bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Influencing Students’ Selection of Home Science in Public Secondary Schools
Authors: Sefu Sebby Auma , Mutisya Dr. Sammy , Kara Dr. Augustine
Published: November 2023

Home Science as a subject has been given emphasis in the Kenya’s Basic Education Curriculum Framework as one of the core subjects in Junior School. However, fewer students selected Home Science as an optional subject in the previous education system. This study sought to investigate the relationship between perceived determinants of subject selection and students’ selection of Home Science in public secondary schools. The study investigated relationship between gender related students’ perceptions and students’ attitudes on students’ selection of Home Science subject. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The sample size comprised of 144 students who had selected Home Science and 124 who had not selected the subject in form three. Further, all the eight Home Science teachers and five principals of the sampled schools were purposefully sampled as key informants. Data from students was collected using a questionnaire. Interview guides were used to collect data from Home Science teachers and principals. Data were analyzed using descriptive, inferential statistics and content analysis. Results of the study revealed a statistically significant relationship between students’ gender related perceptions of Home Science subject selection [x2 (2, n = 263) = 12.501, p= .002]. Students’ attitude towards Home Science also influenced Home Science subject selection [x2 (2, n = 263) = 6.121, p= .047]. From the findings, the study recommends sensitizing learners, educators and community members about the importance of Home Science as a technical subject and to demystify gender stereotypes on the subject
Óbitos e casos confirmados de COVID-19 numa cidade da Amazônia brasileira
Authors: Souza Brenda Custódio de , Melo Iranira Geminiano de , Nogueira Laura Borges , Vale Monnike Yasmin Rodrigues do
Published: November 2023

Objetivo: investigar indicadores de contaminação e óbitos por COVID-19, numa capital estadual, situada na Amazônia brasileira. Método: pesquisa quantitativa, do tipo descritiva, realizada a partir de levantamento de dados a respeito dos casos de óbitos e casos confirmados, em boletins epidemiológicos, na cidade de Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil, considerando os anos de 2020 e 2021. Resultados: verificou-se maior índice de contaminação na população da faixa etária de 30 a 49 anos (26,0%), atingindo predominantemente o sexo feminino (54,9%), e os óbitos na faixa etária de 60 a 79 anos (23,5%), principalmente o sexo masculino (60,3%). Conclusão: o aumento de casos e mortes coincidiu com o abandono das medidas de isolamento social.
Religiosidade e espiritualidade em pacientes com câncer durante quimioterapia: revisão integrativa
Authors: Estevam Layara Oliveira , Nogueira Ana Laura , Goulart Bethania Ferreira , Nicolussi Adriana Cristina
Published: November 2023

Objetivo: este trabalho teve como objetivo identificar publicações sobre a religiosidade e a espiritualidade em pacientes com câncer durante a quimioterapia. Método: revisão integrativa, realizada nas bases de dados US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde, Web of Science, Excerpta Medica, Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde e, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, utilizando os descritores Espiritualidade, Religião, Neoplasias e Tratamento Farmacológico; incluídos artigos de 2010 a 2020, em português, inglês e espanhol, levantamento feito no primeiro semestre de 2021. Utilizou-se análise descritiva e categorização por similitudes temáticas. Resultados: 15 estudos foram elegidos, predominando aqueles realizados no Brasil e com nível de evidência VI. Emergiram três categorias: Religiosidade e espiritualidade no enfrentamento do tratamento quimioterápico; A religiosidade/espiritualidade em idosos em tratamento quimioterápico e O coping religioso durante o tratamento quimioterápico. Conclusão: os estudos levantados mostraram que pacientes com câncer em quimioterapia que buscaram a prece apresentaram redução da ansiedade; o ato religioso reforçou a esperança; idosos olharam a vida com outra perspectiva; o coping religioso foi relacionado com maior bem-estar e menos angústias, além de ser uma estratégia de enfrentamento importante.
Avaliação do desempenho ocupacional de pessoas com esclerose múltipla
Authors: Cunha Israel Fernandes de França , Borges Viviane Magno , Cardoso Jeice Sobrinho , Corrêa Víctor Augusto Cavaleiro
Published: November 2023

Objetivo: avaliar o desempenho ocupacional de pessoas com EM nas áreas do autocuidado, produtividade e lazer. Método: estudo transversal de caráter quantitativo, realizado de novembro de 2021 e abril de 2022, utilizando a Medida Canadense de Desempenho Ocupacional. Resultados: 115 ocupações foram consideradas difíceis de serem desempenhadas, sendo 42 ocupações (36,5%) na área “autocuidado”, 34 (29,5%) na área “produtividade” e 39 (33,9%) na área “lazer”. Dentre as subáreas, as ocupações mais citadas foram “tarefas domésticas” 21 (18,2%), “recreação ativa” 21 (18,2%) e “mobilidade funcional” 20 (17,3%). As ocupações relacionadas a “mobilidade funcional” e “tarefas domésticas” receberam os menores índices de desempenho (médias de 5,2). Além disso, essas ocupações também receberam os menores índices de satisfação, sendo 4,7 e 5,1 respectivamente. Conclusão: as incapacidades funcionais da Esclerose Múltipla impactaram o desempenho e satisfação nas categorias de ocupação: autocuidado, produtividade e lazer.
Rede de Atenção Psicossocial: relato de experiência num programa de residência multiprofissional em Saúde Coletiva
Authors: Sousa Caroline Silva Fernandes de , Lacerda Nitão Sobrinha Adalia , Mendonça Ana Elza Oliveira de , Silva Fernanda Prudêncio da , Pereira Leilane Cristina Oliveira
Published: November 2023

