bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioética Sistêmica no Contexto da Humanização:
Authors: Salgado Rita Cassia Falleiro
Published: September 2023

O propósito deste artigo é apresentar a proposta para Bioética Sistêmica e trazer à reflexão as teorias sob as quais o termo foi fundamentado, contribuindo para reflexão e práxis bioética. Busca-se responder à questão: como abordar dilemas bioéticos fundamentados somente em um determinado paradigma? Para tanto discute-se através de autores os fundamentos da Bioética, da Teoria dos Sistemas e do pensamento Complexo que a permeia. O estudo elege como objetivo geral: analisar e apresentar fundamentos teóricos para a proposta do paradigma da Bioética Sistêmica, no contexto da humanização em ciências da saúde. Foram selecionados dois objetivos específicos: correlacionar conhecimentos de fundamentação Bioética e Teoria dos Sistemas; delinear o esboço para o paradigma da Bioética Sistêmica. Quanto à metodologia, a pesquisa é teórica, de cunho bibliográfico e documental, sendo exploratória e descritiva, utilizando-se da abordagem qualitativa, com a finalidade de compreender, discutir e descrever os temas propostos, contemplando os objetivos elencados, justificados por se tratar de um aprofundamento teórico a partir de tese defendida pelo autor anteriormente. A revisão bibliográfica e análise de dados foram feitos nas bases do Portal de Periódicos da Capes, Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) e Biblioteca Virtual da Saúde (BVS), tendo sido utilizados como descritores os termos: bioética sistêmica, pesquisado nos últimos 10 anos, (2011 à 2020). Não foram encontradas publicações com os termos pesquisados, o que nos leva a considerar esta proposta como uma temática inédita, embora autores utilizem os vocábulos separadamente. A Bioética Sistêmica propõe a concepção das “partes para o todo”, confirmando sua origem teórica e ressignificando o slogan do pensamento sistêmico de que “o todo é mais do que a soma de suas partes”.
saúde e a espiritualidade sapiencial em diálogo com o pensamento do Papa Francisco
Authors: Brechó da Silva Nelson Maria , Antonio Delfino Claudio
Published: September 2023

O presente artigo procura analisar a saúde e a espiritualidade na abordagem narrativa da tradição sapiencial e de sua ligação com a perspectiva do cuidado no pensamento do Papa Francisco. Por essa razão, busca-se, por um lado, uma análise de Eclesiástico 30,14-20, que traz a importância do corpo sadio, por meio de uma formação sapiencial saudável na prática da Lei pelo temor do Senhor. Nesse sentido, a saúde e a espiritualidade caminham juntas em vista da sabedoria. Por outro, as ambiguidades do paradigma tecnocrático em detrimento à saúde e à espiritualidade na visão do Papa Francisco. Apontam-se a passagem da Laudato Si’ acerca do paradigma tecnocrático e o trecho da Fratelli Tutti sobre a deterioração da ética. A tecnologia pode contribuir para que a pessoa possa atingir mais pessoas em vista da caridade. Contudo, é preciso discernir sobre a sua utilização para não substituir a vida da pessoa. A sabedoria criadora de Deus pode iluminar a inteligência humana em vista de uma sociedade comprometida pela vivência da saúde e da espiritualidade com o olhar de esperança e o testemunho pela fé, a fim de curar as feridas proporcionadas pela desigualdade entre as pessoas.
esporte e a igreja católica
Authors: Astra van Amstel Narayana , Marchi Júnior Wanderley
Published: September 2023

Com mais de um bilhão de católicos ao redor do planeta, a Igreja Católica Apostólica Romana orienta seus fiéis a como agir em relação a si mesmos e à vida em sociedade. Essa orientação abrange todas as áreas da vida, inclusive a esfera esportiva. Fenômeno de proporções cada vez maiores na contemporaneidade, o esporte ainda não havia sido abordado pela Igreja em um documento que orientasse com clareza os católicos nas questões morais e espirituais do universo esportivo. Isso mudou em 2018, com a publicação do texto “Dar o melhor de si”, por meio do Dicastério para os Leigos, a Família e a Vida. Esse documento versa sobre a concepção de esporte da Igreja e reconhece sua função pastoral, além de ser um meio de promoção da saúde, integração social, educação, entre outros. Nesta pesquisa, apresentamos os principais ensinamentos da Igreja sobre os temas contemporâneos do esporte, em vista de estabelecer uma possível ética católica do esporte, e como ela pode vir a influenciar os fiéis a repensarem e se readequarem perante o universo esportivo. Ficou demonstrado, pelas argumentações apresentadas pelo documento, uma Igreja que se posiciona na defesa de um esporte à serviço do ser humano. Além disso, visualiza no esporte, em suas diferentes manifestações, um espaço com ricas possibilidades para atuação pastoral.
Teologia, Direitos Fundamentais e Pandemia
Authors: Sanches Mário Antonio , Souza Waldir
Published: September 2023

Não se aplica.
REWARDING AND SUCCESS OF INFORMATION SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
Authors: Todorović Boris , Todorović Marija
Published: September 2023

