bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Riesgo cardiovascular en el Cuerpo Oficial de Bomberos de Bogotá, Colombia
Authors: Rodríguez-Perdomo Leonardo , Barón-Cuervo Jaime Sneyder , Rodríguez-Peña Jaime , Vargas-Santiago Miller , Rincón-Yepes Camilo A.
Published: July 2024

Este capítulo analiza el riesgo cardiovascular en el Cuerpo Oficial de Bomberos de Bogotá, Colombia, con diferentes biomarcadores. Metodología: estudio descriptivo trans-versal, en 80 bomberos, de 27-57 años. Se registró la composición corporal con una Tanita FitScan BC-585F®; la fuerza prensil con un dinamómetro TAKEI®, y el perfil lipídico en sangre. Resultados: de dos grupos, el primero de 27-37 años, presenta IMC (26,9±2,8), grasa 26,1±7,66 %, grasa visceral 10,5±2,3 %, perímetro de cintura 92,4 ± 8,3 cm y fuerza prensil 46,4±6,5kg; el segundo grupo, de 38-37 años, presenta IMC 30±11, grasa 25,8±6 %, grasa visceral 9,7±4,7, perímetro de cintura 94±11,1 cm y fuerza prensil 45,6±7,5 kg. Se determinan los OR para la asociación entre fuerza prensil, IMC, perímetro de cintura y colesterol total. Se concluye que las pruebas morfológicas, funcionales y perfil lipídico determinan riesgo cardiovascular en los miembros del COBB de 27 y 57 años.
Importancia de la Artillería colombiana en el conflicto armado interno, 1999-2020
Authors: González Jiménez Jenny Juliana
Published: July 2024

Este capítulo analiza el desempeño y la importancia táctica de la Artillería en el combate a los grupos ilegales que libraron una guerra irregular contra el Estado colombiano, durante los años del conflicto armado interno. La indagación comprende el periodo 1999-2020, para evidenciar el rol de la Artillería, como apoyo a la Infantería y la Caballería y revisar algunas particularidades de dicho conflicto, hasta el proceso de paz entre las FARC y el Estado colombiano.
Plan Lazo: cara estratégica del Ejército Nacional de Colombia, 1962-1964
Authors: Marín-García Luis Fernando , Figueroa-Pedreros Erika Constanza
Published: July 2024

Este capítulo describe el origen, evolución y declive del Plan Lazo durante el bienio 1962-1964, priorizando los contornos de su previsión conceptual, tanto en EE. UU. de América como en Colombia. Se examina, por lo tanto, el rol de los militares de ambas repúblicas al delinear e implementar dicha iniciativa, señalando que ella atendió a comunidades vulnerables y apartadas de las áreas de conflicto armado interno, que transitaba de la violencia sectaria bipartidista —y del bandidaje— al estadio de subversión armada marxista. En consecuencia, se ahonda en los móviles y características de las acciones cívico-militares (ACM), como instrumento orientado a pacificar el país y acercar a las Fuerzas Armadas con la población, en el contexto de la confrontación armada interna y la Guerra Fría.
Meningkatkan Kecerdasan Logis Matematis Melalui Media Smart Box pada Anak Usia 5-6 Tahun
Authors: Ansari Ulvia Nisa , Sit Masganti
Published: July 2024

Kecerdasan logis matematis ialah aspek yang begitu penting pada perkembangan anak yang melibatkan kemampuan anak untuk mengenali pola, menyusun urutan, memecahkan masalah matematis, dan memahami strategi terutama dalam kehidupan sehari-hari. Penelitian ini menggunakan media smart box dengan tujuan meningkatkan kecerdasan logis matematis anak usia 5-6 tahun di Paud Khairin Kids. Studi ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dalam Penelitian Tindakan Kelas (PTK) dengan subjek sepuluh anak. Teknik pengumpulan data berupa observasi dan dokumentasi, dengan instrumen yang dipergunakan yakni lembar cheklist dan asesmen capaian anak, kemudian dianalisis agar valid dan terpercaya. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa nilai rata-rata awal pra siklus 24,59% (BB) mulai meningkat pada kegiatan siklus 1 sebesar 56,87% (BSH) dan meningkat lagi pada siklus 2 sebesar 78,12% (BSB). Dengan demikian, media smart box dapat dipergunakan serta diaplikasikan ketika meningkatkan kecerdasan logis matematis anak usia 5-6 tahun.
Design of a Health Education Program to Manage Chronic Neck Pain: Protocol for a Development Study
Authors: Pérez-Muñoz Milagros , Rodríguez-Costa Isabel , Lebrijo-Pérez Gerard , Pecos-Martín Daniel , Gallego-Izquierdo Tomás , Pérez-Martín Yolanda
Published: July 2024

Background

Chronic neck pain (CNP) needs attention to its physical, cognitive, and social dimensions.

Objective

We aimed to design a health education program (HEP) with a biopsychosocial approach for patients with CNP.

Methods

A literature search on CNP, health education, and biopsychosocial models was carried out. Seven physiotherapists with expertise in HEPs and chronic pain participated in three teams that evaluated the literature and prepared a synthesis document in relation to the three target topics. Experts compiled the information obtained and prepared a proposal for an HEP with a biopsychosocial approach aimed at patients with CNP. This proposal was tested in the physiotherapy units of primary care health centers belonging to the East Assistance Directorate of Madrid, and suggestions were included in the final program.

Results

The HEP for CNP with a biopsychosocial approach consists of 5 educational sessions lasting between 90 and 120 minutes, carried out every other day. Cognitive, emotional, and physical dimensions were addressed in all sessions, with particular attention to the psychosocial factors associated with people who have CNP.

