bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a modular Decubitus Prophylaxis System: DekuProSys
Authors: Gallinger Simon , Jankowski Natalie , Bister Milena , Korge Sandra , Trachterna Astrid , Hildebrand Stefan , Oruc Tamer , Niewöhner Jörg , Heitman Urte , Downes Robert , Kraft Marc
Published: September 2019

Pressure ulcers (decubiti) are one of the most frequent side effects in the palliative care setting. Terminally ill and dying people have multiple comorbidities resulting in a high risk to develop pressure ulcers. These skin lesions are caused by pressure, friction and shearing forces in combination with several risk factors (e.g. moisture, tissue condition). People of all ages with reduced activity can suffer from decubitus ulcers. In palliative care, the treatment of symptoms to ensure the highest possible quality of life is of primary importance. Ethical controversies and difficult decision-making often lead to uncertainties and burdens for caregivers, patients and relatives. In the DekuProSys project, a decubitus prophylaxis system for inpatient and outpatient palliative care of people of all ages is being developed. The system will assist caregivers in patient care in multiple ways. It will capture and report risk factors for decubitus, assist at decision making and documentation. Furthermore, it will provide care information and instruction if needed. Aiming for an innovative and useful solution, the project follows a user-centered and interdisciplinary approach.
Controlled biodegradation of metallic biomaterials by plasma polymer coatings using hexamethyldisiloxane and allylamine monomers
Authors: Teske Michael , Wulf Katharina , Fink Joschka , Brietzke Andreas , Arbeiter Daniela , Eickner Thomas , Senz Volkmar , Grabow Niels , Illner Sabine
Published: September 2019

Plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition is a promising process for the generation of tailor-made polymer coatings on medical devices in order to improve their implant/ host interaction. The ultra-thin coatings can fulfil a variety of purposes, depending on the monomers used, the process conditions and the location of the coated implants in the human body. In addition, even complex geometries can be coated easily and without the application of solvents. Particularly hydrophilic and hydrophobic plasma polymer coatings can improve biocompatibility, especially in blood contact. Furthermore, the selection of the monomers used enables the generation of specific functional groups for further surface immobilization of drugs, such as proteins, by chemical crosslinking. The release of toxic residues from polymeric implants, such as monomers, additives or degraded components, can also be avoided. The aim of our investigation was the generation of plasma polymer films, their characterization and application as coatings for biodegradable metallic biomaterials in order to retard the degradation process. Metallic biomaterials, in various forms are frequently used in orthopaedics, dentistry, cardiovascular and neurosurgical equipment, because of their tensile strength, fracture toughness, fatigue strength and electrical conductivity. Plasma polymerization was performed using the monomers hexamethyldisiloxane and allylamine. The resulting plasma polymers were analysed in an accelerated degradation test. Both plasma polymers appear to be promising, while polyHMDSO appears to degrade over time and polyallylamine indicates to be stable.
Safety evaluation of resveratrol as an active compound for drug-eluting cardiovascular implants
Authors: Khaimov Valeria , Reske Thomas , Matschegewski Claudia , Grabow Niels , Eickner Thomas
Published: September 2019

Resveratrol is a member of stilbenoids with promising anti-atherosclerotic properties. This hallmark makes it an extremely interesting candidate for local drug delivery to damaged tissue adjacent to the implant in order to reduce implant-related complications. For the regulatory approval drug-eluting medical devices have to be thoroughly tested for safety, efficacy and interactions with the surrounding tissue, including tests for sensitization among others. Studies for sensitization help to estimate the risk for an allergic reaction upon prolonged exposure to a chemical compound. Due to increased social and regulatory demand for replacement of animal experiments by in vitro approaches a number of reliable predictive non-animal tests have been developed. Here, we assessed the skin sensitization potential of resveratrol by the direct peptide reactivity assay (DPRA), one of the first non-animal tests adopted by the OECD.
Kinematics of the Lumbo–Pelvic Complex under Different Loading Conditions
Authors: Weidling Martin , Voigt Christian , Wendler Toni , Heilemann Martin , Werner Michael , Jarvers Jan-Sven , Heyde Christoph-E.
Published: September 2019

The lumbo-pelvic complex is a highly complex structural system. The current investigation aims to identify the kinematics between interacting bone segments under different loading conditions. A specimen of the lumbo-pelvic complex was obtained from a human body donor and tested in a self-developed test rig. The experimental setup was designed to imitate extension, flexion, right and left lateral bending and axial rotation to the left and to the right, respectively. The vertebra L3 was firmly embedded and load was introduced via hip joints. Using a digital image correlation (DIC) system, the 3D motions of 15 markers at different landmarks were measured for each loadcase under cyclic loading. For each loadcase, the kinematics were analyzed in terms of three-dimensional relative movements between L3 and the sacrum. The usefulness of the experimental technique was demonstrated. It may serve for further biomechanical investigations of relative motion of sacroiliac and vertebral joints and deformation of bony structures.
Quantitative Imaging of the Iron-Oxide Nanoparticle- Concentration for Magnetic Drug Targeting Employing Inverse Magnetomotive Ultrasound
Authors: Fink Michael , Lyer Stefan , Alexiou Christoph , Rupitsch Stefan J. , Ermert Helmut
Published: September 2019