The purpose of the research is to determine the causes of failure of information systems development projects. We came to the hypothesis that rewarding can improve the success of information systems development projects. For this reason, it is suggested that employment contracts be tied to business results. Extrinsic and intrinsic rewards are a good motivator that affects the improvement of employee performance, i.e. increases productivity, business results and job satisfaction and contributes to increasing the success of information systems development projects. Designers and managers of information systems development projects who participated in the research, gave their views on the impact of rewards on the success of the information systems development project in response to survey questions. The attitudes were evaluated on a five-point Likert scales. We obtained additional data based on conversations with managers and designers who deal with the development of information systems. Through the research design, we determined an independent variable related to the employment contract based on business results, which is the basis for the application of various forms of remuneration, and a dependent variable related to the success of the information systems development project. The main findings of the research are related to the definition of the contract between the owner on the one hand and managers and designers on the other hand, which solves the problems of opportunistic behavior of managers and designers of information systems development project. In addition, the factors of extrinsic and intrinsic rewards that are most often used to motivate managers and designers of information systems development are defined. The practical implications of the research refer to the benefits that the company owner, managers and designers of the information systems development will have. They will receive the best model of employment contract for employees working on the development of an information systems project. In addition, they will receive information about the views of designers and project managers related to reward factors that improve the success of the information systems development project. The originality of the research refers to the creation of a model that links the work contract based on business results with reward factors that help to increase the success of the information systems development project.
THE IMPACT OF CURRENCY DEPRECIATION ON EXPORTS: AN AUTOREGRESSIVE DISTRIBUTED LAG APPROACH FOR TURKISH LIRA
Authors: Onur Ari Yılmaz
Published: September 2023

Turkey experienced many economic crises during the 90s and 2000s, and international trade activities changed drastically as the Turkish currency “Lira” fluctuated severely. The Turkish lira has depreciated rapidly against foreign currencies in recent years, affecting Turkey’s international trade activities. The research uses Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) bounds testing to investigate the effect of the Turkish Lira depreciation on Turkish exports from 1990 to 2020. The findings suggest that the exchange rate is related to exports in both short and long run. In contrast, the inflation rate has a negative and insignificant long run influence on exports, but a negative and significant short run effect. Furthermore, imports have a negative and insignificant impact in the long run, while exports have a positive and significant effect in the short run. In the long run, the deposit interest rate is positive but insignificant at 1 percent and 5 percent significance levels. These results suggest that Turkey should produce its intermediate goods in anticipation of the high exchange rate and export highvalue- added technology-intensive products to eliminate the dependency of Turkey’s exports on imports.
FUNCTIONAL CORRELATION BETWEEN BANK ASSETS AND INSURED DEPOSITS IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – THE PERSPECTIVE OF THE DEPOSIT INSURANCE FUND
Authors: Krunić Gorana
Published: September 2023

The projection of insured deposits level in banks is of the key importance for the financial planning of the Deposit Insurance Fund as an integral part of the deposit insurance system. On the one hand, in a situation when banks fail, Deposit Insurance Fund are used for payouts of insured deposits in those banks or for financing processes of resolution such banks, which represents a real outflow of the Fund. On the other hand, the main regular inflows into the Deposit Insurance Fund are realized from insurance premiums which, as a rule, are calculated on the basis of insured deposits in all banks. The research problem posed in this paper is how to predict changes in the level of insured deposits in banks, that is, how this level in banks changes in relation to the total assets of the banking sector. The research covered the period from 2009 to 2021. The level of insured deposits in banks was set as the dependent variable and the level of bank assets was set as the independent variable. The research was conducted on the banks operating in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The research confirmed the significant conditionality of the growth of insured deposits with the growth of the bank assets, and also opened up some new directions for further research in terms of the influence of other elements on the financial planning of the Deposit Insurance Fund and the presence of moral hazard in the banking sector.
Partitioning to ordered membrane domains regulates the kinetics of secretory traffic
Authors: Castello-Serrano Ivan , Heberle Frederick A , Diaz-Rohrer Barbara , Ippolito Rossana , Shurer Carolyn R , Lujan Pablo , Campelo Felix , Levental Kandice R , Levental Ilya
Published: September 2023

The organelles of eukaryotic cells maintain distinct protein and lipid compositions required for their specific functions. The mechanisms by which many of these components are sorted to their specific locations remain unknown. While some motifs mediating subcellular protein localization have been identified, many membrane proteins and most membrane lipids lack known sorting determinants. A putative mechanism for sorting of membrane components is based on membrane domains known as lipid rafts, which are laterally segregated nanoscopic assemblies of specific lipids and proteins. To assess the role of such domains in the secretory pathway, we applied a robust tool for synchronized secretory protein traffic (RUSH, Retention Using Selective Hooks) to protein constructs with defined affinity for raft phases. These constructs consist solely of single-pass transmembrane domains (TMDs) and, lacking other sorting determinants, constitute probes for membrane domain-mediated trafficking. We find that while raft affinity can be sufficient for steady-state PM localization, it is not sufficient for rapid exit from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), which is instead mediated by a short cytosolic peptide motif. In contrast, we find that Golgi exit kinetics are highly dependent on raft affinity, with raft preferring probes exiting the Golgi ~2.5-fold faster than probes with minimal raft affinity. We rationalize these observations with a kinetic model of secretory trafficking, wherein Golgi export can be facilitated by protein association with raft domains. These observations support a role for raft-like membrane domains in the secretory pathway and establish an experimental paradigm for dissecting its underlying machinery.
Partitioning to ordered membrane domains regulates the kinetics of secretory traffic
Authors: Castello-Serrano Ivan , Heberle Fred A. , Diaz-Rohrer Barbara , Ippolito Rossana , Shurer Carolyn R. , Lujan Pablo , Campelo Felix , Levental Kandice R. , Levental Ilya
Published: September 2023

