bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytochemical Screening and Antifungal Evaluation of Leaf Extracts of Nephrolepis undulata Afzel. Ex Sw. (Nephrolepidaceae) against selected Fungi
Authors: Uwumarongie O. H. , Dowe E.
Published: November 2023

Nephrolepis undulata (sword fern) is a medicinal plant used traditionally for treatment of various ailments including stomach ache, infections and cough. Therefore, the objective of this study is to undertake a phytochemical screening and antifungal activity evaluation of leaf extracts of Nephrolepis undulata Afzel. Ex Sw. (Nephrolepidaceae) against selected fungi (Aspergilus fumigatus, Rhodotorula mucilagenosa, Trichophyton rubrum, Mucor indicus, Candida parapsilosis and Cryptococcus neoformans) using appropriate methods. Phytochemical screening was done using standard methods of analyses while antifungal evaluation of the extracts was done using the agar diffusion method. Phytochemical screening of the extracts revealed the presence of alkaloids, anthracene derivative, carbohydrate, flavonoid and saponin in the methanol, chloroform and petroleum ether extracts. Tannins was present in the methanol extract but absent in chloroform and petroleum ether extracts. The antifungal sensitivity test revealed that the extracts had concentration dependent inhibitory activities against the clinical isolates used in the study; with the methanol extract having the best and broadest spectrum of activity. It had the lowest Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of 0.3 mg/mL against A. fumigatus. However, its activity was only next to Ketoconazole, the reference drug. The extracts contained active phytochemicals which may be responsible for the varied antifungal actions of the extracts. These positive finding validates the ethnomedicinal application of the plant in the management of various ailments and further demonstrates the applicability of the plant as a possible raw material, in the pharmaceutical industry.
Association between late gadolinium enhancement and outcome in dilated cardiomyopathy: A meta-analysis
Authors: Feng Xin-Yi , He Wen-Feng , Zhang Tian-Yue , Wang Ling-Li , Yang Fan , Feng Yu-Ling , Li Chun-Ping , Li Rui
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

The prognostic value of late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) derived from cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) is well studied, and several new metrics of LGE have emerged. However, some controversies remain; therefore, further discussion is needed, and more precise risk stratification should be explored.

AIM

To investigate the associations between the positivity, extent, location, and pattern of LGE and multiple outcomes in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

METHODS

PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library were searched for studies that investigated the prognostic value of LGE in patients with DCM. Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated to assess the role of LGE in the risk stratification of DCM.

RESULTS

Nineteen studies involving 7330 patients with DCM were included in this meta-analysis and covered a wide spectrum of DCM, with a mean left ventricular ejection fraction between 21% and 50%. The meta-analysis revealed that the presence of LGE was associated with an increased risk of multiple adverse outcomes (all-cause mortality, HR: 2.14; arrhythmic events, HR: 5.12; and composite endpoints, HR: 2.38; all P < 0.001). Furthermore, every 1% increment in the extent of LGE was associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality. Analysis of a subgroup revealed that the prognostic value varied based on different location and pattern of LGE. Additionally, we found that LGE was a stronger predictor of arrhythmic events in patients with greater left ventricular ejection fraction.

CONCLUSION

LGE by CMR in patients with DCM exhibited a substantial value in predicting adverse outcomes, and the extent, location, and pattern of LGE could provide additional information for risk stratification.
Exploring the Possibility of Death Education through Literature from the Perspective of Medical Humanities
Authors: Song Mei Ling , Kim Jae Hyun , Kim Choon-Yi , Jang Kyung-Ju , Choi Bong-Doh
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study is to examine the possibility of medical humanities from the perspective of death literature and to explore educational possibilities. In this study, the possibility of medical humanities from the perspective of death literature was considered by dividing it into the effect of death education in poetry, the effect of death education in novels, and the effect of death education in essays. As a result, the possibility of death education using poetry seems to be key to triggering the imagination related to the experiences of students through the medium of death poetry implied in symbolic language. The possibility of death education using novels seems to be meaningful in indirectly experiencing life and death by using the characteristics of transitional experience of novels and having them worry about the true meaning and value of life. The possibility of death education using essays is that they can utilize the characteristics of empathic experiences of essays. Essays contain actual events rather than fiction and are expected to be effective in education on death because they present the author's direct experience and accompanying emotions. In conclusion, this study is meaningful in suggesting the application of medical humanities education that integrates and improves the direction of death education as human-centered medicine based on clinical and medical science as a humanistic understanding of death.
Participation in Bridging Courses and Dropouts among Cooperative Education Students in Engineering
Authors: Wild Steffen , Rahn Sebastian , Meyer Thomas
Published: November 2023