Magnetomotive Ultrasound is an imaging technique that is capable to detect tissue, which is perfused by magnetic nanoparticles. However, this modality is restricted to qualitative imaging only. Therefore, we present an extended Magnetomotive Ultrasound algorithm, which allows the quantitative determination of the spatial distribution of magnetic nanoparticle density in tissue. The algorithm is based on an iterative adjustment of simulated data to measurements. Experiments with tissue-mimicking phantoms reveal that the presented method leads to the spatial particle concentration in the correct order of magnitude.
Probabilistic Estimation of Human Interaction Needs in Context of a Robotic Assistance in Geriatrics
Authors: Philipp Patrick , Bommersheim Marie , Robert Sebastian , Beyerer Jürgen
Published: September 2019

The key purpose of assistance robots is to help people coping with work-related or everyday tasks. To ensure an intuitive and effective support by an assistance robot, its expectation conform behavior is essential. In particular, when using assistance robots in geriatrics to assist elderly patients, special attention to the human-robot interaction should be paid. In order to help elderly patients maintain their independence and abilities as much as possible, the robot should only intervene when its support is needed. Therefore, the continuous estimation of the patient’s need for interaction is of particular importance. For enabling suitable models to estimate this need, we elaborate the use of Bayesian Networks. The analysis of our results seems promising, yielding a robust and practical approach.
Universal LIMS based platform for the automated processing of cell-based assays
Authors: Schmieder Florian , Polk Christoph , Gottlöber Felix , Schöps Patrick , Sonntag Frank , Deuse Ronny , Jede Aline , Petzold Thomas
Published: September 2019

Nowadays, cell-based assays are an elementary tool for diagnostics, animal-free substance testing and basic research. Depending on the application, the spectrum ranges from simple static cell cultures in microtiter plates to dynamic co-cultures in complex micro physiological systems (organ-on-a-chip). Depending on the complexity of the assay, numerous working steps have to be performed and the data from different analysis systems have to be processed, combined and documented. A universal platform has been developed for the automated handling of cell-based assays, which combines a laboratory information management system (LIMS) with a laboratory execution system (LES), a universal laboratory automation platform and established laboratory equipment. The LIMS handles the administration of all laboratory-relevant information, the planning, control and monitoring of laboratory processes, as well as the direct and qualified processing of raw data. Using a kidney-on-achip system as an example, the realization of complex cellbased assays for the animal-free characterization of the toxicity of different antibiotics will be demonstrated. In the kidney-on-a-chip system the artificial proximal tubular barrier was formed by seeding human immortalized proximal tubule cells (RPTEC) and human blood outgrowth endothelial cells (BOEC) on ThinCert™ membranes. Transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) was measured daily to evaluate the barrier function of the cellular layers. Fluid handling and TEER measurements were performed using a laboratory automation platform that communicates directly with the LIMS. The LES supports laboratory assistants in executing the manual handling steps of the experiments.
Identification of factors influencing insertion characteristics of cochlear implant electrode carriers
Authors: Hügl Silke , Aldag Nina , Lenarz Thomas , Rau Thomas S. , Becker Alexander , Glasmacher Birgit
Published: September 2019

Insertion studies in artificial cochlea models (aCM) are used for the analysis of insertion characteristics of different cochlear implant electrode carrier (EC) designs by measuring insertion forces. These forces are summed forces due to the measuring position which is directly underneath the aCM. The current hypothesis is that they include dynamic friction forces during the insertion process and the forces needed to bend an initially straight EC into the curved form of the aCM. For the purposes of the present study, straight EC substitutes with a constant diameter of 0.7 mm and 20.5 mm intracochlear length were fabricated out of silicone in two versions with different stiffness by varying the number of embedded wires. The EC substitutes were inserted into three different models made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), each model showing only one constant radius. Three different insertion speeds were used (0.11 / 0.4 / 1.6 mm/s) with an automated insertion test bench. For each parameter combination (curvature, speed, stiffness) twelve insertions were conducted. Measurements included six full insertions and six paused insertions. Paused insertions include a ten second paused time interval without further insertion movement each five millimetres. Measurements showed that dynamic and static components of the measured summed forces can be identified. Dynamic force components increase with increased insertion speeds and also with increased stiffness of the EC substitutes. Both force components decrease with larger radius of the PTFE model. After the insertion, the EC substitutes showed a curved shape, which indicates a plastic deformation of the embedded wires due to the insertion into the curved models. The results can be used for further research on an analytical model to predict the insertions forces of a specific combination of selected parameters as insertion speed and type of EC, combined with given factors such as cochlear geometry.
Characterization of a measurement setup for the thermomechanical characterization of curved shape memory alloy actuators
Authors: Suzaly Nuha , Keller Marie Christina , Hügl Silke , Lenarz Thomas , Rau Thomas S. , Karsten Elvira
Published: September 2019

