bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pineal stones have an important function in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Ge Wei , Liu Haotian , Pan Meng , Liu Xinnan , Yang Yan , Guo Baohua
Published: March 2024

The pineal gland, an endocrine organ located at the brain's geometric center, primarily secretes melatonin to regulate circadian rhythms. Pineal gland calcification (PGC) is the formation of pineal stones, composed of mainly hydroxyapatite. In vivo study using computed tomography showed patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) have significantly higher the degree of PGC than controls. However, the biological function of PGC and its alterations in AD remain unknown. Here we show that PGC is part of a brain filtration system that adsorbs metal ions and has a neuroprotective function. This function is diminished due to decreased carbonate substitution in pineal stones of individuals with AD. We identified four main types of pineal stone by surface micromorpho-elemental analysis, indicating a greater surface morphological diversity in AD. Furthermore, AD pineal stone nanocrystals exhibit neuronotoxicity and promote the formation of soluble amyloid-beta (Aβ)42 oligomers. We propose pineal gland radiomics and serum metallomics as tools for auxiliary diagnosis of AD. We anticipate our assay as an initial step towards advancing basic biological research on PGC and understanding its clinical significance in AD.
Antibiotic prescribing practices and antibiotic use quality indicators in Luang Prabang, Lao PDR : a Point Prevalence Survey in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Elias Christelle , Ha Nay Thi , Sengvilaipaserth Onanong , Phaychith Athip , Chansamouth Vilada , Phongsavath Valy , Keohavong Bounxou , Detleuxay Khamsay , Maniphone Phaylinh , Soukhaseum Thongphout , Vanhems Philippe , Babin François-Xavier
Published: March 2024

Context
The increase and global dissemination of antibiotic resistance limit the use of antibiotics to prevent and treat infections. Implementing antibiotic stewardship programs guided by local data on prescription profiles is a useful strategy to reduce the burden of antibiotic resistance. The aim was to determine the prevalence of antibiotic use and guideline compliance at Luang Prabang provincial hospital, Lao PDR.
Methods
A point prevalence survey of antibiotics was conducted among hospitalized patients admitted to Luang Prabang hospital (204 beds) in Lao PDR on May 25, 2023. All patients presenting at 8:00 AM were eligible. Sociodemographic data, indications for antibiotic use, and antibiotic prescriptions were collected from medical records using a paper-based questionnaire and entered into an electronic platform following WHO methodology. The prevalence of antibiotic use was determined.
Results
Out of the 102 patients included, 60(58.8%) were undergoing antibiotic treatment, of which 33(55.0%) received combination therapy, and 7(10.5%) had two indications for antibiotic use. The highest prevalence was in the surgical ward (14/15, 93%) followed by general paediatrics (18/27, 67%). Out of the 100 antibiotic prescriptions, 47(47%) were for community-acquired infections, 26(26%) for surgical prophylaxis, 13(13%) for hospital-acquired infections and 5(5%) for medical prophylaxis. Twenty(20%) antibiotics were prescribed for obstetrics and gynaecology prophylaxis, 17(17%) for intra-abdominal infections, and 10(10.0%) for pneumonia treatment as well as bone, and joint infections. The main antibiotics prescribed were ceftriaxone 36(34.6%), metronidazole 18(17.3%), ampicillin 8(7.7%), and gentamicin 8(7.7%). Only 2(3%) samples were sent to the laboratory, one of which showed a positive culture for Escherichia coli Extended Spectrum β-Lactamase. According to the WHO Access Watch and Reserve classification, 55(52.9%) molecules belonged to the Access category, 47(49.1%) to the Watch category, and none to the Reserve category. Only 14.9% of antibiotic prescriptions were fully compliant with current guidelines.
Conclusion
This study indicated a significant prevalence of antibiotic use and a very low compliance with guidelines at Luang Prabang provincial hospital, Lao PDR. This highlights an urgent need for comprehensive strategies at all levels to optimize antibiotic use in hospitals, emphasizing diagnostic improvements, and continued research to address the factors driving this excessive antibiotic usage and improve adherence to guidelines.
Green road to Sustainability: Impact of Urbanization on Environmental Degradation with Infrastructure Investment as Moderator in Belt and Road Initiative Economies
Authors: Suhrab Muhammad , Pinglu Chen , Qian Ningyu
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the effect of urbanization on environmental degradation in economies along the Belt and Road Initiative. Using panel data from 64 BRI countries from 2013 to 2021, the study employs GMM and 2SLS techniques to investigate the linkage between urbanization, infrastructure investment, and environmental degradation. The study found that infrastructure investment has a negative impact on environmental degradation, while urbanization has a significant positive impact on carbon dioxide emissions and rates of deforestation. Furthermore, the study reveals that in BRI economies, infrastructure investment moderates the relationship between urbanization and environmental degradation. This highlights the importance of policies that encourage sustainable development as well as institutions that can efficiently manage the negative effects of urbanization. Policymakers are encouraged by these findings to establish a balance between economic growth and protecting the environment, promote sustainable practices, and promote renewable energy sources. This study closes the knowledge gap on the effects of urbanization on the environment in BRI economies, which promotes the discussion on sustainable development. More research with more participants and a longer period can build on these findings to provide a more thorough understanding of the linkage between environmental deterioration and urbanization in BRI countries.
The impact of Caregiving on the Health and quality of life: A Comparative Population Based study of Caregivers of Elderly Persons in the USA, UK, Canada and Australia
Authors: Patrick Okougbo Odion
Published: March 2024

