bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cloud Point Extraction Method for Separation and Preconcentration of Molybdenum and Zirconium Using Mixture of Surfactants from Natural Waters and their Determination by Spectrophotometry
Authors:   Gayatri Vidya Parishad College of Engineering (A), Andhra Pradesh, India, Nagalakshmi K.V. , Shyamala P. ,   Andhra University, Andhra Pradesh, India, Khan Sk. Ameer ,   Andhra University, Andhra Pradesh, India, Puranam Deva H ,   College of Pharmacy, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India
Published: October 2024

A simple and environmentally friendly technique, cloud point extraction (CPE), has been developed to analyse Molybdenum (Mo(VI)) and Zirconium (Zr(IV)) in water samples using spectrophotometry. This method involves the use of a surfactant mixture composed of Triton X-114 (TX-114) and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). In this approach, Mo(VI) and Zr(IV) metal ions are complexed with Pyrogallol red (PR) and Chrome Azurol S (CAS), respectively. The metal complexes of Mo(VI) and Zr(IV) are heated to reach the cloud point temperature and extracted into the micellar phase. Several parameters, such as pH, ligand concentrations, surfactant concentrations (TX-114 & CTAB), equilibration temperature, and equilibration time, were optimized to enhance the efficiency of the extraction process. Using the optimized conditions, linear calibration graphs were established over the concentration ranges of 1.23 - 37.0 μg L–1 for Mo(VI) and 8.05 - 112.78 μg L–1 for Zr(IV). The detection limits for Mo(VI) and Zr(IV) were determined to be 1.24 ng mL–1 and 9.92 ng mL–1, respectively. The applicability of this method was successfully demonstrated in the analysis of Mo(VI) and Zr(IV) concentrations in river water and coastal waters, with recovery rates falling within the range of 87% to 101%.
Selection of refrigerant for use in chillers
Authors: Talyzin Maxim S. , Skolov Andrey V.
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND: Chillers (chillers) are essential components in various industrial processes. They are primarily used when direct cooling through direct heat exchange between the boiling coolant and the cooled medium is not feasible. This could be attributed to the cost of the refrigerant, especially when a large amount of expensive substances for long refrigerant lines is needed, or the risks associated with using toxic and flammable refrigerants, which could be hazardous in case of leaks. Chillers are typically classified into three types based on their temperature applications: high-temperature chillers for uses like plastic manufacturing and data centers, medium-temperature chillers for air conditioning systems, etc.) and low-temperature chillers for applications like ice fields and food storage.
Given their widespread use and high production volume, designing efficient chillers is an important task.
AIMS: Substantiating refrigerant use in terms of efficiency and service life of refrigeration equipment.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Chillers are designed for various industrial applications, with specific inlet and outlet temperatures for the evaporator: +26°С / + 20°С (ВТ); +12°С / +7°С (ST); −10°С / −13°С (НТ)). These chillers operate using refrigerants R134a, R410A, R404A, and R1270, evaluated through an entropy-statistical method of thermodynamic analysis [1]. R1270 is highlighted as a promising refrigerant for monoblock chillers, since there are no filling restrictions for these chillers when installed in open space [2].
RESULTS: Among the refrigerant reviewed, R1270 demonstrates the highest thermodynamic efficiency in BT mode, outperforming R404A by 11.97%, R134a by 2.15%, and R410A by 5.48%.
In CT mode, R1270 also leads,–with a 14.13% advantage over R404A, 3.04% over R134a, and 3.41% over R410A.
Similarly, in HT mode, R1270 shows superior thermodynamic performance, being 21.95% more efficient than R404A, 29.73% more than R134a, and 11.44% more than R410A.
The use of R410A and R134a in NT mode is limited owing to high discharge temperatures during compression, namely 116.94°C for R410A and 114.63°C for R134a, potentially reducing equipment lifespan. The lowest discharge temperature during actual compression, 84.63°C, is achieved using R404A coolant. However, despite its efficiency, this refrigerant results in a relatively high discharge temperature of 96.84°C.
CONCLUSIONS: The analysis highlights specific applications for various refrigerants in chillers and underscores the potential of natural refrigerant R1270, which is produced in the Russian Federation.
Clinico-epidemiological profile of dermatology patients: a one-year study at a newly established tertiary care centre in India
Authors: Singh Shradha , Geetha K. , Upadhyaya Amrita , Gusain Teesta
Published: October 2024