The organelles of eukaryotic cells maintain distinct protein and lipid compositions required for their specific functions. The mechanisms by which many of these components are sorted to their specific locations remain unknown. While some motifs mediating subcellular protein localization have been identified, many membrane proteins and most membrane lipids lack known sorting determinants. A putative mechanism for sorting of membrane components is based on membrane domains known as lipid rafts, which are laterally segregated nanoscopic assemblies of specific lipids and proteins. To assess the role of such domains in the secretory pathway, we applied a robust tool for synchronized secretory protein traffic (RUSH, R etention U sing S elective H ooks) to protein constructs with defined affinity for raft phases. These constructs consist solely of single-pass transmembrane domains (TMDs) and, lacking other sorting determinants, constitute probes for membrane domain-mediated trafficking. We find that while raft affinity can be sufficient for steady-state PM localization, it is not sufficient for rapid exit from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), which is instead mediated by a short cytosolic peptide motif. In contrast, we find that Golgi exit kinetics are highly dependent on raft affinity, with raft preferring probes exiting Golgi ∼2.5-fold faster than probes with minimal raft affinity. We rationalize these observations with a kinetic model of secretory trafficking, wherein Golgi export can be facilitated by protein association with raft domains. These observations support a role for raft-like membrane domains in the secretory pathway and establish an experimental paradigm for dissecting its underlying machinery.
Åarjelsaemien gïele goh dïhte jillemes uralske gïele jïh akte gieltegs dotkemeobjeekte
Authors: Ylikoski Jussi
Published: September 2023

The article discusses the role and importance of South Saami, the westernmost language of the westernmost branch of the Uralic language family, in Saami, Uralic as well as general typological linguistics. It briefly summarizes the origins of the South Saami language and discusses some of the most prominent characteristic features of the language in its Saami and Scandinavian contexts. Special attention is given to three phenomena: 1) the so-called relation forms of nouns, etymologically related to the comparative marking of adjectives, but synchronically reminiscent of markers of definiteness and possession; 2) differential object marking with as many as three distinct morphological cases (accusative, nominative and elative); and 3) the nature and origins of the auxiliary verb edtjedh ‘shall’, possibly a degrammaticalization of the Proto-Saami potential mood marker.
Matrilineal phylogeny and habitat suitability of the endangered spotted pond turtle (Geoclemys hamiltonii; Testudines: Geoemydidae): a two-dimensional approach to forecasting future conservation consequences
Authors: Kundu Shantanu , Mukherjee Tanoy , Kamalakannan Manokaran , Barhadiya Gaurav , Ghosh Chirashree , Kim Hyun-Woo
Published: September 2023

The spotted pond turtle (Geoclemys hamiltonii) is a threatened and less explored species endemic to Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan. To infer structural variation and matrilineal phylogenetic interpretation, the present research decoded the mitogenome of G. hamiltonii (16,509 bp) using next-generation sequencing technology. The mitogenome comprises 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNAs (tRNAs), two ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs), and one AT-rich control region (CR) with similar strand symmetry in vertebrates. The ATG was identified as a start codon in most of the PCGs except Cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (cox1), which started with the GTG codon. The non-coding CR of G. hamiltonii was determined to have a unique structure and variation in different domains and stem-loop secondary structure as compared with other Batagurinae species. The PCGs-based Bayesian phylogeny inferred strong monophyletic support for all Batagurinae species and confirmed the sister relationship of G. hamiltonii with Pangshura and Batagur taxa. We recommend generating more mitogenomic data for other Batagurinae species to confirm their population structure and evolutionary relationships. In addition, the present study aims to infer the habitat suitability and habitat quality of G. hamiltonii in its global distribution, both in the present and future climatic scenarios. We identify that only 58,542 km2 (7.16%) of the total range extent (817,341 km2) is suitable for this species, along with the fragmented habitats in both the eastern and western ranges. Comparative habitat quality assessment suggests the level of patch shape in the western range is higher (71.3%) compared to the eastern range. Our results suggest a massive decline of approximately 65.73% to 70.31% and 70.53% to 75.30% under ssp245 and ssp585 future scenarios, respectively, for the years between 2021–2040 and 2061–2080 compared with the current distribution. The present study indicates that proper conservation management requires greater attention to the causes and solutions to the fragmented distribution and safeguarding of this endangered species in the Indus, Ganges, and Brahmaputra (IGB) river basins.
Effect of pore size distribution of aggregates on the thermal and mechanical behavior of lightweight aggregate concrete
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Escuela de Ingeniería, Figueroa Cofré Camilo Iván
Published: September 2023