Caregiving is an important public health issue that affects the health and quality of life of millions of people living in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and the world at large. The caregiver's responsibilities may increase and change as the recipient's needs increase, which can cause additional stress on the caregiver. Therefore, this study examines the impact of caregiving on the health and quality of life of caregivers of older adults in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. The caregiving data presented in this study were collected from studies from the United States of America, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. Carers in all 4 countries reported high levels of stress, low levels of health, depression, reduced incomes, difficulty making ends meet, social isolation, loneliness, and absenteeism from work. Caregivers sometimes had to leave the workforce altogether and this led to lower government revenue from income taxes. It is an established fact that a reduction in the workforce of a country often leads to a reduction in government revenue from income taxes. Based on the findings, it was recommended among others that there should be an increase in messaging or information that emphasizes both the important role of caregivers and the importance of maintaining their health and wellbeing.
A method based on difference guide and feature self-enhancement for clothes-changing person re-identification
Authors: Ge Bin , Lu Yang , Xia Chenxin , Guan Junming
Published: March 2024

Due to the effect of clothing change on person re-identification models, some researchers have car-ried out in-depth studies on clothes-changing person re-identification(CC-ReID). However, there are some problem of the loss of edge identity information in the semantic guidance process in current methods. In this work, we propose a dual-stream network model, named GFSAnet, which consists of both global and face streams. This model is capable of retaining edge identity information while reinforcing the weight of fine-grained discriminative information. Firstly, in the global stream, we de-sign a difference guide model (DGM) and a feature self-augmentation model (FSAM). The differential features are learned through the difference guide module to preserve the edge identity information of the boundary between background and foreground, while the weights of the local information in the network are optimized through the feature self-augmentation module. Secondly, in the face stream, the multi-scale structure design of pyramid residual network is used to learn the facial features fusing coarse and fine granularity. Finally, the contributions of global and facial features are dynamically adjusted to work together in the inference by setting the hyperparameter α. Extensive experiments show that the method in this paper achieves better performance on the PRCC, Celeb-ReID and Celeb-Light datasets.
The Clinicopathological Characteristics of Young-Onset Versus Adult-Onset Colorectal Cancer: A Tertiary Hospital-Based Study
Authors:   Department of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Isah Tsamiya Rilwanu , Mohd Nafi Siti Norasikin ,   Department of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Che Jalil Nur Asyilla ,   Department of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia,   Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Mat Zin Anani Aila ,   Department of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia,   Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
Published: March 2024

Background: The prevalence of colorectal cancer (CRC) among young individuals is rising worldwide, especially in Malaysia. Investigations are currently employed to distinguish the features of young-onset CRC (YOCRC) from adult-onset CRC (AOCRC). This study aimed to compare the characteristics of patients with YOCRC and AOCRC diagnosed at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia (HUSM). Methods: This was a retrospective study of CRC cases from January 2013 to December 2021. The details of YOCRC (< 50 years old) and AOCRC (≥ 50 years old) patients were retrieved from the laboratory system and medical records. The Pearson’s chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test and multiple logistic regression were used to compare the AOCRC and YOCRC cases. Statistical significance was defined at a P-value of ≤ 0.05. Results: The AOCRC (254/319, 79.6%) was more prevalent than YOCRC (65/319, 20.4%), with a predominance of males (53.9%) and Malay sub-population (90.2%). AOCRC and YOCRC shared similarities in left-sided location, high occurrence of adenocarcinoma with moderately differentiated histology and advanced stage of diagnosis. More patients with YOCRC (23.1%) had a family history of cancer than patients with AOCRC. YOCRC also differed from AOCRC by having more specific histological subtypes, such as mucinous adenocarcinoma (15.4%) and signet ring carcinoma (6.2%). In addition, patients with YOCRC commonly presented with a low density of tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) (60%). Multiple logistic regression showed a family history of CRC (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 3.75, P = 0.003) and histological type (AOR = 15.21, P < 0.001) are more likely to cause YOCRC than diabetes (AOR = 0.06, P < 0.001) and hypertension (AOR = 0.14, P < 0.001) comorbidities, which are associated with AOCRC. Conclusion: Our descriptive study presented the epidemiological and histopathological characteristics of AOCRC and YOCRC in HUSM, providing current information on distinguishing features between the groups.
Dietary Patterns and Lifestyle Factors Associated with the Risk of Colorectal Cancer: A Hospital-Based Case-Control Study among Malaysians
Authors:   Faculty of Applied Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Sook Yee Lim , Ulaganathan Vaidehi ,   Faculty of Applied Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Nallamuthu Padmini ,   Faculty of Applied Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Gunasekaran Baskaran ,   Faculty of Applied Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Salvamani Shamala ,   Division of Applied Biomedical Science and Biotechnology, School of Health Sciences, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Published: March 2024