Conclusions

The proposed HEP with a biopsychosocial approach emphasizes emotional management, especially stress, without neglecting the importance of physical and recreational exercises for the individual’s return to social activities. The objective of this program was to achieve a clinically relevant reduction in perceived pain intensity and functional disability as well as an improvement in quality of life in the short and medium term.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02703506; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT02703506

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/56632
Online Social Activities and Cognitive Functioning Two Years Later Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults: Prospective Cohort Study (Preprint)
Authors: Jeon Sangha , Charles Susan Turk
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

A number of studies document the benefits of face-to-face social interactions for cognitive functioning among middle-aged and older adults. Social activities in virtual worlds may confer similar if not enhanced cognitive benefits as face-to-face social activities, given that virtual interactions require the additional cognitive tasks of learning and navigating communicative tools and technology platforms. Yet, few studies have examined whether social interactions in online settings may have synergistic effects on cognitive functioning beyond those of face-to-face interactions.

OBJECTIVE

This study examined whether online social activity participation is associated with concurrent and later cognitive functioning, after adjusting for face-to-face social activity participation and sociodemographic covariates.

METHODS

For cross-sectional analyses, we included 4,997 adults aged 50 and older who completed questions about social activity participation and cognitive tasks in 2020 of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), when information about online activity was first assessed. The longitudinal analyses included the 2,844 participants who also completed the 2022 follow-up cognitive assessments.

RESULTS

Regression analyses revealed that those with higher levels of online social activity participation had higher levels of concurrent cognitive functioning than those with low levels of online social activity participation, after adjusting for demographic, health-related factors and face-to-face social activity participation (p < .001). More online social activity participation also predicted better cognitive functioning two years later, even when adjusting for cognitive functioning at baseline and other covariates (p < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Findings suggest that greater engagement in online social activities is associated with high levels of current level and change in cognitive functioning across middle-aged and older adulthood.
Resistance of Citrus species (Citrus spp.) to the root lesion nematode Pratylenchus sp.
Authors: Le Thi Tu Anh , Nguyen Quoc Si , La Hoang Chau , Nguyen Ba Phu
Published: July 2024

The study was carried out to evaluate the resistance of various domestic citrus species to the root lesion nematode Pratylenchus sp. for further research in rootstock selection as well as nematode management. The experiment was accomplished in a completely randomized design with 19 popular citrus species as 19 treatments, with thirty repeats and one plant for each experimental unit. The population of the nematode after 15 days of inoculation was calculated from growing media and roots for classifying the resistance capability of Citrus species. As a result, referred to the statistical analysis results and the Reproductive Index of the target nematode, they were suggestively classified into 5 distinctive groups: (i) resistant species: C. grandis var. Duong La Cam, C. maxima var. Tam Quy, L. littoralis, C. nobilis var. typica; (ii) moderately resistant specie: C. nobilis var. Sanh; (iii) moderately susceptible species: C. latifolia, C. macroptera, C. sinensis cv. Soan, C. microcarpa , and C. reticulata var. Duong; (iv) susceptible species: C. maxima var. Da Xanh, C. maxima var. Long Co Co, C. maxima var. Nam Roi, C. sinensis var. Mat, and C. nobilis var. chrysocarpa; (v) highly susceptible species: C. limonia, C. hystrix,  C. volkameriana and P. trifoliatus. Therefore, C. grandis var. Duong La Cam, C. maxima var. Tam Quy, L. littoralis, and C. nobilis var. typica could be further researched to select appropriate rootstocks for citrus cultivation in the nematode-infected regions.
The effects of implementing the flipped class model on non-English majored students’ writing performance
Authors: Ho Bich Nhu , Nguyen Van Loi , Bui Phuong Thao , Nguyen Van Thong , Nguyen Trung Cang
Published: July 2024

Education is continuously evolving and adapting to meet the diverse learning needs of students. A significant innovation in this field is the flipped class model, a pedagogical approach that redefines the traditional classroom structure. This creative approach seeks to enhance student-centred learning by combining in-class discussion with pre-class video instruction. This paper aims to investigate its effects on undergraduate students' writing performance. In this study, the flipped model was implemented to teach writing lessons, aligning sessions with Bloom's Taxonomy. A quasi-experimental design was employed with two groups of eighty non-English major students at a university in the Mekong Delta, South Viet Nam. The experimental group was exposed to the flipped model, while the control group received conventional writing instruction. The treatment consisted of six 50-minute writing sessions. Results show that students in the experimental group achieved higher mean scores compared to their counterparts in the control group. This finding highlights the effects of the flipped classroom technique in enhancing writing proficiency. Pedagogical implications are suggested for teaching writing to learners who study English as a foreign language.
The application of Gene Function Markers for identification of high quality of Vietnamese traditional rice varieties
Authors: Huynh Ky , Nguyen Van Manh , Pham An Tinh , Pham Nguyen , Huynh Nhu Dien , Le Thanh
Published: July 2024