Objetivo: discorrer sobre a experiência de atuação em rede de atenção psicossocial através de um Programa de Residência Multiprofissional em Saúde Coletiva. Método: estudo descritivo, do tipo relato de experiência, realizado nos meses de junho e julho de 2022, com foco em gestão e planejamento, nos Centros de Atenção Psicossocial de dois municípios do interior da Paraíba. Utilizou-se a sistematização das experiências a luz de Oscar Jara Holiday, e reuniões, registro diário das experiências e observações. Resultados: dentre as estratégias trabalhadas nos serviços, destacaram-se: o incentivo à implementação do Projeto Terapêutico Singular e as Assembleias com familiares e usuários. Verificou-se baixa participação da equipe médica nos processos de trabalho e reduzida inserção familiar no cuidado ao paciente. Conclusão: houve estimulo a reflexão sobre o processo de trabalho, inserção familiar, promoção da saúde e melhora na qualidade de atendimento, com vistas a garantir o cuidado singular aos usuários de saúde mental.
Features of sensorineural hearing loss and otitis media with effusion in patients with different variants of coronavirus
Authors:   Kuban State Medical University, Krasnodar, 350007, Russia, Kovalenko S. L. ,   Children's City Polyclinic No. 1 of Krasnodar, Krasnodar, 350004, Russia, Azamatova S. A. ,   Kuban State Medical University, Krasnodar, 350007, Russia,   Adyghe Republican Hearing Rehabilitation Center of State Budget Organization of Health of Republic of Adygea Adyghe Republican Clinical Hospital Adyghe Republican Center for Medical Rehabilitation,  Republic of Adygea, Maykop, 385000, Russia,   Maykop State Technological University, Medical Institute, Republic of Adygea, Maykop, 385000, Russia, Lazareva L. A. ,   Kuban State Medical University, Krasnodar, 350007, Russia, Kovalenko M. D. ,   Children's City Polyclinic No. 1 of Krasnodar, Krasnodar, 350004, Russia,   Maykop State Technological University, Medical Institute, Republic of Adygea, Maykop, 385000, Russia, Azamatov I. R. ,   Maykop State Technological University, Medical Institute, Republic of Adygea, Maykop, 385000, Russia
Published: November 2023

Objective. To improve the efficiency of diagnosis and treatment of hearing impairment in patients who recovered from COVID-19. Material and methods. The study involved 121 patients with a laboratory-confirmed diagnosis of coronavirus infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The patients were divided into groups depending on the strain of coronavirus they had, the severity of the disease, age, the nature of the disturbances in the auditory analyzer, and the timing of seeking medical help. All participants in the study before and after treatment underwent a comprehensive audiological examination, which included tone threshold audiometry, tympanometry, acoustic reflexometry, and registration of otoacoustic emissions. Results and Discussion. After the transferred omicron strain, bilateral sensorineural, mixed or conductive hearing loss of I and II degrees prevailed. An analysis of the results of examinations of patients who recovered from various strains of coronavirus (with the exception of omicron) demonstrated predominantly unilateral severe manifestations of sensorineural hearing loss (SHL), less often bilateral progressive SHL in older patients. After the transferred Omicron strain, bilateral sensorineural, mixed, or conductive hearing loss of I and II degrees prevailed. Hearing dysfunction in children was detected only in cases of infection with the omicron strain. The effectiveness of treatment depended on the transferred strain of SARS-CoV-2 and the timing of contacting an audiologist. Conclusion. The damaging effect of the SARSCoV-2 virus on the auditory analyzer revealed during the study proves the need for an audiological examination of patients.
Method of cochlear implantation of patients at risk of facial nerve stimulation
Authors:   Saint Petersburg Research Institute of Ear, Throat, Nose and Speech, Saint Petersburg, 190013, Russia, Kuzovkov V. E. , Lilenko A. S. ,   Saint Petersburg Research Institute of Ear, Throat, Nose and Speech, Saint Petersburg, 190013, Russia, Sugarova S. B. ,   Saint Petersburg Research Institute of Ear, Throat, Nose and Speech, Saint Petersburg, 190013, Russia, Tanaschishina V. A. ,   Saint Petersburg Research Institute of Ear, Throat, Nose and Speech, Saint Petersburg, 190013, Russia, Chernushevich I. I. ,   Saint Petersburg Research Institute of Ear, Throat, Nose and Speech, Saint Petersburg, 190013, Russia, Klyachko D. S. ,   Saint Petersburg Research Institute of Ear, Throat, Nose and Speech, Saint Petersburg, 190013, Russia
Published: November 2023

The reaction of the facial nerve during stimulation of one of the electrodes of the cochlear implant system is a fairly common complication that can lead to a deterioration in the patient’s quality of life due to significant discomfort and restrictions of the use of the cochlear implant system. Anatomical features of the cochlea, its syntopy with the facial nerve, changes in the bone labyrinth play a significant role in the development of symptoms of facial nerve stimulation (FNS) in patients with profound sensorineural hearing loss, even at the stage of rehabilitation after cochlear implantation (CI). The selection of a CI candidate with a high predisposition of FNS and their subsequent rehabilitation, due to a number of circumstances, requires an individual approach from both the surgical team and the audiologist who adjusts the speech processor of the cochlear implantation system. To date, no methods have been proposed for performing preventive FNS measures at the surgical stage of CI. In this regard, a method for the prevention of facial nerve stimulation of FNS for patients with a high risk of this complication has been developed on the basis of Saint Petersburg Research Institute of Ear, Throat, Nose, and Speech.
Joint Knowledge Base: A Key to Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration
Authors: Bettoni Marco , Obeng Eddie
Published: November 2023

