bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxidative Stress and Left Ventricular Performance in Patients with Different Glycometabolic Phenotypes
Authors: Cassano Velia , Miceli Sofia , Armentaro Giuseppe , Mannino Gaia C. , Fiorentino Vanessa T. , Perticone Maria , Succurro Elena , Hribal Marta L. , Andreozzi Francesco , Perticone Francesco , Sesti Giorgio , Sciacqua Angela
Published: February 2022

Background: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the possible correlation between oxidative stress and subclinical myocardial damage, assessed with speckle tracking echocardiography (STE), in normal glucose tolerant (NGT) patients with one-hour plasma glucose values ≥155 mg/dl (NGT≥155), comparing them to NGT<155 subjects, impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) newly diagnosed patients. Methods: We enrolled 100 Caucasian patients (mean age 61.4±10.7). All subjects underwent OGTT. The serum values of oxidative stress markers (8-isoprostane and Nox-2) were assessed with ELISA test. Echocardiographic recordings were performed using an E-95 Pro ultrasound system. Results: We observed significant differences, among the four groups, for fasting plasma glucose (p<0.0001), one-hour postload (p<0.0001), two-hours postload plasma glucose (p<0.0001). As compared with NGT<155, NGT≥155 exhibited significantly worse insulin sensitivity and higher values of hs-CRP. No significant differences were observed between NGT≥155 and IGT patients. There was a significant increase in 8-isoprostane (p<0.0001) and Nox-2 (p<0.0001), from the first to fourth group, indicating an increase in oxidative stress with the worsening of the metabolic status. Serum levels of 8-isoprostane and Nox-2 were significantly increased in NGT≥155 compared to NGT<155 group, but similar to IGT. The Global Longitudinal Strain (GLS), appeared progressively lower proceeding from NGT<155 to T2DM group (p<0.0001). For similar values of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), NGT≥155 exhibited reduced GLS compared to NGT<155 (p=0.001), but similar to IGT patients. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that NGT≥155 subjects exhibit early functional impairment of myocardial contractile fibres, and these alterations are correlated with increased oxidative stress.
Detection of Microplastics in Patients with Colorectal Adenocarcinoma using Various Techniques
Authors: ÇETIN Meltem , MİLOĞLU Fatma DEMİRKAYA , BAYGUTALP Nurcan KILIÇ , CEYLAN Onur , YILDIRIM Serkan , ESER Gizem , GÜL Halise İnci
Published: February 2022

Whether microplastic poses a risk to the ecosystem and human health is a matter of concern. The presence of microplastics in tumoral colon tissues (TCT, n=16) and non-tumoral colon tissues (N-TCT, n=16) of the patients diagnosed with colorectal adenocarcinoma and also in the colon tissue samples (C, n=15) collected from subjects not diagnosed with colorectal cancer were determined for the first time. The microplastics were extracted from the colon tissues of TCT, N-TCT, and C groups, and ATR-FTIR and Raman spectroscopies were used for identification. The particle size of microplastic extracted from the colon tissues of TCT, N-TCT, and C groups were in the range of 1 to 1299 µm. The number of microplastics (in 1 g colon tissue) extracted from the TCT group was found to be significantly higher than those extracted from the N-TCT (P=0.001) or C groups (P =0.002). The presence of three microplastic polymers [polyethylene (PE), Poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), and nylon (polyamide)] was determined in the spectra of the extracted microplastics via comparison with the spectra in KnowltAll® QC Expert software database. We might propose that there is a link between colorectal cancer and microplastic exposure level.
Needs Assessment: Integrating Medical Simulation in Residencies Programs in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alzoraigi Usamah
Published: February 2022

ObjectivesThe use of simulation in the curricula of training programs has expanded significantly over the last decade. This study conducted a simulation needs assessment on diverse ongoing residency training programs supervised by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) in Saudi Arabia. The goal was to introduce a standardized methodological approach to integrate simulation as a teaching tool for any ongoing training programs.Methoda mixed-methods approach is used in four steps to focus on top educational needs and integrate simulation within the curriculum. In the first step, thirty-eight residency training programs underwent a selection process using the scoring criteria tool. Nine residency training programs were selected to be target programs. This step was followed by champions recruitment, where two faculty representatives from each specialty were oriented about the steps to be process facilitators. The third step is targeted audience needs assessment, consisting of four phases: curriculum review, targeted audience survey, a focus group of stakeholders' interview, and selecting the top identified educational needs. A metrics-based approach was used to rank the list of skills and behaviors by invited stakeholders. The last step was to build common themes using an integration simulation sheet to facilitate integrating simulation into the program curriculum.ResultsOut of 38 programs, nine top-ranked specialties completed the process, and their roadmaps were developed. A critical appraisal facilitated by champions and simulation experts helped the stakeholders to identify the top needed skills and behaviors in each of the nine specialties. The final score proportion for each skill and behavior of the entire combined list was calculated then ranked. The proportion of top needed list of skills and behaviors were obtained as followings: Obstetrics and Gynecology 10 skills and behaviors concluded out of 84 (10/84), Emergency Medicine (ER) 80/242, Intensive care unit (ICU) 20/139, Internal Medicine (IM) 37/102, Pediatric 82/125, Ear Nose Throat (ENT) 49/125, General Surgery (GS) 55/114, Plastic Surgery 24/165, and Family Medicine (FM) 59/168.ConclusionsFindings from this process could provide a standardized approach to supervising bodies at a country level and support decision-makers with prioritizing criteria to be used in the needs assessment to integrate simulation in any other ongoing residency training programs.
The hydrological benefits of restoration: A modelling study of alien tree clearing in four mountain catchments in South Africa
Authors: Rebelo Alanna J. , Holden Petra B. , Hallowes Jason , Eady Bruce , Cullis James , Esler Karen J. , New Mark
Published: February 2022