In today's growing economy, consumer demand for rice is evolving, with a preference for high-quality varieties that are soft and aromatic when cooked. We conducted a study to identify high-quality rice varieties that meet these consumer preferences. Molecular markers were used to find genes linked to desirable traits in rice. These genes are DRR-GL for grain length (gene GS3), Wxin1 for amylose content (gene Wx), and BADH2 for aroma.
The findings revealed that the molecular marker DRR-GL, used with primers EFP, IRSP, ERP, and IFLP, accounted for 90% of the expression of the long-grain phenotype. Similarly, the Wxin1 marker, with primers GF, TR, GR, and TF, explained 90% of the variation in amylose content. The BADH2 marker, using primers ESP and IFAP, INSP, and EAP, accounted for 100% of the aroma phenotype expression across all tested varieties.
Among the 20 traditional rice varieties examined, the variety Nep Trong Vo exhibited superior qualities, including an elongated grain length of 7.13 mm, an average amylose content of 17.58%, a soft gel consistency graded at 3, and high heat resistance also graded at 3. These characteristics make Nep Trong Vo a promising candidate for meeting the high-quality standards demanded by consumers.
Experimental Investigation of Premixed LPG-Air Emission Profile During Flame Impingement Process
Authors: Israq Imam , Nuryadin Shakti , Sentanuhady Jayan
Published: July 2024

In the present study, emission profile of premixed 90% propane-10% butane flame, namely LPG (Liquified Petroleum Gas) was experimentally investigated. The fuel was mixed in premixed chamber which then ignited through 2 mm nozzle diameter. The fuel flow was controlled via solenoid valve installed upstream the burner body. This valve is synchronized with high-speed camera and thus, the flame kernel propagation can be captured.  In this experiment, the effect of equivalence ratio, initial pressure, and separation distance (H/D) on combustion emissions and flames that produced from a mixture of LPG-air fuel was investigated. The flue gas analyser probe was installed inside the contained flame impingement test allowing to record CO, CO2, and unburnt HC data. The variation of the equivalence ratio used in this study are 0.8, 1.0, and 1.2. For variations in initial pressure used, 1 bar, 1.2 bar, and 1.4 bar. Variation of separation distance (H/D) that will be used are 4.5, 5.5, and 6.5. The result of this experiment shows that CO increases with increase in equivalence ratio, and initial pressure of premixed gas. For separation distance CO level decreases as the plate progressively moves away from the nozzle. CO and CO2 concentration increases as the equivalence ratio and initial pressure increases. The highest average CO concentration was 183 ppm that was found in ER 1.2 with the lowest H/D. Highest mean CO2 concentration was found in the same ER with the highest H/D, which was 4267 ppm.
Implementation of Advanced Coal-Biomass Blending and Fuel Stock Management at Pelabuhan Ratu Power Plant
Authors: Nurahman Herowiko Thama , Hermawan Heru
Published: July 2024

The issue of climate change is of particular concern to countries around the world, including Indonesia. Many efforts are being and will be made to contribute to addressing climate change issues. Pelabuhan Ratu Power Plant (3 x 350 MW) belongs to PT PLN Indonesia Power. In line with the PLN Transformation (GREEN aspect) and the PT PLN Indonesia Power program ("Green Boosters"), Pelabuhan Ratu Power Plant contributes to produce low-carbon sustainable energy by cofiring biomass (sawdust). There are two main challenges in implementing cofiring. The first is the poor biomass handling and blending methods that are typically used in power plants. The second is the low calorific value of coal and biomass blending due to the improper blending process. To overcome these challenges, Pelabuhan Ratu Power Plant has developed an advanced coal-biomass blending and fuel stock management digitalization. By applying advanced method of coal-biomass blend, the biomass utilization (total, monthly average, and daily average) increased significantly in 2022 and 2023. Total biomass utilization increased up to 171% and still possible to be higher. The green energy production increased up to 255% and GHG emission reduced up to 255%. The fuel stock management provides optimal blending recommendations as operators' guidelines. As a result, potential derating loss due to low calorific value of blended products can be reduced by 59.9%.
A Linear Regression Modeling Analysis of the Energy, Water, and Chemical Consumption in the Operating Configuration at 740 MW Priok Combined Cycle Power Plant
Authors: Muhammad Raihan , Rahman Arief , Jamil Muhamad Fauzi
Published: July 2024

In realizing efficient energy use, the Government of Indonesia has issued a National Energy Policy in Government Regulation (Peraturan Pemerintah) No. 70 of 2009 concerning Energy Conservation, PT PLN Indonesia Power Priok Unit has carried out efficient operational activities. Therefore, to support the company's sustainability and operational performance, especially in terms of efficiency and operational activities, it is necessary to evaluate the process of energy use. The Combine Cycle Power Plant (CCPP) has several operating configurations according to the gas turbine, heat recovery steam generator (HRSG), and steam turbine amount. CCPP Priok Blok 3 operates full-block 2-2-1 or half-block 1-1-1, which means one gas turbine, HRSG, and steam turbine. This configuration of operation impacts the use of energy, water, and chemicals. For this reason, this project aims to model the use of energy, water, and chemicals using linear regression to determine which operating configurations are highly effective in using energy, water, and chemicals. The result of this linear regression modeling is that at the peak load, operation GT2 (gas turbine 2) is more energy efficient, 1.93% more efficient than GT1, than GT1 (gas turbine 1). At the minimum load, GT1 is 9.36% more energy efficient than GT2. At the same time, the water consumption of GT2 is 35.01% more efficient than that of GT1.
The Use of Language Learning and Teaching Material from a Perspective of Embodied Cognition
Authors: Zhao Yongchun
Published: July 2024