Background: This study aimed to examine the association between dietary patterns, lifestyle factors, and colorectal cancer (CRC) risk among the Malaysian population. Methods: We recruited 100 patients and 100 controls from two selected government hospitals. Principal component analysis was used to identify dietary patterns using a 123-item semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. Tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption questionnaires were modified from the WHO STEPS Survey questionnaire. Physical activity levels were assessed using the revised Global Physical Activity questionnaire. Associations between dietary patterns, lifestyle factors and CRC risk were assessed using logistic regression with SPSS version 24.0. Results: Three dietary patterns were derived from factor analysis: i) vegetables; ii) meat, seafood and processed food; and iii) grains and legumes. High vegetable diet intake was independently and significantly associated with an 81% decreased risk of CRC (odds ratio [OR]: 0.19; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.08, 0.46). Both recreationalrelated physical activity (OR: 2.04; 95% CI: 1.14, 3.64) and vigorous physical activity (OR: 2.06; 95% CI: 1.13, 3.74) are significantly associated with decreased risk of CRC. Increasing the number of cigarettes smoked (≥ 16 cigarettes) per day significantly increased the odds of developing CRC (OR: 2.58; 95% CI: 1.95, 6.75). The duration of alcohol consumption cessation was inversely associated with CRC risk (OR: 2.52; 95% CI: 2.30, 10.57). Conclusion: The protective effects of a fruit and vegetable diet, and a healthy lifestyle can be used to develop interventions that help reduce the risk of CRC in the Malaysian population.
A Review of Patient’s Knowledge and Practice of Diabetic Foot Self-Care
Authors:   Doctoral Graduate Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, Untari Eka Kartika ,   Pharmacy Department, Medical Faculty of Tanjungpura University, Pontianak, Indonesia, Andayani Tri Murti ,   Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, Yasin Nanang Munif ,   Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, Asdie Rizka Humardewayanti ,   Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada - Dr. Sardjito General Hospital,Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Published: March 2024

Since diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are common among diabetes patients, it is essential to increase patients’ knowledge and self-care practices to ensure early recognition and management and reduce amputation risk. Therefore, the goal of this review was to identify the range and level of knowledge of people with DFUs and the type of self-care they undertake. A literature review was conducted using the electronic databases PubMed and Google scholar with ‘diabetic foot’, ‘selfcare’, ‘practice’ and ‘behaviour’ as searching keywords. The identification and selection process were conducted to sort the eligible papers through the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). The criteria are the original papers describing knowledge and practice in DFU; reporting knowledge and practice in their non-intervention studies; writing in English language; and publishing between years 2016 and 2022. The eligible papers were assessed using the strength of reporting observational studies in epidemiology (STROBE) checklist for appraising their quality. Twenty-two papers of 2,073 titles met the inclusion criteria and included in the review. The lowest and the highest quality score of included papers based on STROBE checklist are 11 and 26, respectively. The included papers showed various levels of knowledge from good to poor, which prominent the highest percentage are 88% (good knowledge) and 84.8% (poor knowledge). The majority of the foot-care activities found in the reviewed papers involved the following steps: washing, drying, applying moisturiser and trimming nails routinely. Those activity should be followed by checking the feet with a mirror for ulcers, looking for ingrown nails, choosing appropriate footwear, not walking barefoot and routinely consulting a healthcare provider. The knowledge levels were found variable and acceptable. Daily foot care, choosing the right footwear, foot activity and regular health checks should all be used to manage diabetes.
Modern public diplomacy of Germany in the USA
Authors:   The North Western Branch of the Russian State University of Justice, Kuzina Oxana E.
Published: March 2024

In the context of globalization, not only traditional, but also new ways and methods are required for the successful solution of foreign policy tasks. Modern Germany was no exception. Deprived of the resources of hard power for historical reasons, the state was particularly interested in introducing new tools for gaining influence in the international arena through public diplomacy. The purpose of the study is to identify the features of German public diplomacy and its capabilities in the implementation of foreign policy tasks in the United States. Firstly, the features of the German approach to public diplomacy are indicated. It is noted that the positive image of Germany is formed by the practical activities of a wide network of public diplomacy organizations that take into account the general strategies of the competent federal departments and, in particular, the German Federal Foreign Office. Secondly, the activities of the institutions of public diplomacy of Germany in the United States are analyzed. The main directions for bilateral cooperation are distinguished, namely culture, science and education, transatlantic values and economic cooperation. Thirdly, the question of their influence on the formation of a positive perception of the American population is raised. Their competitive advantages are provided by consistent, coordinated and open approaches. At the same time, the development of digital diplomacy in Germany is reduced to the creation of a large number of accounts for the representation of public diplomacy organizations in the United States without the active engagement of the population. The author concludes that at the present stage, the instruments of German public diplomacy in the United States are successful and have a positive impact on the perception of the state among the American population. However, with a radical change in the role of a junior partner in the international arena, the perception of Germany among Americans may worsen.
Modeling the sediment yield and estimating the best management practices in the Seybouse basin, Northeastern Algeria
Authors: Mrad Dounia , Boukhari Sofiane , Dairi Sabri , Djebbar Yassine
Published: March 2024