Ecological restoration efforts at scale have been shown to play an important role in reducing human impact on the environment, improving climate change adaptation and halting extinctions globally. Upscaling restoration efforts needs funding, and therefore evidence of the benefits of restoration is needed. The aims of this study are firstly to improve the evidence base of the water-related benefits of restoration using a fine-scale modelling approach (with field work and remote-sensing inputs, and well-validated models), and secondly to explicitly quantify uncertainties to understand the general applicability of the principles discovered. We model the impacts of restoration (in this study the clearing of alien trees) on streamflow in four strategic water providing catchments using the fully-distributed MIKE-SHE modelling tool. We find that the benefits of clearing mature infestations of alien trees, such as pines, from naturally tree-less ecosystems increases available water resources by 15.1-29.5%. Clearing riparian invasions has a 1.7 times greater impact compared to terrestrial (non-riparian) invasions. The largest impacts of passive restoration on streamflow are in the mid to low flows, and this impact is greater in dry years relative to wet years. The findings are novel in that they shed light on the spatial uncertainties in the modelled gains. These findings have implications for leveraging investment to upscale restoration efforts in water scarce regions, as they suggest improved water security during the dry season and droughts. Upscaling efforts is essential if the degradation of ecosystems globally is to be prevented, halted and reversed, as proposed by the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration.
Identification of Potential miRNA-mRNA Regulatory Network in Denervated Muscular Atrophy by Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Wang Jianhua , Liu Yuhang , Zhang Yongming , Liu Bin , Wei Zhijian
Published: February 2022

Background: Muscle atrophy caused by long-term denervation leads to the loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength, resulting in a poor recovery of functional muscles and decreasing quality of life. Increasing differentially expressed microRNAs (DEMs) have been reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of denervated muscle atrophy. However, there is still insufficient evidence to explain the role of miRNAs and their target genes in skeletal muscle atrophy. Therefore, an integrative exploration of the miRNA-mRNA regulatory network in denervated muscle atrophy is necessary. Methods: Microarray GSE81914 was retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, and the differentially expressed microRNAs (DEMs) were obtained by comparing the denervated muscle tissue with the innervated muscle. The miRNet database was used to predict the target genes of the obtained DEMs. Then Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were performed by DAVID. The TF-miRNA and miRNA-mRNA regulatory networks were constructed using Cytoscape software. In addition, the key modules and hub genes were screened out from the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and verified by qRT-PCR. Results: A total of 21 (16 upregulated and 5 downregulated) DEMs were screened out in the GSE81914 dataset. Med1 was predicted and verified to be significantly upregulated, which may affect the process of denervated muscle atrophy by regulating mir-146b and mir-1949. 59 target genes were then predicted by submitting candidate DEMs to the miRNet database. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that target genes of DEMs were mainly enriched in the apoptotic process and PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. The key modules and hub genes were potentially modulated by mir-29b and mir-133a. Moreover, the qRT-PCR results confirmed the expression of COL1A1 and Ctgf are opposite to their related miRNAs. Conclusions: In the study, a potential miRNA-mRNA regulatory network was firstly constructed in denervated muscle atrophy, in which the mir-29b-COL1A1 and mir-133a-Ctgf pathways may provide new insights into the pathogenesis and treatment.
ANTIBIOTIC-ASSOCIATED BLOOD CHANGES IN NEWBORNS
Authors: Popov Serhiy V. , Smiyan Oleksandr I. , Vasylieva Olena H. , Iusiuk Liudmyla A. , Profatylo Anastasiia O. , Romanenko Tetyana V. , Govorun Dmitro A.
Published: February 2022

