bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electricity market relationship between Great Britain and its neighbors: distributional effects of Brexit
Authors: Ball Christopher Stephen , Govorukha Kristina , Kuckshinrichs Wilhelm , Mayer Philip , Rübbelke Dirk , Vögele Stefan
Published: July 2022

Background

Beyond Great Britain, Brexit could also have ripple effects on the electricity systems of certain other EU member states. This paper investigates the possible effects of reduced growth in interconnectivity between Great Britain and mainland Europe by 2030 on the electricity system in GB and across other EU member states in addition to the effects of Pound depreciation. Effects are analyzed across a “Green Scenario” and “Blue Scenario” in 2030, based on the ENTSO-E (European Network of Transmission System Operators-Electricity) 10-year development plans. There is a greater expansion of nuclear and renewables in Green than in Blue and, in Blue, the British CO2 price is higher than in the EU. Within each scenario, there are four variants: full vs. reduced expansion of interconnection capacity, in combination with no devaluation and 10% depreciation of the British Pound. The EMME (Electricity Market Model for Europe) is used to model these impacts across the different scenario variants.

Results

Interconnector utilization is more volatile in the Green Scenario variants, leading to concerns about investor incentives, especially given the increased uncertainty under Brexit. In terms of electricity prices, GB consumers lose out across both Blue and Green scenario variants, whereas EU and GB producers both gain and lose in different variants. Across the Green Scenario variants, EU neighbors’ trade balances with GB deteriorate slightly, but the impact is far stronger in Blue due to a loss of opportunities to export power. GB sees significant increases in electricity costs across scenario variants. Green scenario variants offer potential for modest emission reductions in certain EU nations, whereas Blue Scenario variants lead to greater emission reductions in the EU neighbors which contrasts with a sharp rise in GB emissions.

Conclusions

There is a significant link between NTC expansion and wholesale prices. Delayed or cancelled NTC expansion could negatively affect the GB power system’s low-carbon transition. Pound depreciation and reduced expansion of NTCs lead to shifts in generation-related CO2 emissions. A higher cost burden for electricity is a risk for GB, whereas, for EU neighbors, their trade position with the UK risks deteriorating.
Surfing alone? The Internet and social capital: evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Kharisma Bayu
Published: July 2022

The objective of this study is to determine how internet access affects social capital in Indonesia’s community, based on the data from the fifth wave of the Indonesian Family Life Survey (IFLS) with the instrumental variable (IV) method. The results showed that the use of the Internet plays a significant role in strengthening social capital in Indonesia, especially for male heads of households that have a relationship with neighbors with strong internal cohesion and mutual trust. Internet users in Java and Bali are more affectial in strengthening social capital compared to users outside the islands located in eastern Indonesia. This disparity is because most Indonesian internet users live in the western part of the country. Furthermore, there is a development disparity in regard to internet infrastructure and internet connection service availability throughout the country.
The cost of healthier and more sustainable food choices: Do plant-based consumers spend more on food?
Authors: Pais Daniel Francisco , Marques António Cardoso , Fuinhas José Alberto
Published: July 2022

Plant-based diets are often promoted as healthier and more sustainable and thus as a mechanism to achieve the targets proposed to mitigate climate change and noncommunicable diseases. However, plant-based diets can be perceived as more expensive than the common omnivorous diets, when considering the expensive novel meat substitutes and also the higher costs of fruits and vegetables, whose consumption is perceived to increase. Therefore, the present study assesses the question: Do plant-based consumers spend more on food compared to omnivorous consumers? Based on primary data (n = 1040) collected through an online survey, representative of the Portuguese population, through logistic regressions, it was possible to conclude that plant-based consumers, particularly vegan, are associated with lower food expenditures compared to omnivorous consumers. In fact, plant-based consumers are shown to spend less than all other consumers assessed. Food policies aligning healthiness and sustainability with affordability can deliver a major boost for the promotion of plant-based diets and help achieve the mitigation targets proposed.
Public perception of ecosystem and social services produced by Sardinia extensive dairy sheep farming systems
Authors: Madau Fabio A. , Arru Brunella , Furesi Roberto , Sau Paola , Pulina Pietro
Published: July 2022