Knowledge sharing is a key to successful collaboration (online or in presence), and since collaboration is changing due to the increasingly emerging so-called “New Collaboration,” knowledge sharing should adjust accordingly: we call this New Knowledge Sharing. Organizations wishing to exploit the potential of New Collaboration need to understand how the new knowledge sharing and collaboration are related and, in particular, how they proceed, the very steps of their interwoven process. During our previous work, the concept of a Joint Knowledge Base (abbreviated to J.K.B.) emerged and became increasingly prominent as a key to knowledge sharing. Thus, in this paper, we will first revise and elaborate our concept of a J.K.B. in more detail. We will see how, on the one hand, when working on a shared task, each collaborator contributes to its construction and how, on the other, the J.K.B. functions as an interaction bridge, which is why it is a key to knowledge sharing. Secondly, we will describe different opportunities for partners in an interaction (team meeting, workshop, creative session, etc.) to contribute to the creation of a J.K.B. using so-called “Distributed Contribution Tools” (D.C.T.), which are standardized artifact-mediated interaction methods developed by E. Obeng. In particular, this second part will present 6 such D.C.T.s and explain how they contribute to the J.K.B. by means of a socially distributed production.
A Histological Assessment of the Reproductive Cycle of the Sea Urchin, Lytechinus variegatus
Authors: Cunningham Adele , Gibbs Victoria , Watts Stephen
Published: November 2023

The regular echinoid Lytechinus variegatus is a valuable model for the study of early embryological development. Lytechinus variegatus inhabits nearshore seagrass beds in the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean, and the species ranges from the Carolinas along the US Atlantic coast to Brazil. Evaluating the natural reproductive cycle of L. variegatus will aid in understanding its role in community structure and in the management of this resource when housed in the laboratory. From April 2001 to September 2003, at intervals of 4—6 weeks, L. variegatus (41−50 mm diameter; n = 32 individuals/collection) were collected at Eagle Harbor in St. Joseph’s Bay, FL. A histological staging system for gamete development and maturation of the gonad was devised for female and male L. variegatus. The annual minimum gonad index was observed in September or October and increased to a maximum in March or April. A period of nutrient storage and limited gametogenic activity along the germinal epithelium in the fall and winter preceded spring gamete production and maturation. Observations of the mature reproductive stage in L. variegatus were associated with the new and full moon, suggesting that lunar cycle or tides influenced the timing of spawning. Peak periods of spawning occurred in spring and, occasionally, in the summer. Spawning probably did not occur from October to January. These data indicate field collections can be timed for early spring to ensure gravid adults for developmental studies.
Factor Exploration for Good Taekwondo Class in School Physical Education
Authors:   The World Society of Taekwondo Culture, Park Ji Hyun
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study was to explore factors to Good Taekwondo Class in School Physical Education by using the Delphi technique. In order to achieve the purpose of this study, upper factors were derived through literature analysis. Based on this, in order to represent multiple interests and objectivity, the final sub-factors were deducted by performing Delphi analysis, targeting a total of 20 people, 5 people from each group, were divided into Taekwondo instructor, middle and high school P.E. teacher, professor and researcher and Taekwondo demonstration school student. The results drew the conclusions as follows. First, in the area of 'educational method', a total of five sub-factors were derived. Second, in the area of 'educational content', a total of three sub-factors were derived. Third, in the area of 'educational environment', a total of four sub-factors were derived. Fourth, in the area of 'educational evaluation', a total of four sub-factors were derived. Fifth, in the area of 'educational atmosphere', a total of four sub-factors were derived.
The Effect of Taekwondo Center Manager's Communication Style on Rapport Formation and Sustainability
Authors:   The World Society of Taekwondo Culture, Kim Joo-Won , Kim Byung-Youn
Published: November 2023

This study was conducted through theoretical consideration on the effect of managers' communication styles on rapport formation and management performance. The subjects of the study were 207 parents of Taekwondo studio trainees and analyzed using SPSS 18.0 and AMOS. As a result of the study, it was found that the manager's communication style had a static effect on rapport formation, and the manager's communication style had a static effect on sustainability. In addition, the formation of rapport with managers and trainee parents affected the sustainability. Therefore, Taekwondo studio managers should recognize the importance of communication style when consulting with trainee parents and try to form a rapport with trainee parents. This is because it is an important factor in the management performance of the Taekwondo gym.
Exploring the meaning of Grit experienced by Taekwondo Poomsae leader and how to use it in training
Authors:   The World Society of Taekwondo Culture, Noh Hyung Jun , Lee SeungMin , Kim SooJung
Published: November 2023

This study began with the aim of exploring the meaning of grit in games and training through five male and female leaders registered as Poomsae leaders of the Korea Taekwondo Association in 2023. Leaders were selected through regional arrangements from their 40s to 60s, and three results were finally drawn after a period of data collection during the three-month competition. First, it was the belief of Grit and the leaders that showed up with the passion, sincerity, and effort of the players. Second, it was found that grit was used as a method of psychological and functional training experienced by leaders. Third, it was the use, reality, and complementarity of Grit in training that appeared as experience.
On Group-Vertex-Magic Labeling of Simple Graphs
Authors: Khuluq Muhammad Husnul , Krisnawati Vira Hari , Hidayat Noor
Published: November 2023