Identifying vulnerable areas to erosion within the watershed and implementing best management practices (BMPs) are crucial steps in mitigating watershed degradation by minimizing sediment yields. The present study evaluates and identifies the BMPs in the Seybouse basin, northeastern Algeria, using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model. After successful calibration and validation, the model demonstrated a satisfactory ability to simulate monthly discharge and sediment. Then, the calibrated model was employed to evaluate the efficacy of diverse management practices in sediment control. In the SWAT, three soil and conservation practices, as well as vegetated filter strips (VFSs), grade stabilization structures (GSSs), and terracing were evaluated. The average annual sediment yield in the Seybouse watershed is determined to be 14.43 t/ha year, constituting 71% of the total soil loss. VFS demonstrated a sediment reduction of 37.30%, GSS 20.40%, and terracing 42.30%. Among these strategies, terracing results in the greatest reduction, followed by VFS. The results of this study area can be useful for informed decision-making regarding optimal watershed management strategies.
Interculturalidad e identidad en la frontera sur de Europa: la visión de sus habitantes jóvenes
Authors: Goenechea Cristina , Machin Alvarez Macarena , Belkat Soukaina
Published: March 2024

Esta investigación analiza las percepciones de jóvenes que habitan el espacio fronterizo del Estrecho de Gibraltar; una frontera marítima y terrestre que no solo separa dos países (España y Marruecos) sino también dos continentes (Europa y África). Se entrevistó a 39 jóvenes residentes en Algeciras, La Línea, Tánger y Tetuán, sobre posicionamiento cultural e identidad, espacio fronterizo (oportunidades y tensiones) y emigración. Las entrevistas fueron realizadas entre octubre de 2019 y febrero de 2020 en español y en árabe según la lengua materna del entrevistado y analizadas mediante NVivo 12. La diversidad cultural es reconocida y se percibe en general como algo positivo en ambos lados de la frontera, si bien existen ciertos temas que pueden tensionar las relaciones entre ambos colectivos como la religión, la libertad versus la disciplina y el control sobre el ser joven y el rol que se le asigna a la mujer en cada cultura
Analysis of Hunting Tourism: a Case Study of Slovenia (Prlekija Region)
Authors: Prevolšek Boris , Roškar Timo , Borlinič Gačnik Maja
Published: March 2024

The exploration of hunting tourism reveals its multifaceted benefits, encompassing nature preservation and tourism expansion. This study delves into the dynamics and prospective trends within hunting tourism, specifically in Prlekija's administrative unit of Gornja Radgona, Slovenia. It commences with a comprehensive international comparative analysis, followed by insightful semi-structured interviews involving key stakeholders within the destination. Hunting tourism emerges as a pivotal facet of tourism within this locale, exhibiting substantial potential for further growth, particularly in terms of diversification, regional integration, and synergy with other tourism offerings. However, it's imperative to address the adverse impacts of hunting tourism on biodiversity. As a counterbalance, the study underscores the increasing global emphasis on sustainable variants of hunting tourism, such as wildlife photography, fostering a more conscientious approach to animal tourism practices.
Monthly changes in Mussel spat (Mytilus platensis D'ORB) settlement on artificial collectors in the San José Gulf, Argentina.
Authors: Lizarralde Zulma I.
Published: March 2024

The monthly settlement of mussel spat (Mytilus platensis d'Orb) in the San José Gulf (Argentina, 42°20 S, 64°30' W) was analyzed. Data were collected using artificial substraía immersed for twomonths. Juveniles settled throughout the year, with a period of máximum settlement in spring and a smaller peak of recruitment in late summer/early fall. The main settlement of plantigrades on immersed substraía was simultaneous with the two annual peaks of chlorophyll "a". The periods of main settlement were dominated by the prevalence of the < 2 mm post-larval fraction.
PROCAMALLANUS (SPIROCAMALLANUS) INOPINATUS Travassos, Artigas et Pereira, 1928 (NEMATODA: CAMALLANIDAE) ENDOPARASITO DE TRIPORTHEUS ANGULATUS (SPIX,1829) (CHARACIDAE) EN LA LAGUNA DE YARINACOCHA, UCAYALI-PERU.
Authors: Lannacone José A. , López Elizabeth N. , Alvariño F. Lorena
Published: March 2024

161 ejemplares de la sardina Triportheus angulatus (Spix, 1829) (Pisces: Characidae) fueron colectados de la laguna de Yarinacocha, Ucayali- Perú, durante la época de vaciante comprendida de abril a setiembre de 1997, y fueron necropsiados para búsqueda de metazoos endoparásitos intestinales. El nemátodo Procamallanus (Spirocamallanus) inopinatus se registra por primera vez para este hospedero y para el Perú presentando una prevalencia de 29,8% e intensidad media de infección de 1,5. Se observa una ausencia de relación entre la prevalencia e intensidad media de infección con el sexo, talla del hospedero y con la época de evaluación trimestral de la laguna. Las características en la alimentación de T. Angulatus podrían explicar los resultados obtenidos. El nemátodo no presenta una distribución binomial negativa, pero si espacial uniforme entre los hospederos muestreados.
Designer Bio-inspired Hydrogels : A Key to Biomedical Challenges
Authors: Khan Naureen , Shivhare Vaibhav , Ahuja Rishabh , Dutt Konar Anita
Published: March 2024