The use of Language Learning and Teaching (LLT) materials directly affects the realization of the function of LLT materials, language teaching and learning effects. The traditional teaching ideas that teach what has said on the textbook ignoring the dynamic interaction of students’ body, cognition and environment, which caused physical and mental separation, and affects the embodied experience of language learning process. Teachers should change the way LLT materials are used to promote students’ embodied experience and effectiveness of language learning in both cognitive and behavioral level. Based on the embodied cognition theory, this qualitative study will examine how an EFL teacher used the different LLT materials practice the embodied English language teaching in Primary School. This study also attempts to examine verify the acceptability and effectiveness of embodied English teaching through practice.
AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY ON THE OUTCOME OF ANTITUBERCULAR AND ANTIDIABETIC THERAPY IN PATIENTS OF TUBERCULOSIS WITH DIABETES MELLITUS AS COMORBIDITY
Authors: JEENAL MISTRY  , ANITA SINHA  , B DIVAKAR  , NAYAN GAVLI  , PARUL VADGAMA
Published: July 2024

Objectives: Overall goal: To observe and compare the effect of antitubercular and antidiabetic therapy on patients of tuberculosis with diabetes mellitus as comorbidity. To study the effect of antidiabetic therapy on treatment outcome of tuberculosis. To study the effect of antitubercular drugs on glycemic control of patients of tuberculosis with diabetes mellitus
Methods: A total of 134 patients of tuberculosis with and without diabetes mellitus were approached for enrollment in this prospective observational cohort study as per NTEP guidelines. Effects of antitubercular therapy on antidiabetes drugs and vice versa during this study were observed and noted. A comparison of outcomes between two groups of patients of tuberculosis with diabetes and tuberculosis without diabetes was done according to outcome parameters.
Results: Mortality was found in patients on ATT+ADD nearly 11.94% (n=8) as compared to patients on ATT only 2.98% (n=2). Delayed sputum conversion with higher sputum positive rate (1+) among patients on ATT+ADD (23.89%) and mean HbA1c value at the end of the continuous phase (CP) was 6.7±1.07 among patients on ATT+ADD.
Conclusion: The patients on ATT+ADD have higher sputum positivity rates and poor treatment outcomes as compared to patients on ATT alone. Poor glycemic control in patients receiving ATT+ADD unfavorably leads to poor compliance with antitubercular therapy.
SEROPREVALENCE OF HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS INFECTION TYPE 1 AND 2 IN A POPULATION OF HIV-POSITIVE AND HIV-NEGATIVE INDIVIDUALS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL
Authors: MEGHNA SHARMA  , SAPNA SONEJA  , LOVEENA OBEROI  , ANURADHA MALHOTRA
Published: July 2024

Objectives: The aim of this study is to determine the seroprevalence of herpes simplex virus (HSV) in a population of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive and non-HIV patients and its association with CD-4 count.
Methods: 200 HIV-positive individuals attending antiretroviral treatment clinic and 100 HIV-negative individuals from the clinical departments of Government Medical College, Amritsar, were enrolled in the study. The sera were tested in parallel using anti-HSV-1 immunoglobulin G (IgG) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) (calbiotech), anti-HSV-2-IgG (calbiotech), and HSV-1/2 pool IgM ELISA (calbiotech) assays as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Sysmex partec CyFlow counter IVD flow cytometer. CD4+ reagents are used for measuring absolute counts of CD4+ T lymphocytes.
Results: For anti-HSV-2 IgG, seroprevalence was positively associated with HIV-positive status. The mean CD4+ T lymphocyte counts for anti- HSV-2 IgG patients were 400.45±122.92 cells/μL in the HIV-positive group (n=163). Mean CD4+ counts in HSV-2 IgG-negative cases were 350.05±160.46 cells/μL. This association was statistically significant.
Conclusion: HSV-1 and 2 are common lifelong infections that often are asymptomatic. African studies have highlighted HSV synergism with HIV infection. Seroprevalence of this common infection and the studies covering the Northern India region are scarce. Our study has confirmed this coinfection synergism. Increasing awareness of HSV-HIV synergy can contribute to better informed decisions regarding safe sex practices.
ASSESSMENT OF HANDS-ON TRAINING ON INTERNS’ PRESCRIPTION WRITING SKILLS AT A TERTIARY CARE TEACHING HOSPITAL
Authors: K SWETHA , SHETTY NITHIN , K VISHNU , GAVIMATH NEETA T
Published: July 2024

Objectives: This study was conducted with an objective to assess the prevalence of prescription errors and to compare the prescription writing skills of the interns’ pre and post-teaching interventions on the appropriateness “prescription writing.”
Methods: This research was conducted in a tertiary care teaching hospital Karwar Institute of Medical Sciences, Karwar. All interns posted to the orthopedics department as a part of rotatory internship postings during the 6 months from June 2021 were included in this research after receiving informed permission in writing. We gathered the written prescriptions for three distinct cases and a seminar and hands-on training about “prescription writing” was given. Subsequently, the interns were requested to re-write new prescriptions for the same three situations.
Results: A total of 390 prescriptions from 65 interns were gathered and analyzed. In 58%, 36%, 62%, and 78% of the prescriptions, date, diagnosis, prescriber’s name and qualification were absent. In 44% and 12% of the prescriptions, the patient’s age and name were not written, respectively. Following the hands-on teaching intervention, a noteworthy enhancement in the overall prescription writing was noted.
Conclusion: Interns often write prescriptions incorrectly because they do not retain the pharmacotherapeutic information that was given in the 2nd year of the undergraduate program. A teaching program of basic prescription writing is necessary to refresh their knowledge and prescription writing skills.
PREDICTORS OF INTRA CYTOPLASMIC SPERM INJECTION SUCCESS IN COUPLES WITH UNEXPLAINED SUB-FERTILITY
Authors: HASSAN MUHJAH FALAH , AL-YASIRY RABAB ZAHIR , AL-TUMA ALI M. KADIM , ALKUFAISHI ZAINAB HAYDER JABER
Published: July 2024