El hormigón es el material más utilizado en la construcción a nivel mundial. Sin embargo, su alta conductividad térmica dificulta a las envolventes de hormigón cumplir con las normativas térmicas. La incorporación de agregados livianos al hormigón mejora su comportamiento térmico, pero un reduce su desempeño mecánico. La mayoría de las investigaciones de hormigones livianos consideran solo la materialidad y proporción de sus componentes en la evaluación de conductividad térmica y resistencia a compresión. No obstante, estas propiedades también dependen de la distribución de tamaño de poros contenida en los agregados, donde estos agregados representan hasta un 80% del volumen del hormigón. Esta tesis se enfoca en evaluar el efecto de la distribución de tamaño de poros sobre las propiedades térmicas y mecánicas del hormigón con agregados livianos utilizando un nuevo modelo térmico y mecánico (LWAC-TMM) basado en el método de elementos finitos. El modelo térmico utiliza la ley de Fourier, mientras que el mecánico usa la ley de Hooke y la superficie de fluencia de Drucker-Prager. La validación muestra que el modelo estima adecuadamente la conductividad térmica, módulo de Young y resistencia a compresión de materiales porosos compuestos. Respecto a la influencia de la distribución de tamaño de poros sobre la conductividad térmica, el efecto es insignificante, cambiando 1.4% al disminuir el tamaño promedio de poros de 161 a 25 μm en hormigones con 53.2% de porosidad. Sin embargo, para el mismo cambio de tamaño promedio de poros la resistencia a compresión aumentó 30.8%. La distribución del tamaño de poros afecta en mayor medida al comportamiento mecánico que al térmico en este rango de porosidad. Dicha diferencia se explica por el efecto de tortuosidad y cantidad de caminos a través de los cuales fluye el calor entre los poros. El trabajo futuro debería evaluar menores tamaños de poros, asociados a un mejor desempeño mecánico, así como mejorar las propiedades térmicas a través de la optimización de distribuciones de tamaño y localización de poros.
Evaluación de tecnologías sanitarias (ETESA) aplicada a los dispositivos médicos : recomendaciones para Chile : un scoping review
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Escuela de Medicina, López Gutiérrez María Cecilia
Published: September 2023

Introducción: En un contexto donde la cobertura universal en salud (CUS) se ha vuelto una prioridad y los recursos son limitados, la evaluación de tecnologías sanitarias (ETESA) se propone como una herramienta para generar decisiones de cobertura en salud más transparentes y basadas en la evidencia. Se define como un campo multidisciplinario de análisis que estudia las repercusiones técnicas, éticas, sociales y económicas de una tecnología determinada, como un dispositivo médico (DM) o un medicamento, así como su efectividad clínica. Aún cuando los medicamentos y los DMs poseen similitudes, se diferencian en varios aspectos, como la diversidad y constante innovación de estos últimos. Procesos de toma de decisiones de cobertura de DMs en Chile, que consideran algunos elementos de ETESA, como la evaluación de evidencia clínica, a través de la Ley Ricarte Soto, no consideran pautas específicas para este tipo de tecnologías. Consecuentemente, el objetivo de esta investigación fue proponer recomendaciones para una guía de ETESA aplicada a los DMs. Método: se realizó una investigación bibliográfica basada en la técnica de scoping review respecto a los aspectos clave de los métodos de la ETESA aplicada a los DMs. Resultados: dos aspectos clave, de amplio consenso en la literatura internacional, son la evidencia clínica limitada y la curva de aprendizaje de los DMs, que a su vez se identificaron como unos de los principales desafíos con respecto a la evidencia científica necesaria para la evaluación clínica y económica en la ETESA, y que también reflejan la necesidad de adaptar los marcos de valor existentes. Discusión y Conclusiones: la ETESA aplicada a los DMs constituye un desafío para las diferentes partes interesadas involucradas en el proceso de evaluación y de decisiones de cobertura de estas tecnologías. La evidencia clínica limitada de los DMs fue el principal aspecto discutido en la literatura, para lo cual se recomienda el uso de evidencia del mundo real y considerar opciones de cobertura condicional, como la cobertura con desarrollo de evidencia (CED). La falta de consideración de los desafíos planteados puede generar una estimación inadecuada de la eficacia, efectividad, seguridad y costo-efectividad del DM.
Development of self-education motivation for students using time management techniques in primary and high school teachers
Authors: Rani Ridhi , Radhakrishnan R , Sable Anita , Srinivas Ved , Prasad KDV
Published: September 2023