The bend and free recovery (BFR) test according to ASTM F2082 is a standard method to determine the transition temperatures of Nitinol shape memory alloys (SMAs). Unfortunately, this standard method is limited to SMA wires which are straight in its trained shape. Thus, the standard BFR test is not suitable for thermomechanical characterization of curved Nitinol SMA wires which should serve as actuators in cochlear implants in future. We developed a modified BFR measurement setup to determine the active austenite finish (AF) temperature of these very thin wires (Ø100 μm). The active AF temperature specifies the completion of the shape recovery upon heating. A parametric study of the measurement setup was carried out to investigate the influence of the heating rate on the observed active AF temperature and to verify the repeatability of the measurement setup. First, the curved wire was straightened in a cold water bath before inserting it into a water bath that is gradually heated from 5 °C to 45 °C. The shape change of the previously straightened wire was then recorded throughout the experiment using a digital microscope. Five different heating rates were employed: 0.25 K/min, 0.33 K/min, 0.5 K/min, 1 K/min as well as an unregulated maximum heating rate achievable of approximately 1.5 K/min. Furthermore, an investigation on the test-retest reliability was performed with three wires by repeating the experiment ten times with each wire. The results of this study revealed no influence of the heating rate on the thermomechanical response of the wires. Based on data from this study, a regulated heating rate of 1 K/min is suggested for future investigations, as this reduces the duration of the measurement from four hours to less than an hour. The values obtained from each wire through the test-retest reliability investigation showed a standard deviation of 1.9 K, 1.1 K and 2.1 K respectively. Our developed measurement setup demonstrates appropriate repeatability of the measurements.
Numerical investigation of stent designs for wireless access to integrated sensors
Authors: Großmann Swen , Ott Robert , Kosub Richard , Schmitz Klaus-Peter , Siewert Stefan , Schmidt Wolfram , Grabow Niels
Published: September 2019

In recent years, a progressive interest in the implementation of wireless access to cardiovascular implants has been established. This manifests in new devices, such as arterial pressure sensors, or additional functionalities added to established implants like stents. However, common stent designs, possessing highly optimized mechanical properties, often consist of cylindrically arranged struts with connections in-between which can be considered as short-circuited inductive coils. As a consequence, the small inductance raises the resonance frequency, which may decrease the in vivo performance of the wireless connection between the stent and the external readout device. Thus, new designs were developed to overcome this limitation, for example by avoiding the short-circuit due to a helical arrangement of the struts. Within this work we compare the performance of a common stent design and a helical design by means of numerical simulations. We are using two designs which only differ in the arrangement of the struts. The electromagnetic and mechanical properties are investigated using a finitedifference time-domain algorithm and finite element method, respectively. We will show that a common stent design exhibits resonance frequencies in the gigahertz regime, much higher than the frequencies of comparable helical designs. Furthermore, we compare the mechanical performance of the two designs and reveal individual distinctions in the radial stiffness, bending stiffness, and the von Mises stress.
Development of an experimental setup for the in vitro investigation of mitral valve repair devices
Authors: Ott Robert , Kaule Sebastian , Großmann Swen , Pfensig Sylvia , Stiehm Michael , Schmitz Klaus-Peter , Siewert Stefan , Öner Alper , Grabow Niels
Published: September 2019

Mitral regurgitation (MR) occurs with a prevalence of approximately 10 % in patients aged 75 years or older and therefore is one of the most frequent indications for heart valve surgery. During the last decade surgical mitral valve repair (MVR) procedures emerged as the gold standard for the treatment of clinically relevant MR. However, for surgically inoperable or high-risk patients transcatheter-based MVR devices present a valuable treatment option. Within the current study, we developed an experimental setup to investigate the hydrodynamic performance of transcatheterbased MVR devices in vitro. The bicuspid mitral valve (MV) model employed in the experimental setup features a D-shaped MV annulus with d1 = 26.30 mm, d2= 30.05 mm and chordae tendineae with a length of l1= 25 mm attached to two papillary muscle structures. Pressure gradient - volumetric flow rate (Δp-Q) relations were investigated for steady state backward flow with transvalvular pressure gradients ranging from 0.75 mmHg ≤ Δp ≤ 103.13 mmHg. Deionized water at 37 °C with a dynamic viscosity of 1.002 mPa∙s and a density of 998 kg/m3 was used. A test-chamber consisting of a press-fit MV holder and cylindrical in- and outflow tracts were developed. Different designs for the exchangeable press-fit MV holder were manufactured using additive manufacturing technologies providing an optimal fitting for variable MV sizes and pathologies. In- and outflow tracts featuring a diameter of d = 50 mm and a height of h = 60 mm were made from transparent polymethylmethacrylate to allow for easy optical access during measurements. The experimentally investigated Δp-Q relation yields a quadratic correlation for the open MV and a linear correlation for the closed MV. A transvalvular closing pressure of (4.94 ± 0.04) mmHg was measured for the MV model.
Evaluation of Adjustable Loop Suspensory Anterior Cruciate Ligament Fixation Devices
Authors: Dreier Mira , Bachmayer Samuel , Baumgartner Christian , Schröttner Jörg
Published: September 2019