Dropout rates in engineering degree programmes at universities are high, and skilled workers are needed. Universities try to prevent dropouts with different offers one of which is attending bridging courses. Research on the effects of these programmes is rare, especially in subject-specific programmes and study formats like cooperative education. Furthermore, the results are contradictory. We focus our research on Germany and use data from the project “Study Process – Crossroads, Determinants of Success and Barriers While Studying at the Baden-Wuerttemberg Cooperative State University”, which included 963 participants from the first academic year and matched data from a survey with university administration data on dropouts two years after enrolment. Different propensity score matching algorithms and entropy balancing show small, non-significant negative effects. Results are reflected and embedded in the current state of the research. New research questions are discussed and practical implications are considered.
The Role of Mathematics in STEM Activities: Syntheses and a Framework from a Literature Review
Authors: Kristensen Mette Als , Larsen Dorte Moeskær , Seidelin Lars , Svabo Connie
Published: November 2023

In recent years, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) approaches in education have received growing attention in the political arena and in educational research and practice. A concern consistently raised in the research literature regarding interdisciplinary STEM education is that the role played by mathematics is understated such that it may be overshadowed by the other disciplines. This study contributes to the discussion by presenting a review of 4,812 studies, of which 37 with descriptions of STEM activities were selected, analysed and synthesised to identify the various roles played by mathematics in these STEM activities. This process produced an analytical framework that captures the various roles mathematics can play, which can be categorised into two major categories: mathematics as the specific aim of the activity or mathematics utilised as a tool. Two cases selected from the review are presented in this study to demonstrate how the framework can be employed in analysing STEM activities. Furthermore, we propose using the framework when developing STEM activities as a tool to ensure explicit awareness of the various roles mathematics can play.
How Productive is the Productive Struggle? Lessons Learned from a Scoping Review
Authors: Young Jamaal Rashad , Bevan Danielle , Sanders Miriam
Published: November 2023

Since its first notable appearance in the Second Handbook of Research on Mathematics Teaching and Learning, the phrase productive struggle has garnered support from a few, yet very influential, educational researchers. However, since the phrase was popularized by Hiroko Warshauer in 2011, examinations of the productive struggle have grown substantially within mathematics education. In this article, we present a systematic review of the literature on the productive struggle to quantify the breadth and depth of existing work in the area.  Our analysis indicates that many studies: (1) provide a direct implementation of the productive struggle; (2) primarily involve teachers and not students; (3) present primarily qualitative or non-empirical research approaches; and (4) specify the NCTM content area focus less often across studies. Thus, we conclude that there are opportunities for rigorous research designs reporting on observable trends in the implementation of the productive struggle, explicitly targeting underexamined NCTM content and process standards, and focusing on how the productive struggle can support equity in mathematics. We believe that these opportunities should be investigated to provide a broader evidence base for developing meaningful experiences in mathematics for school-aged children that capitalize on the interconnectedness of attribution, meta-cognition, and controlled frustration in mathematics learning.
Development of an authentic light-activated calcium channel
Authors: Li Wenyu , Wang Liuqing , Wang Youjun , He Lian
Published: November 2023

Optogenetic-based genetically encoded Ca2+ actuators (GECA) have been developed to enable remote control of Ca2+ entry into cells. However, current blue light-dependent tools either lack high calcium selectivity or exhibit crosstalk with other targets, raising concerns about potential side effects. In this commentary, we present our successful design of a single-component optogenetic Ca2+ ion channel (LOCa) that selectively elevates cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration with high spatial and temporal resolution. Furthermore, LOCa has demonstrated promising applications in regulating Ca2+-dependent cellular physiological responses and investigating diseases through animal models.
De la brecha a la conexión: Roles periodísticos en contextos de riesgo
Authors:   Facultad de Ciencias Políticas y Sociales, UNAM, México, Olivera Pérez Dasniel
Published: November 2023

El objetivo del artículo es identificar los factores habilitantes de las conexiones entre concepción y percepción de las prácticas de los roles periodísticos, que comparten miembros de dos medios digitales orientados al periodismo de investigación en países latinoamericanos con sis­temas mediáticos diferentes, Quinto Elemento, en México y Periodismo de Barrio, en Cuba. Para ello se aplicó el método cualitativo basado en la entrevista como técnica de levantamiento de in­formación y el uso de recursos representaciona­les del conocimiento para el procesamiento y análisis. En ambos medios predomina una repre­sentación sobre la profesión afianzada en con­cepciones e ideales tradicionales de las funciones del periodismo en la sociedad, si bien también se observó la fusión entre roles, dependiente de las variaciones contextuales. Además, entre la concepción y la percepción de la práctica de los roles periodísticos se identificó una alta cone­xión, de modo que el periodismo de investigación y el alto estándar ético-profesional forman parte de la construcción discursiva sobre la identidad de cada organización periodística. Los factores habilitantes de las conexiones entre concepcio­nes y percepciones de la práctica obedecen, sustantivamente, a procesos interrelacionados a nivel organizacional, aunque también a factores individuales. Los factores asociados con el entorno fueron percibidos, fundamentalmente, como obstáculos.
Tratamiento de pobreza y vulnerabilidad en el discurso periodístico del medio digital Cubadebate
Authors:   Universidad de La Habana, Cuba, Fernández Valdés Giovanni , Camejo Mariana ,   Instituto Internacional de Periodismo José Martí, Cuba
Published: November 2023