Objective: The objective of the study is to measure the time management techniques on development of self-education and motivation for students and high school teachers Theoretical framework: The existing time management motivation models and theoretical frameworks were used assess the impact of time management on motivation of school teachers and students Method: The study employed empirical research gathering the data using a structured questionnaire from the respondents. The data were analyzed using SPSS ver 28 to gather practical insights of the study. The statistical techniques like estimation of reliability using Cronbach’s alpha, regression analysis and assessing data normalcy were employed. The primary quantitative method has been adopted in this study, and the data were gathered from sixty-five respondents the teachers of a CBSE schools in and around Hyderabad and the collected data were analyzed using SPSS Ver. 28. The tests of multiple regression, descriptive statistics and demographic analysis have been carried out on the responses from the 65 participants. Results and conclusion: The results indicated that data were normal and all the four study variables motivation, performance, self-regulated learning and self-efficacy are impacting the time management. Students are more likely to get encouraged to learn mainly when they are curious about their learning topic. Learners or educators can help to grow interested by offering them interesting opportunities to explore more new things. It has been noted that providing students with daily basis or regular feedback can help them to track their progress and performance and thus, they can identify the areas in which they need to improve their performance. Implications: The authors presents the results of how time management can motivate the students in self-education and  how time management techniques are increasing self-education motivation for students. Effective time management techniques can be essential for a student as they will help them to handle more subjects, tests, projects, as well as extra curriculum activities. It has been observed that learners who feel guided and always supported are more prone to stay focused in any kind of situation, and can easily overcome any risks.  Originality/value: The empirical research compliments to the existing knowledge specially focusing on time management and its effect on motivation of students and teachers in schools. The study offers practical aspects of time management and provides valuable perspectives in near future to address the time management related issues in the schools.
Valoração de patentes com aplicação do markup: meta-síntese do estado da arte
Authors: Souza Diego Silva , Dos Santos Mario Jorge Campos , Silva Cleo Clayton Santos , Ramos Thiago de Menezes
Published: September 2023

Pode-se considerar que a valoração é uma etapa essencial para o processo de negociação de qualquer ativo, pois esta etapa pode fornecer referências e limites para precificação. Neste contexto, pode-se afirmar que sem tal etapa, não é possível fazer uma negociação com parâmetros fidedignos e aceitáveis de rentabilidade. Assim, considerando uma abordagem de valoração baseada no custo, para o caso das patentes, há se observar a necessidade se acompanhar e monitor os custos históricos relacionados ao desenvolvimento do invento, bem como os custos relacionados à manutenção desta junto ao INPI. Nessa perspectiva, este artigo tem o objetivo geral de analisar o estado da arte atual da valoração de patentes, identificando se já é aplicado o markup para valoração na abordagem baseada no custo. Para tanto, foram identificadas, através de uma revisão sistemática, ao nível de meta-síntese, os objetivos e possíveis lacunas nos estudos de publicações relacionados à valoração de patentes baseada no custo. Ao final, inferiu-se, de forma dedutiva, que não existe no estado da arte nenhuma publicação que ateste ou demonstre a aplicação do markup na valoração de patentes. De forma complementar, verificou-se também através do perfil das publicações, que estas estão relacionadas a produtos de pesquisas de programas de Pós-graduação Strictu Sensu (Mestrado e Doutorado).
Effect and Impact of Obesity on Outcome and Complications of COVID-19: A Narrative Review
Authors: Damodharan N , Priyadharshini A , Arunshankar P , Varsha R , Thomas Aleen Ann
Published: September 2023