Dairy sheep farming systems provide a great range of ecosystem services (ESs) and social services (SSs). These are Agro-pastoral Secondary Outputs (ASOs), the promotion of which can help the survival of the systems and the rural regions in which they exist. However, little attention has been paid to understanding which ASOs are recognized by the public, which is the first step to adequately promote them. This study first aims to review previous literature on ASOs relating to livestock in general and dairy sheep farming systems in particular. The literature review, conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework, revealed significant gaps. Second, the research provides evidence of public perception of ASOs of a given dairy sheep sector—i.e. that developed on the region of Sardinia (Italy)—via a questionnaire distributed to a composite sample of 525 stakeholders. We found that cultural and landscape services are the most appreciated services. Multiple correspondence analysis suggests that appreciation of a specific secondary output would imply the appreciation of all the other outputs. Furthermore, we ran a set of logit regressions where each ASO was related to several socio-economic variables. Findings showed, among others, that the ‘subjective knowledge’ of the Sardinian agro-pastoral reality positively and significantly affects appreciation of all the ASOs. Several implications for practitioners, academics and policymakers are derived from these findings.
Key components of the mental capacity assessment of patients with anorexia nervosa: a study of three countries
Authors: Takimoto Yoshiyuki
Published: July 2022

Background

Patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) often refuse treatment despite their extremely low nutritional status. This study investigated the methods of assessing the mental capacity of patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) who refuse treatment by physicians in Japan, the United Kingdom (UK), and the United States (USA). It also identified the key points of the assessment.

Methods

A questionnaire survey using a case vignette was conducted among physicians (Japan, n = 53; UK, n = 85; USA, n = 85) who treat eating disorders.

Results

A total of 23% of physicians in Japan, 32% in the UK, and 35% in the USA reported that they believe patients with AN lack the capacity to make appropriate decisions. Physicians who considered patients with AN to have an impaired mental capacity placed significantly more emphasis on the level of psychopathological values, which are values caused by AN (and can be changed by recovery) that affect the ability to be rational, when assessing the mental capacity of these patients. Conversely, physicians who considered patients with AN to have full mental capacity placed significantly more weight on the ability to express a choice or preference.

Conclusions

It may be necessary to add the level of psychopathological values to the assessment of the mental capacity in relation to obesity fears and emotional disturbances of Patients with AN because emotions caused by psychopathological values strongly influence decision-making. By considering the level of psychopathological values, it may be feasible to reflect the actual situation during the assessment of the mental capacity of those who refuse AN treatment, thus making it more likely to overcome ethical dilemmas.
Scope for growth and dietary needs of Mediteranean Pinnids maintained in captivity
Authors: Hernandis S. , Ibarrola I. , Tena-Medialdea J. , Vázquez-Luis M. , García-March J. R. , Prado P. , Albentosa M.
Published: July 2022

Background

The measurement of the energy available for growth (scope of growth, SFG) can be used in bivalves to make a long-term prediction in a short-term experiment of the condition of the individual. In order to tackle the best conditions for captive maintenance of Mediterranean Pinnids, a SFG study was conducted using Pinna rudis as a model species. Three diets were examined to test the viability of live microalgae and commercial products: i) a control diet using 100% of live microalgae based on the species Isochrysis galbana (t-ISO), ii) a 100% of commercial microalgae diet based on the product Shellfish Diet 1800®, and iii) a 50/50% mix diet of I. galbana (t-ISO) and Shellfish Diet 1800®.