Objective: About 10-15% of sub-fertility cases facing the clinicians in the reproductive clinics remains unexplained. Opinions regarding the optimal treatment plan for them exhibit a wide differences among fertility specialists. This study aims to assess the outcome of ICSI and predictors success in couples with unexplained sub-fertility.
Methods: Sixty six sub-fertile couples with unexplained infertility were included. ICSI was done for all. They divided into 2 groups pregnant and non-pregnant. They were followed up retrospectively to evaluate the predictors of ICSI treatment success and results were compared between them.
Results: Chemical pregnancy was rate 42.2%. Pregnant females were significantly : younger with a mean age of 26.7±4.2 vs 28.6±3.6, lower BMI of 27.6± 4.9 vs 30.2± 4.9, lower cycle day 2 LH level 2.3 ±0.99 vs 2.9±0.94 and had a slightly thinner endometirum 3.3± 0.68 vs 3.9 ±1.1 than non-pregnant ones. Females of both groups exhibited no significant difference regarding the response to controlled ovarian stimulation, the mean total number of retrieved and mature oocytes were comparable, the only exception is the mean total number of immature oocytes which was significantly lower in the pregnant females 0.85± 1.1 vs 30.2± 4.9 in non-pregnant with no significant difference regarding fertilization rate, total number of embryos, cleavage rate and embryos’ quality.
Conclusion: Intra cytoplasmic sperm injection has the ability, within certain limits, to bypass the obstacles of natural pregnancy failure in couples with unexplained sub-fertility and should be considered for those couples as early as possible before female partner get older.
METABOLIC SYNDROME AND RISK OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE WITH THYROID DISORDER
Authors: RAVI SHANKAR  , NEHA SHARMA  , AJAY KUMAR  , RAJU RAM  , APARAJITA KUSHWAHA
Published: July 2024

Objectives: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is the most widely used term for the aggregation of metabolic abnormalities, which leads to an increase in the risk of developing cardiovascular pathology. The prevalence of MetS is increasing all over the world with distinct evidence of high prevalence in India and other South Asian countries. Thyroid dysfunction, prominently subclinical hypothyroidism, has been observed more frequently in patients of MetS than in the general population.
Methods: This cross-sectional, observational study was conducted among MetS patients in the general population and near and dear of patients (350) at the Pacific Institute of Medical Sciences, Udaipur. For the determination of gastric peptidases (ghrelin and obestatin), insulin was done by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Thyroid hormones are determined by chemiluminescence.
Results: The key findings in this analysis are the significant negative correlation between insulin and ghrelin. This inverse relationship was observed in individuals without cardiovascular disease (CVD), suggesting that even in the absence of overt CVD, insulin may play a role in regulating ghrelin levels. This finding is particularly noteworthy given ghrelin’s role in appetite regulation and energy balance.
Conclusion: The findings emphasize the need for a holistic approach to health assessment and management, considering individual factors such as age, sex, and the presence of underlying health conditions along with thyroid disorders.
THE PERCEPTION OF E-LEARNING QUALITY IN HIGHER EDUCATION: SEM-ANN APPROACH
Authors: Ruso Jelena , Rakić Ana , Arsić Sanela , Milošević Isidora
Published: July 2024

The pandemic resulted in lockdown measures worldwide, which forced humanity to seek online alternatives to almost every human activity, including the education system. This research aims to develop a new integrated model to determine the predictors of the quality of E-learning during the pandemic disruption. This paper provides the development of the traditional approach based on Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) into the prediction method based on the Artificial Neural Network (ANN). This research was conducted on a sample comprising 1,254 students of the University of Belgrade. The results show that Authority initiative had the most important influence and significance in predicting the perception of the Quality of E-learning during the pandemic. At the same time, the Information Security predictor had the most negligible impact. The findings contribute to the raising the academic community and policy-makers awareness to the necessity of dealing with quality in E-education to a greater extent, especially in emergencies such as pandemics. The suggested combination of constructs that predict the Quality of E-learning has never been analysed in previous research by applying SEM-ANN methodology, which represents the additional contribution of this study.
Therapeutic Efficacy of Baicalein Green Biomolecule in Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Murine Mastitis Model
Authors: Soni Srishti , Mukherjee Reena , De Ujjwal Kumar , Bharti Deeksha , Singh Mamta , Paul Babul Rudra , Sarkar Varun Kumar , Sharun Khan , Barkathullah N. , Saminathan M.
Published: July 2024

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) mastitis poses a significant threat to dairy herds worldwide, given its resistance to methicillin and other β-lactam antibiotics, which often leads to treatment failure. Consequently, there is an urgent need for safe and effective alternative therapeutic approaches. Recent investigations have highlighted the potential of baicalein, a natural flavonoid known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, especially its synergistic effects with β-lactam antibiotics against MRSA. However, the limited solubility and bioavailability of baicalein hinder its biomedical utility. The present study assessed the therapeutic efficacy of encapsulated baicalein in chitosan, forming a tricomplex with a β-lactam antibiotic, using a murine model of MRSA-induced mastitis. The experimental design comprised seven groups, each consisting of six mice. We evaluated the ability of various treatment regimens to mitigate histopathological alterations and bacterial burden induced by MRSA infection, aiming to elucidate underlying mechanisms. Our results revealed that tricomplex treatment significantly reduced bacterial load in mammary tissue and preserved tissue integrity, resulting in decreased inflammatory responses post-MRSA inoculation. In addition, tricomplex treatment markedly reduced mean leukocyte and neutrophil counts in blood and suppressed the matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) concentration and C-reactive protein (CRP) response. Notably, the synergistic interaction between baicalein and amoxicillin was particularly pronounced. Our findings suggest that chitosan-encapsulated baicalein combined with a β-lactam antibiotic holds promise as a therapeutic option for MRSA-induced mastitis. Further investigations, particularly in target animal species, are warranted to comprehensively evaluate its clinical feasibility.
Association of Robust Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Trajectories among Communities with and without COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Venkatesan Balamurali , Vajravelu Leela Kakithakara , Ravi Sujith , Thulukanam Jayaprakash , Muthamilan Om Lokesh
Published: July 2024