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a viral disease caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARSCoV-2) that triggered a global pandemic back in 2019 and was primarily found to affect the respiratory system which continues its devastating effect across nations. Obesity is already a pre-existing modern-day complication, the root causes for which are largely attributed to the contemporary lifestyle. Many severe cases of COVID-19 in obese patients were reported globally which sparked many theories relating the two as some of their clinical manifestations are closely related. This review aims at providing the possible links between the two providing an idea based on which future research could be carried out since both these diseases tend to affect multiple organs, thus producing profound detrimental effects.
Association between Q192R Polymorphism of Paraoxonase-1 Gene and Risk of Coronary Artery Disease: A Case-control Study
Authors: Kaur Harleen , Kaur Jaskiran , Mohan Gurinder , Sharma Nishant , Kukreja Sahiba
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a complex metabolic disorder in which lifestyle and genetic factors are known to play key roles in pathogenesis. Extensive studies have examined the role of Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) polymorphisms as genetic markers of CAD. However, the evidence regarding their role in the aetiology of CAD remains contradictory. Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the genotypic/ allelic frequency of the Q192R polymorphism of the PON1 gene and its association with the risk of CAD. Materials and Methods: A case-control study was conducted at the Department of Biochemistry in collaboration with the Department of Medicine, Sri Guru Ram Das Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Amritsar, Punjab, India, from November 2019 to December 2022. A total of 100 participants were divided into two groups: group I (CAD patients) and group II (healthy controls) to investigate the association between the Q192R polymorphism and CAD risk. The genotypic and allelic frequencies of the Q192R polymorphism of the PON1 gene and its association with CAD were determined using Polymerase Chain Reaction and Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP), followed by 2% agarose gel electrophoresis. The data were statistically analysed using the Chi-square test. Results: There were a total of 50 participants in each group (29 males and 21 females), with a mean age of 47.02±8.79 years in group I and 37.70±7.29 years in group II (p-value<0.001). The present study confirmed that individuals with QR+RR genotype compared to QQ genotype (OR: 2.47; 95% CI: 1.10-5.55; p-value=0.03) of the Q192R polymorphism were associated with an increased risk of CAD. A higher frequency of the RR genotype of the Q192R polymorphism was detected in CAD patients, and it was associated with a 3-fold increased risk of developing CAD (p-value<0.05). However, the difference between QR versus QQ genotypes {Odds Ratio (OR): 2.13; 95% CI: 0.89-5.12, p-value=0.09} was found to be statistically insignificant. Furthermore, a significantly higher frequency of the R allele was observed in CAD patients compared to controls (OR 2.12, 95% CI: 1.18-3.84, p-value=0.01). Conclusion: In conclusion, the Q192R polymorphism of the PON1 gene was associated with an increased risk of CAD in the Punjabi population. The results confirmed that the presence of the R allele was associated with an increased risk of CAD.
Impact of Different Types of Bikes on Post-ride Pain and Insights into Strategies Adopted by Recreational Cyclists from Gurugram to Alleviate Pain: A Cross-sectional Survey
Authors: Gupta Aparna , Kalra Sheetal
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Non-traumatic injuries are prevalent among longdistance cyclists. However, there is a lack of studies analysing the impact of different types of bikes on the pain experienced by cyclists or the physiotherapy measures commonly adopted by cyclists post-ride. Aim: To understand the impact of different types of bikes on the pain experienced by cyclists and to identify the physiotherapeutic measures commonly adopted by Indian cyclists. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 120 cyclists (94 males and 26 females) from three different cycling groups in Gurugram, Haryana, India. Data was collected from August 2022 to September 2022. A selfstructured questionnaire was used to collect information on sociodemographic profile, type of bike used, duration of cycling, average distance and speed covered, areas and types of pain experienced, and measures taken to address pain. The data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0. The level of significance was set at p≤0.05. Data was presented as frequencies and percentages, and comparisons were made using Kruskal-Wallis and Chi-square tests. Results: The mean age of the study participants was 39.36±11.88 years. The average speed and distance covered in one ride were 22.52±4.73 km/hour and 43.50±15.32 km, respectively. A statistically significant association between the type of bike used and pain status (p<0.05) was observed. 65% of riders reported experiencing pain in some part of their body in the last six months. Pain was more prevalent among hybrid bike users compared to mountain and road bike users. Male cyclists had a faster average speed compared to female cyclists by 5 km/hour. The average distance covered by male and female cyclists was similar, with just a 1 km difference. Cyclists commonly experienced pain in the wrists, legs, back, and neck. 19.1% of riders did nothing or only rested to address pain, while 21.66% opted for muscle stretching, 9.16% engaged in exercises, and 3.33% used cycling gloves for wrist and hand pain. Other measures included transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), dry needling, icing, refitting or changing the bike, and taking supplements. Conclusion: Among different types of bikes, hybrid bike users showed a higher incidence of pain. Cyclists in Gurugram tend to utilise limited physiotherapy measures to alleviate pain and enhance performance.
Long COVID-19 Syndrome and its Effects on Various Systems: A Narrative Review
Authors: Bhurani Naved , Umate Roshan , Umate Seema
Published: September 2023

Since December 2019, the Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) outbreak has led to a pandemic, causing suffering worldwide. Among the survivors of COVID-19, a second type of pandemic is observed in individuals experiencing long-term effects, known as long COVID-19 or post COVID-19 syndrome. This condition occurs when people who have recovered from COVID-19 continue to experience symptoms or develop new ones after a month or more. The exacerbation of symptoms can be attributed to various factors, including psychological, social, or biological causes, all of which contribute to the development of this condition. Although COVID-19 was first discovered a few years ago, its impact on a large population is still not fully understood. As the disease affects multiple organ systems, its effects persist even after the virus is cleared from the body, resulting in a significant number of individuals who continue to suffer from it. Therefore, this review focuses on the long-term effects of COVID-19 as post COVID-19 syndrome.
Effect of Adopting Agricultural Technology on Farm Income of Commercial Vegetable Growers in Bagamati Province of Nepal
Authors: Poudel Srijana , Panta Hari Krishna , Thapa Sulochana , Dhakal Chuda Prasad , Regmi Kamal
Published: September 2023

Improved agricultural technologies are being promoted among commercial vegetable growers to improve yield and income in Nepal. However, the rate of adoption of agricultural technologies is low. This study aims to assess the magnitude of the adoption of selected agricultural technologies and their effect on farm income in Bagamati Province, Nepal. We adopted a multi-stage sampling method and surveyed 180 randomly selected households. We used multiple ordinary least square regression model to measure the effect of the adoption of agricultural technology on farm income in the study area. The results indicate that the most adopted technologies in the study area are improved varieties, mini tillers, sprayers, water pumps, and integrated pest management whereas the least adopted are plastic tunnel, drip irrigation, agriculture mobile application, plastic mulching, and rainwater harvesting. Few households have adopted more technologies. The results also revealed that if the number of technology adopted increases by one unit, the farm income increases by 20.6%. This is significant at the 1% level. The result showed that farm size (p=0.008), and membership in farmer’s group/cooperative (p=0.01) also have a significant positive impact on farm income. Promoting broader adoption of appropriate technologies among farmers helps to boost income generation. Policymakers and stakeholders are suggested to encourage technology adoption among commercial vegetable growers through training, access to inputs and technologies, and organizing them in groups or cooperatives.
Proximate Assessment and Pasting Properties of Gluten-Free and Refined Wheat Flour
Authors: Maurya Shivbilas , Shukla S. S. , Mahajan K. C. , Sahu B. L.
Published: September 2023