Si existe o no pobreza en Cuba, es un tema controvertido porque aún no ha sido posible tener un estudio riguroso a nivel nacional, que permita poder identificar claramente cómo se expresa tanto en la zona urbana como en la rural. En la actualidad, el debate puede decirse que está en números rojos, porque si bien de manera internacional existe un índice de pobreza multidimensional “favorable”, que es el dato que tanto el gobierno cubano como los medios de comunicación estatales reconocen y promueven, por otra parte, economistas cubanos, organizaciones no gubernamentales y estudiosos de la temática consideran que los índices de pobreza en Cuba son alarmantes. El problema concreto es cómo interpretar los datos que se están brindando por las dos partes de la discusión: se hace evidente que los que brinda el gobierno de la isla son sumamente incompletos, y al mismo tiempo, los que advierten la otra parte, están fragmentados debido a que sus muestras son muy pequeñas y en ocasiones se realizan cálculos aproximados.
Fenómenos emergentes del periodismo nacido digital de América Latina
Authors:   Universidad La Salle Bajío, México, Hugo Reyna Victor , Celecia Pérez Cosette ,   Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, México
Published: November 2023

Este número especial de la revista Virtualis llama a estudiosas y estudiosos del periodismo de América Latina a someter contribuciones sobre los fenómenos emergentes del periodismo nacido digital de la región, con énfasis en sus dimensiones culturales, económicas, laborales y sociales. Recibimos manuscritos de corte conceptual o empírico, centrados en casos nacionales o parte de estudios comparativos de un alcance mayor, que asistan a mejorar nuestro entendimiento sobre las implicaciones de las transformaciones introducidas por el periodismo nacido digital en las esferas públicas nacionales y transnacionales de América Latina.
Access to Justice for Women Litigants in Family Courts Vis-à-Vis Prospect of a Virtual Court System: A Post-Pandemic Study With Special Reference to the Family Court in Ahmedabad District of Gujarat, India
Authors: Saxena Parkhi
Published: November 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has deeply affected the way Indian courts function and has disrupted the normal course of adjudication. While the higher judicial bodies in India such as the Supreme Court and High Courts were quick to adapt to the new norm, this was not the case for the courts at the lower rung of the hierarchy. Family Courts, where matrimonial disputes related to adoption, maintenance and divorce are adjudicated, was not an exception to this. Lockdown halted physical hearings which impacted recourse to access of Court and facilities provided to litigants. Prolonged lockdown periods have led to the suspension of case hearings which has led to several hassles for both the women litigants seeking alimony and maintenance in matrimonial cases, as well as the registered advocates practising before the family courts. The fate of these cases, along with the pending cases in family courts, remains undecided. This is a very worrisome situation, especially for women litigants whose survival depends upon the speedy resolution of cases. Through this research paper, the researcher aims to explore the current scenario at the family courts of India and the level of severity of pending cases which might have hampered the justice delivery mechanism through analysis of statistics and interviews with stakeholders. This paper also aims to navigate the possibilities of introducing a virtual court system in India in order to help the litigants who faced financial and other losses during the suspension of court hearings.
Sexual Abuse against Male Children and the Related National Practices and International Legal Obligation of Nepal
Authors: Sapkota Smriti
Published: November 2023

Nepal has aimed to prevent and protect children from all forms of violence, abuse, and exploitation by adopting a broad range of national laws, rules, regulations, and policies along with the international legal commitments. However, these rights are frequently violated. Sexual abuse against male children and pedophilia are rising issues of child sexual abuse that have remained a hidden phenomenon over the years. This paper is thus an endeavor to study the sexual abuse against male children via the pedophilic character of offenders in the context of Nepal. By adopting key informant interview methods, assessing national and international legal practices, and collecting information from the secondary sources; this paper examines the relationship among child sexual abuse and pedophilia, the sociological aspects of male child sexual victimization, and the modus operandi to cause abuse. In addition, this research delves into analyzing Nepal’s existing legal commitments to address sexual abuse in the international arena and the legal challenges Nepal is explicitly facing in addressing male child sexual abuse via pedophilia. The paper assesses the roles of various stakeholders in standing together to vigorously address this issue.
GENEL KOMPLO TEORİLERİNE İNANMA ÖLÇEĞİNİN TÜRKÇE’YE UYARLANMASI
Authors: TAM Mehmet Sinan
Published: November 2023