Background: Dermatology is predominantly an outpatient specialty focused on the diagnosis and treatment of dermatoses affecting the skin. We conducted a study on the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients attending the outpatient clinic to better understand the clinico-epidemiological profile and to predict morbidity patterns within the specific geographical region.
Methods: A retrospective study was conducted over the past year, encompassing all patients who visited the outpatient dermatology clinic at AIIMS, Raebareli. The study systematically documented a range of dermatoses, including disorders affecting the skin, hair, and nails.
Results: A total of 4,188 patients were included in the study, comprising 2,681 (64%) adults, 978 (23.4%) geriatric patients, and 529 (12.6%) pediatric patients. Among these, 1,311 patients primarily suffered from infections, followed by 752 patients with dermatitis. Of those with infections, 1,024 (78%) were diagnosed with fungal infections, while scabies was observed in 126 patients (9.6%). In the adult group, 756 (28.2%) patients had infections, while 429 (16%) patients were affected by dermatitis. Similar patterns were observed in both the geriatric and pediatric groups, with infections being the most prevalent, affecting 214 and 341 patients, respectively.
Conclusions: Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that infections, particularly fungal infections, are the most prevalent dermatological conditions across all age groups in the population studied. Dermatitis also emerged as a significant concern, particularly among adult patients. The high prevalence of infectious dermatoses, especially in geriatric and pediatric patients, highlights the need for targeted public health interventions and preventive measures.
A review: In-situ gel drug delivery system
Authors: Verma Rakhi , Rathore Kamal Singh , Saurabh Surendra Singh
Published: October 2024

The eye is the body's most delicate organ. Pharmaceutical scientists find that designing ocular drug delivery systems is the most difficult because only 5% of administered drugs reach the eye due to the complex anatomical structure of the eye, the cornea's small absorptive surface and low transparency, the cornea's lipophilicity, pre-keratitis (from nasolacrimal drainage), the drug's bonding with proteins in tear fluid, blinking, and the conjunctival sac's low capacity, all of which limit the entry of drug molecules at the site of action and ultimately result in suboptimal ocular therapy. Considerable research is being done on developing more advanced drug delivery methods for ocular administration in an attempt to increase the bioavailability of ophthalmic medications. These innovative drug delivery methods have many benefits over traditional ones, including better release profiles that boost drug delivery efficiency and lower drug toxicity. Numerous studies in this field support the idea that in situ gelling devices can be helpful for the transport of drugs into the eyes. Drug delivery systems known as "in situ gel-forming systems" are in solution before being supplied to the body, but thereafter go through a process called "in situ gelation" to form a gel in response to an external stimulus like pH or temperature. A brief overview of in situ gels, several methods for in situ gelling systems, types of polymers utilized in in-situ gels, their mechanisms of gel formation, and an assessment of polymeric in situ gel are all included in this review.
Gold Mineralisation and their Lithological Controls at Nagavi Area, Gadag Schist Belt, in Karnataka, India
Authors: Agasnalli Chandrashekharappa , M. S. Deepak , G. Ekbote Anupkumar , Lakkundi T. K.
Published: October 2024

Dharwar craton is located in southern India is part of the Dharwar-Singhbhum proto-continent and is known for its complex tectonic and structural controls. It’s made up of two distinct parts, Western Dharwar Craton (WDC) and the Eastern Dharwar Craton (EDC) house several schist belts. Many of these schist belts, such as the Kolar schist belt, Hutti schist belt, Chitradurga schist belt and the Gadag schist belt, are auriferous. In such schist belts, gold occurs in association with sulphides such as pyrite, pyrrhotite, arsenopyrite and chalcopyrite. Gold mineralization in these belts is found to occur in different lithologies. The Gadag schist belt is composed dominantly of metabasalt in its western half and meta sediments in the eastern half. Quartz-carbonate veins are observed to cut across these lithologies as well as the Banded Iron Formations (BIFs). This paper aimed to study the gold mineralization in different lithologies of the Gadag schist belt and found that metabasalts and BIFs are the dominant rocks hosting gold. It is also observed that mineralization is strata-bound. Most of the places’ auriferous sheared zones were observed in the study area. In Nagavi area, BIF hosted gold mineralization is observed, and major gold concentration varies from <21 to <26 ppb (parts per billion). Pyrite occurs as characteristic cubic crystals and as clusters of small grains. In carbonated sheared anorthosite, the rock is fine to medium-grained and in-equigranular. It consists of simple to polysynthetically twinned subhedral (100-200 by 400-600 μm) laths (~40-45%) set in a groundmass of irregular anhedral grains of secondary carbonate (~35-40%), chlorite (~8-10%), opaque (~5-7%) and accessory epidote and quartz.
Engine Performance and Emission Evaluation of Gasoline-Ethanol Fuel Blend in SI Engines Under Various Conditions of Load and Speed
Authors: Deshpande Ravindra S. , Tadamalle Ashok P. , Katikar R.S. , Biradar A. K. , Kadam P. G. , Thipse Sukrut S.
Published: October 2024