Low molecular weight hydrogelators (LMOHGs) are extremely promising
synthons, in the bottom-up fabrication of supramolecular soft materials. In recent years,
significant contributions to Peptide-based hydrogels coined as Bioinspired fragments
have been made. In this book chapter, our effort lies to module two different aspects:
Firstly the underlying guidelines and principles for the tailoring of scaffolds that would
lead to hydrogel formation and an overview of the role of non-covalent
interactions/chemical functionalization that are the key components of various selfassembly processes. In the second section, we aim to bring together our recent
achievements with designer assembly with respect to their self-aggregation behavior
and applications mainly in the biomedical arena like drug delivery carrier design,
antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory as well as wound healing properties. We anticipate
that this article would provide a conceptual demonstration of the different approaches
taken toward the construction of these task-specific designer hydrogels.
Synthesis and Applications of Bacterial Cellulose Composites
Authors: Singh Juhi , Basu Anindya , Lim Sierin
Published: March 2024

Bacterial cellulose (BC) has been attracting attention for its utilities in a
variety of applications. Its nanofibrous nature offers a high surface area for the
formulation of composites through physical, chemical, or biological methods. BC
composites have been formed by combining with a wide range of molecules to impart
additional functions. This chapter summarizes the additives and techniques to modify
BC to form nanocomposites for applications in different industrial sectors. The chapter
starts with an overview of BC’s unique properties that are essential for composite
design. The types of additives or reinforcement agents utilized to form composites are
discussed, followed by techniques employed to formulate the composites. The last
section showcases the applications of BC and BC composites in the areas of
pharmaceuticals, food, diagnostics, cosmetics and as a general matrix.
Relaciones funcionales benéficas de la entomofauna asociada a arreglos productivos con enfoque agroecológico
Authors: Diaz Jaimes Luisa , Moreno Elcure Félix , Jaramillo Barrios Camilo , Buenaventura Monje
Published: March 2024

El presente estudio se realizó con el objetivo de identificar el efecto de asociaciones de especies de hortalizas sobre el incremento de relaciones funcionales bené cas en diferentes arreglos productivos. Se realizó una comparación de diversidad entomológica asociada en tres subsistemas de producción que integran el Módulo Demostrativo de Producción Agroecológica de Hortalizas y Aromáticas (MDPAHA), situado en el municipio del Espinal Tolima en Colombia. Se evaluó el efecto de la integración de 32 especies de hortalizas en tres subsistemas; “Pan Coger”, multipropósito– multiestrato y especies arvenses. Se reconocieron 4 grupos funcionales: tófagos, depredadores, parasitoides y descomponedores. La composición de grupos funcionales fue mayor en los subsistemas más complejos en estructura. Con esta investigación se aportó al conocimiento del efecto de la biodiversidad funcional en el manejo de asociaciones y rotaciones en el diseño agroecológico de sistemas de hortalizas de base familiar
The Association of Macronutrient Consumption and BMI to Exhaled Carbon Dioxide in Lumen Users: Retrospective Real-World Study
Authors: Yeshurun Shlomo , Cramer Tomer , Souroujon Daniel , Mor Merav
Published: March 2024

Background

Metabolic flexibility is the ability of the body to rapidly switch between fuel sources based on their accessibility and metabolic requirements. High metabolic flexibility is associated with improved health outcomes and a reduced risk of several metabolic disorders. Metabolic flexibility can be improved through lifestyle changes, such as increasing physical activity and eating a balanced macronutrient diet. Lumen is a small handheld device that measures metabolic fuel usage through exhaled carbon dioxide (CO2), which allows individuals to monitor their metabolic flexibility and make lifestyle changes to enhance it.

Objective

This retrospective study aims to examine the postprandial CO2 response to meals logged by Lumen users and its relationship with macronutrient intake and BMI.

Methods

We analyzed deidentified data from 2607 Lumen users who logged their meals and measured their exhaled CO2 before and after those meals between May 1, 2023, and October 18, 2023. A linear mixed model was fitted to test the association between macronutrient consumption, BMI, age, and gender to the postprandial CO2 response, followed by a 2-way ANOVA.

Results

The model demonstrated significant associations (P<.001) between CO2 response after meals and both BMI and carbohydrate intake (BMI: β=–0.112, 95% CI –0.156 to –0.069; carbohydrates: β=0.046, 95% CI 0.034-0.058). In addition, a 2-way ANOVA revealed that higher carbohydrate intake resulted in a higher CO2 response compared to low carbohydrate intake (F2,2569=24.23; P<.001), and users with high BMI showed modest responses to meals compared with low BMI (F2,2569=5.88; P=.003).

Conclusions

In this study, we show that Lumen’s CO2 response is influenced both by macronutrient consumption and BMI. The results of this study highlight a distinct pattern of reduced metabolic flexibility in users with obesity, indicating the value of Lumen for assessing postprandial metabolic flexibility.
Evaluasi Pemanfaatan PACS dan RIS Rumah Sakit Provinsi Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Authors: Icanervilia Ajeng Viska , Choridah Lina , Pribadi Amri Wicaksono , Rahman Afif , Gusti Abdi Marang , Huwaida Azizah , Kusumasari Dyan Pramandita Windu , Kusumawardani Aurisa Winda , Frinces Freshilla Sonia , Setyawan Nurhuda Hendra
Published: March 2024