Let A be an Abelian group with identity 0. The A-vertex-magic labeling of a graph G is a mapping from the set of vertices in G to A-{0} such that the sum of the labels of every open neighborhood vertex of v is equal, for every vertex v in G. In this article, we discuss group-vertex-magic labeling of some simple graphs by using the Abelian group Zk, with natural numbers k1. We investigated some classes of simple graphs are path graphs, complete graphs, cyclic graphs, and star graphs. The method we used in this article is literature study and then developing the properties of vertex-magic labeling of some simple graphs, that are path graphs, complete graphs, cyclic graphs, and star graphs. We obtain that complete graphs, cyclic graphs, and star graphs have Zk-vertex-magic labeling, while path graphs have vertex-magic labeling only for n=2,3.
The Health of Transmasculine Patients Compared With Cisgender Patients Treated With Hysterectomy in the U.S. South, 2014–2017
Authors: Beltran Theo G. , Poteat Tonia , Mathias Joacy G. , Doll Kemi M. , Matthews Derrick D. , Robinson Whitney R.
Published: November 2023

This article describes the clinical, reproductive, sociodemographic, and health care setting characteristics of a diverse transmasculine patient population compared with cisgender patients among a cohort treated with hysterectomy in a large health care system in the United States (US) South from 2014 to 2017. Additionally, we compare a computational phenotype (CP) for identifying transmasculine patients against a self-reported gender identity variable from the electronic health record (EHR). CPs are algorithms of medical codes and provider notes used to identify subpopulations not otherwise well-specified in EHR data. Without accurate identification of transgender patients, researchers are unable to fully address health issues in transgender populations. A CP for identifying transmasculine patients was generated using the manual abstraction of provider notes, diagnostic codes, and prescription data. The CP identified 35 transmasculine hysterectomy patients compared with 1,822 cisgender women treated with hysterectomy for noncancerous conditions. The 2017 EHR gender variable identified only 16 (45.7%) of the 35 patients from our CP method as transmasculine. Transmasculine patients (n= 35) were younger and had higher reports of chronic pelvic pain than cisgender patients (n= 1,822). Transmasculine patients were all treated in academic medical centers, while cisgender patients were mostly treated at community hospitals. We found that an algorithm of diagnosis codes, keyword text-strings, and testosterone prescriptions identified more transmasculine patients treated with hysterectomy than the self-reported gender identity variable.
Material Culture and Macbeth’s Stool: Re-reading Shakespeare from a Modern Perspective
Authors:   The Korean Society For Teaching English Literature, Kim Hyunjoo
Published: November 2023

The study of material culture has influenced a wide range of humanities disciplines, and has been the subject of inquiry by archaeologists and social anthropologists, while the study of objects has also been the focus of critical attention in history and literature. Many of these methods have been developed in relation to contemporary materiality, and work on objects from the past has also been shaped by this. In early modern England, objects were seen as marvels that were useful, thought-provoking, wondrous, entertaining, and generated meaning in their own modest ways. Even relatively inexpensive and simply made objects had ingenuity and a clear understanding of how objects performed emotions, so they were not just ideas about things, but meaningful ways of communicating in everyday life. Much of the work on early modern materiality has been done through Shakespeare’s plays, and this article therefore aims to outline the different ways in which recent criticism has related Shakespeare’s plays to early modern material culture, to explore how objects are mediated between the theatrical text and the wider culture through Shakespeare’s plays, and to suggest and explore future scholarly directions in this area through the study of material culture and the construction of identity, production and consumption as part of the early modern period. It argues that greater scholarly attention to forms of material culture, namely early modern objects and the processes associated with them, may offer fruitful new avenues for understanding the ways in which Shakespeare’s plays work with audiences.
Strengthening Social Accountability for Meaningful Youth Engagement in Africa
Authors: Tesfaye Alemu , Gatellier Karine
Published: November 2023

Following its research which highlighted the key role played by young people in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Organisation for Social Science Research in Eastern and Southern Africa (OSSREA) developed and delivered a training of trainers on social accountability for meaningful youth engagement. The training was aimed at youth-led civil society organisations (CSOs) and local authorities in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda. In Uganda, it led to the establishment of a coalition of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) dedicated to social accountability; in Kenya, youth-led CSOs and local governments began to take a more inclusive approach to governance and policy development; and in Ethiopia, plans were made for a youth CSO thinktank focused on social accountability.
Geographical patterns of food-purchasing behaviour: the example of sub-Saharan Africa
Authors:   African Business Education & Research, Denmark, Kuada John
Published: November 2023

This chapter seeks to provide an overview of the multiplicity of factors that are shaping the food marketing and purchasing behaviours of consumers in SSA and the implications they carry for policy, strategy, and future research in the field. In terms of structure the discussions continue after this brief introduction with a review of some theoretical perspectives that have guided empirical investigations into food marketing processes in SSA. This is followed by discussions of some major shifts in consumer preferences and purchase behaviours. We then examine changes in the food distribution infrastructure, highlighting the roles that modern food retail firms are playing in the process. Finally, we explore the implications of these changes for policy, strategy, and future research.
Yeraltı Depolamasının Dev Kralotu (Pennisetum hybridum) Bitkisinin Vejetatif Çoğaltımına Etkisi
Authors: YAMAÇ Yılmaz , GEREN Hakan
Published: November 2023