The present study focused on the nutritional evaluation and pasting properties of gluten-free and refined wheat flour. Gluten-free kodo and kutki flour and refined wheat flour were used as raw materials for the experiment. Nutritional content was estimated using an Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) approved method of analysis. The pasting properties of flour samples were determined with a Rapid Visco Analyzer (RVA). Results of the nutritional analysis of gluten-free flours indicated higher mineral content in kodo, followed by kutki and refined wheat flour, while ash content was highest for kodo flour and lowest for wheat flour among the investigated flours. The higher amount of protein, minerals, biomolecule components, and high fiber content in millet flour makes it a good alternative among other flours to develop millet-fortified, healthier food products. The higher peak viscosity observed for kutki compared to kodo and wheat flour may be due to the lower protein content and higher ash content present in kodo flour. The final viscosities ranged from 2186 to 6453 cP, with the highest for kutki flour, followed by kodo and refined wheat flour. FV increases significantly with an increase in protein and fat content. The greater breakdown viscosity was found for kutki flour, followed by kodo and refined wheat flour, indicating that kutki flour has a low ability to withstand shear stress and heat. Lower setback values indicate a low rate of starch retro gradation and synerisis in refined wheat flour. The greater pasting temperature was shown by kutki flour, depicting the higher energy and time required for cooking and correlating with higher amylose content.
Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome in Late Middle-Aged Man: Clinico-Radiological Findings
Authors: Kumar Krishna , Lavanya  , Kumar Anil , Senthilnathan
Published: September 2023

Superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS) rarely causes duodenal obstruction by compression of the third part of duodenum between aorta & superior mesenteric artery (SMA).Clinical diagnosis and radiological features play crucial role in the diagnosis of SMAS. Majority of the patients diagnosed with SMAS are managed conservatively and surgery done for cases not responding to medical treatment. Here in we report a male aged 55 years, presenting with acute recurrent abdominal pain associated with vomiting, diagnosed to have SMAS who underwent surgical correction and describe the clinical and radiological findings.
Effects of Zingiber officinale and Seeds of Aframomum melegueta Extract on Some Biochemical and Immunological Indices of Electric Foot Shock Stress-Induced Wistar Rats
Authors: Nwarienne Chiamaka Maryann , Igbokwe Gabriel Ejike , Ikwuka David Chibuike , Ezugwu Uchenna Modestus , Ngobidi Kerian Chigozie
Published: September 2023

Stress in general captures the process that individuals experience when environmental demands exceed the capacity of an individual, there is consistent evidence that stress is associated with a variety of negative health outcomes which happens through a variety of mechanisms. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Zingiber officinale and the seeds of Aframomum melegueta extracts on some biochemical and immunological indices of electric foot shock stress-induced Wistar rats. Forty-five Wistar rats were randomized into nine groups (A-I) of five rats per group. Group A served as standard control and was not induced with electric shock, group B served as negative control hence they were induced and untreated, group C served as the positive control and was administered 2.9 mg/kg magnesium while groups D and E were administered 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight of Zingiber officinale extract and groups F and G were administered 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight of Aframomum melegueta extract respectively, while co extract of Z. officinale and A. melegueta was administered to group H and I at a dose of 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight respectively. At the end of the experimental period, the animals were sacrificed and the sera obtained were used for bioassay analysis. There was a significant decrease (P<0.05) in the cortisol levels of extract-treated groups from week 1 (2.56±0.55 µg/dl) to week 4 (1.85±0.30 µg/dl) compared to the untreated group (3.98±0.69 µg/dl) (week 1) and (8.57±1.31 µg/dl) (week 4) as well as the kidney function test. The liver function test revealed a significant decrease in liver biomarkers (Alanine Aminotransferase, Aspartate Aminotransferase, Alkaline Phosphatase, direct bilirubin,  and total bilirubin) in the extract-treated groups compared to the untreated control group.                   The extract of the plants impacted the White blood cell and its differentials while there was a significant decrease in the C-reactive protein in the extract-treated group (2.38±0.22 mg/l) compared to the untreated control (9.93±1.50 mg/l). The findings from this research showed that the extracts of Z. officinale and A. melegueta affects some biochemical and immunological parameters and hence could serve as a potential therapeutic agent to fight against stress and its related disorders.
Information Communication Technology Tools for Animal Husbandry Technology Dissemination
Authors: Nirmala T. Vijaya , George Anu , Jiji R. S. , Mohan Subin K. , Reddy A. Devivaraprasad , Geetha R. , Joseph Biya Ann
Published: September 2023