Results

SFG results showed significant differences among diets in the physiological functions measured and suggested lower acceptability and digestibility of the commercial product. Negative SFG values were obtained for the commercial diet which indicates that it should be rejected for both Pinnid maintenance. The mixed diet showed improved physiological performance compared to the commercial diet, resulting in a higher SFG that had no significant differences with the control diet. However, in the long-term, the lower digestibility of the mixed diet compared to the control diet could lead to a deterioration of individuals’ conditions and should be considered cautiously.

Conclusions

This work represents the first case study of SFG in Pinna spp. and provides fundamental data on dietary needs for the critically endangered species, P. nobilis.
Global distribution and management of peach diseases
Authors: Luo Chao-Xi , Schnabel Guido , Hu Mengjun , De Cal Antonieta
Published: July 2022

Peach is a popular and important tree fruit widely produced in the world, and the production of high-quality peach fruit does require management of pests and diseases. In this review, major peach diseases from China, Spain, and USA are described in detail for the benefit of producers, consultants, researchers, and other interested parties. Minor diseases of concern in these countries are also described. Current progress on pathogen resistance to major chemical classes of fungicides as well as current resistance management practices are discussed. Specific cultural practices applied in China, Spain, and USA are also described to provide an overview of peach disease management. A ‘Future Outlook’ section is included at the end of this review to highlight the challenges and opportunities for disease management in the future.
Dietary culture and antiquity of the Himalayan fermented foods and alcoholic fermented beverages
Authors: Tamang Jyoti Prakash
Published: July 2022

One of the important dietary cultures of the Himalayan people is consumption of fermented foods and drinking of alcoholic fermented beverages, which are traditionally produced by the multiracial and multiethnic communities of the Himalayan people using their ‘ethno-microbiological’ knowledge of food fermentation. Besides delicacy, ethnical and cultural values, the Himalayan fermented foods are also the hubs of biological resources of beneficial and functional microorganisms which have been contributing health-promoting benefits to thousands of Himalayan people with a dearth of modern food products. There is no or rare publications on sporadic history, antiquity and origin of the Himalayan fermented foods. We designed questionnaire and sought information from different communities in different places of the Himalayas on oral history, legendries on origin and antiquity of fermented foods and alcoholic fermented beverages. Hence, the present article discusses the food culture, oral history, legendries and antiquity of some Himalayan fermented foods and alcoholic fermented beverages in the Himalayan regions, and also to validate the scientific evidence-based ethno-microbiological practices performed by the Himalayan people for food fermentation.
Effects of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy on β-Cell Function at 1 Year After Surgery: A Systematic Review
Authors: Buser Angeline , Joray Chloé , Schiavon Michele , Kosinski Christophe , Minder Beatrice , Nakas Christos T , Man Chiara Dalla , Muka Taulant , Herzig David , Bally Lia
Published: July 2022

Bariatric surgery is a highly effective obesity treatment resulting in substantial weight loss and improved glucose metabolism. We hereby aimed to summarize available evidence of the effect of the 2 most common bariatric surgery procedures, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG), on dynamic measures of β-cell function (BCF). A systematic search of the literature was conducted in 3 bibliographic databases for studies reporting effects of RYGB and/or SG on BCF assessed using dynamic metabolic perturbation (oral or intravenous bolus stimulation), performed before and 1 year (±3 months) after surgery. Twenty-seven unique studies (6 randomized controlled trials and 21 observational studies), involving a total of 1856 obese adults, were included for final analysis. Twenty-five and 9 studies report effects of RYGB and SG on BCF, respectively (7 studies compared the 2 procedures). Seven studies report results according to presurgical diabetes status. Owing to variable testing procedures and BCF indices reported, no meta-analysis was feasible, and data were summarized qualitatively. For both surgical procedures, most studies suggest an increase in BCF and disposition index, particularly when using oral stimulation, with a more pronounced increase in diabetic than nondiabetic individuals. Additionally, limited indications for greater effects after RYGB versus SG were found. The quality of the included studies was, in general, satisfactory. The considerable heterogeneity of test protocols and outcome measures underscore the need for a harmonization of BCF testing in future research.
Knockdown of Acid-sensing Ion Channel 1a in the PVN Promotes Metabolic Disturbances in Male Mice
Authors: Wang Wei , Xu Mengyun , Yue Jiayin , Zhang Qilun , Nie Xiaomin , Jin Yan , Zhang Zhi
Published: July 2022