Objective. The objective of the study was to determine the chances of a decrease in CBC cells when using antibiotics in newborns.
Materials and methods. A total of 46 newborn infants who were hospitalized with the main diagnosis of hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy were examined. By gestational age, they belonged to the late-preterm and term groups. The newborns were divided into 2 subgroups. Group 1 – main group: 25 children who received antibiotics; group 2 – control group: 21 children who did not receive antibiotics. Group 1 was divided into 2 subgroups: Group 1a, 16 newborns who received 1 antibiotic and Group 1b, 9 newborns who received 2 antibiotics. Antibiotics were administered at age-related doses, intravenously, including semi-synthetic penicillins, cephalosporins, aminoglycosides, carbapenems, glycopeptides. The features of the analysis of blood (CBC) were studied.
Results. It was noted that in terms of general characteristics, the newborns of the main and control groups were comparable. When comparing the mean values of blood counts, a significant decrease in erythrocytes, leukocytes and erythrocytes was revealed in the group of newborns who received antibiotics in comparison with the control group. The absolute number of neutrophils was significantly lower in the group of newborns who received 2 antibiotics vs. the control group. The odds ratio calculation showed an increased risk of a decrease in cell levels with antibiotic therapy prescribed. Leukocytes were found to have the greatest chances of decreasing from the normative level ­– by 5.34 times, as well as erythrocytes – by 3.56 times. The absolute number of neutrophils decreased with the greatest chances when 2 antibiotics were administered – by 22 times.
Conclusions. In general, the antibiotic therapy leads to a decrease in the number of erythrocytes, leukocytes, platelets. This was most noted for leukocytes and erythrocytes. The absolute neutrophil count decreased most significantly with 2 antibiotics used.
FROM A WILLING GOOD COP TO A RELUCTANT BAD COP: THE (D)EVOLUTION OF UNITED NATIONS SANCTIONS ON NORTH KOREA
Authors:   Department of International Relations, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea, Lee Heesu , Kim Sunil ,   College of International Studies, Kyung Hee University, 1732 Deogyeong-daero, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Geyonggi-do 17104, Republic of Korea
Published: February 2022

This study posits that the ineffective and futile efforts of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to contain North Korean nuclear ambition are a result of the United States (U.S.) consistently and strategically developing its sanctions regimes, rather than the limited implementation of the UNSC’s measures or by the non-compliance of China and Russia, the two North Korean-leaning permanent UNSC members. The U.S/ has endeavoured to maximise its strategic leverage against North Korea by consolidating bilateral channels to increase its foreign policy capacity and flexibility, instead of reinforcing multilateral pressures through the UNSC. Although both the U.S. and the UNSC share the goal of nuclear non-proliferation in Northeast Asia, the former deliberately exploited the deficient decision making process of the latter to maximise its foreign policy flexibility. Consequently, the U.S. has flexibly pursued both engagement and containment of North Korea while maintaining its hard-line stance against it at the UNSC, whereas the UNSC’s sanctions on North Korea have gradually become rigid and inflexible, without achieving tangible outcomes. We argue that the U.S.’s unilateral use of sanctions against North Korea is building on its instrumental use of the UNSC’s multilateral framework, which has significantly lost its legitimacy and effectiveness amid the looming U.S.-China rivalry over hegemony in Asia.
ARTISTS AGAINST GENTRIFICATION: COORDINATORS OF DIFFERENT PEOPLE IN AN INNER-CITY AREA OF OSAKA, JAPAN
Authors:   Faculty of International Tourism, Hannan University, 1-108-1 Amamiminami Matsubara, Osaka, Japan 580-0033, Horiuchi Shiro
Published: February 2022

Gentrification, often characterised by an influx of new residents who displace established locals, has impacted cities across the world and is accelerated by the growth of global capital and the development of neoliberal governments. Artists can counter the process by using their art to promote justice and community development. This paper explores the influence of artists on the community of Baika-Shikanjima, an inner-city area of Osaka, where many creative individuals have aggregated for more than a decade. At present, the area seems to be untouched by gentrification. The findings of this field study indicate that most artists earn an income through other part-time jobs or by managing small businesses. Despite their meagre earnings, these artists live comfortably thanks to affordable housing, products, and services in the area. The artists exhibit or perform their work for other artists, tourists, and residents. The audience members or participants interact with each other during these performances. The study suggests that artists in this area counter the course of gentrification simply by pursuing their activities and rooting them in the community and daily life of the area. Furthermore, their activities seem to create public spaces through which marginalised groups and individuals are provided the opportunity to engage with other residents. The artists could be regarded as outsiders or authentic tourists who integrate into the local community. Although globalisation accelerates gentrification in many areas of Osaka city, this case study shows that a more sustainable inner-city development is possible if artists are involved in community life.
MATE SELECTION PREFERENCES BASED ON ALTRUISTIC CHARACTERISTICS AMONG THAIS
Authors:   Independent Researcher, Tsai Somying , Rhein Douglas ,   Faculty of Social Science, Mahidol University International College, 999 Bhuddamonthon 4 Rd. Salaya, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
Published: February 2022

Extensive research in evolutionary psychology has explored the role that altruism plays in mate preference. This research aims to investigate whether altruism is desired for long-term and short term relationships among females and males, as well as to determine potential sex differences within this preference among Thai nationals. To that end, a self-administered online Thai language-based survey was distributed for data collection; 138 Thai respondents (mean age = 22.5, SD = 4.37) completed the survey. The respondents were asked to read nine hypothetical scenarios and rate their preferences for different individuals in the scenarios for long-term and shortterm relationships. In each scenario, if one person displayed high levels of altruism, another person in the same scenario would display a lower level of altruism. A 2 × 2 × 2 mixed ANOVA indicated that both men and women significantly favoured altruistic partners for long-term relationships; whereas, when displays of altruism was low, there was only a slight difference in preference for a short-term or longterm relationship. Moreover, there was no significant difference between men and women’s desirability for altruistic partners. This study provides further support for previous altruism based research which emphasises the importance of altruism regarding long term mate selection.
Is Hydrogen Indispensable for a Sustainable World? A Review of H2 Applications and Perspectives for the Next Years
Authors: Von Zuben Theodora , Moreira Daniel , Germscheidt Rafael , Yoshimura Rafael , Dorretto Daniel , de Araujo Ana , Salles Jr. Airton , Bonacin Juliano
Published: February 2022

