing the coprecipitation technique for synthesis. To examine the synthesized nanoparticles, number of analytical methods will use, such as UV-Visible spectrum and SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy). Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry will also be used to measure the amount of lead removed both before and after the adsorption process. Important factors like pH, dose, and contact time will strictly regulate throughout our research. To confirm the veracity of findings, Kinetic Models will apply. Ultimate goal of this research is to increase the effectiveness of heavy metal removal and offer useful information regarding the usage of chemically produced ZnO nanoparticles for water filtration. This research project has the potential to make a substantial contribution to improving environmental management procedures and protecting our water resources.
Measuring and Evaluating the Services of Kumasi Technical University Restaurant by Employing Statistical Process Control Tools
Authors: Yeboah Mary Ann , Anyan Francis Yao , Abayase Rosemary
Published: October 2023

The study measures and evaluates Kumasi Technical University (KsTU) Restaurant’s services using statistical process control tools. Two categories of respondents (members of staff and students) were engaged in the study. Data was collected from 100 members of staff and 223 students using questionnaires. Statistical tools such as mean, pareto charts and factor analysis were used in the analysis. The results shows that respondents are highly satisfied with the services provided by the restaurant. The survey also found that consumers consider two factors, namely atmosphere and food quality, while evaluating the services offered by a restaurant.
Receiver Operating Characteristic Optimization Based on Convex Hull and Evolutionary Algorithm
Authors: Ram Baidyanath , Singh Vikash Kumar
Published: October 2023

Classification is basically a Multi-objective problem. The efficiency of classification vastly depends on performance of a classifier which can be evaluated on the basis of Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) graph, Area under Curve (AUC), and selection of different threshold values are generally used as a tool. In machine learning, generally, 2-D classifiers are available that deal with bi-objective problems where overlapping of class may occur i.e. sensitivity and specificity may overlap. Recently, multi-class classification in which classes are mutually exclusive is in research trends along with the evolutionary algorithm. The application of ROC graph is extended to evaluate multi-dimensional classification as it is cost sensitive learning. The goal of this paper is to gather recent achievements in the field at one place to analyze the classifier performance for multi-dimensional classification problems using convex hull and evolutionary algorithms. In this paper, we tried to cover all the existing recent advance techniques in maximization of ROC and proposed a convex hull and evolutionary algorithm based new model for ROC maximization.
Design and Performance Evaluation of a Mini Tractor Mounted Clod Crusher
Authors: Jishna K. P. , Gajera M. N. , Vagadia V. R. , Gajjar P. P.
Published: October 2023

Clod formation following ploughing or disking is a major concern in India’s arid and semi-arid zones. Clod prevents seed - soil close contact and restrict the penetration of furrow openers used in the seed drilling. At present, the majority of the farmers in our country practice a small and marginal land system. Small-scale farmers can purchase small tractors, but smaller tillage implements suitable for mini tractors are not available in the market. To overcome the current problems in seedbed preparation, a mini tractor mounted clod crusher was developed. The developed implement was tested on the field and the data were analyzed statistically with ANOVA tests using computer software. The results showed that, overall best performance of the machine in terms of clod MMD, fuel consumption and field efficiency were found to be 9.25 mm, 7.696 l/h and 84.72 % at the forward speed of 3.0- 3.5 km/h with the dead weight of 100 kg respectively.
Effect of Various Levels of Phosphorus on Growth Attributing Characters, Yield and Nutrient Uptake by Cotton in Vertisol
Authors: Navghare Nagesh R. , Age A. B. , Pandao M. R. , Kakade S. U. , Rakhonde O. S. , Bhosle A. S.
Published: October 2023

This study was carried out at Research Farm of Cotton Research Unit of Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth Akola during the kharif season of 2021-2022 to evaluate the "Effect of various levels of phosphorus on growth attributing characters yield and nutrient uptake by cotton in Vertisol". The experiment used Randomized Block Design, with eight treatments replicated thrice. The prescribed fertilizer dose of 120:60:60 NPK kg ha-1 was administered according to the treatments. The research experiment used the cotton variety PDKV JKL116. Similarly, Depending on the treatment, nano DAP was applied during seed treatment and foliar spray at 30 DAS. Before and after harvesting, samples of the soil and cotton plants were collected and analyzed using procedures’. The results concluded that the application of 100% NPK achieved the highest plant height, branch number boll number seed cotton yield, and cotton stalk yield.
Pushkarmoola (Inula racemosa Hook. F.): A Healing Legacy Unveiled - Exploring its Potent Anti-Pyretic and Medicinal Significance
Authors: Anju K. l.  , Jaisawal Vaibhav , Kumar Sanjeev , Vashishtha Kiran , Mishra Anurag
Published: October 2023