Ethanol fuel is considered a renewable energy source with a lower global warming potential than gasoline. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the emissions and performance of gasoline-ethanol blends in SI engines under various conditions. A computerized 4s, 1cyl, VCR spark ignition engine is used for the tests to measure the performance of Gasoline-Ethanol (GE) blends in particular E-10 (10% ethanol, 90% gasoline). For measuring exhaust emissions as well as performance, regular gasoline fuel is used for the additional tests. Engine performance using ethanol-gasoline blended fuel has been evaluated at different working conditions: 1200–1800 rpm, AFR 0.9, STs 300, CR10:1. When vehicles running on ethanol-gasoline blend indicated a decrease in the amounts of HC, NOx, and CO exhaust gases while 3.9% increase in CO2 emissions as compared to unleaded gasoline fuel. Furthermore, it has been shown that the brake power, torque, specific fuel consumption increases when a Gasoline-Ethanol (GE) blend is used over regular gasoline fuel.
The Coming of Age of Venture Capital Investing in the New Fields of the Emerging MOGI Sectors: Part 1
Authors: Bhattacharya Jayanta
Published: October 2024

No Abstract.
Exploring the impact of consumer behavior and innovation orientation on business strategy and firm performance: Insights from MSMEs in Indonesia
Authors: Fatonah Siti , Hidayat Asnawi , Mirnayani
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this research is to examine and analyse the influence of consumer behaviour and innovation orientation on firm performance through business strategy, impacting the performance of MSMEs in Karanganyar, Indonesia. The study utilizes a quantitative approach, collecting data through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with 80 owners of Mbangun Makhutoromo MSMEs Cluster in Karanganyar, Indonesia. The collection data were analysed using linear regression and path analysis with SPSS 24 software. The results indicate that consumer behaviour and innovation orientation significantly impact business strategy. Consumer behaviour has both direct and indirect effects on firm performance through business strategy. On the other hand, innovation orientation affects company performance indirectly through business strategy rather than directly. Enhancing company performance is more effective through direct consumer behaviour analysis. Additionally, well-formulated business strategies can leverage innovation orientation to achieve indirect improvement. For MSMEs to improve performance, a focus on understanding and analysing consumer behaviour is crucial. Business strategies should indirectly employ innovation orientation. This approach requires careful adaptation to environmental changes, consumer preferences, and market trends to ensure sustained business growth and competitiveness.
Exploring the factors influencing low-carbon travel: Evidence from Taiwan
Authors: Wu Ying-Wei , Liao Ting-Hsiu , Huang Hao-Chen
Published: October 2024

This study aims to explore how low-carbon travel intentions are influenced by numerous factors such as low-carbon literacy, environmental attitudes and perceived behavioural control. The study obtained 615 valid samples through a questionnaire survey and employed confirmatory factor analysis to evaluate the reliability and validity of the constructs. Hypotheses were tested using a linear structural equation model. The mediating effect of low-carbon travel intention was assessed and different models were compared through nested model analysis. The results show that under partially mediating models, environmental attitudes and low-carbon literacy significantly impact low-carbon travel through low-carbon travel intentions but perceived behavioral control directly influences low-carbon travel. These insights are significant for tourism operators in formulating strategies and marketing promotions, helping to more accurately target audiences and promote the widespread adoption of low-carbon tourism.
Exploring the expected lifestyle among older adults in Klang Valley, Malaysia
Authors: Yong Jun Yin , Toh Guat Guan , Lim Chia Yien , Chong Shyue Chuan
Published: October 2024

This paper examines the relationship between financial status, quality of life, happiness, and expected retirement lifestyle among older adults, particularly those who are over 60 years old and residing in the Klang Valley region of Malaysia. We developed the research framework by integrating social support theory and quality of life theory. The data were obtained by utilising non-probability sampling, quota sampling techniques and a Google Form-based face-to-face interview with 250 older adults in Klang Valley (Kuala Lumpur and Selangor), Malaysia, conducted between May and July 2023. The study's findings revealed a strong positive correlation between the financial situation of older adults' and their level of happiness, as well as between their quality of life and financial status. Additionally, this study discovered that the quality of life of adults acts as a significant mediator between expected retirement lifestyle, financial status, and happiness. A key factor influencing the quality of life and expected lifestyle of the retired population is the financial status and happiness of older adults. Meanwhile, older adults’ quality of life serves as a significant mediator between their financial status and their level of happiness with their expected lifestyle. The paper provides practical implications to various stakeholders, including government, companies, businesses, and communities, in establishing policies or providing suitable products and services to accommodate the needs and well-being of the older adults.
Training status in evidence-based practices among in-service special education teachers and its association with teaching in autism educational settings
Authors: AL Jabery Mohammad Abdel Fattah , Arabiat Diana Hashem
Published: October 2024