Hydrogen (H2) was one of the first molecules discovered by our society, being the most abundant element in the whole universe. Thus, H2 has gained a lot of attention throughout the years, and it has lots of applications in different areas, especially since it offers ways to decarbonize a lot of sectors, mainly the ones where it has been proved to be very difficult to meaningfully reduce those carbon emissions. Herein, the main aspects of the hydrogen economy and its main applications for energy, transportation and industries are described. These main areas outline how important is H2 for our society highlighting how H2 can make those well-known processes more sustainable and greener. By the end, a brief discussion on these applications with future perspectives is presented.
Fluoride-leaching simulation of aquifer sediment and its influence on groundwater fluoride levels along coastal plains
Authors: Jia C. P. , Chen Q. , An M. G. , Zhi C. L. , Lou S. W. , Zhang P. P. , Li Q. C. , Zhang Y. M. , Han S. Y. , Zheng H. T.
Published: February 2022

Seawater intrusion and drinking-water fluorosis are frequently documented along coastal plains. Groundwater is characterized by high OH−, Na+, total dissolved solids, and low Ca2+ because of seawater intrusion, and such conditions favor sediment fluoride-leaching and fluorosis. But the geological process of seawater intrusion has not been noticed when high-fluoride groundwater along coastal areas is discussed. The groundwater and sediments in a typical seawater intrusion and fluorosis area are gained, and fluoride-leaching simulation experiments are performed. Sediment fluoride levels are equal to or lower than average sediment fluoride levels in China and Shandong province, but strong fluoride-leaching in aquifers is observed. Compared with the supplied water from the non-intruded neighboring area, the local groundwater has higher fluoride levels, together with higher pH, total dissolved solids, HCO3−, Cl−, Br−, SO42−, Na+, K+, and low Ca2+ because of seawater intrusion. Aquifer sediment fluoride-leaching ability increases with an increase in seawater (brine water) mixing ratios, and NaCl or NaHCO3 levels, but with a decrease in CaCl2 levels. This directly confirms that seawater (brine water) intrusion promotes sediment fluoride-leaching, and the high pH, Na+, HCO3−, and low Ca2+ levels caused by seawater intrusion are responsible for the high-fluoride groundwater along coastal plains.
Nematicidal Metabolites From Higher Fungi
Authors: Anke H. , Sterner O.
Published: February 2022

The adverse effects on human health and well being and the high economic losses inflicted by pathogenic nematodes are important stimulants for the search of new, safe and effective nematicides and anthelminthics. The
pool of natural products is an important source for such compounds, and several of the most potent nematicides used today originate from streptomycetes. Higher fungi have an extensive secondary metabolism at their disposal, and obviously some benefit from the capability to kill nematodes. Surprisingly little is known about the production of nematicidal metabolites by fungi. Examples of compounds isolated from ascomycetes are the cochlioquinones and the mycorrhizins, which are strongly active against the saprophytic Caenorhabditis elegans but not towards the economically important plant pathogen Meloidogyne incognita. From basidiomycetes, the cyclic dodecapeptide omphalotin was obtained which seems to be highly selective for M. incognita. Compounds with good activity against a abomasum nematode in vivo are the macrodiolides clonostachydiol and helminidiol. When screening for nematicidal activity, it is important to use the proper test system as the sensitivity of different nematodes may vary considerably. Consequently, the search for agents active against M. incognita may be futile, if saprophytic nematodes are used as test organisms. The importance to develop relevant screening systems that are easy to use and have an acceptable capacity is therefore emphasized.
Light-Mediated Biological Activities of Natural Products from Plants and Fungi
Authors: Towers G. H. N. , Hudson J. B. , Page J. E.
Published: February 2022

Natural products from both plants and fungi exhibit light-mediated or photodynamic biological activity against viruses, microorganisms, cells and insects. We review new aspects of the photochemistry and photobiology of natural products, including their potential as therapeutic agents, with a focus on publications from 1991 to 1996. The effect of ultraviolet and visible light on the biological activity of polyynes (including their sulfur-derivatives), quinones, alkaloids, furocoumarins, furochromones, porphyrins and some miscellaneous compound classes is summarized. Significant advances in this field have been made in the photochemistry of the 1,2-dithiin polyynes (thiarubrines), the visible light-mediated antiviral activity and protein kinase C inhibition of the perylenequinone pigments (hypericin, hypocrellins) and the phototoxicity of plant-derived porphyrins (pheophorbides).
Rapid characterization of combinatorial libraries using electrospray ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry
Authors: Fang A. S. , Vouros P. , Stacey C. C. , Kruppa G. H. , Laukien F. H. , Wintner E. A. , Carell T. , Rebek J.
Published: February 2022