Pushkarmoola, scientifically known as Inula racemosa Hook. F., is a robust herb belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is renowned for its potent medicinal properties, particularly in the realm of cardio-pulmonary health. In contemporary times, it enjoys significant recognition and popularity in both folk and traditional medicinal practices. Its versatility in addressing various health conditions such as fever (Jwara), cardiac diseases (Hridroga), wasting (Kshaya), cough (Kasa), respiratory diseases (Svasa), and tuberculosis (Rajayakshma) has been firmly established over the years through a combination of traditional wisdom and scientific investigation.

Objective: This article provides a concise overview of the historical significance of Inula in medicine. Inula is a valuable source of natural compounds, and this article covers their pharmacological, biochemical, and clinical studies conducted in both in-vitro and in-vivo settings. Furthermore, it places particular emphasis on Inula's widespread use in Ayurvedic literature particularly as a remedy for fever (Jwara).

Data Source: The available literature on Pushkaramoola from original Ayurvedic scriptures, classical Ayurvedic texts from different periods, Indian Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia, and scientific databases such as ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Google Scholar.

Review Methods: Numerous references to Pushkaramoola, found in Ayurvedic classics, journals, and traditional knowledge sources, were thoroughly compiled, and analyzed. The extensive data revealed its potential as a potent antipyretic, as it is prominently featured in formulations designed to alleviate fever. Additionally, both in vivo and in vitro studies have provided evidence of its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antifungal properties.

Conclusion: This article encourages future researchers to delve deeper into the anti-pyretic properties of Pushkarmoola, as it has been extensively documented in ancient texts for its effectiveness in treating various types of fever (jwara). This historical evidence serves as a compelling reason for scholars to explore and expand upon the potential anti-fever benefits of Pushkarmoola.
Assessment of Evan’s Index in North-Western Nigeria using Computerised Tomography
Authors: Abubakar Bello , Danjuma Jibrin Usman
Published: October 2023

Aim: To determine the Evan’s Index of Nigerians using computerized tomography in Sokoto North-Western Nigeria.

Study Design: Retrospective cross- sectional.

Place and duration of study: Department of Anatomy Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto and Department of Radiology Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital Sokoto, between January, 2020 and January, 2022.

Methodology: Normal brain CT scans of one hundred and seventy-eight subjects from the Radiology Department of the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, whose ages ranged from 1 to 70 year. The Evans index was determined by the ratio of the measured distance between the tips of the frontal horns of lateral ventricles and the inner skull tables at the midpoint of the cranium in axial plane.

Results: The Evan’s indexes were larger in male than the females and these differences were not statically significant except in the age group 51-60years where statistically significant difference was observed between male and female (p=0.042). The minimum Evan’s index was 0.02cm in male and 0.01 females and the maximum bi-frontal index was 0.40cm in male and 0.38cm in females.

Conclusion: The Evan’s indexes and it relation with sex and age in our environment was determined.
Properties and interpretation of the Skellam model—A discrete‐time contest competition population model
Authors: Šuba Jurģis , Kawata Yukichika , Lindén Andreas
Published: October 2023

The Skellam model describes discrete‐time population dynamics of a single species assuming uniform (i.e., random or Poissonian) individual distribution and intraspecific contest competition. Apart from studies on individual‐based models derived from first principles it has been rarely applied in ecological research although in specific situations it may be more appropriate than, for instance, the frequently used Ricker model, which is derived assuming scramble competition among the individuals. In this article, we offer an insight into the first principles underlying the Skellam model and provide an alternative parameterization of the model in terms of two commonly used parameters: intrinsic rate of population increase and carrying capacity. We also provide guidelines and software for fitting the Skellam model to discrete population time series data. In light of these findings, the Skellam model may be a useful alternative for a range of purposes where it has been earlier overlooked.
Evolutionarily conserved cysteines in plant cytosolic seryl‐tRNA synthetase are important for its resistance to oxidation
Authors: Evic Valentina , Soic Ruzica , Mocibob Marko , Kekez Mario , Houser Josef , Wimmerová Michaela , Matković‐Čalogović Dubravka , Gruic‐Sovulj Ita , Kekez Ivana , Rokov‐Plavec Jasmina
Published: October 2023