Yalan/yanlış bilgilere inanma eğilimi ve bunların belli bir zaman sonra da gerçek olarak kabul edilmesi şeklinde tanımlanabilecek olan komplo teorileri, modern zamanların en büyük sosyo-politik sorunlarından birini oluşturmaktadır. Öyle ki bu durum hakikatin yitimi kadar, hakikatin ortaya çıkması halinde bile ona inanma eğilimini dahi zedeleyebilmektedir. Bu perspektiften hareketle yapılan bu çalışmada; Türk kültürü özelinde yaygın olarak kabul edilen komplo teorilerinin keşfedilmesi hedeflenmiştir. Araştırmada 18 yaş ve üstü bireylerin komplo teorilerine yönelik inanma eğilimleri, Brotherton ve arkadaşları (2013) tarafından geliştirilen “Genel Komplo Teorilerine İnanma Ölçeği” üzerinden Türkçeye uyarlanması ve geçerlik ve güvenirlik çalışmasının yapılması amaçlanmıştır. Nicel yöntemle yapılan bu çalışmada, basit tesadüfi örneklem tekniğiyle ulaşılan 549 kişiden online anket verisi toplanmıştır. Yapılan analizler sonucunda orijinal ölçekte yer alan bir faktör yükü dışındaki (kişisel refah) faktör yapılarının, Türk kültürü özelinde de gözlendiği ortaya çıkmıştır. Dahası orijinal ölçekte yer alan 55 maddelik komplo teorileri, Türk kültüründe 19’a düşmüştür. Bu durum Hofstede’nin kültürel boyut teorisi çerçevesiyle ilişkilendirilmiştir. Yapılan çalışmanın literatür taramasında komplo teorilerine yönelik Türkçe ölçeklerin KOVİD-19 ile ilişkili bir biçimde alana kazandırıldığı saptanmıştır. Bunun dışında yer alan çalışmalarınsa ölçek uyarlama süreçlerine riayet edilmeden salt anlamda maddelerin Türkçeye çevirilerek yapıldığı gözlemlenmiştir. Çalışma bu yönüyle alanyazında yer alan komplo teorileri çalışmalarından farklılaşmaktadır. Öte yandan araştırmada bireylerin karakterlerinin komplo teorilerine inanmada belirleyici olmadığı fakat cinsiyet, politik kimlik ve haber alma kanallarındaki farklılıkların komplo teorilerine inanmada öne çıktığı görülmüştür. Araştırma; Türk akademisine yeni bir ölçeğin kazandırmanın yanı sıra, son yıllarda ülkemizde gerek politika gerekse gündelik yaşamda çokça dillendirilen dezenformasyon, misenformasyon ve post-truth söylemlere olan ilişkisi noktasında da öne çıkmaktadır.
Diplomasi Tarihi Açısından Türkiye- Cezayir İlişkileri
Authors: HADJİ Aymene , İNAÇ Hüsamettin
Published: November 2023

Yumuşak gücün ve bunun devletlerin dış politikası üzerindeki etkisinin incelenmesi, yönetim ve etki araçlarını ve gücün geleneksel olmayan tezahürlerine ilgi duyma ihtiyacının ortaya çıktığı, baskı ve zorlamanın alternatif algılarının ortaya çıktığı dış politikaların yönünü anlamada özel bir yere sahiptir. Esas olarak devletin bu seçenek aracılığıyla bölgesel ve uluslararası çevresini etkileyebilmesi için ikna ve korkutma üzerine kuruludur. Bu çalışma ile Türkiye-Cezayir ilişkileri yolundaki bu önermeyi ve Türk-Cezayir siyasi eyleminin yumuşak gücün gerçek çıkarımlarıyla ne ölçüde uyumlu olduğunu ve jeopolitik özelliklerin Türk dış politikasının uygulanmasında ve yumuşak gücün aracı olarak kullanılması üzerindeki etkisini araştırmayı hedefliyoruz. Ki Cezayir ile ilişkilerini güçlendirmek için sert güç yerine yumuşak güç kullanma stratejisini izledi.
Programa de comunicación sobre sexualidad segura en adolescentes
Authors: Peñafiel Salazar Dayanara de los Ángeles , Guerrero Vaca Darío Javier , López Proaño Glenis Florangel , Naranjo Herrera Juan Carlos , Lluguay Quispillo Shirley Morelia
Published: November 2023

Introducción: En Ecuador, el ministerio de Salud Pública se ha preocupado por el incremento de infecciones de trasmisión sexual (ITs), embarazos no planificados (ENp) y abortos clandestinos (AC) en adolescentes. Entre las principales causas de estos problemas está la información errónea que reciben los adolescentes. Objetivo: Desarrollar conocimiento integro sobre sexualidad segura y que funcione como factor protector frente a las ITs, ENp o AC entre adolescentes. Metodología: Estudio de intervención a través de un programa comunicacional, utilizando estrategias educativas. La muestra estuvo conformada por 173 adolescentes: 78 hombres y 95 mujeres. Se aplicó como instrumento de exploración pre y pos-intervención una encuesta para evaluar conocimiento. El programa de educación se ejecutó durante dos meses con una periodicidad de una vez por semana. Resultados: El programa de comunicación permitió mejorar los conocimientos en temas específicos como la sexualidad segura, proyección de etapas y cambios en la adolescencia, embarazos planificados, métodos anticonceptivos y deberes y derechos sexuales y reproductivos. Conclusiones: El presente material podría aportar de manera positiva en los y las adolescentes para llevar una sexualidad segura y, en consecuencia, podría disminuir drásticamente las ITs, ENp y AC.
Conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas en salud sexual y reproductiva de adolescentes de colegios del cantón Guano
Authors: Inca Ruiz Gerardo Patricio , León Insuasti Mayra Carola , Padilla Buñay Susana , Bonilla González Gladys Patricia , Lara de Costales Rosa Elena
Published: November 2023