In the Indian economy, the livestock sector contributes 4.9% of the overall GDP, accounting for around 30.13 per cent of the country's agricultural GDP. India has the worlds largest livestock population, but the average animal productivity is low; yet demand for livestock products is rising steadily, and customers’ awareness of quality has also increased. Therefore, it is necessary to refocus the production system by figuring out what information cattle farmers currently need. The animal husbandry department can only meet some livestock farmers' information needs. A multi-stakeholder online network across the livestock value chain is required to meet these information needs. Systems with ICT capabilities are better suited to deal with these problems. Radio, television, mobile, fixed, computer and network hardware and software, satellite systems, and video conferencing are all considered part of information and communication technology (ICT), a broad term covering any communication device or application. These include delivering information in the form of audio, data, video, and images, among other things. It is very beneficial for boosting the economy, creating jobs, developing rural areas, and reducing poverty. In modern times, ICT has become essential to the development of cattle. This article discusses using ICT technologies to spread animal husbandry technology among Indian farmers.
Fostering a Culture of Voluntary Tax Compliance among the Construction Contractors; Drivers and Barriers at Firm and Policy Level
Authors: Jayalath Chandana , Wijebandara Pawani
Published: September 2023

Effective tax money collection is crucial for any modern sphere of economic development. This research explores the unique challenges faced by construction contractors in meeting tax obligations and the factors that drive their compliance behavior. The study investigates the reasons behind noncompliance, including factors such as complex tax codes, financial constraints, inadequate knowledge and understanding of tax requirements, and perceived unfairness in the tax system. Additionally, the research explores factors that can encourage contractors to voluntarily comply with tax obligations, such as the benefits of maintaining a good reputation, avoiding penalties, and accessing government incentives. A literature survey was undertaken to identify drivers and barriers behind voluntary tax compliance. A questionnaire was piloted on five (5) senior construction practitioners those who have more than 25 years working experience to establish the appropriateness of the questions and alleviate the inconsistencies, if any. A structured questionnaire survey was subsequently carried out to test the reality on the ground. Based on the findings, the study suggests 13 key determinants inspiring voluntary tax compliance, 8 drivers that effectively encourage voluntary tax compliance and 19 reasons behind tax evasion in the construction industry. By addressing these drivers and barriers, this research aims to foster a tax system that enhances voluntary compliance at two tiers namely, firm and policy.
Critical Care Physician Takes on Climate Change in New WHO Role
Authors: Abbasi Jennifer
Published: September 2023

This Medical News article is an interview with Vanessa Kerry, MD, MSc, the World Health Organization’s first-ever Special Envoy for Climate Change and Health.
Acquired Melanocytic Nevi Mimicking Acral Lentiginous Melanoma in a Patient Taking a BRAF Inhibitor
Authors: Nazir Zaeem H. , Haliasos Helen C. , Busam Klaus J. , Marchetti Michael A. , Linos Konstantinos , Marghoob Ashfaq A.
Published: September 2023

This case report describes a patient in their 60s with metastatic colon cancer who developed multiple new dark nevi within 2 months of initiating encorafenib and panitumumab therapy.
Comparison of two optimization algorithms (VOLOTM, SEQU) for CyberKnife® treatment of acoustic neuromas, lung metastases, and liver metastases
Authors: Thiele Martin , Galonske Kirsten , Ernst Iris
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Two optimization algorithms VOLO™ and sequential optimization algorithm (SEQU) are compared in the Precision® treatment planning system from Accuray® for stereotactic radiosurgery and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) treatment plans. The aim is to compare the two algorithms to assess if VOLO™ is better of SEQU in certain treatment site.

Materials and Methods

Sixty clinical treatment cases were compared. Entities include Acoustic neuroma (AN), lung metastases, and liver metastases. In each entity, 10 SEQU and 10 VOLO™ treatment plans were optimized. The Ray‐Tracing calculation algorithm was used for all treatment plans and the treatments were planned exclusively with fixed cones (5–50 mm). The number of nodes, beams, total MU, and treatment time were compared. Conformity index (CI), new conformity index (nCI), homogeneity index (HI), gradient index (GI), and target coverage were examined for agreement. Dmin, Dmean, Dmax, D100%, D98%, and D2% dose in the target volume as well as exposure to organs at risk was checked. To determine peripheral doses, the isodose volumes from V10% to V98% were evaluated.

Results

AN treatment plans showed significant differences for the number of nodes, beams, total MU, treatment time, D98%, D100% for the target volume, and the doses for all organs at risk. VOLO™ achieved better results on average. Total MU, treatment time, coverage, and D98% are significantly better for VOLO™ for lung metastases. For liver metastases, a significant reduction in number of nodes, total MU, and treatment time was observed for VOLO™ plans. The mean target coverage increased slightly with VOLO™, while the mean CI deteriorated slightly. The averages of Dmin, Dmean, D98%, D100%, and V80% resulted in a significant increase for VOLO™.

Conclusion

The results of the present study indicate that VOLO™ should be used in place of SEQU as a standard for AN cases moving forward. Despite the lack of significance in the lung and liver cases, VOLO™ optimization is recommended because OAR sparing was similar, but coverage, Dmin, and Dmean were increased, and thus better tumor control can be expected.