Latar   Belakang:    Permintaan pemeriksaan radiologi di kalangan profesional kesehatan terus meningkat. Meskipun Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) dan Radiology Information System (RIS) telah diterapkan di RSUP Dr. Sardjito selama dua tahun, tetapi sistem tersebut masih kurang dimanfaatkan. Sistem tersebut sangat penting diterapkan untuk interpretasi yang akurat dan distribusi hasil pencitraan yang tepat waktu.Tujuan: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengevaluasi pemanfaatan PACS dan RIS oleh tenaga medis di RSUP Dr. Sardjito.Metode: Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kualitatif dengan metode wawancara mendalam. Responden dipilih berdasarkan metode purposive-maximum variety sampling. Metode wawancara menggunakan rekaman audio dan transkrip secara verbatim yang dianalisis secara tematik.Hasil: Penelitian ini menghasilkan 3 tema, yaitu: a) Manfaat PACS  dan RIS; b) Feedback terhadap PACS   dan  RIS; c) Pelatihan meningkatkan pemahaman & pemanfaatan PACS   dan RIS. PACS dan RIS dapat mempersingkat waktu pelayanan kesehatan dan membantu staf medis bekerja secara efisien. Selain itu, sosialisasi dan pelatihan PACS dan RIS juga membawa dampak positif dalam implementasinya, meskipun beberapa responden masih mengandalkan hard film karena keterbatasan akses komputer.Kesimpulan: Penerapan PACS dan RIS meningkatkan kualitas pelayanan rumah sakit. Optimalisasi pemanfaatan sistem PACS dan RIS memerlukan lebih banyak komputer di rumah sakit, pembaruan fitur di telepon seluler, dan pelatihan bagi pengguna
Wet Aging USDA Select Beef Strip Steaks: Implications on Consumer Acceptability, Demand, and Product Selection
Authors: Wang Shangshang , Dahlgren Chelsie , Devost-Burnett Derris , Lemley Caleb O. , To K. Virellia , Zhang Xue , Coatney Kalyn , Sukumaran Anuraj T. , Schilling M. Wes , Dinh Thu
Published: March 2024

The objective of this study was to determine if wet aging increases the value and demand for lower-quality USDA-grade beef steaks. USDA Select boneless beef loins (NAMP #180) were dorsally divided into 4 equal portions, which were randomized to receive 0, 7, 14, or 21 d of wet aging. A total of twenty 2.5-cm-thick steaks from each aging time (n = 20 steaks per aging treatment) were cooked to an internal temperature of 71°C, cubed, and served to a consumer panel (N = 126), which evaluated acceptability using a 9-point hedonic scale with 1 and 9 representing “dislike extremely” and “like extremely,” respectively. Immediately after the panel, a elicitation mechanism auction method was used to obtain independent consumer willingness to pay for each aging time. Consumers were separated into 6 clusters based on overall acceptability ratings. Cluster 1 (n = 24) preferred steaks that were aged for 0 and 21 d (P ≤ 0.014). Cluster 2 (n = 50) liked all treatments moderately but liked steaks aged for 7, 14, and 21 d more than 0-d aged steaks (P ≤ 0.018); Cluster 3 (n = 20) preferred 0-d steaks over 7-d steaks and 7-d steaks over 14-d and 21-d aged steaks (P ≤ 0.044). Cluster 4 preferred 7-d and 21-d aged, and Cluster 6 preferred 14-d and 21-d aged steaks. Demand analysis indicated that 0, 7, and 21 d of aging would sell 5.29, 5.34, and 6.94 more units (0.454 kg) (P < 0.001) than steaks aged for 14-d holding price constant at the current market value of $14/0.454 kg. Overall, results indicated that wet aging for 14-d was not sufficient to provide the flavor and tenderness improvements that were apparent after 21 d of aging. Under optimal pricing and various cost scenarios, 21 d of aging was the most profitable single product offering only if daily production costs were sufficiently low.
Análisis del estado actual del almacenamiento masivo para la preservación digital
Authors: Contreras Benítez José Antonio , Sánchez Mendoza Ma. Guadalupe , González González Maribel , Solís Garza Omar A.
Published: March 2024

El almacenamiento masivo (AM) es un elemento importante y crítico que debe ser considerado por cualquier institución que desee emprender labores de Preservación Digital (PD). Debido a la falta de información sobre el tema, el Grupo de Almacenamiento Masivo (GAM) definió como alcance inicial documentar y analizar el estado actual de las necesidades básicas del almacenamiento para la PD.

En este contexto y como meta específica, se diseñó, difundió y aplicó un instrumento de preguntas específicas que arrojó información sobre el interés del almacenamiento con enfoque de preservación, el tamaño del acervo, los tipos de contenido y los formatos a preservar, el crecimiento, la infraestructura actual y la requerida, la disponibilidad, los medios, los respaldos y copias, los esquemas de recuperación y los problemas comunes en el almacenamiento, entre otros.

Durante una primera etapa de aplicación, el instrumento tuvo aceptación en 32 instituciones de México y Latinoamérica. Algunas de las entidades participantes están relacionadas con la conservación y la preservación del patrimonio documental.

Una vez analizada la información, se observa que la mayoría de las instituciones tiene interés por la PD por normatividad, más que por convicción. Sólo algunas cuentan con infraestructura especializada, mientras que otras no tienen copia de su acervo y no realizan respaldos. Sin duda, las problemáticas más comunes son la carencia de mantenimiento a la infraestructura, la falta de personal calificado, la poca capacidad de almacenamiento y la obsolescencia.