Introducción: La adolescencia es una etapa importante en el desarrollo humano, en la cual se establecen muchas característias físicas y piscológicas que perdurarán para toda la vida. Una de estas características se relaciona con la sexualidad, que aún es tratado como tabú, y no se habla directamente , así los y las adolescentes consiguen información equivocada, que les conducen a tomar decisiones que marcarán sus vidas. Con la intención de intervenir en este tema, se realizó un primer diagnóstico con el objetivo: de obtener información sobre conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas de los estudiantes de 7 unidades educativas del Cantón Guano, que se encuentren entre los 10 y 19 años, par lo cual metodológicamente se realizó un estudio observacional, transveral, utilizando una encuesta que se autoaplicaron los estudiantes con el acompañamiento de los investigadores, destacando como resultados: 716 encuestas, de las cuales que el 88.41% manifestaron que desearían hablar de sexualidad; que la educación sexual impartida en las unidades educativas estaba más centrada en temas de anatomía, fisiología y anticoncepción y carecen de un enfoque integral. A pesar de que el 67.74% de los encuestados conocían sobre anticonceptivos, únicamente 37,84% de los que tenían vida sexual activa utilizaban algún método. El 75.98% de los encuestados consideraba que el hombre debe ser cabeza del hogar. Conclusiones: es necesario implementar una proceso de educación de la sexualidad con enfoque integral, en el que se involucren docentes y representantes de los estudiantes, con la finalidad de que los adolescentes puedan tomar decisiones informadas sobres su vida sexual y reproductiva, modificando algunos patrones sociales que le permitan ocupar a las mujeres su lugar en la sociedad.
Estrategias de marketing para prevenir los desórdenes alimenticios en los estudiantes de la ESPOCH.
Authors: Haro Sosa Giovanny Lenin , Ávalos Pérez Miguel Ángel , Haro Ávalos Diego Alexander , Chávez García Elsita Margoth
Published: November 2023

Introducción: El presente estudio aborda los patrones de comportamiento de los estudiantes que conlleva a un desorden alimenticio y es cada vez más frecuente entre adolescentes y adultos jóvenes lo que trae graves consecuencias físicas, psicológicas e incluso llevar a la muerte, identificando sus principales causas y tipos de desórdenes alimentarios haciendo hincapié en la prevención con la utilización de estrategias de marketing incentivando y promoviendo una correcta salud alimentaria. Objetivo: Explicar el comportamiento y las prácticas alimenticias de los estudiantes de la Espoch que provoca trastornos alimenticios. Metodología: El estudio es descriptivo, observacional y transversal, en el que se seleccionó una muestra no aleatoria a conveniencia, conformada por 273 estudiantes politécnicos. Resultados: Los principales factores del desorden alimenticio son la falta de tiempo, la carga horaria excesiva, saltarse las comidas, alimentarse de forma poco nutritiva, tener un estado anímico bajo, ansiedad o estrés que se presentan comúnmente por diversas razones económicas, amorosas, sociales o familiares. Conclusiones: La prevalencia de trastornos alimentarios en el grupo estudiado es significativamente baja. Las mujeres tienen mayor grado de distorsión que los hombres, especialmente en la sobreestimación de la autoimagen.
Bebida a base de extracto de cabuyo (Agave americana)
Authors: Rodríguez Cervantes Edison Geovany , Perugachi Benalcázar Ivonne Alexaida , Velásquez Calderón Claudia Amparo , Arroyo Vega Katya Samantha , Martínez Patiño Joselyn Milena
Published: November 2023

Introducción: En la actualidad la alimentación juega un papel fundamental dentro de la salud, existen un sin número de enfermedades como la diabetes mellitus con prevalencias crecientes en el Ecuador. Desarrollar nuevos productos que ayuden a prevenir este tipo de enfermedades es sin duda un tema en innovación que la academia debe abordar. El extracto de cabuyo por su alto contenido de fructooligosacáridos, es considerado como un alimento funcional prebiótico, adecuado para mantener una buena salud con dieta natural. Objetivo:  Diseño de una bebida a base de extracto de cabuyo (Agave americana) con bajo índice glicémico. Metodología:  Se realizó un estudio cuantitativo, con diseño experimental factorial. Se propuso cuatro tratamientos, cuyos factores fueron las cantidades de extracto de cabuyo y pulpa de maracuyá. Resultados:  El análisis ANOVA realizado a las variables carbohidratos, pH y grados brix, dio como resultado diferencias estadísticamente significativas (p valor p < 0.01) entre los tratamientos.  El tratamiento dos, elaborado con extracto de 75% cabuyo y 25% pulpa de maracuyá fue el que obtuvo los mejores resultados en la comparación de perfiles de sabor, obteniendo una buena aceptación. Conclusión: Se diseño una bebida a base de extracto de cabuyo que reemplazó el azúcar obteniendo un producto funcional apto para el consumo de personas diabéticas y para la prevención de la enfermedad en personas sanas.
Chagas Disease, A Review of the Literature
Authors:   Department of Surgery, Hospital de Especialidades, Centro Médico Nacional de Occidente, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Guadalajara, Jalisco, México., Arciniega Karen Denis Gómez , Castellón Ramsés Erwin López ,   Department of Surgery, Hospital General de Zona No. 1, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Villa de Alvarez, Colima, México.
Published: November 2023