Globally, 767 million people have been affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection and nearly a population of 6.94 million were deceased as per the World Health Organization (WHO) as of June 7, 2023. In India, the spreading of infections is now being restricted by the use of BBV-152 (CovaxinTM) and ChAdOx1-nCOV (CovishieldTM) vaccines. The present study comprises 327 candidates and Chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) was used as a quantitative analytical tool to detect IgG and IgM antibodies. Out of 327 candidates, 177 (54.1%) were vaccinated and 150 (45.9%) were non-vaccinated. Among vaccinated and non-vaccinated candidates, 49 (27.7%%) and 44 (29.3%) had a history of infection, respectively; meanwhile, most of the study participants were immunized with CovishieldTM (n=145, 81.9%) and 18.1% (n=32) were immunized with CovaxinTM. There were insignificant differences observed among immunized as well as non-immunized study participants in considering median age, gender, age categories, IgM levels, or IgM seropositivity. Predictably, there was an important variation in IgG median values and IgG positivity noticed among the immunized and non-immunized categories as well as between populations with and without preceding infections. Our research is hence coherent with prospective requirements for booster shots to assist in controlling the rate of infections and fatality rates together throughout the pandemic conditions.
Caminos que llegan, no que salen, del Paraguay colonial. Una explicación centrípeta a partir de tres casos en el Valle de las Salinas
Authors: Garcia Riart Jorge
Published: July 2024

En el Paraguay, como en otras provincias coloniales de América, se proyectaron importantes vías terrestres para enlazar poblaciones originales, así como de españoles. Estos caminos, al parecer, más por uso que por derecho, adoptaron la denominación de reales. Del Archivo Nacional de Asunción se rescatan tres casos de cierres de caminos en el Valle de las Salinas, en 1698, 1704 y 1773, que ayudan a explicar, en parte, el acomodamiento de la élite y las tensiones territoriales de las poblaciones emergentes. Justifican, también, la acción centrípeta de Asunción, ciudad capital, en contraposición a la corriente histórica que desarrolló la identidad del Paraguay a partir de su río.
De la serpiente ondulante al curso del río: representación colonial e invención cartográfica del Amazonas
Authors: Unigarro Caguasango Daniel Esteban
Published: July 2024

El descubrimiento del río Amazonas implicó la incorporación de una vasta región a los intereses coloniales y la necesidad de contar con descripciones geográficas. Emergió entonces la idea e imagen del río y su cuenca como escenario de conquista e inserción en el sistema de dominación colonial. Con base en las perspectivas de la historia de la cartografía y la historiografía amazónica, se analizan cinco mapas y se proponen dos momentos que evidencian una evolución en la representación de la región: uno imaginativo-mítico y otro científico-pragmático. De esta forma, la cartografía del siglo XVI, que proyectaba un imaginario fantástico, se superó en el XVII para incorporar un método científico preilustrado que moldeó la imagen y la representación colonial de la Amazonia disputada entre los imperios ibéricos y europeos.
IDENTIFIKASI ZONA LEMAH DENGAN METODE GEOLISTRIK KONFIGURASI WENNER DI KELURAHAN TERUSAN KECAMATAN MARO SEBO ILIR KABUPATEN BATANGHARI
Authors: Adriansyah Riadi , Marlinda Lenny , Dewi Ira Kusuma
Published: July 2024

Wiayah Kabupaten Batanghari sebagian besar berada pada Daerah Aliran Sungai (DAS) sungai Batanghari. Kelurahan Terusan merupakan salah satu desa di Kecamatan Maro Sebo Ilir, Kabupaten Batanghari, Jambi yang terletak di sepanjang aliran sungai Batanghari tersebut. Keberadaan infrastruktur pada Kelurahan Terusan banyak yang terdapat di sepanjang aliran, sehingga menyebabkan pembebanan terhadap kondisi bawah permukaan yang tersusun oleh litologi sedimen-sedimen lepas yang saling menyisip pada lapisan diatas maupun dibawahnya. Hal tersebut menyebabkan berkurangnya daya dukung tanah dan berakibat terbentuknya zona lemah. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui struktur bawah permukaan serta mengidentifikasi lokasi zona lemah daerah penelitian. Akuisisi data dalam mengidentifikasi zona lemah menggunakan metode geolistrik konfigurasi wenner sebanyak 3 lintasan. Hasil penelitian berdasarkan pengolahan menggunakan software Res2dinv, berupa penampang 2D bawah permukaan. Hasil penelitian diperoleh litologi penyusun bawah permukaan terdiri dari endapan pasirhalus, lanaupasiran serta kerikil. Keberadaan lokasi zona lemah tersebar pada setiap lintasan. Berdasarkan hasil penampnag 2D bawah permukaan zona lemah terdapat pada nilai resistivitas 4,06-17,04 â„¦m, yang didominasi oleh pasirhalus.
 