The present study investigates the adequacy of training, perceived knowledge, and the frequency of use of evidence-based practices (EBPs) among in-service special education teachers and its association with their teaching practices in autism educational settings in Jordan. Additionally, it analyzes the influence of key variables, including gender, age, level of educational qualification, number of years teaching in special education, number of years teaching students with autism, number of students with autism in the classroom, and number of in-service professional development programs attended. Using an analytical descriptive approach utilizing survey-based research, a convenience sample of 121 teachers from seven specialized autism centers reported on their training adequacy, knowledge, and frequency of use of a set of 23 EBPs. The results showed that the adequacy of in-service training was higher than that of pre-service training. Moreover, there was a positive correlation between in-service training, teachers’ knowledge, and the use of EBPs. The number of in-service professional development training programs emerged as the only variable that significantly influenced the teachers’ responses regarding the adequacy of their in-service training. The multiple regression analysis revealed that in-service training programs and years of teaching students with autism were the only predictors of teachers’ knowledge and use of EBPs. The most reported EBPs were reinforcement, task analysis, and modeling, whereas the least reported were video modeling, social narratives, and functional communication. Further enhancements in teacher training in EBPs are needed to improve teacher training programs in Jordan.
Elevating the competitiveness of general education schools: Perspectives from experts and educational leaders
Authors: Abunaser Fathi M , Al-Housni Houda A , Maqbali Durayra Al
Published: October 2024

Education is the cornerstone of development in all its forms. Therefore, the continuous improvement of education is a fundamental necessity pursued by societies to ensure progress and advancement. Schools are the fundamental pillars for the development and growth of society in all areas, and education is the path to progress and prosperity. This study aims to uncover the essential requirements and expected challenges to enhance the competitiveness of Omani public education schools from the perspectives of educational leaders and experts. A qualitative approach was employed in collecting and analyzing the data. The study sample consisted of 43 experts and educational leaders from the Ministry of Education and Omani universities, including 19 working in higher education and 24 in the public education sector. The data gathered through semi-structured interviews centered on two main themes: the requirements and the expected challenges. The study revealed a list of requirements to enhance competitiveness in the areas of administrative, cognitive, human, and organizational requirements. It also identified the prominent expected challenges.
The mediation of self-efficacy in the effect of entrepreneurship education on the entrepreneurship intention of university students in South Africa
Authors: Makhitha Khathutshelo Mercy
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this study is to determine the role that self-efficacy plays in the relationship between entrepreneurship education factors and the entrepreneurship intention of university students in South Africa. An online survey was conducted among students registered at a distance learning institution. The results of the study confirmed that the relationship between entrepreneurship education and entrepreneurship intention is mediated by self-efficacy. Self-efficacy does not mediate the relationship between work readiness, career education, entrepreneurship orientation and entrepreneurship intention. However, there is a direct relationship between entrepreneurship education and self-efficacy. Work readiness, career education, and entrepreneurship orientation have a direct relationship with self-efficacy. Higher education institutions must not only incorporate entrepreneurship education into their curriculum, but they must also ensure that efforts are made to encourage students to believe in their ability to establish their own businesses.
Applying vroom expectancy theory to analyse employee motivation: A study of commercial banks in Vietnam
Authors: Thu Hanh Le , Van Ha Nguyen
Published: October 2024

In researching motivation, the process approach is better and has more potential than the content approach. This research aims to apply Vroom expectancy theory, a process-based approach to motivation to gain a greater understanding of employee motivation within the commercial banking sector in Vietnam. Additionally, this study seeks to validate the applicability of the expectancy theory by surveying 901 employees from 16 commercial banks with different total assets and numbers of employees. The data analysis involved the utilization of Cronbach's alpha, Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation model (SEM). This study reveals that there is a positive relationship between expectancy (E), intrinsic instrument (I-IN), intrinsic valence (I-V) and employee motivation (EM). Employee motivation has an impact on job performance. Nevertheless, it has been observed that the presence of extrinsic valence (E-V) and extrinsic instruments (E-IN) do not significantly impact employee motivation despite the high employees’ level of need for extrinsic valence. This finding deviates considerably from previous studies that applied Vroom's theory. These findings further emphasize the notion that motivation is a dynamic process.  Using a process approach in investigating motivation has significant efficacy and employee motivation has a substantial impact on employee performance especially in the context of commercial banks in Vietnam.
Unlocking employee engagement: Investigating the influence of informational justice in Nigerian banking sector
Authors: Paul Salau Odunayo , Adeola Adegoke Zainab , Oluwafunmilayo Onayemi Oluwakemi , Rebecca Alake Oluwakemi
Published: October 2024

This study explores the relationship between informational justice and employee engagement. The objectives of the study are to examine the influence of informational justice on affective engagement, behavioral engagement, cognitive engagement, and physical engagement. To guarantee a representative and varied sample of the Nigerian banking industry, a survey design was used, and participants were chosen using the stratified sampling technique. We collected necessary data from primary sources and deemed 209 copies of the 231 distributed questionnaires valid and suitable for the study. Preliminary findings suggest a strong positive relationship between employee engagement levels and perceptions of informational justice. Workers with higher levels of participation in all four categories—behavioral, cognitive, physical, and affective—tend to perceive a high degree of informational justice, where communication is clear, prompt, and comprehensive. This suggests that employees are more likely to be emotionally committed, display positive work behaviors, be intellectually focused, and be physically present in their tasks when they feel well-informed and sense fairness in the sharing of information. The findings contribute to the literature in several ways, including improving the understanding of informational justice in Nigeria's banking sector. Furthermore, the findings offer practical insights for the bank seeking to enhance employee engagement through improvements in communication processes and transparency.
Performance analysis in sport and soccer: Past, present and future – narrative review
Authors: McGillick Connor , Towlson Chris , Barrett Steve , Toner John
Published: October 2024