Chagas disease is a vector-borne (triatomine) infection caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. Synonyms for this disease are: American trypanosomiasis, Chagas disease and T. cruzi infection. 10, 5 The most common form of transmission of Chagas disease is through hematophagous triatomine insects (triatominae), which develop in dwellings in precarious conditions, The disease can also be transmitted by blood transfusion, organ transplantation, oral and congenital routes, and even more rarely by exceptional routes such as sexual contact and non-Triatominae vectors. American Trypanosomiasis is endemic in much of Mexico, Central and South America 1,11. it is estimated that ~6 million individuals are infected throughout Latin America, while ~300,000 are infected in the U.S.1, 10, 11,16 Chagas disease has two clearly differentiated phases. Initially, the acute phase lasts about two months after infection, they may have a skin lesion or a purplish swelling of an eyelid, they may have fever, headache, enlarged lymph nodes, pallor, muscle aches, shortness of breath, swelling, and abdominal or chest pain. During the chronic phase, the infection can cause sudden death due to cardiac arrhythmias or progressive heart failure due to destruction of the cardiac muscle and its innervations. 15 Appropriate diagnostics for acute infection, nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT) from blood is recommended; For chronic infection, serological testing is employed. Antitrypanosomal agents, benznidazole and nifurtimox, have shown efficacy in treating T. cruzi infection, The most serious complication is chronic chagasic heart disease, since it is the main cause of death in sick patients. 16
Aortic Aneurysms, an Angiological Overview
Authors:   Hospital general de zona 5, IMSS, Nogales., Balderrama Conde Jesús Francisco , Valdez García Jesús Salvador ,   Hospital general de zona 5, IMSS, Nogales., Córdova Luis Fernando Pacheco ,   Hospital general de zona 5, IMSS, Nogales., Fernandez Cesar Antonio Martinez ,   Hospital general de zona 5, IMSS, Nogales.
Published: November 2023

Aortic aneurysms represent a critical cardiovascular condition characterized by a localized, abnormal dilation of the aorta, presenting a significant risk of rupture and subsequent morbidity and mortality. This review article explores the angiological approach to aortic aneurysms, encompassing epidemiology, classifications, risk factors, complications, and the nuances of angiological management. Through an in-depth examination of these elements, this review aims to provide comprehensive insights into the management of aortic aneurysms, highlighting key considerations and strategies in clinical practice.
Investigating the Supply Chain Logistic Issues for SMEs Service Quality in Pakistan
Authors:   School of Economics and Management, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, PR China, Abdul Daud , Asif Khan Muhammad ,   School of Economics and Management, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China
Published: November 2023

Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are more adaptable because of their size and straightforward structure; they will be better able to take advantage of changes and innovation. SMEs are common in the nation and have significantly increased Pakistan’s GDP. To achieve and guarantee these SMEs’ effective performance, they must improve the quality of their services. For this reason, the current study has looked into the significance of Supply Chain Integration (SCI). The present research has adopted a “quantitative research design” to conduct the study. Concerning the research framework, the independent variable is supplying chain logistic issues that impact SME service quality through the mediation of supply chain integration. There are two methods adopted for the data analysis. Firstly, the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) is employed for the demographic outcomes. Secondly, regression, reliability and validity analysis are carried through the Structural Equation Model (SEM). The results of the study indicated the six linkages. Firstly, the association of High Cost of Information Technology (HCI) positively impacts Coordination and collaboration. Secondly, Quality Logistic Personnel (QLP) is positively and significantly associated with Commitment and competence. Thirdly, HCI indicated a positive link with Coordination and collaboration. Fourthly, QLP expresses a positive and significant relationship with Coordination and collaboration. Fifthly, QLP demonstrated a positive and significant association with Creativeness and customisation. Finally, QLP showed insignificant negative results with Coordination and collaboration. The present study holds greater significance in this regard. The study provides valuable insights to the employees or workforce of SME businesses to supervise or rationally monitor their supply chain performance. The service quality of SMEs has been measured through commitment and competence, creativity and customization, and coordination & collaboration of sales logistic personnel.
Assessment of Pesticide Residues in Vegetables Commonly Consumed in The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): Inadequate Agricultural Practices and Potential Impacts for Public Health
Authors:   Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry and Environmental Toxicology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, DR Congo, Tuakuila J K , Ndelo P M ,   Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bio-pharmaceutical and food Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, DR Congo
Published: November 2023