Along with increasing enthusiasm for sports comes an increase of sport related injuries. One of the most common injuries in the human knee is the tear of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The selection of a graft fixation device is an important factor that determines the outcome of an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Before the healing process is completed, the graft is dependent on tibial and femoral fixation devices to maintain normal ACL graft tension. Among various devices, the use of an adjustable loop suspensory fixation device (ALD) in soft-tissue graft reconstruction attracts current interest. An advantage of the ALD is the ability to draw the graft to the depth of the bone tunnel to achieve adequate graft tension while minimizing the empty space in the tunnel. In this study a comprehensive controlled laboratory investigation is performed to examine the biomechanical properties of commonly used cortical fixation devices, with the aim of implementing a standard testing procedure for adjustable loop devices. The procedure consists of three test series, a loop shortening test and two different stability test series (singe device and tendon device test). Those test series are used to compare the performance of a new ALD from Arthrex (Naples, USA) with five competitor devices already on the market. In order to obtain representative results eight samples of each device are tested. In comparison to the previously performed studies, a complete unloading is applied in the stability tests, which allows for a detailed examination of the ALDs locking mechanisms in dynamically loaded test situations. Furthermore, the performed loop shortening tests reveal important aspects, such as the shortening accuracy and settling effects of the loops, that are not found in previous studies. Therefore, the used test protocol can be recommended for further testing.
Endoscopic Pan/Tilt Camera for Thorax Interventions – Design and first results
Authors: Mrokon Alexander , Pott Peter P. , Steger Volker
Published: September 2019

Minimally invasive surgery in some cases suffers from a limited view because certain areas are obscured by others. In this paper, a system is described, which can be used in minimally invasive procedures as an addition to a standard endoscope to improve the range of view. Through FEM simulation a magnetic circuit was designed to position the camera head. Subsequently, a camera positioning system was set up that includes an extracorporeal and an intracorporeal unit. The first controls the intracorporeal system. The latter has a camera inclination angle of up to 65° and an additional vertically downward viewing angle when aligned in parallel (inclination angle 0°). The panning angle is 360°. The camera system was evaluated in lab and cadaver trials. It has been found that the size of the intracorporeal system (16 × 10 × 150 mm) represents a major problem. Future work will focus of the reduction of the system’s size, the improvement of the camera image quality, and design changes considering mechanical stability.
Manufacturing process for hydrogel vessel phantoms
Authors: Kalmar Marco , Hoffmann Thomas , Sauerhering Jörg , Klink Fabian
Published: September 2019

Phantoms mimicking special physiological processes of the human body are essential for evaluating prototypes of medical devices. Especially for thermometric MRI measurements, the temperature distribution in the brain needs to be simulated. Since this parameter is dependent on the tissue perfusion, a new hydrogel by MAGDASSIS et al. was evaluated in this work for building models with hollow artery structures. This hydrogel can be polymerized through UV-light due to the nanoparticles contained in it. Additionally, thermal parameters were measured and compared to human brain tissue. The indirect manufacturing of hydrogel phantoms showed good qualitative results for vessels with a diameter > 3 mm. In this process a 3D printed wax core was inserted in the hydrogel and the structure was then UV cured after molding. After curing the core was dissolved in an isopropanol bath. The thermal properties, obtained by the transient planesource- method, showed similar values compared to that of human brain tissue mentioned in literature. Further limitations in the manufacturing process needs to be overcome to use the indirect manufacture approach for smaller vessels of the brain.
Development of a Novel Low-cost Lung Function Simulator
Authors: Bautsch Florian , Männel Georg , Rostalski Philipp
Published: September 2019

In order to test medical devices, industry increasingly uses simulators closely reassembling the behaviour of physiological systems. In the context of respiratory therapy, most available simulators are designed based on a ventilated volume. This highly adjustable volume allowing for fast dynamical changes often leads to very costintensive test devices, particularly when incorporating realistic spontaneous breathing. Therefore, in this article we introduce a novel concept for a low-cost lung simulator, capable of mimicking the ventilation behaviour of the human lung at the Y-piece of a mechanical ventilator. The proposed design does not require any enclosed spaces to hold inhaled air nor expensive precise linear actuators adjusting its volume. Instead, the setup is designed based on the design of a mechanical ventilator, connecting the system with one port to the ventilator and then dividing the hose into two independent branches. Each branch has an integrated radial fan and a proportional valve, controlling the inspiratory and expiratory flow, individually. The mass flow and pressure are measured at the systems inlet port, representing the condition at patient airway. In contrast to existing setups, the proposed design is not limited by the physical properties of a volume such as fixed maximum size, allowing the simulation of various types of patients and conditions. Numerical simulations to evaluate this system design showed the ability to generate a realistic spontaneous breathing pattern. With a first experimental setup it was possible to prove the feasibility of this approach, by generating common flow curves during spontaneous breathing. Building on this design, the approach could eventually lead to a more accessible method for testing.
Design and first results of a phantom study on the suitability of iterative reconstruction for lung-cancer screening with low-dose computer tomography
Authors: König Britta , Guberina Nika , Kühl Hilmar , Zylka Waldemar
Published: September 2019