:

he relatively new field of combinatorial chemistry has enabled researchers to create large mixtures of compounds that can be screened for leads in developing potential drug candidates. The new synthetic method has also created a need for better procedures to analyze the complex mixtures that are generated. The immediate goal in most cases is to verify the synthetic procedure and to determine the purity and completeness of the library sample before binding studies are initiated. We report here a method to rapidly characterize small-molecule combinatorial libraries in solution. All combinatorial library samples were synthesized by combining a core molecule bearing two acid chloride functionalities with various amino acids to generate libraries of 36, 78 and 120 components. Using electrospray ionization fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (ESI-FTICR-MS) we were able to identify 70-80% of the library components. All samples were analyzed as mixtures by direct infusion without chromatographic separation. Furthermore, nominally isobaric components could be resolved and identified through exact mass assignments without tandem mass spectrometery. ESI-FTICR-MS is a rapid and convenient tool for the characterization of small-molecule libraries. The method is especially useful for the analysis of larger libraries that contain many nominally isobaric components and impurities.
The Influence of Providing and Receiving Social Support on Older Adults' Well-being
Authors: Zanjari Nasibeh , Momtaz Yadollah Abolfathi , Kamal Seyed Hossein Mohaqeqi , Basakha Mehdi , Ahmadi Sina
Published: February 2022

Introduction:

Social support is a leading contributing factor for older adults' well-being. The present study aimed to compare the impact of two-way (providing and receiving) social support on the well-being of Iranian older adults.

Methods:

The present cross-sectional study was conducted on 1280 community-dwelling older adults in Tehran, Iran, 2020. The researcher used the clustered sampling method and the 2-way Social Support Scale (SSS) to collect samples and measure social support, respectively. The well-being was measured by the self-reported World Health Organization-Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5). Bivariate and hierarchical linear regression analyses were performed to compare the effects of social support aspects on well-being. Data were analyzed using SPSS 20.0. A significance level of p≤0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

The mean age of the respondents was 70.90 (SD=8.07), and about 70% of the sample was married. The mean scores of taking and providing social support were 20.70 ±7.52 and 17.71 ±7.82, respectively. The hierarchical regression analysis revealed that providing social support is significantly associated with the well-being of older adults beyond and over receiving social support and possible contributing factors (∆F=30.25; ∆R2= 0.39, p<0.05).

Conclusion:

The results showed that providing social support is more important than receiving it. Older adults should participate in social activities to provide social support.
Advanced Functional Membranes for Microfiltration and Ultrafiltration
Authors: Majumdar R.
Published: February 2022

In the era of freshwater scarcity, the world seeks to limit overexploitation of all accessible resource of freshwater and also to recover potable water by treating wastewater. Various domestic, agricultural and industrial activities lead in generating high amount of wastewater from which water can be recovered for human needs. Over many years, conventional filtration process has gained success to some extent in effluents treatment for disposal. Yet, improvement in filtration process is necessary for advanced wastewater treatment in order to make the whole process handy and cost-effective. The functionality of membrane can be enhanced by incorporating polymers with novel functions in advanced membrane separation methods like microfiltration (MF) and ultrafiltration (UF) for reclaiming potable water from wastewaters, catalysis and biomedical applications. This book chapter mostly focuses on the use of different polymeric substances for MF and UF membrane preparation and their application in various sectors. Basic principle, novel manufacturing techniques for polymeric membrane, process design i.e., synthesis of polymers as designed membrane feedstock, surface modifications, synergistic fabrication of different polymers for advanced functionality, antifouling and antibacterial properties of membrane are also discussed.
Produção de vogais orais tónicas do PLE por falantes nativos de chinês mandarim
Authors: Castelo Adelina , Freitas Maria João
Published: February 2022

O presente estudo1 tem dois objetivos: descrever a produção de vogais orais tónicas por falantes nativos de chinês man-darim em processo de aprendizagem do português europeu como língua estrangeira e identificar as implicações didáticas decorrentes dos resultados descritos. Os participantes (oito falantes nativos de chinês mandarim aprendendo português durante um ano letivo) realizaram uma tarefa de nomeação de imagens correspondentes a itens lexicais fonologicamente controlados; as suas produções orais foram gravadas e foneticamente transcritas. Os resultados são descritos tendo em conta (i) o impacto das variáveis fonológicas na taxa de sucesso de produção de vogais e (ii) os tipos de estratégias de reconstrução nas produções não conformes ao alvo. Os resultados contribuem para a definição do perfil fonético dos aprendentes chineses de português. Por fim, são identificadas implicações didáticas dos dados relevantes para o ensino do português no contexto em foco
Pengembangan Agro Techno Park (ATP) di Desa Donowarih Berbasis Diversifikasi Olahan Jeruk
Authors:   Jurusan Teknologi Pertanian, Fakultas Teknologi Pertanian, Universitas Brawijaya, Suhartini Sri , Wijana Susinggih ,   Jurusan Teknologi Pertanian, Fakultas Teknologi Pertanian, Universitas Brawijaya, Deoranto Panji ,   Jurusan Teknologi Pertanian, Fakultas Teknologi Pertanian, Universitas Brawijaya, D R Putri Widya ,   Jurusan Teknologi Hasil Pertanian, Fakultas Teknologi Pertanian, Universitas Brawijaya
Published: February 2022