As performance analysis (PA) in sport and soccer has developed, numerous methods of analysis are available to provide objective video and data insights on performances. The purpose of this narrative review is to discuss PA in sport and soccer, critically appraise past and present PA techniques and preview the future of PA to enhance knowledge and inform PA practices. The methodology featured a literature review of key research papers within the areas of manual and computerised notational analysis, manual and computerised time motion analysis, wearable technology, stadium infrastructure, artificial intelligence and ethical considerations of PA. The findings of this review determined there are varied methods of PA available to practitioners to conduct technical, tactical and physical analysis within sport and soccer. Each technique features varied workflows and budget requirements which influence process advantages, disadvantages and accessibility. The evaluation of methods allowed the review to determine a decision-making matrix that can be used by practitioners to identify the most applicable PA procedures related to their resources, infrastructure and analytical aims. Alongside the decision-making matrix, the review also found that there are key ethical considerations regarding the delivery of PA insights. Given the wide array of PA tools available, and artificial intelligence influences likely to increase in the future, practitioners need to carefully consider what analysis is conducted, when insights are delivered and how information is provided to ensure effective, ethical practices.
Critical Factors Influencing Successful Implementation of Health System Policies
Authors: Mahmoudi Naser , Abbasian-Naghneh Salman
Published: October 2024

Background: Health system policy implementation (HSPI) plays a crucial role in determining the effectiveness of healthcare systems worldwide. Understanding the factors that influence the success of HSPI is essential for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders. This research aims to investigate and analyze these influential factors using a combination of thematic analysis and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) methodology.
Methods: The research utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining thematic analysis and AHP to comprehensively explore the factors influencing the success of HSPI. The present study is a descriptive-survey with an applied nature and a cross-sectional design. Information was collected using the survey method, classifying it as field research. The statistical population consisted of 15 professors from the Faculty of Medicine at Najaf Abad Azad University, selected through purposive sampling. The data collection tool is a pairwise comparison questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using the AHP method and Expert Choice 11 software.
Results: The thematic analysis reveals a range of factors affecting the success of HSPI, including but not limited to stakeholder engagement, resource allocation, political commitment, organizational capacity, public awareness, and socio-cultural factors. These factors are further analyzed and prioritized using the AHP method to determine their relative importance and impact on policy implementation success. The main factors in order of priority are stakeholder engagement (weight = 0.145), resource availability (weight = 0.133) and policy design and planning (weight = 0.124).
Conclusion: The integration of thematic analysis and AHP provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and assessing the factors influencing the success of HSPI. By identifying and prioritizing these factors, policymakers and healthcare stakeholders can develop targeted strategies and interventions to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of HSPI, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes and healthcare delivery systems.
Effect of Covid-19 on the Pattern of the Patients Referring to the Emergency Department of Shahid Sadoughi Hospital in Yazd in 2019-2021
Authors: Jafari Mohammadali , Hashemi Fatemeh Sadat , Araghi Fatemeh Sadat Hosseini , Abarghouei Soheila Azimi
Published: October 2024

Background: Covid-19 was first declared to be a pandemic in 2020. Once it occurred, hospitals as well as emergencies were encountered scores of challenges, including a large number of patients with a new contagious viral disease on the one hand, and the importance of continuing to provide adequate and complete services to non-covid patients who daily referred to the emergencies, on the other. Moreover, as a result of the emerging crisis, the pattern and rate of visits to the emergency department by non-covid patients underwent several alterations. Therefore, the current study was designed to evaluate the effect of covid-19 on the referral pattern of non-covid patients to the emergency department of Shahid Sadoughi Hospital in Yazd.
Methods: This is an analytical cross-sectional investigation through which all the patients referred to the emergency department of Shahid Sadoughi Hospital in Yazd in April, August and November of 2018 and 2019 (before and after the outbreak of Covid-19) were examined. The variables of the study included age, gender, reason for the patient's visit, hospital service, type of discharge from the emergency room, status and time of the visit. The collected data were then entered into SPSS26 and analyzed using Chi-square and T-test.
Results: The study included 11,587 patients aged 1 to 101 years, 58.4% men and 41.6% women. The number of emergency ward visits decreased significantly following the outbreak of the covid-19 disease. A statistically significant difference was identified between the frequency distribution of all the investigated variables at the desired times (P-value=0.002 for gender and P-value=0.0001 for other variables). Therefore, the number of the male patients within the age range of 20 to 65 years in infectious and pulmonary wards increased, but hospitalization in the orthopedics and internal neurology centers and referrals due to headache, abdominal pain, and nervous tension faced the greatest decrease. Among the types of discharge, hospitalization in and transfer to the ward lowered the most.
Conclusion: Predicated on the current study, the emergence of covid-19 has triggered a significant reduction in the number of patients visiting the emergencies; the findings of this study can thus assist senior managers how to make policies as new epidemics arise in order to treat the patients and decrease mortality.
Predictors of Post-COVID-19 Recovery: A Single-Center Study
Authors: Rahimi Najme , Yazdani Abdolghafour , Jalilian Habib , Shahraini Ramin , Kazemzade Asghar , Kargari Sadegh
Published: October 2024