In this research computer tomography (CT) iterative reconstruction (IR) algorithms are investigated, specifically the impact of their statistical and model-based strength on image quality in low-dose lung screening CT protocols in comparison to filtered back projection (FBP). It has been probed whether statistical, model-based IR in conjunction with low-dose, and ultra-low-dose protocols are suitable for lungcancer screening. To this end, artificial lung nodules shaped as spheres and spicules made from material with calibrated Hounsfield units (HU) were attached on marked positions in the lung structure of an anthropomorphic phantom. Nodule positions were selected by distinguished radiologists. The phantom with nodules was scanned on a CT Scanner using standard high contrast (SHC), low-dose (LD) and ultra low-dose (ULD) protocol. For reconstruction FBP and the IR algorithm ADMIRE at three different strength levels were used. Volume CT dose index (CTDIvol) and dose-length product were recorded. Radiologists assessed subjective image quality using a six-point Likert scale by reading all image series in terms detectability of lung nodules. As a measurable objective image quality parameter signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) were investigated. The CTDIvol decreases by more than 70% for all protocols and nodules compared to diagnostic reference value for chest CT (p<0.00001). The evaluation of image quality parameters, i.e. SNR, indicates that LD and ULD protocols in conjunction with IR assert high quality lung-nodule detection. The results reveal that IR algorithm with moderate to high strength is an indispensable alternative to FBP in low-dose scanning, thus, potentially suitable for lung-tumour screening.
Remotely controllable phantom rotation system for ultra-high field MRI to improve Cross Calibration
Authors: Odenbach Robert , Thoma Niklas , Mattern Hendrik , Friebe Michael
Published: September 2019

Optical tracking systems, such as the Moiré Phase Tracking system (MPT), can be used to correct motion prospectively especially during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI, MR) in neurologic application. For that an MRI safe camera is mounted in the MRI bore to detect motion by tracking a specific MPT marker, which is rigidly attached on the subject’s head. To enable prospective updates of the imaging volume´s position and orientation, and therefore to correct motion from the subject, the motion information captured from the camera need to be transformed from the camera into the MR coordinate system. The process of finding the transformation between both coordinate systems is called cross calibration and is essential for the overall motion correction performance. For the procedure of the cross calibration, an MR visible phantom with an attached MPT-marker is measured simultaneously with MRI and the MPT camera in multiple specific alignment positions. To reduce cross calibration errors, it is essential to move the phantom precisely into specified alignment positions. Due to the long and narrow bore design of ultra-high field systems (tunnel length > 3 m), the phantom can not be moved simply from a person leaning inside the scanner bore. Thus, to rotate it after each measurement step, either a technician must work inside the tunnel during the complete period of the cross calibration or the table must be moved in and out of the bore multiple times. To improve this currently established cross calibration procedure, we have developed an MRI safe phantom rotation system, which can be controlled remotely and precisely from outside the MRI bore. Even for ultra-high field imaging, the rotation system is fully MRI compatible. Initial tests were performed at a 7T whole-body MRI system and have proven the benefit of our rotation system.
Cholecalciferol modulates the phenotype of differentiated monocyte-derived dendritic cells without altering HIV-1 transfer to CD4+ T cells
Authors: Gonzalez Sandra M. , Aguilar-Jimenez Wbeimar , Alvarez Natalia , Rugeles Maria T.
Published: September 2019

Background

Dendritic cells (DCs) play a crucial role during HIV-1 transmission due to their ability to transfer virions to susceptible CD4+ T cells, particularly in the lymph nodes during antigen presentation which favors the establishment of systemic infection. As mature dendritic cells (mDCs) exhibit a greater ability to transfer virions, compared to immature DCs (iDCs), maintenance of an iDC phenotype could decrease viral transmission. The immunomodulatory vitamin D (VitD) has been shown to reduce activation and maturation of DCs; hence, we hypothesized that it would reduce viral transference by DCs.

Materials and methods

We evaluated the effect of in vitro treatment with a precursor of VitD, cholecalciferol, on the activation/maturation phenotype of differentiated monocyte-derived DCs and their ability to transfer HIV-1 to autologous CD4+ T cells.

Results

Our findings show that although cholecalciferol decreases the activation of iDCs, it did not impact the maturation phenotype after LPS treatment nor iDCs’ ability to transfer viral particles to target cells.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that despite cholecalciferol potentially modulates the phenotype of mucosal iDCs in vivo, such modulation might not impact the ability of these cells to transfer HIV-1 to target CD4+ T cells.
The effect of life skills training with health literacy strategies on self-esteem and self-efficacy in female students during puberty
Authors: Jafarigiv Sara , Peyman Nooshin
Published: September 2019

Background

Puberty is a sensitive period of life for developing specific skills and knowledge and acquiring abilities and attributes that are essential for managing emotions and assuming adult roles. Thus, this has implications for health educational programs to responses to the experimentation and exploration that takes place during puberty.

Objectives

This study aimed to examine the effect of life skills training using health literacy strategies on self-esteem and self-efficacy in adolescent female students.