We have previously identified a unique disulfide bond in the crystal structure of Arabidopsis cytosolic seryl‐tRNA synthetase involving cysteines evolutionarily conserved in all green plants. Here, we discovered that both cysteines are important for protein stability, but with opposite effects, and that their microenvironment may promote disulfide bond formation in oxidizing conditions. The crystal structure of the C244S mutant exhibited higher rigidity and an extensive network of noncovalent interactions correlating with its higher thermal stability. The activity of the wild‐type showed resistance to oxidation with H2O2, while the activities of cysteine‐to‐serine mutants were impaired, indicating that the disulfide link may enable the protein to function under oxidative stress conditions which can be beneficial for an efficient plant stress response.
Endoplasmic reticulum stress associated with lead (Pb)‐induced olfactory epithelium toxicity in an olfactory dark basal cell line
Authors: Han Bing , Kamogashira Teru , Kikuta Shu , Yamasoba Tatsuya
Published: October 2023

Lead (Pb) can damage organs and also have undesirable effects on neural development. To explore the effects of Pb on olfactory cells, we investigated Pb‐induced cell toxicity in the DBC1.2 olfactory cell line, with a focus on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, apoptosis, and necroptosis. Representative markers of ER stress, apoptosis, and necroptosis were analyzed by quantitative PCR. The mRNA expression levels of GRP94, GRP78, spliced XBP1, PERK, and ATF6 increased significantly after Pb exposure in a dose‐dependent manner. The expression of Caspase 3 and Caspase 12 did not increase after Pb exposure, which suggested that apoptosis‐induced cell death was not activated after Pb exposure. However, the mRNA of RIPK3 and MLKL showed increases in expression, which indicated that necroptosis‐induced cell death was activated after Pb exposure. These results indicate that Pb exposure induced dose‐dependent cytotoxicity through ER stress and necroptosis pathways in DBC1.2 cells, whereas the apoptosis pathway was not significantly stimulated. HEPES buffer showed a partial protective effect in terms of ER stress, apoptosis, and necroptosis. In summary, the necroptosis pathway plays a crucial rule in Pb exposure‐induced cytotoxicity in olfactory cells.
“Liberating methadone” confab at NYU: Part 1
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: October 2023

Last month, a meeting entitled “Liberating Methadone: Building a Roadmap and Community for Change,” was held at New York University (NYU) in New York City. The aim of the two‐day meeting was to “make sure that methadone is available to everyone who needs it,” and “to fight the power and the bureaucracy that is keeping people from having access,” according to Noa Krawszyk, Ph.D., assistant professor at the NYU Department of Population Health and an organizer of the meeting.
Evolution, Control, and Mitigation of Residual Stresses in Additively Manufactured Metallic Materials: A Review
Authors: Liu Yang , Shi Jing , Wang Yachao
Published: October 2023

Powder bed fusion (PBF) and directed energy deposition (DED) are the two major types of metal additive manufacturing (AM) processes, in which significant residual stresses could be generated in the as‐deposited materials and in turn affect part quality and performance. Therefore, how to control and mitigate residual stress has been a most pressing challenge for metal AM. Herein, the significant efforts made in literature to address this challenge for both PBF and DED processes are reviewed. The extensive survey covers the formation of residual stress in AM, influence of various AM process parameters, modeling techniques for predicting residual stresses, and post and in situ treatments for mitigating unfavorable residual stress distributions. More importantly, a critical analysis is provided to discuss the research gaps and opportunities, such that more exciting research will be stimulated to address the outstanding issues in this area and improve the quality and service life of AM‐produced components. As a result, once being better equipped with residual stress control knowledge and tools, the industry will be more confident in adopting metal AM techniques.
Optimizing the Charge Carrier Dynamics of Thermal Evaporated TexSe1‐x Films for High‐Performance Short‐Wavelength Infrared Photodetection
Authors: Li Ruiming , Yao Fang , Xu Yalun , Bai Songxue , Jia Zhenglin , Lin Qianqian
Published: October 2023