Çalışmanın amacı, dev kralotu (Pennisetum hybridum) bitkisinin vejetatif çoğaltılmasında etkili depolama yöntemi ve uygulamalarını belirlemektir. Çalışmada iki ayrı deneme yürütülmüştür. En az 10 boğumlu dev kralotu sapları Aralık ayında 20 cm ve 40 cm toprak derinliğinde 2 takım halinde depolanmıştır. Birinci ve ikinci deneme sapların gömülmesinden sırasıyla 100 gün ve 140 gün sonra açılmıştır. Her iki depolamadan sonra, 10 boğumlu saplar demir testeresi ile 1 ve 2 boğumlu çelikler halinde kesilmiş, yeni çelikler indol-3-bütirik asit (IBA) (4000 ppm) veya IBA olmaksızın (0 ppm, kontrol) toprağa dikilmiştir. Denemelerde filizlenme oranı ve kök kuru ağırlığı gibi bazı özellikler test edilmiştir. Sonuçlar, birinci denemede 20 cm toprak derinliğinde depolanan saplardan hazırlanan çeliklerin hiçbirinde filizlenme başarısı elde edilemediğini göstermiştir. Çalışmada, 40 cm toprak derinliğinde depolanan saplardan hazırlanan çeliklere IBA (4000 ppm) uygulanması filizlenme oranını kontrole göre artırmıştır. İki boğumlu çelikler, 1 boğumlu çeliklerden daha yüksek filizlenme oranına sahip olmuştur. İkinci denemede, 40 cm toprak derinliğinde depolanan saplardan hazırlanan çeliklerde filizlenme oranları 20 cm toprak derinliğine göre daha yüksek olmuştur. Her iki toprak derinliğinde, filizlenme oranı üzerine IBA yoğunlukları arasında önemli olmayan farklılıklar gözlenmiştir. Tek boğumlu çelikler, 2 boğumlu çeliklerden daha yüksek filizlenme oranına sahip olmuşlardır. Her iki denemede; tek boğumlu çelikler 2 boğumlu çeliklerden daha fazla kök üretme eğilimi göstermişlerdir.
Kiraz (Prunus avium L.)’da Hasat Sonrası Melatonin Uygulamasının Depolamada Meyve Kalitesi Üzerine Etkisi
Authors: KÜÇÜKER Emine , AĞLAR Erdal , ÇELİK Kenan , KIZGIN ÖZCENGİZ Ceyda , OĞURLU Ferhat
Published: November 2023

Hassas bir meyve yapısına sahip olan kiraz (Prunus avium L.)’ın depolama ve raf ömrü süresi kısadır. Bu problemin çözümüne katkı sunmak için yapılmış bu çalışmada, kirazda hasat sonrası farklı dozlarda melatonin uygulamasının 0.00 (kontrol), 0.01, 0.10 ve 1.00 mM depolama süresince meyve kalite özellikleri ve biyokimyasal içerik üzerine etkisi belirlenmiştir. Bitkisel materyal olarak 2005 yılında MaxMa 60 anacı üzerine aşılı Lapins kiraz çeşidine ait ağaçlar ile kurulmuş bahçeden hasat edilen meyveler kullanılmıştır. Araştırma sonucunda, depolama süresi ile birlikte artış gösteren ağırlık kaybı melatonin uygulanmış meyvelerde daha düşük olduğu ve uygulama dozuna bağlı olarak farklılıkların oluştuğu belirlenmiştir. Melatonin uygulaması depolamada meyve eti sertliğinin korunmasında etkili olmuştur. Depolama süresince 0.01 mM melatonin uygulanmış meyvelerde et sertliği daha yüksek bulunmuştur. Depolama süresince renk değerlerinde önemli değişiklikler meydana geldiği, renk değişimi üzerine melatonin uygulamasının etkili olduğu ve bu etkinin doza bağlı olarak değişiklik gösterdiği saptanmıştır. Kiraz meyvelerinde suda çözünür kuru madde miktarı değerleri muhafaza süresince doğrusal olarak azalmıştır. Melatonin ile muamele edilmiş meyvelerde azalma daha düşük olmuştur. Titre edilebilir asitlik değerleri muhafaza süresince tüm uygulamalarda azalmış ve en düşük değerler kontrol uygulamasından elde edilmiştir. Depolama süresince tüm organik asitlerde konsantrasyonun muhafaza edilmesinde melatonin uygulamasının etkili olduğu, ancak konsantrasyona bağlı olarak olumlu ve olumsuz etkilerinin olduğu görülmüştür. Sonuç olarak çalışmada depolamada meyve eti sertliğin korunmasında ve ağırlık kaybının azaltılmasında melatoninin kullanılabileceği ortaya konulmuştur.
Świat niezamieszkany. Statek niewolniczy i statek kosmiczny „Ziemia” jako modele postkolonialnej ekologii
Authors: Brzostek Dariusz
Published: November 2023

Tematem szkicu jest postkolonialna perspektywa w badaniach nad środowiskiem naturalnym oraz projektami konstruowania przyszłości w krajach Globalnego Południa. Przyglądając się analitycznie teoretycznym refleksjom (M. Ferdinand) oraz spekulatywnym narracjom poświęconym rekonstrukcji oraz ochronie dziedzictwa przyrodniczego w krajach poddanych kolonialnej eksploatacji, autor artykułu odnosi się do krytycznego potencjału dawnej futurologii (R. Buckminster Fuller, K. Ciołkowski) oraz literatury fantastycznonaukowej (C. Smith, K. Boruń, A. Trepka), zmagającej się z problemami konstruowania sztucznych habitatów, terraformowania i kolonizacji przestrzeni kosmicznej. W konkluzji zaprezentowane zostają perspektywy i wyzwania prognostycznego myślenia o projektowaniu przyszłości poza globalnymi centrami cywilizacyjnymi.
Targeted mutation-based therapy for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Yang Facai , Qiu Yinghe , Yi Bin
Published: November 2023