Methods

This was a semi-experimental study with intervention-control groups performed on 96 female students (7th grade of high school) in Mashhad, Iran from January 2017 to Jun 2017. The sampling method was a multi-stage random sampling. The samples were divided into two groups: an intervention group and a control group (each one having 50 subjects) through the simple randomized approach. Data collection tools used were the Coopersmith Self-esteem Questionnaire and Sherer’s Self-efficacy Questionnaire. Life skills training for the intervention group consisted of five sessions of theoretical training and workshops with role play and were designed based on health literacy strategies. The pretest, posttest and follow-up (3 months after the intervention) was conducted for both groups. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 19 software (t-test, Mann-Whitney, chi-square (χ2) and repeated data analysis).

Results

Before the intervention, there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of self-esteem score (p = 0.70) and self-efficacy (p = 0.10), but immediately after training, as well as 3 months later, a significant difference was found between the two groups (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Based on the findings, life skills educational interventions based on health literacy strategies could promote the self-esteem and self-efficacy abilities among female students during puberty.
Utilization of RHA in development of green composite material using RSM
Authors: Dwivedi Shashi Prakash , Dwivedi Garima
Published: September 2019

In the present investigation, rice husk waste from rice mill was utilized in the development of aluminum based green metal matrix composite. Response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to develop green metal matrix composite by considering tensile strength as a response. Rice husk ash (RHA) was used as primary reinforcement material and B4C was used as a secondary reinforcement material in the development of composite. Microstructure results showed a uniform distribution of RHA and B4C in aluminum based matrix material. The optimum combination of reinforcement parameters was found to be RHA weight percentage of 7.8%, RHA preheats temperature of 231.12∘C, B4C preheats temperature of 435.24∘C and B4C wt.% of 6.67% respectively to achieve a tensile strength of 249.867 MPa.
Applying green chemistry approaches to EPA standard method of analysis for dioxins
Authors: Walkinshaw Susan C.
Published: September 2019

Green Chemistry principles can be applied while following approved Environmental Protection Agency methods at an accredited lab. The decision-making process involved in selecting a method for the analysis of dioxins in solid matrices while considering green chemistry, method performance and overall cost are presented.
Reconstituting neurovascular unit based on the close relations between neural stem cells and endothelial cells: an effective method to explore neurogenesis and angiogenesis
Authors: Hongjin Wang , Han Chen , Baoxiang Jiang , Shiqi Yu , Xiaoyu Xu
Published: September 2019

The discovery of neural stem cells (NSCs) and their microenvironment, the NSC niche, brought new therapeutic strategies through neurogenesis and angiogenesis for stroke and most neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease. Based on the close links between NSCs and endothelial cells, the integration of neurogenesis and angiogenesis of the NSC niche is also a promising area to the neurovascular unit (NVU) modeling and is now offering a powerful tool to advance our understanding of the brain. In this review, critical aspects of the NVU and model systems are discussed. First, we briefly describe the interaction of each part in the NSC niche. Second, we introduce the co-culture system, microfluidic platforms, and stem cell-derived 3D reconstitution used in NVU modeling based on the close relations between NSCs and endothelial cells, and various characteristics of cell interactions in these systems are also described. Finally, we address the challenges in modeling the NVU that can potentially be overcome by employing strategies for advanced biomaterials and stem cell co-culture use. Based on these approaches, researchers will continue to develop predictable technologies to control the fate of stem cells, achieve accurate screening of drugs for the nervous system, and advance the clinical application of NVU models.
Effect of iodine-containing antiseptics on urine iodine levels of surgical staff after iodization
Authors: Idiz Cemile , Altun Aysu , Basaran-Kucukgergin Canan , Kofoglu Zuhal , Sormaz Ismail Cem , Yarman Sema
Published: September 2019

Background

The routine use of topical iodinated antiseptic could be a possible cause of iodine contamination. This study was aimed to determine urinary iodine status of operation-room staff who routinely use iodine-containing antiseptics for cleansing of the hands after salt iodization.

Materials and methods

The study included 40 operation-room staff who use surgical hand-scrub solutions. Participants applied an iodized brush for a minimum of three times a day on weekdays and were iodine-free on the weekends. Morning urine samples from all volunteers to analyze the urinary iodine concentration (UIC) twice a week. Modified microplate method of Sandell-Kolthoff reaction used to measure UIC.

Results

The UICs were significantly higher on Friday (median 194 μg/L (70–396 μg/L)) compared to the Monday concentrations (median 125 μg/L (62–264 μg/L), p < 0.001). Mild iodine deficiency occurred in 32.5% of the subjects on Monday, in 5% on Friday. On Monday, there were no subjects with UIC > 300 μg/L, but on Friday, 7.5% of the subjects had UIC > 300 μg/L.