Short‐wavelength infrared photo‐sensing materials are dominated by germanium, indium gallium arsenide, indium antimonide, and mercury cadmium telluride. However, the complex fabrication process and high production cost hinder their widespread applications. Recently, TexSe1‐x has shown great potential for infrared photodetection, but TexSe1‐x‐based devices are still suffering from extremely high dark current and poor device performance. In this work, high‐quality TexSe1‐x films are fabricated by thermal evaporation and low‐temperature annealing. The optoelectronic properties of the TexSe1‐x thin films are systematically investigated and optimized. The absorption spectrum is carefully tuned to cover the broad range from 300 to 1600 nm by modulating the ratio of Te and Se. Photodiodes based on the optimized TexSe1‐x thin films are also fabricated, and achieve high responsivity, reduced dark and low noise current density, and a fast response time of <850 ns. Then, prototypical devices based on Te0.65Se0.35 thin films are demonstrated for optical communications, indicating the great potential for next‐generation, low‐cost short‐wavelength infrared photodetection.
A Laminated Gravity‐Driven Liquid Metal‐Doped Hydrogel of Unparalleled Toughness and Conductivity
Authors: Zhang Qingtian , Lu Hongda , Yun Guolin , Gong Liping , Chen Zexin , Jin Shida , Du Haiping , Jiang Zhen , Li Weihua
Published: October 2023

Conductive hydrogels have been promising candidates for wearable and flexible electronics due to their high flexibility and biocompatibility. However, the previously reported hydrogels with conductivity over 1000 S m−1 usually have poor mechanical properties including low tensile stress (<5 MPa) and toughness (<2 MJ m−3). Here, a liquid metal‐doped polyvinyl alcohol (PVA‐LM) hydrogel is presented, which simultaneously combines ultra‐high conductivity (maximum of 217 895 S m−1) with excellent mechanical properties, including high tensile stress (15.44 MPa), large tensile strain (704%), high toughness (43.02 MJ m−3) and excellent fatigue resistance. Such extremely high conductivity is afforded by self‐sintering behavior of LM at the bottom surface that enables the formation of conductive networks. The formation of polymer crystalline regions and polymer‐tannic acid multiple hydrogen bonds are responsible for the impressive mechanical properties of conductive hydrogels. Particularly, the electric LM filler could be recycled in the robust hydrogel by dissociation of multiple dynamic interactions. Most importantly, wearable electrodes and capacitive sensors are developed utilizing PVA‐LM hydrogel. These devices enable accurate monitoring of bioelectrical signals and human motions, highlighting their immense potential in the realm of soft electronics and wearable technology.
Ultrasound‐Triggered Surface Reconstruction with Improved Carriers Transfer Kinetics in CdIn2S4 for Solar Water Oxidation
Authors: Meng Linxing , He Jinlu , Li Shengnan , Zhou Xiaolong , Xin Ruiyun , Xu Weiwei , Shao Bo , Tunmee Sarayut , Kidkhunthod Pinit , Tang Yongbing , Zhai Wei , Li Liang
Published: October 2023

The surface oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is severely restricted owing to the sluggish OER kinetics and limited number of reactive sites. Although surface reconstruction can introduce defects to improve the OER performance, they often function as recombination centers and cause severe carrier recombination. With the aid of ultrasonication, the CdIn2S4 photoanode surface is reconstructed using Zn‐modified Cd defects without extreme chemical reaction environment. Owing to the surface reconstruction, the formed type‐II band structure is beneficial for separating photogenerated carriers and reduced the bulk recombination. Additionally, the Zn‐modified Cd defects are introduced in situ during the ultrasound cavitation process, which facilitated the carrier transfer, reduced the surface recombination, and increased the number of surface active sites. First‐principles calculations indicate that the modified Cd defects effectively lower the electrochemical reaction barrier and promote the surface OER kinetics by precisely regulating the four‐electron reaction. Consequently, the optimized photoanode exhibits a enhanced photocurrent of 5.30 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode. These results demonstrate that an accurate surface reconstruction design can be achieved for introducing and modifying metal defects to improve the transfer and transport behaviors of photogenerated carriers.