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is a highly aggressive primary liver cancer with limited treatment options and poor prognosis. Although gemcitabine combined with cisplatin (GEMCIS) or newly GEMCIS plus durvalumab is the first-line systemic therapy for iCCA, several promising treatment targets have been identified in the past decade in both first- and subsequent-line settings, including neurotrophic tropomyosin-receptor tyrosine kinase (NTRK) fusions, RET fusions, high microsatellite instability (MSI-H), high tumor mutation burden (TMB-H), as well as fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) fusions, BRAF V600E mutation, isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)-1 and IDH-2 mutations, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 [HER2 (ERBB2)] amplifications. Corresponding small molecule inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies have demonstrated improved efficacy and survival benefits in phase 2 or phase 3 studies, gained regulatory approvals or recommendations in guidelines, and reshaped the therapeutic management for advanced cholangiocarcinoma. Numerous novel targeted drugs and combination therapies have been developed and are under evaluation. Despite the progress made in targeted therapy, it still faces challenges such as acquired drug resistance, precise patient selection, and serious adverse events. Therefore, large-scale randomized phase 3 trials of novel targeted agents and innovative regimens are warranted to benefit this population. Herein, we present a comprehensive review of the literature of clinical significance on targeted therapy for iCCA in recent years, focusing on the advances in mutation-based targeted therapy.
Diagnostic Accuracy of a Portable Electromyography and Electrocardiography Device to Measure Sleep Bruxism in a Sleep Apnea Population: A Comparative Study
Authors: Cid-Verdejo Rosana , Domínguez Gordillo Adelaida A. , Sánchez Romero Eleuterio A. , Ardizone García Ignacio , Martínez Orozco Francisco J.
Published: November 2023

Background: The gold standard for the diagnosis of sleep bruxism (SB) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is Polysmnography (PSG). At the end of the apnea episodes there is frequently a final hy-permotor muscle activity that could act as a confusion factor in the diagnosis of SB with the elec-tromyography portable devices. The aim of this study was to compare the concordance on the number of episodes of SB in a population with OSA, between the diagnosis obtained by PSG, an-alyzed manually by a neurophysiologist and that obtained manually and automatically by a portable electromyography (EMG) and electrocardiography (EKG) device. Methods: Twenty-three subjects underwent one night of polysomnographic study with simulta-neous recording with the EMG-EKG device. The variables referring to the number of episodes and the SB index measured with both tools and analyzed in the manual and automatic modes were compared. Masticatory muscle activity was scored according to published criteria. The sample was segmented by severity of OSA according to AASM criteria. ANOVA, correlations, and the Bland–Altman plot were used to quantify the agreement between both methods. The concordance was calculated through the ICC. Results: The total events of SB per night in the PSG study were on average (8.17), lower than the one obtained with EMG-EKG manual analysis (14.13) and automatic (29.26). Both the SB PSG and Manual EMG-EKG episodes decrease from non-OSA (PSG = 16 ± 13,55, EMG-EKG = 16,83 ±11,58) to severe OSA (PSG = 3,14 ± 4,26, EMG-EKG = 9,86 ± 8,09). However, in the case of automatic EMG-EKG mode: the number of SB episodes in severe OSA doubled (41,23 ± 12,50) with respect to non OSA (24,50 ± 12,19). On average: the EMG-EKG device Automatic analysis measures 21.08 units more than PSG. The results with the manual EMG-EKG analysis improved. Conclusion: There is no concordance between the results obtained in the PSG neurophysiologic analysis and those obtained by means of the EMG-EKG device automatic and manual analysis for the diagnosis of SB in a population mostly with OSA. The OSA could act as a confusion factor in the diagnosis of SB with the electromyography portable devices, but further study is needed.
Locus of Control and Self‐Directed Learning Readiness of Nursing Students During the COVID‐19 Pandemic: A Cross‐Sectional Study from Saudi Arabia
Authors: ALKORASHY Hanan A. A. , ALOTAIBI Hanan A.
Published: November 2023

Background: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has caused one of the worst global pandemics in recent decades. It has disrupted education systems worldwide, leading to a forced shift from traditional face-to-face to blended or fully distanced learning, requiring a higher level of student readiness for self-directed learning (SDL) and a more internal locus of control (LOC). Objective: This study explored the relationship between locus of control and level of readiness for SDL among Saudi nursing students and whether the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted this relation-ship. Methods: a cross-sectional correlational descriptive study was conducted to survey 277 Saudi nursing students enrolled in the bachelor program at one of the reputable universities in Saudi Arabia. An E-questionnaire containing two scales, the Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale for Nursing Education, and the Locus of Control Scale, was used to collect data in addition to the selected participants’ characteristics. Results: Nursing students had a moderate-to-low level of readiness for SDL (mean = 144.0), and the majority had an external LOC. There was a significant association between the locus of control and level of readiness for self-directed learning (r = 0.19*, p = 0.001), and the internal locus of control was more significantly associated with self-directed learning (r = 0.22*, p = 0.0001) than with external locus of control. Conclusion: The study findings indicate a propensity of respondents towards an external locus of control, whereas most of the respondents’ reported levels of readiness ranged between low and moderate across all dimensions of self-directed learning. This study was not registered.
Contact Analysis for Cycloid Pinwheel Mechanism by Isogeometric Finite Element
Authors: Zhang Ke , Guo Caixia , Li Yutao , Su Yuewen , Gao Peihu
Published: November 2023