Pesticides residues in food pose a serious risk to children and adults consuming pesticide-contaminated food. The aim of present study was to assess pesticide residues in vegetables in the Kinshasa and Lubumbashi cities of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The levels of three pesticide residues were determined by gas chromatography coupled with electron capture detector (ECD) or mass spectrometer-time of flight detector (GC–ECD or GC-MS-TOF) in 96 samples of four vegetables amaranth, spinach, sorrel and sweet potato-leaves purchased from wholesale markets. The Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane with its metabolites (3-DDTs), endosulfan and malathion residues were found in 100% of the vegetable samples from Lubumbashi and in 62.5% to 87.5% of all vegetable samples from Kinshasa. Risks were mainly associated with the residues of DDTs pesticides in vegetables. The HQ and HI estimations revealed a serious potential risk to consumers, children particularly. Due to multiple pesticide residues exceeding the MRLs for single residue levels, the consumers are exposed to pesticides, heavily in Lubumbashi. Due to increasing trend in pesticide use, continuous monitoring of pesticide residues in vegetables and other food is recommended in order to develop the base line data on which pesticide regulations could be enhanced in DRC.
Probabilities, Energy and Time
Authors:   Independent Researcher, USA, Barbee Gene H
Published: November 2023

There is a strange situation in fundamental physics regarding time. Well respected physicists [Julian Barbour for example] point out that quantum mechanical equations are only cyclical with time. But common sense indicates that elapsed time also exists. This is just one disconnect between fundamentals and observations. Observation is based on probabilities, but the values are obscure. Protons, neutrons and electrons are inverse time (E=hv=h/t) but where does time originate? A theory is needed that connects probabilities, energy and time.
nteractive Effects of Tillage and Mulch Type on Soil and Crop Canopy Temperature and Yield of Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor, L)
Authors: Hungwe Edmore , Makuvaro Veronica , Masaka Johnson , Gwazane Munyaradzi
Published: November 2023

This paper investigates the interactive effects that tillage and mulch types have on soil and crop canopy temperature and the subsequent influence on final grain yields of a sorghum (Sorghum bicolor var rakodzi) crop stand. Two experimental sites, one farmer managed, and the other researcher managed were established in Mbire District of Mashonaland West Province in Zimbabwe during the 2020/2021 Zimbabwean farming season. A 3x4 factorial experiment laid in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications, was conducted to investigate the hypothesis that tillage and mulch have no effect on soil and crop canopy temperatures. Significant interactions (P<0.05) occurred between mulch and tillage types to influence canopy temperature at critical stages oflate vegetative and grain filling at 25 and 75 days after sowing, respectively. Mulch and tillage types also interacted significantly (p<0.05) at critical stages of booting and grain filling at 50 and 75 days after sowing respectively to subsequently influence final grain yield. Sorghum straw used as mulch in raised beds resulted in the highest grain yields of 2.89 tons Ha-1. Conversely, lowest grain yields were realized from raised beds with no mulch as 1.89 tons Ha-1. Thus, it was established that tillage and mulch can interact to affect both crop canopy and soil temperature at crop critical stages that will in turn impact on crop final grain yields. Farmers in the semi-arid regions of Zimbabwe are encouraged to be cognisant of this interactive effect tomaximise sorghum crop productivity.
Duties of the Malang District General Election Supervisory agency in enforcingthe 2019 Electoral Law
Authors: Gwijangge Seri , Ngarawula Bonaventura , Sapto Adi Dodot
Published: November 2023

Indonesia adheres to a democratic government system, from the people by the people and back to the people. Democracy is inseparable from General Elections, where the people can freely support candidates who they think are capable of managing and carrying out the duties of the State. According to Law Number 7 of 2017 concerning General Elections, general election supervision is carried out by the General Election Supervisory Agency. Prevention by the Election Supervisory Agency so that violations do not occur is also expected to be a factor in holding a clean, honest and fair general election. This study aimsto identify and describe the duties of the General Election Supervisory Agency of Malang Regency in Enforcing the Law of the 2019 local leaders election, as well as the driving and inhibiting factors concerning the theory of public policy implementation and the concept of the role of the Election Supervisory Agency. This research uses a descriptive qualitative approach. Data from observations, interviews and documentation are analyzed through condensation, presentation and drawing conclusions or verification. The study results show that implementing regional elections in Malang Regency still leaves irregularities in finding general election violations, both those found directly by the election supervisory agency and reports from various elements of society. In reports and findings, there are general election violations from civil servants, village heads and the community generally in the form of money politics violations direct campaigns from village heads and civil servants. In this way, the local leaders election in Malang Regency in 2019 still leaves a little homework to maximize supervision further.
Comparative Analysis of the Impact of Oil Price Shocks on Selected Macroeconomic Variables in Angola and Libya
Authors: Abayomi Awujola , Obumneke Ezie , Nwafor Chidi Patrick , Aiyedogbon Johi-Curis
Published: November 2023

Purpose: This study comparatively examines the impact of oil price shocks on five selected macroeconomic variables in two African oil-producing countries, Angola and Libya, using secondary data from 1983 to 2021.

Materials and Methods: We adopted a causal-comparative/Quasi-Experimental research design to infer cause-and-effect relationships. The structural vector error correction model (SVECM) was employed due to the advantage of cointegrated variables in both countries.