Background: The average duration of recovery time in COVID-19 patients after contracting can be affected by various factors. Understanding the average duration of recovery time is important in formulating preventive measures/interventions. This study aims to assess predictors of post-COVID-19 recovery.
Methods: This observational longitudinal study was conducted among COVID-19 patients admitted to Vasei Hospital in Sabzevar, Iran in 2021. Data were extracted from the Hospital Information System.  COVID-19 Experiences (COVEX) questionnaire was used to assess the type and severity of symptoms. Patients who were admitted to the hospital were assessed at baseline and were followed up one month and two months after discharge through telephone calls. Chi-square test was used to examine the association between demographic variables, clinical variables, disease symptoms, and time to recovery.
Results: A total of 250 COVID-19 cases were followed up for 30 and 60 days after discharge. The mean duration of recovery from COVID-19 was significantly higher in women, old patients, those with higher BMI, cases without physical activity, those with severe chest CT scan results, patients with severe diseases, and those who were discharged after 30 days (P-Value< 0.05). Patients with dry cough and chest pain were less likely to make a full recovery after 30 days. The cases with dry cough, headache, dyspnea, and chest pain were less likely to make a full recovery after 60 days than those without (P-Value< 0.05).
Conclusion: Health providers in healthcare centers should give priority to high-risk groups (e.g. those with severe chest radiography results, and those with severe disease severity). The presence of dry cough and chest pain was found to be a risk factor for delayed recovery. Initial assessment of COVID-19 patients, such as chest CT scans, can predict the severity of the disease and unfavorable outcomes. Moreover, it seems the management of comorbidities can play a vital role in recovery from COVID-19.
Religious Development of Children with Special Needs in Inclusion Classes (Case Study at Al Irsyad 02 Elementary School Cilacap)
Authors: Toifur Toifur , Priyanto Dwi , Azmi Nuraziz Muhammad
Published: October 2024

This study aims to describe and analyze the development of religious diversity of children with special needs in the inclusion class. This type of research is field research with a qualitative approach. The subjects of this study are classroom teachers, school principals, Islamic Religious Education teachers, inclusion coordinators, and special assistant teachers. The selection of research subjects used the purposive sampling technique. Data collection was carried out using observation, interview, and documentation techniques. The data analysis technique used is qualitative descriptive with stages of data reduction, data display, and conclusion. The results of the study show that the development of religious diversity for children with special needs is carried out by Islamic Religious Education teachers supported by the BLC (Butterfly Learning Center) team. The development of religious diversity for children with special needs is carried out using a pull-out learning model. The pull out learning model was carried out in the BLC room by the BLC team. The development of religious diversity for children with special needs is more emphasized on the aspects of morality and worship
Arquitectura, catolicismo y ruralidad en Uruguay
Authors: Mendez Mary
Published: October 2024

En este texto se presenta al arquitecto uruguayo Horacio Terra Arocena (Montevideo, 1894-1985) a través de los frentes de acción que determinaron su trayectoria. Fue un reconocido profesional que presidió la Sociedad de Arquitectos y el Instituto Nacional de Viviendas Económicas. Participó de los Congresos Panamericanos de Arquitectos y fue docente en la Facultad de Arquitectura. Escribió ensayos sobre teoría del arte y estética y también una novela de ciencia ficción. Fue político, parlamentario en representación de la Unión Cívica y autor de diversas leyes.
Como agente del espacio social católico dirigió el diario El Bien Público, se hizo cargo de la revista Tribuna Católica y fue el arquitecto asesor de la Curia de Montevideo, aconsejando a Monseñor Antonio María Barbieri.  El neotomismo de Jacques Maritain y la interpretación del tiempo del jesuita Teilhard de Chardin tuvieron una importante incidencia en su pensamiento, en el marco de un renovado interés de los católicos por el espiritualismo de Henry Bergson.
En este artículo se describe y analiza la actividad que Terra Arocena desarrolló como arquitecto católico. El argumento está basado en una metodología que remite a un estudio cualitativo de diversas fuentes escritas. Se sustenta en un pormenorizado estudio del catolicismo, del que emerge una persistente valoración de la ruralidad que se alzó contra la ciudad y coincidió con una corriente de pensamiento arquitectónico que discutía los valores de las grandes urbes. En este marco, la función pública le permitió llevar adelante acciones concretas para hacer realidad la instalación de una cultura agraria en Uruguay, confiando en que la solución granjera podría resolver los problemas de vivienda, tanto en el campo como en los suburbios de las ciudades.
The grasshopper arcyptera (Pararcyptera) meridionalis ikonnikov (Insecta, orthoptera) as a possible agricultural pest in temperate Asia
Authors: Yefremova Oxana V , Molodtsov Vladimir V , Storozhenko Sergey Yu , Shamychkova Anna A , Sergeev Michael G
Published: October 2024