Cycloid drives are generally used in precision machinery requiring high reduction ratios, such as robot joint (RV) reducers, in which the contact load and stress property of the internal meshing pairs greatly affect the dynamic transmission performance of the reducers. Therefore, in this study, Isogeometric Analysis (IGA) was employed to explore the multi-tooth contact problem of the cycloid pinwheel drive. Based on the NURBS curved surface generation method, the NURBS tooth profile of the cycloid gear was reconstructed. In addition, the NURBS surface of the cycloid gear - pin tooth - output pin was generated via the element splicing method. A geometrical analysis model of cycloid pinwheel drive was established to solve the contact force of the meshing pair under different input angles, and compared with the finite element method in terms of convergence, resultant accuracy, and solving timeliness. The results show that the Isogeometric analysis has higher accuracy and efficiency than the finite element method in calculating the contact stress and contact force. This method can improve the contact simulation accuracy of the cycloid drive and provides a reference for the design evaluation of RV reducer.
Salicylic and Jasmonic Acid Synergism During Black Knot Disease Progression in Plums
Authors: Shinde Ranjeet , Ayyanath Murali-Mohan , Shukla Mukund , El Kayal Walid , Saxena Praveen Kumar , Subramanian Jayasankar
Published: November 2023

Black Knot (BK) is a deadly disease of European (Prunus domestica) and Japanese (Prunus salicina) plums caused by the hemibiotrophic fungus Apiosporina morbosa. Generally, phytopathogens hamper the balance of primary defense phytohormones such as salicylic acid (SA)-jasmonic acid (JA) balance for disease progression. Thus, we quantified the important phytohormones titers in tissues of susceptible and resistant genotypes belonging to European and Japanese plums at five different time points. The results suggested auxin-cytokinins interplay driven by A. morbosa appeared to be vital in disease progression by hampering the plant defense system via perturbance in SA, JA, and gibberellic acid. The results further point out that SA and JA in plant defense are not necessarily antagonistic always, especially in woody perennials. Results also suggest that the changes in SA and JA content following BK disease infection and progression in plums could be utilized as phytohormonal markers in the identification of BK-resistant cultivars.
Bacterial Virus Forcing of Bacterial O-Antigen Shields: Lessons From Coliphages
Authors: Letarov Andrey V.
Published: November 2023

Presence of lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) in the outer layer of outer membranes (OMs) is an almost universal molecular signature of Gram-negative bacteria. The O-antigen or O-polysaccharide (OPS) chains attach to millions of LPS molecule to form a continuous layer on the surface of most of Escherichia coli strains. OPS structure is one of the most variable features of bacteria, with about 200 E. coli O-serotypes currently described. In this review a analyze accumulating evidence suggesting that a vast majority of these OPS types provide robust shields that restrict the access of large molecules to the OM surface. Sophisticated mechanisms employed by bacteriophages to penetrate the OPS barrier are also considered. These are initiated with specific recognition of OPS molecules by phage receptor-binding proteins (RBP), or of other cell-surface molecules that are exposed above the OPS layer. Only after can virions gain access to secondary receptors found closer to the OM surface. The mechanisms of breaking through OPS in most if not all cases appear to rely on mechanical force generated by molecular motors of processive depolymerization or deacetylation of cell surface polysaccharides by enzymatically active RBPs, or by internal rearrangement of the virion.
Association of Plasma Claudin-5 with Age and Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Tachibna Keisuke , Hirayama Ryuichi , Sato Naoyuki , Hattori Kotaro , Kato Takashi , Takeda Hiroyuki , Kondoh Masuo
Published: November 2023

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) plays pivotal roles in synaptic and neuronal functioning by sealing the space between adjacent microvascular endothelial cells. BBB breakdown is present in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or Alzheimer disease (AD). Claudin-5 (CLDN-5) is a tetra-spanning protein essential for sealing the intercellular space between adjacent endothelial cells in the BBB. In this study, we developed a blood-based assay for CLDN-5 and investigated its diagnostic utility by using 100 cognitively normal (control) subjects, 100 patients with MCI, and 100 patients with AD. Plasma CLDN-5 levels were increased in patients with AD (3.08 ng/mL) compared with controls (2.77 ng/mL). Plasma levels of phosphorylated tau (pTau181), a biomarker of pathological tau, were elevated in patients with MCI or AD (2.86 and 4.20 pg/mL, respectively) compared with control subjects (1.81 pg/mL). In patients with MCI or AD, plasma levels of CLDN-5—but not pTau181—decreased with age, suggesting some age-dependent BBB changes in MCI and AD. These findings suggest that plasma CLDN-5 may a potential biochemical marker for the diagnosis of MCI and AD.
Cloud Computing Migration: A Thoughtful Decision
Authors: Xuan Yap Ming , Xuen Malcolm Tan Yu , Muzafar Saira
Published: November 2023