Kata Kunci: Geolistrik, Konfigurasi Wenner, Zona Lemah, Amblesan
SINTESIS LOGAM BESI (Fe) BERBASIS AIR KOLONG MENGGUNAKAN METODE ELEKTROKOAGULASI
Authors: Miratsi Lizia , Yulinda Yulinda , Junaidi Junaidi , Kurniawan Widodo Budi
Published: July 2024

After a land is excavated for tin mining purposes, a hole called a kolong will be formed. Kolong has the potential to be a new water resource, but the condition of kolong water still contains dangerous metals, one of which is iron (Fe) and kolong water does not meet the standard requirements for clean water quality. Therefore, this research aims to reduce concentration of iron (Fe) and synthesizing Fe metal contained in kolong using the electrocoagulation method. This method is environmentally friendly and effective for application in kolong areas, besides that it is easy to separate pollutants because coagulated sediments called floc float on the surface. The electrocoagulation method is applied using an aluminum plate with variations in electrocoagulation time. Based on the AAS test results, it shows that there is a decrease in Fe levels in kolong water after electrocoagulation. The results of the XRF and Thus, using the electrocoagulation method can reduce levels of iron metal (Fe) and synthesize Fe metal in kolong water.
DINAMIKA TREND CURAH HUJAN EKSTREM DI PROVINSI KEPULAUAN BANGKA BELITUNG SEBAGAI INDIKASI DAMPAK PEMANASAN GLOBAL
Authors: Utami Amanda Kurnia , Akhsan Hamdi , Andriani Nely
Published: July 2024

Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mengetahui dinamika trend curah hujan ektrem di provinsi Kepulauan Bangka Belitung sebagai indikasi dari dampak pemanasan global. data  yang digunakan bersumber dari Stasiun Meteorologi Depati Amir dari periode 1981 sampai tahun 2022, yang diperoleh secara resmi dari situs web BMKG online. Penelitian ini dilakukan di laboratorium Pendidikan Fisika FKIP Universitas Sriwijaya. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah penelitian data sekunder dengan pendekatan kuantitatif. Analisis data digunakan menggunakan aplikasi RClimDex dengan aturan Expert Team on Climate Change Detection and Indices (ETCCDI) terkait indikator curah hujan. Analisis tren dilakukan dengan uji statistik non parametrik Man-Kendall dan Sens test. Hasil analisis menunjukkan bahwa indeks-indeks curah hujan ekstrem mengalami tren yang bervariasi secara signifikan selama 40 tahun terakhir, yang menunjukkan adanya dampak perubahan iklim sebagai dampak dari pemanasan global.
Road Development in Five Malaysian Plan, 1966-1990
Authors: Mohd Ridzuan Nur Qamarina , Maiddin Sahul Hamid Mohamed
Published: July 2024

The road network is an important factor in the development especially for developing countries. This article examines the road development in the Malaysian Plan from 1966 until 1990. Malaysia implements the development plan through various five year short plans known as the First Malaysia Plan, Second Malaysia Plan, Third Malaysia Plan, Fourth Malaysia Plan and Fifth Malaysia Plan. Road development reach a new insight and connects more people across the country. Malaysia’s achievement in developing the road infrastructure include a road numbering system, privatisation roads and the length of road where it can reach more destinations in Malaysia. This article uses a qualitative approach in writing and analysing the document sources obtained from the National Archives of Malaysia such as official files of the Malaysia Plan, General Transport/Railway Study for Peninsular Malaysia, newspapers and other secondary sources. The finding shows that road network in Malaysia grew about 63 445 km in 1990 from 13 505 miles (approximately 21 734.19 km) in 1970. This figure shows that Malaysian government constructed more road infrastructure for a good system of transportation for the people.
Experiencias significativas inspiradoras de prácticas pedagógicas innovadoras
Authors: Uribe Urzola Alicia , Romero Severiche Ana Karina , Malluk Ana Lorena , Niampira Daza Andrea , Otero Carmen Rosa , Vergara Guerra Dalis , Manyoma Ledesma Enyel , Lara Vargas Fabián Alonso , Corena Ghisays Fernando , Delgado Sánchez Flor , Fernández Ortega Flora Del Pilar , Volcanes Zambrano Geraldine del Valle , Rangel Bolaños Jaime Eliecer , Otero Diaz Javier , Agudelo Jiménez Jorge , Ardila Uribe Jorge Enrique , López Mejía Juan Carlos , Seña Giraldo Katherine , Pinto Doria Lida Mercedes , Rodulfo Gómez Linda Alejandra , Muñoz Argel Martha , Quintana Fernández Melissa , Lorduy Herrera Orlando Mauricio , Cassab Martínez Patricia Milena , Naranjo Manchego Robin Mario , Sepúlveda Vargas Rubén Darío , Torres Sena Rubén David , García Madrid Sebastián , Montes Geles Yésica Paola
Published: July 2024

El principal aporte para el(a) estudiante es el conjunto de pautas a tener en cuenta para revisar un proyecto de arquitectura las cuales puede implementar también en la creación, representación y comunicación de sus proyectos de diseño. El aprendizaje de esta metodología permite que el(a) estudiante adquiera habilidades para la realización de análisis de proyectos respecto a: dónde encontrar la información, qué aspectos analizar y cómo comunicar el análisis de los proyectos revisados; información útil que puede aplicar en otros cursos de taller de diseño como aporte en su formación como arquitecto(a).
Silicon application unveiled: A review of insights into plant defense mechanisms under biotic challenges
Authors: Harizanova Adelina ,   Agricultural University-Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Published: July 2024