Por otro lado, se constató que instituciones académicas y de carácter nacional, como la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), están encaminadas hacia el logro de procesos de almacenamiento masivo, enfocados en la preservación digital, porque tienen infraestructura dedicada, cuentan con 3 o más copias distribuidas de su acervo y están provistas de almacenamiento exprofeso para la preservación, tomando como referentes modelos y estándares internacionales.
Criterios para valorar Sistemas de Preservación Digital
Authors: Ramírez Molina Ana Yuri , Román Zamitiz Carlos Alberto , Pérez Pineda Iván , Contreras Benítez José Antonio , Castillejos Reyes Juan Manuel , González Melchor Teresa del Rocío , González González Maribel , Salazar Carmona José Antonio
Published: March 2024

El presente artículo enumera una serie de criterios que ayudan a verificar o valorar el alcance de un Sistema de Preservación Digital (SPD), de acuerdo con las funcionalidades establecidas dentro del Modelo OAIS, además de las consideraciones señaladas en la propuesta para Auditoría y Certificación de Repositorios Confiables (TRAC) y el Modelo de Requerimientos para la gestión de registros electrónicos (Moreq), todos éstos agrupados con base en atributos de calidad de software.
Las dos formas de custodia compartida en caso de que los padres no estén de acuerdo (primera parte)
Authors: Barcia Lehmann Rodrigo
Published: March 2024

El presente artículo justifica la custodia compartida, aun con oposición de uno de los padres, como régimen legal supletorio preferente, pero sobre todo como régimen específico dentro de un sistema de custodia indistinta. La custodia compartida se sustenta en los derechos fundamentales de los NNA (principios del interés superior y corresponsabilidad), pero especialmente en estudios empíricos.
PENGARUH PEMBELAJARAN DARING TERHADAP HASIL BELAJAR MAHASISWA PADA MATA KULIAH KIMIA DASAR DITINJAU DARI KEMAMPUAN AWAL MAHASISWA
Authors: Juwita Ratulani
Published: March 2024

abstrakSemakin berkembangnya dampak dari Covid-19, menyebabkan dunia pendidikan juga harus merubah budaya belajar yang selama ini telah dilaksanakan, hal ini juga berdampak pada perkuliahan di perguruan tinggi, walaupun sebelumnya perkuliahan sudah dilaksanakan secara Blended Learning tetapi setelah pandemi Covid-a9 perkuliahan dilaksanakan seluruhnya secara Daring (Dalam Jaringan). penggunaan platform E-learning di STKIP PGRI Sumatera Barat sangat dirasakan manfaatnya untuk tetap menjalin komunikasi perkuliahan antara dosen dan mahasiswa. Untuk itu penelitian ini dilaksanakan guna melihat pengaruh dari pelaksanaan pembelajaran secara daring tersebut terhadap hasil belajar mahasiswa berdasarkan kemampuan awal mahasiswa tersebut. Penelitian ini didasarkan dengan metode one-Group Pretest-Posttest. Dimana kemampuan awal mahasiswa didapat melalui Pretest sebelum pelaksanaan perkuliahan, dan hasil belajar mahasiswa didapat dari Posttest yang dilaksanakan setelah perkuliahan dengan menggunakan metode daring. Penelitian dilaksanakn terhadap 21 orang mahasiswa yang mengambil mata kuliah Kimia Dasar pada Semester ganjil 2020/2021. Dari hasil penelitian didapatkan rata-rata nilai mahasiswa pada Pretest 59.5 dan nilai rata-rata mahasiswa pada Posttest sebesar 74. sehingga terlihat peningkatan nilai rata-rata sebesar 14.5, ini berarti terdapat pengaruh pembelajaran daring terhadap hasil belajar mahasiswa.AbstractThe growing impact of Covid-19 has caused the world of education to also have to change the learning culture that has been implemented so far, this also has an impact on lectures at universities, although previously lectures had been carried out in Blended Learning but after the Covid-a9 pandemic, lectures were carried out entirely independently. Online (On the Network). The use of the E-learning platform at STKIP PGRI West Sumatra is very useful for maintaining lecture communication between lecturers and students. For this reason, this research was carried out to see the effect of the implementation of online learning on student learning outcomes based on the students' initial abilities. This research is based on the one-Group Pretest-Posttest method. Where the initial ability of students is obtained through the Pretest before the implementation of the lecture, and student learning outcomes are obtained from the Posttest which is carried out after the lecture using the online method. The research was carried out on 21 students who took Basic Chemistry courses in the odd semester 2020/2021. From the results of the study, it was found that the average value of students in the Pretest was 59.5 and the average value of students in the Posttest was 74. So it can be seen that the average score increased by 14.5, this means that there is an effect of online learning on student learning outcomes.
Mapping Nigeria’s Poverty with Satellite Imagery Using Deep Learning: A Comparative Study of Day and Night Light Satellite Images
Authors: Chukwuebuka Okoroafor Daniel , Diping Zhang
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Poverty mapping plays a crucial role in understanding and addressing socioeconomic disparities within a country. Traditional methods of poverty estimation often rely on survey data, which can be time consuming, expensive, and limited in coverage. In recent years, the advent of satellite imagery and deep learning techniques has opened up new avenues for poverty mapping. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of day and night light satellite imagery in mapping poverty in Nigeria using deep learning models. In this thesis, daylight satellite data is used to directly forecast poverty by evaluating Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) models. one methods semantic segmentation are put forth and contrasted with the multistep learning method that makes use of an image of nighttime lights. We conduct our experiments with satellite pictures from Google Maps and NOAA that are publicly available throughout the day and at night. Combining the night lights data with the semantic segmentation approach to yields the best model
Process of Self-Leadership: Establishing Yourself as Leader No Matter Your Role
Authors: George-Puskar Annie , Beavers Elizabeth , Bruns Deborah , Lindner Chloe
Published: March 2024