One of the local commodities such as oranges is popular in Donowarih village. In harvesting season, a high waste material was produced due to rotten orange fruit. Introducing post-harvesting technology to the community can help them to increase the economic values of the local commodities. The aim of this community development program was to transfer the technology and assist Donowarih Village to be one of the agro techno park (ATP) model in East Java. Several activities have been carried out include processing orange fruit into orange juice and orange jelly sweets. In this study, the creation of group-based agroindustry to process orange fruit has enable the group member to have more knowledge and skills, as well as potential additional income.
Integrasi Sistem Digital Bank Sampah Dengan Sistem Layanan Puskesmas Melalui Pendekatan Iot Platform
Authors:   Teknik Industri, Fakultas Teknik, Universitas Brawijaya, Nur Cahyawati Amanda , L. Tri Wijaya N. Kusuma , Ardianwiliandri Raditya ,   Teknik Industri, Fakultas Teknik, Universitas Brawijaya
Published: February 2022

Dalam meminimalisir timbunan sampah, pemerintah telah membuat program penanggulangan salah satunya dengan membuat sarana Bank Sampah Malang (BSM). Namun, ada beberapa sistem yang kurang efisien lain seperti akses informasi terbaru BSM tidak terdistribusi merata, dan lain sebagainya. Di sisi lain sesuai dengan arahan menteri kesehatan mengenai program lima pilar sanitasi total berbasis masyarakat (STBM) salah satu isi dari pilar tersebut adalah mengelola sampah dengan benar. Berdasarkan pendekatan dari salah satu dari lima pilar STBM maka dalam riset ini layanan puskesmas akan diintegrasikan dengan bank sampah, dimana biaya pengobatan untuk beberapa jenis layanan kesehatan standar dapat menggunakan saldo rekening pasien pada bank sampah tersebut. Pelaksanaannya diatasi dengan pengintegrasian teknologi berbasis aplikasi untuk memberi kemudahan dari segi manajemen informasi, pemberian informasi dan koordinasi bagi setiap pihak yang terlibat.
Pengembangan Desa Mandiri Energi (DME) Berbasis Energi Terbarukan (Biogas) di Desa Gunungsari Kota Batu
Authors:   Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia, Malin Sutan Sandra , Wirosoedarmo Ruslan , Riyanto Riyanto , Choirun Annisa’u ,   Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia
Published: February 2022

Desa Gunungsari di Kota Batu menjadikan sektor pertanian dan peternakan sebagai usaha yang banyak dikembangkan oleh masyarakatnya. Produksi ternak khususnya sapi perah terus mengalami peningkatan dan memberi manfaat yang besar sebagai penyedia protein hewani. Namun, hasil samping peternakan berupa limbah kotoran ternak dalam skala besar akan menimbulkan masalah yang kompleks. Selain itu, kebutuhan bahan bakar minyak (BBM) terus mengalami peningkatan seiring dengan meningkatnya proses industrialisasi. 83% masyarakat di Desa Gunungsari masih bergantung pada BBM dan Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) untuk memasak. Kedua sumber energi tersebut berasal dari minyak bumi yang diketahui tidak bisa terbaharukan. Oleh karena itu, diperlukan sumber energi alternatif berupa pemanfaatan kotoran ternak, khususnya kotoran sapi menjadi biogas sehingga dapat digunakan sebagai pengganti LPG dan penggerak generator. Sisa bahan organik dapat digunakan sebagai pupuk organik cair dan pakan ikan. Sehubungan dengan hal tersebut, kegiatan Doktor Mengabdi ini dapat meningkatkan pendapatan usaha tani melalui pengoptimalan sumber daya yang ada sehingga petani atau peternak mampu menghasilkan energi mandiri untuk memenuhi kebutuhan energi sehari-hari
Adenosine Associated Pre- and Postconditioning in Real Medical Practice
Authors: Seredyuk Nestor , Fedorchenko Mykhailo , Bielinskyi Mykyta
Published: February 2022

It has been established that adenosine is a universal trigger of the processes of preparation (conditioning) of the myocardium for ischemic injury, which is confirmed by randomized clinical trials AMISTAD II, TIMI-4, TIMI-9B. Adenosine is included in the guidelines of the ESC Task Force (European Society of Cardiology) as a means of basic therapy, as a representative of the class of potassium channel stimulants (2019) [1]. However, the use of adenosine as an injectable form for intracoronary or intravenous administration is associated with a number of side effects - rapid degradation of the drug in the bloodstream, the need for careful monitoring of systemic hemodynamics (hypotension, tachy- or bradyarrhythmia, ventricular tachycardia, atrioventricular block), frequent development of undesirable gastrointestinal manifestations. All this prompted the search for an alternative form of adenosine use, which would allow wider use of the potentially beneficial effect of adenosine on ischemic pre- and post-conditioning in real medical practice.

More recently, on the pharmaceutical market of Ukraine for the first time appeared a pharmacological agent - Advocard, as a drug with the ability to start the processes of pre- and post-conditioning, with sublingual (oral) form of application. Advocard is an original combined polypill drug with three components: adenosine-5-triphosphate-gluconate-magnesium (II) trisodium salt (magladen) – 18,6-29,25 mg, molsidomine – 0,3 mg and folic acid - 0,45 mg. Recommendations for the use of the Advocard in medical practice are based on the results of clinical studies, which proved that the oral (sublingual) form of adenosine is not only effective and appropriate, but also safe with long-term use.