The reliance on cloud computing services and related technologies has increased due to their many benefits, including resource sharing and the need for organizations to maintain their competitive advantage in the digital market. Also, the pace of cloud growth has significantly increased because of COVID-19. Many companies and businesses have shifted their core processes to the cloud for seamless operations during the pandemic. This migration of legacy systems to the cloud creates many opportunities for businesses. However, on the other hand, it may also bring substantial challenges. Hence, a careful decision is needed to align with company goals. In this paper, we demonstrate the need and advantages of cloud computing, followed by highlighting AWS's characteristics as one of the leading cloud service providers. We also discuss the merger of AWS with SDN to improve cloud data security and performance. The outcomes of this study can provide a data migration strategy and guide decision-makers toward a secure and sustainable migration to a cloud computing environment.
New Spinal Shortening Technique for Tethered Cord Syndrome: A Technical Note
Authors: Tanaka Masato , Sonawane Sumeet , Shinya Arataki Shinya Arataki , Fujiwara Yoshihiro , Taoka Takuya , Uotani Koji , Oda Yoshiaki , Shinohara Kensuke
Published: November 2023

Study design : Technical note.

Objectives: To present a new spinal shortening technique for tethered cord syndrome.

Background : Tethered cord syndrome (TCS) is a debilitating condition of progressive neurological decline. Surgical detethering for TCS is a gold standard. However, symptomatic retethering of TCS has been reported in 5%–50% of patients after initial release. To solve this problem, posterior spinal shortening osteotomy has been reported. This technique has risks of massive blood loss and neurological deterioration. The authors hereby report a new safe spinal shortening technique for tethered cord syndrome.
Materials and Methods : A 31-year-old man with gait disturbance was referred to our hospital. After the delivery, he underwent surgical untethering of spinal cord in another hospital. He had hyperreflexia of Achilles tendon reflex and muscle weakness of bilateral legs (MMT 3-4). He also had urinary and bowel incontinence, and total sensory loss below L5.Anteroposterior lumbar radiogram indicates partial laminectomy of L3 and L4. Lumbar MRI showed retethering of spinal cord.

Results: He underwent new spinal shortening technique for tethered cord syndrome under the guidance of O-arm navigation. First, from anterior approach disectomy from T12 to L3 was performed. Second, from posterior Ponte osteotomy was done from T12 to L3, shorten the spinal column 15 mm. The patient was successfully treated surgically. Postoperative lumbar MRI showed the tension of spinal cord was released. Manual muscle testing results and sensory function of the left leg had recovered almost fully on final follow-up at one year.

Conclusions/Level of Evidence: Retethered spinal cord after initial untethering was difficult to treat. This new spinal shortening technique was effective and very safe technique to release the tension of spinal cord. Level V.
Point-Contact Spectroscopy in Bulk Samples of Electron-Doped Cuprate Superconductors
Authors: Nigro Angela , Guarino Anita , Leo Antonio , Grimaldi Gaia , Avitabile Francesco , Romano Paola
Published: November 2023

Point-contact spectroscopy has been performed on bulk samples of electron-doped high temperature superconductor Nd2-xCexCuO4-. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy equipped with a wavelength dispersive spectrometer and an electron backscatter diffraction detector. The samples with a Ce content x = 0.15, show the absence of spurious phases and randomly oriented grains, most of which have dimensions of approximately 220 µm2. The low-bias spectra in the tunnelling regime, i.e., high transparency interface, exhibit a gap feature at about ±5 meV and no zero-bias conductance, consistent with the most literature data on oriented samples. The high-bias conductance has also been measured in order to obtain information on the properties of the barrier. A V-shape has been in some cases observed, instead of the parabolic behavior expected for tunnel junctions.
Stat of the Art in Wearable Wrist Exoskeletons Part II: A Review of Commercial and Research Devices
Authors: Pitzalis Roberto Francesco , Park Daegeun , Caldwell Darwin G. , Berselli Giovanni , Ortiz Jesús
Published: November 2023

Manual handling tasks, both in daily activities and at work, require high dexterity and the ability to move objects of different shapes and sizes. However, musculoskeletal disorders that can arise due to aging, disabilities, overloading, or strenuous work can impact the natural capabilities of the hand with serious repercussions both in working and daily activities. To address this, researchers have been developing and proving the benefits of wrist exoskeleton., This paper, which is the part II of a study on wrist exoskeletons, presents and summarizes wearable wrist exoskeleton devices conceived for use in rehabilitation, assistance, and occupational fields. Exoskeletons considered within the study are those available either in a prototyping phase or on the market. They can support the human wrist by relieving pain or mitigating fatigue while allowing at least one movement. According to the requirements to be met, the majority have been designed active (80%) for higher force/torque transmission, and soft for better kinematic compliance, ergonomics, and safety (13 devices out of 24, more than 50%). Electric motors (11 devices out of 24, almost 50%) and cable transmission (9 devices out of 24, almost 40%) are the most common due to their simplicity, controllability, safety, power-to-weight ratio, and the possibility of remote actuation. As sensing technologies, position and force sensors are widely used in all devices (almost 90%). The control strategy depends mainly on the application domain: for rehabilitation, CPM (Control Passive Motion) is preferred (35% of the devices), while for assistance and occupational purposes AAN (Assistance-As-Needed) is more suitable (38% of the devices). What emerges from this analysis is that while rehabilitation and training are fields in which exoskeletons have been grown more easily and gained some user acceptance (almost 18 devices of which 4 are available on the market), relatively few devices have been designed for occupational aims (6 of which only 2 are available on the market) due to difficulties in meeting the acceptance and needs of users. In this perspective, as a result of the state-of-the-art analysis, the authors propose a conceptual idea of a portable soft wrist exoskeleton for occupational assistance.