Conclusion

Despite both the use of iodized antiseptic solution and mandatory iodization, operation-room staff had only median iodine levels with low risk of iodine intoxication.
Boundary Layer Mechanism of a Two-Phase Nanofluid Subject to Coupled Interface Dynamics of Fluid/Film
Authors: Liu Shengna , Liu Xiaochuan , Zheng Liancun
Published: September 2019

This article investigates boundary layer mechanism of a two-phase nanofluid over a thin liquid film of power-law fluid. We take the coupled interface dynamics between the thin liquid film and nanofluid into consideration, where the thermal conductivity and dynamic viscosity are assumed to be linear functions of nanoparticle concentration. The influence of Brownian motion and thermophoresis of the nanofluid is also considered. Numerical results are carried out by employing similarity transformation and bvp4c technique. The heat and mass transfer in the flow boundary layer are analysed by relevant parameters with the assistance of graphs. The results show that heat conduction decreases significantly with the increase of rheological properties parameter and tensile velocity ratio. Rheological properties parameter, tensile velocity ratio, Brownian motion parameter and thermophoresis parameter play important roles in mass transfer.
DETERMINATION OF FE, CU AND ZN CONTENT IN SOME SPICES SOLD WITHOUT PACKAGING IN VAN
Authors: MERCAN YÜCEL Ufuk , ATASOY Nurhayat
Published: September 2019

The content of Fe, Cu, and Zn present in black pepper, cumin and red
pepper available at herb stores and local markets in Van were determined using ICP-MS. The Fe content was 557.5 mg/kg, 467 mg/kg, 122.5 mg/kg, the Cu content
was 19.4 mg/kg, 12.3 mg/kg, 11.9 mg/kg, and the Zn content was 17.6 mg/kg, 36.5
mg/kg, 11.9 mg/kg in black pepper, cumin, and red pepper, respectively. The
highest Fe, Cu and Zn content were found in black pepper and the lowest Fe, Cu
and Zn content in red pepper. The results showed that the Cu and Zn content
determined in black pepper, cumin, and red pepper was below the WHO standards
and the Fe content determined in black pepper and cumin was found to exceed the
WHO standards. Therefore, continuous heavy metal analysis in terms of Fe,
especially in black pepper and cumin, is essential for human health.
The Speculative Economies of Sheppard Lee
Authors: Sugden Edward
Published: September 2019

Edward Sugden, “The Speculative Economies of Sheppard Lee” (pp. 141–166)

In this essay I provide a reading of Robert Montgomery Bird’s Sheppard Lee (1836) that places it against the speculative economy of 1830s America. The novel is, formally and intellectually, a product of and meditation on economic speculation. It dwells upon the ways in which a transition from an agrarian economy into finance capitalism impacts the body. Where many accounts of Sheppard Lee emphasize embodiment as the central issue of the novel, this essay instead insists on disembodiment, demonstrating how the entry into a transregional, virtual economy of stocks and shares, debts, loans, and mortgages dissolved embodied identity. Such a dissolution came, however, with a possible utopian element, encoded within capitalism, of there being an economic form that did not depend on the exploitation and mining of the labor-power of bodies. Yet this fantasy of worklessness, the novel suggests, will always require a space of civil death in which those without rights are relentlessly used for their economic value only. Overall, this reading of the novel modifies a metanarrative about the relationship between capitalism and the imagination in nineteenth century. Rather than literature providing a stable basis for social values disrupted by capitalism, instead a novel like Sheppard Lee suggests that the form of the novel is more suited to capturing the chaos of dislocation, meditating on unactivated historical possibilities latent within capitalism, and internalizing short-term cycles of economic change.
Future needs for energy storage in the Alpine region
Authors: Hočevar Marko , Novak Lovrenc , Rak Gašper
Published: September 2019

In this paper we discuss energy storage requirements for EUSALP region in Europe. EUSALP is an Alpine region that includes the entirety Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia, and Lichtenstein, as well as parts of France, Germany, and Italy. A model is presented that facilitates the estimation of the required technical amounts of energy storage and installed power of pumped storage hydropower plants. The aim of the model is to estimate the requirements of energy storage to assist in setting guidelines for stable and reliable future electric energy supply in the EUSALP region. The model is based on currently known patterns of energy consumption and generation and available information on the future increase of renewable electric generation capacity, energy consumption, and the introduction of electromobility within all EUSALP regions. The hourly balance of generation, demand, and storage within a selected future year is assumed. The results are presented such that a mix of scenarios is addressed. Among them are installed generation capacity, installed pumped hydro storage power, selection of photovoltaic and wind electric energy generation ratio, the charging of a selected percentage of electric cars, flexible run-of-river hydro electric energy generation, import/export, generation by nuclear and backup fossil fuel sources, and a selection of disturbances. Results show that energy storage capacities must be increased by a large margin regardless of the choice of demand site management strategies or flexible electric car charging. Around a requisite 10-fold increase in pumped storage hydropower capacity is estimated, while the estimated increase in required energy storage is even higher. Daily and seasonal variations are also discussed. Further, the amount of surplus electric energy generation is presented and discussed.
A másodlagos hypogammaglobulinaemia, a fertőzések és a halálozás összefüggései és a preventív immunglobulin-pótlás szükségessége krónikus lymphoid leukaemiás betegekben
Authors: Losonczy Hajna , Nagy Ágnes , Kosztolányi Szabolcs , Tóth Orsolya , Csalódi Renáta , Hussain Alizadeh , Szomor Árpád
Published: September 2019

Abstract:

Immune status was investigated in 186 patients with chronic lymphoid leukaemia between January 2012 and March 2015. Incidences of infections and mortality were analysed in patients who did not receive prophylactic immunoglobulin therapy. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels were normal (7–17.8 g/L) or decreased in 62.37% and 35.48% of patients, respectively. We measured high immunoglobulin levels only in a few cases (2.15%). Immunoglobulin levels became increasingly lower in more advanced disease stages (Rai stages). The number of infections was inversely proportional to that. Hypogammaglobulinaemia proved to be more important than disease progression in terms of the development of infections. The most common infections were upper respiratory tract (33.07%) and sepsis (18.90%). Two months after chemotherapy, initially normal immunoglobulin levels decreased by an average of 21%, and at the same time the incidence of infections increased. The most common cause of death was sepsis: 30% occurred at low immunoglobulin levels, while 20% at normal immunoglobulin levels. According to literature, prophylactic immunoglobulin treatment is indicated in patients with chronic lymphoid leukaemia and immunodeficiency for decreasing both morbidity and mortality. According to recommendations in literature, replacement treatment must be administered in severe or moderately severe recurrent bacterial infections. Immunoglobulin prophylaxis may be provided as low dose (10 g), fix dose (18 g) or individually customized higher dose (300–400 mg/kg body weight) treatment. According to recommendations, higher dose immunoglobulin prophylaxis, administered every three weeks on six occasions, is more efficient when customized. With this dose, infection-free condition may be achieved in 50% of patients. Orv Hetil. 2019; 160(38): 1487–1494.
Pemberdayaan Kelompok Ibu Rumah Tangga Melalui Pembentukan Home Industry Sabun Pencuci Lantai Berbahan Dasar Limbah Minyak Jelantah
Authors: Sumiati Sumiati , Munandar Tb. Ai , Febriasari Arifina , Suryaman Suryaman , Sulasno Sulasno , Dwijayanti Apriliana
Published: September 2019

Minyak goreng merupakan kebutuhan sehari sehari yang digunakan oleh ibu rumah tangga untuk keperluan memasak, namun masyarakat belum menyadari bahwa minyak goreng yang sudah tidak digunakan dapat dimanfaatkan menjadi produk rumah tangga, dimana jumlah minyak jelantah (minyak bekas) tanpa disadari jumlah melimpah, sehingga dengan permasalahan yang ada, maka minyak jelantah tersebut dapat berubah pemanfaatan menjadi sabun pencuci lantai berbahan dasar limbah minyak jelantah. Banyak minyak Jelantah (minyak bekas) tidak digunakan atas pemanfaatan yang ada, sehingga dapat memanfaatkan limbah minyak jelantah tersebut menjadi produk rumah tangga seperti sabun pencuci lantai. Disatu sisi, pada umumnya masyarakat belum produktif secara ekonomi,sulit menumbuhkan jiwa berwirausaha untuk menciptakan lapangan pekerjaan. Pada umumnya masyarakat masih beranggapan bahwa bekerja pada suatu perusahaan merupakan hal yang sangat luar biasa, sehingga dengan paradigma masyarakat beranggapan bekerja disuatu perusahaan, merupakan suatu hal yang luar biasa, maka banyak sekali terjadi penggangguran. Tanpa disadari dampak dari pengangguran sangat terasa, dimana banyak terjadi tindakan kriminal yang terjadi pada lingkungan, sehingga untuk mengatasi hal tersebut, dilakukan seperti pemberdayaan masyarakat untuk kemanadiran perekonomian masyarakat berbasis pelatihan, pelatihan pelatihan itu dilakukan proses mendeversifikasi minyak jelantah menjadi produk rumah tangga, seperti superpell. Sehingga dengan pelatihan pelatihan yang diberikan ke masyarakat diharapkan masyarakat dapat lebih produktif secara ekonomi meliputi segi produksi dan manajemen usaha, selain itu dapat membantu menciptakan ketentraman, dan kenyamanan dalam kehidupan masyarakat dan dapat meningkatkan keterampilan berpikir sofskill dan hardskill, metode yang akan digunakan dalam pencapaian tujuan tersebut dengan memberikan pelatihan pendidikan kewirausahaan, mendorong home industri, dan membantu dalam hal pemasaran produk . Sehingga dapat meningkatkan taraf hidup masyarakat dan dapat meciptakan lapangan pekerjaan, sehingga kehidupan masyarakat menjadi lebih baik.
PROGRAM LITERASI MEDIA DI DESA CIBEUREUM KECAMATAN KERTASARI KABUPATEN BANDUNG
Authors: Rahman M. Taufiq , Supratman Iman , Bukhori Bukhori
Published: September 2019

The program was carried out to provide media literacy training for the community of Cibeureum Village, Kertasari District, Bandung Regency. There are several objectives to be achieved in this activity, among others: it is expected to be able to add insight into the public about mass media and social media, improve the knowledge and capabilities of media literacy in rural communities. Media literacy training in Cibeureum Village, Kertasari District, Bandung Regency uses training, lecture, discussion, question and answer and case simulation methods. The conclusions obtained from this media literacy training activity are that people can prioritize maturity in choosing which media to consume, content that is responsible even to the point of being able to criticize media content more intelligently.