The therapeutic efficacy of Advocard in chronic coronary syndromes [stable, vasospastic, microvascular angina (pain of small coronary vessels), painless myocardial ischemia] and acute coronary syndromes (STEMI / NSTEMI, instability to stenocardia) before or immediately after coronary stenting is in counteracting the mechanisms of reperfusion injury.

Clinical practice has shown that Advocard is appropriate for the prevention of NO-REFLOW after opening the epicardial coronary artery, even with the result of TIMI-3. Thus, the Advocard opens the prospect of improving the effectiveness of coronary interventions and is an adjunct to complete myocardial revascularization.
Influence of Chronic Ethanol Intoxication on Hemodynamics in Testicles and Spermatogenesis in Middle-Aged Males
Authors: Hotiur Oksana , Hrytsuliak Bohdan , Vakaliuk Igor , Lytvynets Yevhen , Tymochko Nataliia
Published: February 2022

Diseases of testicles are an important social problem because according to WHO data, the male factor is about 45% in the structure of sterile marriage. Among many pathogenic factors distorting spermatogenic and endocrine function of testicles, acute and chronic circulatory disorders in them play a great role. Recent studies showed that one of the causes of male infertility is chronic ethanol intoxication causing distorted hemomicrocirculation in testicles, so determining the character of cytologic changes in them in these circumstances remains relevant.

Objects and methods. In the study, we used 14 histological micropreparations from testicular biopsy specimens from middle-aged infertile males (22-35 years) with chronic alcoholism in anamnesis,. In some biopsy specimens, ultrastructural changes in testicles were studied under the electronic microscope, testicular hemodynamics in infertile males was examined with ultrasound.

Results. In middle-aged infertile males with chronic alcoholism, the volume of testicles decreases compared to normal. The arterial blood flow rate in them decreases significantly. The diameter of tortuous looped seminiferous tubules decreases compared to normal. Their membrane is thickened; the layers of spermatogenic epithelial cells are reduced. The volume of interstitial endocrinocytes decreases compared to normal. Testosterone level in blood decreases too.

Ultrastructural changes in testicles are manifested with irregular thickness and curving of spermatogenic epithelial basal membrane, vacuolization of myoid cellular, supporting epitheliocytes, and interstitial endocrinocyte cytoplasm with reduced mitochondrial cristae and tubules in the endoplasmic reticulum. In ejaculate of infertile males, sperm concentration decreases to (30.65±1.70) million/ml compared to (75.80±4.20) million/ml, the number of pathologic forms of spermatozoids increases twice, the number of spermatozoids with progressive movement decreases.
Ontstaan en ontwikkeling van stotteren: voorstel praktijkmodel
Authors: Oonk Leonoor , Franken Marie-Christine , De Nil Luc , Bouwen Jan , Van der Vlist Anja , Bast Bert J.E.G.
Published: February 2022

In dit artikel wordt een nieuw model gepresenteerd dat kan dienen als praktijkmodel voor de spreekkamer. Doel is om de ontwikkeling van stotteren en de bijbehorende processen duidelijk te maken aan personen die stotteren en ouders van kinderen die stotteren.
Als aanloop voor dit nieuwe model geeft een voorbeeldcasus een visuele illustratie van de ontwikkeling van stotteren in de vormvan een levenslijn. Deze levenslijn toont hoe ontwikkelingsfactoren samen met min of meer toevallige omstandigheden van invloed kunnen zijn op de ontwikkeling van stotteren. Het praktijkmodel geeft structurering van het ontstaan en de ontwikkeling van stotteren en de factoren die hierbij een rol spelen, gebaseerd op de nieuwste onderzoeksresultaten. Na het ontstaan van beginnend stotteren worden twee sporen getoond: herstel van stotteren en verdere ontwikkeling. Diverse aspecten die van invloed zijn op het verloop van het stotteren worden weergegeven. De uitkomst van die ontwikkeling op het gebied van last van het stotteren en ernst van het stotteren kan verschillend zijn, zowel tussen personen die stotteren als binnen één persoon die stottert.
Zowel de levenslijn als het praktijkmodel kunnen helpen om achtergrondinformatiete structureren en inzicht te geven in het fenomeen stotteren en het gesprek te openen over de therapiedoelen en de gewenste uitkomsten van therapie. Dit artikel is een eerste presentatie. De modellen kunnen op basis van ervaringen en ruggespraak met de gebruikers worden bijgesteld en aangepast.
The effect of calcium carbonate content on the zinc quantity-intensity relationship in some soils of Mosul, Irak
Authors: Aljumaily Mijbil Mohammed , AL-Hamandi Hudhaifa , Al-Obaidi Mohammed Ali , AL-Zidan Radhwan Rafid
Published: February 2022