The goal of the article is to estimate possible changes of the distribution of Arcyptera meridionalis in the contemporary and potential future climatic conditions. The data were collected during field trips. Two packages to produce the species distribution models, namely MaxEnt and ellipsenm, were used. The generated models predict that the status of A. meridionalis as the important pest will not change significantly in the nearest future, however, in the middle of this century, its distribution patterns will become more complicated. The areas those will be the most suitable for the species will remain mainly in the western and central parts of its range. The harmful activity of A. meridionalis can be especially important due to its early hatching, because hoppers may damage and destroy shoots with first leaves and tillers. The models generated for A. meridionalis look like quite different from the models for other steppe acridids. On the contrary, some resemblance between forecasts for two harmful, but quite different grasshopper species, namely Siberian-Mongolian A. meridionalis and East-Mediterranean A. labiata, are revealed. The models for both species demonstrate some possible significant depletion of the territories with suitable conditions for each one in the second half of the 21st century.
DEVELOPING CRITICAL THINKING AND CYBERSECURITY LITERACY SKILLS AHEAD OF THE 2024 ELECTION FOR STUDENTS AT VOCATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL OF AL BADAR IN TULUNGAGUNG
Authors: Mubah A. Safril , Anabarja Sarah , Yakti Probo Darono , Pratamasari Annisa
Published: October 2024

The spread of information in the digital media tends to include fake news. Ahead of the 2024 election, hoax is distributed for the certain political interests and can affect divided societies. As the novice voters who are familiar with social media, high school students become the hoax target. Therefore, a training for developing chritical thinking skill and cybersecurity literacy is required by the novice voters. The target of this training is students of Al Badar Vocational High School in Tulungagung. It aims at giving the students a skill for thinking critically towards any information. The authors organized this activity by analyzing the training needs for students, giving a critical thinking training and evaluating the training result. The authors found that the students’ level of critical thinking skill is still low. Therefore, the authors suggest the novice voters to critically check and cross-check all information.
SOCIOPRENEUR IN DIGITAL MARKETING: EMPOWERING THE MICRO, SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (MSMES) IN BOJONGPICUNG VILLAGES
Authors: Mardian Vivi , Yakin Husnul , Azzahra Waliyyatu , Nuraini  , Fadhlan Nabil Ziyad
Published: October 2024

The Indonesian economy is largely derived from Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The MSME sector has a strategic role in the Indonesian economy because it is significant in contributing to the formation of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) tend to not keep up with the development of digital technology, mainly due to a lack of knowledge about digital marketing. Therefore, the Postgraduate Muslim Student Association (HIMMPAS) of Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia conducted training through social entrepreneurship activity in Bojongpicung Village and Jati Village, Cianjur Regency, West Java. This training aimed to provide insight to MSME practitioners by optimizing the potential of MSMEs through digital marketing to improve the economy of the local community in Bojongpicung Village and Jati Village, Bojongpicung District, Cianjur Regency, West Java. The MSME participants involved in this training totaled 11 people from various industries. This program applied direct training and mentoring methods. The discussion in this article aimed to identify constraints or problems experienced by the MSMEs and evaluate the participants' level of satisfaction with the implementation of the training activities. The results showed that MSME participants have constraints in product marketing, funding, and traditional production equipment. After being trained, MSME participants found several relevant solutions for the development of their MSME businesses through digital marketing. In addition, the material provided was in accordance with the needs of MSME participants. MSME participants also realized that they still need more similar training in the future.
HEALTH EXAMINATION AND EDUCATION ON THE USE OF CHOLESTEROL, URIC ACID, AND BLOOD SUGAR MEDICINE FOR THE COMMUNITY OF SUNGAI BAWANG VILLAGE, MUARA BADAK DISTRICT, KUTAI KARTANEGARA
Authors: Adhe Septa Ryant Agus  , Muh. Taufiqurrahman  , Awan Kevin Imanuel , Gilbert Luhat Martin
Published: October 2024