Silicon (Si) is the second most abundant element after oxygen in soil. Nevertheless, it was not considered essential for plant growth and development. In the last decades, many researchers have reported that silicon can mitigate to some extent the adverse effects of variable biotic and abiotic stresses caused by salinity, chilling, heating, nutritional imbalance, heavy metals, diseases, herbivores, and many others. There are different hypotheses regarding the mechanisms of the silicon mode of action. Some of them propose that the silicon treatment is probably related to the structural modification of the plant cells and tissues. Others speculate that silicon could be involved in plant metabolism. The interaction between the two mechanisms is also a very reliable hypothesis. Most of the studies focused on the influence of silicon on alleviating the negative effects of abiotic stress factors. The reports about the effect of silicon under biotic stress are not so abundant. Today, there is no doubt about the positive effect of silicon application in alleviating stress and reducing the pest and disease incidence and severity. However, the mechanisms of the silicon-induced plant responses are not yet completely clear. This motivated the current study to analyze the data presented about the silicon-induced alleviation of biotic stress. Keywords: silicon, stress, disease, pest, physical barrier, plant metabolism
Economic assessment of guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) farming among the rural households in the buffer zone of the Oba Hills Forest reserve, Nigeria
Authors: Wahab Munir ,   Osun State University, Nigeria, Busari Ahmed , Wahab Muhammed , Idris-Adeniyi Kaothar , Akinfoyewa Mary ,   Osun State University, Nigeria,   Osun State University, Nigeria,   Osun State University, Nigeria,   Osun State University, Nigeria
Published: July 2024

Guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) farming is practiced at subsistence level in Nigeria for supplying animal protein to rural households in spite of its huge commercial potential in terms of income. The economic viability of guinea fowl farming among the rural dwellers in the Oba Hills Forest Reserve, the Osun State, Nigeria, was investigated. A structured interview schedule was used to obtain data from 120 sampled respondents from selected communities in the forest reserve's perimeter zone. Descriptive statistics, frequencies, means, and percentages were used to analyse the data. The results of the descriptive analysis revealed that the vast majority of the respondents were middle-aged, married male Muslims with large household sizes. Furthermore, the findings indicate that the domesticated birds were kept in a free-range system, with small flock sizes, with no supplementary feeding, and veterinary care. The budgetary analysis reveals that guinea fowl farming is a profitable venture in the study area with a benefit-cost ratio of 1.78. The regression analysis results reveal that the costs of feeding and labour significantly influence the gross margin. The study concluded that, despite the fact that guinea fowl farming has an enormous economic returns potential in the study area, the rearing of the birds remains quite low. It is thus recommended that the farming households should receive a livestock extension education in order to improve their gross margin from guinea fowl farming. Keywords: Guinea fowl farming, Oba Hills Forest Reserve, budgetary analysis, rural households
Graded YSZ/Al2O3 nanocomposite coatings fabricated by electrophoretic deposition of Al and nanosized YSZ particles
Authors: Mostafapour Leyla , Baghshahi Saeid , Rajabi Masoud , Siahpoosh Seyed , Esfehani Fateme
Published: July 2024

Yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ)/Al2O3 composite coatings with a
compositional gradient along the film cross-section were deposited on a
nickel-based superalloy by electrophoretic technique and subsequent
multi-step sintering route. Aluminium powder was used to reinforce the YSZ
matrix by the in situ formation of alumina during the sintering procedure.
The electrostatic interaction between particles in suspensions was evaluated
through zeta potential and particle size analyses. Then, electrophoretic
deposition (EPD) on Inconel 718 electrodes was carried out by employing
three well-dispersed suspensions, including nanostructured YSZ with 0, 30
and 50 wt.% Al particles. XRD characterization indicated that tetragonal
zirconia, monoclinic zirconia and alumina mainly existed in the coating
after sintering at 1150?C. Surface morphology and cross-sectional views of
each layer were characterized by field emission scanning electronmicroscopy
(FE-SEM). The elemental map analyses of the energy dispersive X-ray
spectroscopy (EDS) technique confirmed that the YSZ content increases
gradually across the sample cross-section. The mean thickness of the coating
was about 200 ?m. Particle size analysis by FE-SEM indicated that the
majority of quasi-spherical YSZ particles on the surface had the size in
nano-range after sintering at 1150?C.
A novel approach to investigate oxidation behaviour and mechanical properties of CVD bilayer TiN/TiC coatings
Authors: Ali Osamah , Gyurika István , Korim Tamás , Jakab Miklós
Published: July 2024

A novel approach to investigate the oxidation behaviour of bilayer TiN/TiC
coatings deposited on WC-Co substrate by CVD method was employed. Two
coatings with different structures and mechanical properties were
manufactured using different processing parameters. Energy dispersive X-ray
analysis was utilized to monitor the elemental composition during oxidation
tests at 800 ?C for up to 40min, which simulated the high temperature
conditions experienced by the coated cutting tools. The obtained results
demonstrated that the oxygen content increased significantly, reached ~68.8
at.%, while carbon and nitrogen contents decreased due to the formation of
gaseous by-products. X-ray diffraction confirmed complete transformation of
the TiN layer into rutile-TiO2 after 20min of oxidation. The microhardness
of the coated samples significantly decreased due to the oxide formation and
development of pores and cracks during the oxidation process. Tribological
tests revealed a significant increase in the volume loss during dry sliding
against zirconia counterpart after 20min of oxidation time. Moreover,
surface colour of the oxidized coated samples changed from silver-white to
grey-black with oxidation progression, enabling visual evaluation of
oxidation damage.