The quantity-intensity relationship (Q/I) was used to evaluate thermodynamic parameters of zinc in soils under different agricultural management. Ten soil samples were collected from Mosul city to study zinc distribution of calcium carbonate content in these soils. Generally, Q/I relationship of zinc may provide an index for the strength and quantity of effective zinc supply to plants in soils. The Q/I parameters of zinc were studied to quantify zinc release before and after removing carbonates in the studied soils. Results showed that the zinc activity ratio (AReZn) is related to changes with labile zinc (±ΔZn) at equilibrium and increased together with increasing zinc concentrations, intensity (I) ranged between 0.8584 and 0.9972×10-3 mol/L1/2 before removing carbonates and between 0.0909 and 2.7626×10-3 mol/L1/2 after removing carbonates. The ranges of labile Zinc (ZnL) values before and after removing carbonates were between 0.5755-0.7815 and 0.0009-0.0104 cmol/kg, respectively, while the Zinc (PBCZn) before and after removing carbonates fluctuated from 0.5839 to 0.9104 and 0.00112 to 0.00990 cmol/kg(mol/L)−1/2, respectively. That means calcium carbonate increases exchangeable zinc and zinc capacity at equilibrium conditions. The free energy (−ΔF) ranged between -1.001 and -0.979 kJ/mol before removing carbonates and between -1.319 and -0.841 kJ/mol after removing carbonates. Gapon Selectivity Coefficient (kG) ranged between 0.0193835 and 0.027453 and 0.000045 and 0.00450 (mol/L)1/2 before and after removing carbonates, respectively. Therefore, these results may be used as a reference for zinc soil fertilization, whereas thermodynamic parameters values may be used to predict soil ability to supply available zinc.
Puff Bars, Tobacco Policy Evasion, and Nicotine Dependence: Content Analysis of Tweets
Authors: Chu Kar-Hai , Hershey Tina B , Hoffman Beth L , Wolynn Riley , Colditz Jason B , Sidani Jaime E , Primack Brian A
Published: February 2022

Background

Puff Bars are e-cigarettes that continued marketing flavored products by exploiting the US Food and Drug Administration exemption for disposable devices.

Objective

This study aimed to examine discussions related to Puff Bar on Twitter to identify tobacco regulation and policy themes as well as unanticipated outcomes of regulatory loopholes.

Methods

Of 8519 original tweets related to Puff Bar collected from July 13, 2020, to August 13, 2020, a random 20% subsample (n=2661) was selected for qualitative coding of topics related to nicotine dependence and tobacco policy.

Results

Of the human-coded tweets, 2123 (80.2%) were coded as relevant to Puff Bar as the main topic. Of those tweets, 698 (32.9%) discussed tobacco policy, including flavors (n=320, 45.9%), regulations (n=124, 17.8%), purchases (n=117, 16.8%), and other products (n=110, 15.8%). Approximately 22% (n=480) of the tweets referenced dependence, including lack of access (n=273, 56.9%), appetite suppression (n=59, 12.3%), frequent use (n=47, 9.8%), and self-reported dependence (n=110, 22.9%).

Conclusions

This study adds to the growing evidence base that the US Food and Drug Administration ban of e-cigarette flavors did not reduce interest, but rather shifted the discussion to brands utilizing a loophole that allowed flavored products to continue to be sold in disposable devices. Until comprehensive tobacco policy legislation is developed, new products or loopholes will continue to supply nicotine demand.
Usability of Smart Home Thermostat to Evaluate the Impact of Weekdays and Seasons on Sleep Patterns and Indoor Stay: Observational Study
Authors: Jalali Niloofar , Sahu Kirti Sundar , Oetomo Arlene , Morita Plinio Pelegrini
Published: February 2022

Background

Sleep behavior and time spent at home are important determinants of human health. Research on sleep patterns has traditionally relied on self-reported data. Not only does this methodology suffer from bias but the population-level data collection is also time-consuming. Advances in smart home technology and the Internet of Things have the potential to overcome these challenges in behavioral monitoring.

Objective

The objective of this study is to demonstrate the use of smart home thermostat data to evaluate household sleep patterns and the time spent at home and how these behaviors are influenced by different weekdays and seasonal variations.

Methods

From the 2018 ecobee Donate your Data data set, 481 North American households were selected based on having at least 300 days of data available, equipped with ≥6 sensors, and having a maximum of 4 occupants. Daily sleep cycles were identified based on sensor activation and used to quantify sleep time, wake-up time, sleep duration, and time spent at home. Each household’s record was divided into different subsets based on seasonal, weekday, and seasonal weekday scales.

Results

Our results demonstrate that sleep parameters (sleep time, wake-up time, and sleep duration) were significantly influenced by the weekdays. The sleep time on Fridays and Saturdays is greater than that on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays (n=450; P<.001; odds ratio [OR] 1.8, 95% CI 1.5-3). There is significant sleep duration difference between Fridays and Saturdays and the rest of the week (n=450; P<.001; OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.4-2). Consequently, the wake-up time is significantly changing between weekends and weekdays (n=450; P<.001; OR 5.6, 95% CI 4.3-6.3). The results also indicate that households spent more time at home on Sundays than on the other weekdays (n=445; P<.001; OR 2.06, 95% CI 1.64-2.5). Although no significant association is found between sleep parameters and seasonal variation, the time spent at home in the winter is significantly greater than that in summer (n=455; P<.001; OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.3-2.3). These results are in accordance with existing literature.

Conclusions

This is the first study to use smart home thermostat data to monitor sleep parameters and time spent at home and their dependence on weekday, seasonal, and seasonal weekday variations at the population level. These results provide evidence of the potential of using Internet of Things data to help public health officials understand variations in sleep indicators caused by global events (eg, pandemics and climate change).