Degenerative diseases that many people suffer from, including heart disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, cancer, and chronic kidney failure, have increased. In demographic data referring to the 2018 Riskesdas, for example, strokes increased to 10,9% from the previous 7%, and diabetes mellitus increased from 6.9% to 8.5% in 2018. Hypertension experienced the highest increase among diseases, from 25.8% to 34.1%. Management of degenerative diseases is through implementing community service activities carried out by lectures from the Study Program of Pharmacy undergraduate at STIKES Dirgahayu Samarinda to implement the tridharma obligations of higher education. The activity was held on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at Lamin Adat Sungai Bawang Village, Muara Badak District, Kutai Kartanegara. This activity aimed to conduct health checks for the community, from children to adults, and health education, especially controlling non-communicable diseases. The method used was education, free examination, and treatment for the community which consists of laboratory examinations, health consultations, pharmaceutical services, and health education, as well as evaluation when the activites have been completed. Based on the activities that have been carried out, it was known that one hundred and five residents came for an examination, then from screening for blood sugar, cholesterol, and uric acid tests, forty-seven people exceeded normal parameters, while ninety-eight received drug therapy.
Interpreting the Existence of Dewala and Ina Leta as the Center of the Tounwawan People's Life Narrative in Southwest Maluku, Indonesia
Authors: Koritelu Paulus , Steijlen Fridus
Published: October 2024

Dewala and Ina Leta mean stone walls and mother village, respectively. These are monuments that symbolize “the beginning of life” narrative of the Tounwawan people of Moa Islands, Maluku, Indonesia. This first settlement narrative has become the collective memory of the Tounwawan community. It preserves their socio-cultural identity and helps them understand their roles and positions, perceiving themselves and others living together in the same environment. The research method used in this study is a qualitative approach with a phenomenological type. The data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation. The research results show that the Tounwawan people preserve Dewala and Ina Leta to symbolize the origin of their lives, elements of collective memory that can endure the test of time. The findings also show that the Tounwawan people maintain their intersubjective relations, which allows the noble values represented by these two monuments to be passed down as interpretable knowledge and experiences for the following generation.
Analysis of graphene as a potential filtration membrane for desalination at varying operating conditions using molecular dynamics simulation and response surface methodology
Authors: Megha M. , John Nibu , Pramada S. K. , Arunkumar R.
Published: October 2024

Water scarcity is a critical global issue exacerbated by pollution and overuse, necessitating sustainable water management solutions. Desalination using membrane technology presents a promising approach for freshwater production. This study investigated the performance of nanoporous (NPG) membranes for desalination, focusing on the influence of pressure and temperature on water flux and ion rejection. Utilizing molecular dynamics (MD) simulations with the LAMMPS package, this study evaluates NPG membranes under various conditions of pressures and temperatures. The simulations demonstrate that increasing both the pressure and temperature enhances the water flux without compromising ion rejection. The results indicate that at 300 K and 50 MPa, the water flux exceeds 2000 L/m2 h bar, significantly outperforming traditional reverse osmosis membranes, which typically achieve a capacity of approximately 1 L/m2 h bar. These findings were validated experimentally, aligning with previous research and confirming the superior performance of NPG membranes. A statistical model derived from response surface methodology revealed a linear relationship between pressure, temperature, and water flux. The study concludes that NPG membranes offer a high efficiency and scalable solution for desalination, with significant potential for energy savings and cost reduction. This study underscores the viability of NPG membranes in addressing global freshwater shortages and provides a pathway for sustainable water production.
Development of a mathematical model of a collinear filter based on Quartz (SiO2) and its practical implementation
Authors: Bakeev D. A. , Filippov V. V.
Published: October 2024

Purpose of the work.Development and testing of a theoretical model of an acousto-optic quasi-collinear tunable filter on crystalline quartz, operating in the spectral range of 0.25-0.4 microns with a spectral resolution of 0.2 nm.

Methods.The paper analyzes the basic properties of acousto-optic tunable filters based on crystals of various classes. Based on literature analysis and calculations, an experimental AOTF model was proposed and practically implemented. The study of the physical properties of light filtration on an α-SiO2 crystal was carried out using an experimental method.

Practical studies of the spectral tuning of the device at experimental optical frequencies were carried out in the proposed ultrasonic standing wave system in accordance with the tuning characteristic. Based on known experimental data, a theoretical model for describing the passband taking into account piezoelectric effects is proposed.

Results.The influence of crystal anisotropy on their acoustoelectric properties is shown. The optimal crystallographic parameters for the operation of filters on a silicon oxide crystal have been determined. A computer model of AOTF has been developed, implemented on the basis of numerical calculations in the Wolfram Mathematica environment. It was experimentally revealed that in the red part of the spectrum under study, the maximum intensity of the frequencies of diffracted light is observed, which corresponds to those closest to the natural frequencies of the piezoelectric transducer, while at the same time, in the blue and violet spectra, the lowest transmission was observed. Practical studies have confirmed that the broadening of the filter passbands occurs due to an increase in the divergence of light.

Conclusions.A mathematical model of an acousto-optic quasi-collinear tunable filter on crystalline quartz was substantiated and developed, on the basis of which the calculation of the AOTF operating in the spectral range of 0.25 - 0.4 μm with a spectral resolution of about 0.2 nm was performed.