As the field of early intervention/early childhood special education (EI/ECSE) focuses intently on building, supporting, and sustaining leaders across varying contexts and roles, this study introduced the concept of self-leadership to EI/ECSE self-identified leaders. The research explores differences in self-rated skills based on role, analyzes themes of goals for developing self-leadership skills, and analyzes the measurability of goals set by participants. Fifty-six participants completed the Abbreviated Self-Leadership Questionnaire (ASLQ) (Houghton, Dawley, & DiLiello, 2012), self-rated their own skills, and identified leadership goals. Results show that participants scored themselves highest on evaluating beliefs and assumptions about self-leadership. Self-identified goals resulted in three primary themes (administrative tasks, relationship building and coaching, and growth in learning). Directions for future research, policy, and recommendations for practice are discussed.
ABSTRACT Exploring the application of ‘Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy’ in South Korean multicultural education
Authors:   Korean Association For Learner-Centered Curriculum And Instruction, Lee Jueun
Published: March 2024

Objectives The purpose of this study is to analyze the discourse surrounding multicultural education within the sociocultural context of South Korea, and to propose the application of culturally sustaining pedagogy within South Korean multicultural education.
Methods This study aimed to introduce the concept of culturally sustaining pedagogy, a topic receiving significant attention in the United States, into the realm of critical multicultural education. It sought to explore the application of this theory within the South Korean sociocultural context and the backdrop of multicultural education. Consequently, this study was structured as a literature review, serving as a preliminary examination intended to guide future research and provide direction for educators to implement culturally sustaining pedagogy in educational settings. The research proceeded in three phases: First, it defined and conceptualized culturally sustaining pedagogy. Second, it involved understanding and analyzing the sociocultural context of South Korea to assess the existing discourse on multicultural education within the country. Third, the study examined the potential application of culturally sustaining pedagogy within South Korean multicultural education.
Results First, culturally sustaining pedagogy advocates for a shift in multicultural education from assimilation to justice-oriented multicultural education. This is particularly pertinent in contexts like South Korea, where cultural minority groups exhibit a weaker sense of community, thus heightening the influence of assimilationism and underscoring the need for proactive measures to sustain these communities. Second, culturally sustaining pedagogy serves as a platform for initiating discussions on racism and racial inequality within the framework of South Korean multicultural education. Third, this approach emphasizes the attainment of academic success in a broad sense by promoting mutual appreciation for diverse cultures within educational contexts. It posits that this fosters not only the exchange of life itself but also aids in the process of discovering both personal and communal agency. Fourth, culturally sustaining pedagogy is dedicated to sustaining the communities of cultural minorities.
Conclusions First, this study suggests a need for a shift in teachers' perceptions of cultural minorities, advocating for the systematic inclusion of professional development in multicultural education within the curriculum for teacher education. Second, it emphasizes the importance of providing students from cultural minorities with opportunities and spaces to express their voices and to develop as agents. Third, the study calls for a more comprehensive understanding of culture.
The Mediating Effect of CDSE in the Relationship Between Reality Shock and Career Optimism for Students in the College of Education
Authors:   Korean Association For Learner-Centered Curriculum And Instruction, Au Yun Kyung
Published: March 2024

Objectives This study evaluated the mediating effect of career decision-making self-efficacy on the relationship between reality shock stress and career optimism, which is essential in the pre-secondary teacher educational practicum, offering implications for secondary school teachers' adaptation to teaching life.
Methods The research questions centered on the effect of reality shock on career optimism and the effect of career decision-making self-efficacy on career optimism, the path model through career decision-making self-efficacy for each sub-factor of reality shock to career optimism, and the mediating effect of career decision-making self-efficacy on the relationship between career optimism for each sub-factor of reality shock. Self-efficacy of career decision-making, reality shock, and career optimism were measured for 147 students attending the College of Education who had experienced educational practice and those who participated in the teaching course, and the mediating effect was verified using SPSS Process Macro 3.4.
Results First, it was found that a lower perception of negative reality shock in the educational practice field was associated with higher career optimism, and higher self-efficacy of career decision-making was associated with higher career optimism. Second, analysis of the path model by dividing reality shock into the sub-factors of lack of support, reality disappointment, work pressure, and confidence found all factors except work pressure were significant. Third, the indirect effect of reality shock on career optimism through career decision-making self-efficacy was significant, excluding work pressure factors, and the mediating effect of career decision-making self-efficacy was verified.
Conclusions As career optimism is important for pre-secondary teachers to enter the teaching profession and effectively cope with actual shock and stress, the finding of career decision-making self-efficacy as a mediating variable has significant implications for helping pre-service teachers adapt to the teaching field.