Findings: The empirical analysis reveals that the response to and significance of oil price shocks are somewhat similar in the two countries, with a significant positive and persistent effect on oil prices and real economic output. However, other macro variables responded insignificantly to oil price shocks, albeit with varying signs. Based on the empirical analysis, we conclude that while oil price shocks have a significant and lasting positive impact on oil prices and real economic output in both countries studied, their influence on other macroeconomic variables is relatively insignificant, though these variables exhibit varying responses. Hence, to mitigate the risks associated with oil price shocks and reduce dependency on oil revenues, we recommend that Angola and Libya diversify their economies by investing in non-oil sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and renewable energy.

Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Furthermore, we recommend the implementation of macroeconomic stabilization policies to reduce vulnerability to oil price shocks. Fiscal measures, such as establishing sovereign wealth funds to save excess oil revenues during high oil price periods, can stabilize the economy during low oil price periods. Monetary policies, including interest rate adjustments, can counteract inflationary or deflationary pressures resulting from oil price shocks.
Health Risk Assessment of Pollutant Emissions from Coal-fired Power Plant: A Case Study in Malaysia
Authors: Kamarudin Mohd Shahril , Zermane Abderrahim , Mohd Nizam Ong Nur Aliah Fatin , Ab Rasid Noorazmin , Masuri Shafizah , Mohd Tohir Mohd Zahirasri
Published: November 2023

Coal-fired power plants (CFPPs) are Malaysia’s primary electricity source, but their emissions adversely affect human health, organism growth, climate change, and the environment. The carbon, hydrogen, and sulphur content of coal make it a viable option for electricity generation. However, the by-products from leaching, volatilisation, melting, decomposition, oxidation, hydration, and other chemical reactions significantly negatively impact the environment and human health. This study aims to quantify the emissions from a coal-fired power plant, investigate the interplay between different emissions, simulate the dispersion of emissions, and assess their health impact through a health risk assessment. The results indicate that SO2 is the primary contributor to emissions and its impact on human health is a concern. The health effects, both chronic and acute, are more pronounced in children than in adults. This study combines real-time emissions data and simulations to assess emissions’ health impact, raising awareness about the emissions from coal-fired power plants. Furthermore, the findings can potentially enhance working conditions for employees and promote environmental health.
An Attribute-based Data Privacy Classification Through the Bayesian Theorem to Raise Awareness in Public Data Sharing Activity
Authors: Abdul Aziz Nur Aziana Azwani , Hussin Masnida , Salim Nur Raidah
Published: November 2023

The growth of the digital era with diverse existing electronic platforms offers information sharing and leads to the realization of a culture of knowledge. Vast amounts of data and information can be reached anywhere at any time, fingertips away. These data are public because people are willing to share them on digital platforms like social media. It should be noted that not all information is supposed to be made public; some is supposed to be kept private or confidential. However, people always misunderstand and are misled about which data needs to be secured and which can be shared. We proposed an attribute-based data privacy classification model using a Naïve Bayesian classifier in this work. It aims to identify and classify metadata (attributes) commonly accessible on digital platforms. We classified the attributes that had been collected into three privacy classes. Each class represents a level of data privacy in terms of its risk of breach. The public (respondent) is determined according to different ages to gather their perspective on the unclassified attribute data. The input from the survey is then used in the Naïve Bayesian classifier to formulate data weights. Then, the sorted privacy data in the class is sent back to the respondent to get their agreement on the class of attributes. We compare our approach with another classifier approach. The result shows fewer conflicting reactions from the respondents to our approach. This study could make the public aware of the importance of disclosing their information on open digital platforms.
Intraoperative Wound Irrigation for Prevention of Surgical Site Infections After Abdominal Surgery
Authors: Maryam Hameed  , Muhammad Nazim Khan  , Irmaghana Basharat  , Fahad Mudassar Hameed  , Umar Fayyaz Ghani  , Nauman Anwar Rana
Published: November 2023

Objectives: To compare the frequency of surgical site infections after abdominal surgery with and without intraoperative irrigation of the surgical wounds.

Methodology: This randomized controlled trial was performed in general surgery department, PAF Hospital, Islamabad from 10th August 2022 to 9th May 2023. A total of 520 patients undergoing abdominal surgeries of any gender between the ages of 15–70 years were included. Patients were randomly divided in two groups on the basis of non-probability, consecutive sampling. The participants included in the group-A did not receive any intraoperative wound irrigation. The participants in the Group-B received intraoperative wound irrigation with antiseptic solution i.e., povidone-iodine in solution. Each patient was followed up respectively on 7th, 21st and 30th days postoperatively to observe surgical site infection. Chi square test was applied to compare SSI percentage between two groups. P-value of less than 0.05 was taken as significant.

Results: Mean age was 39.87±6.93 years in group-A and 37.67±7.56 years in Group-B. Out of 520 patients, 344 (66.15%) were males and 176 (33.85%) were females. Surgical site infection after abdominal surgery without intraoperative irrigation was found to be 34 (13.08%) and surgical site infection after abdominal surgery with intraoperative irrigation was 12 (4.62%), hence statistically significant (p-value = 0.0007).

Conclusion: This study concluded that intraoperative wound irrigation is effective to prevent the surgical site infections after abdominal surgery.