Increasing incidence of metabolic disturbances has become a severe public healthcare problem. Ion channels and receptors in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus serve vital roles in modulating neuronal activities and endocrine functions, which are linked to the regulation of energy balance and glucose metabolism. In this study, we found that acid-sensing ion channel 1a (ASIC1a), a Ca2+-permeable cationic ion channel was localized in the PVN. Knockdown of ASIC1a in this region led to significant body weight gain, glucose intolerance, and insulin resistance. Pharmacological inhibition of ASIC1a resulted in an increase in food intake and a decrease in energy expenditure. Our findings suggest ASIC1a in the PVN as a potential new target for the therapeutic intervention of metabolic disorders.
Προσδιοριστικοί παράγοντες της επίδρασης των ξένων άμεσων επενδύσεων στην οικονομική ανάπτυξη της χώρας-αποδέκτη των επενδύσεων
Authors: Τσιμπιδά Χρυσάνθη
Published: July 2022

Αντικείμενο της διατριβής είναι η διερεύνηση της σχέσης μεταξύ των άμεσων ξένων επενδύσεων και της οικονομικής ανάπτυξης της χώρας-αποδέκτη. Στην εμπειρική βιβλιογραφία υπάρχει πληθώρα εμπειρικών μελετών που είτε εξετάζουν τη σχέση ΑΞΕ-οικονομικής μεγέθυνσης χρησιμοποιώντας δεδομένα από μία χώρα, είτε εξετάζουν τη σχέση αυτή χρησιμοποιώντας πάνελ δεδομένα από ένα σύνολο οικονομιών. Στην διατριβή γίνεται μία ανασκόπηση των εμπειρικών μελετών που έχουν εξετάσει τη σχέση ΑΞΕ-οικονομικής μεγέθυνσης, καθώς και τους παράγοντες που επηρεάζουν τη σχέση αυτή. Στη συνέχεια, εξετάζεται η σχέση ΑΞΕ-οικονομικής μεγέθυνσης μέσα από δύο εμπειρικές μελέτες, με την πρώτη να αφορά την ελληνική οικονομία και τη δεύτερη να αφορά το σύνολο των χωρών μελών της Ε.Ε.Στην πρώτη εμπειρική μελέτη που παρουσιάζεται, εξετάζεται η μακροχρόνια σχέση ανάμεσα στις ΑΞΕ, την οικονομική μεγέθυνση και τη χρηματοοικονομική ανάπτυξη στην ελληνική οικονομία με τη μέθοδο συνολοκλήρωσης του Johansen και του Υποδείγματος Διόρθωσης Λαθών. Τα ευρήματα της έρευνας υποδεικνύουν την ύπαρξη μακροχρόνιας σχέσης ανάμεσα στις ΑΞΕ, την οικονομική μεγέθυνση και τη χρηματοοικονομική ανάπτυξη στην ελληνική οικονομία. Τα αποτελέσματα υπογραμμίζουν την ανάγκη για την περαιτέρω βελτίωση και εξυγίανση του χρηματοοικονομικού περιβάλλοντος στην ελληνική οικονομία, καθώς η χρηματοοικονομική ανάπτυξη φαίνεται να έχει μεγαλύτερη επίδραση στην οικονομική μεγέθυνση από την αντίστοιχη των ΑΞΕ.Στη δεύτερη εμπειρική μελέτη εξετάζεται η σχέση των ΑΞΕ με την οικονομική μεγέθυνση με τη χρήση της μεθοδολογίας πάνελ ARDL, τόσο με τη χρήση διμεταβλητών όσο και πολυμεταβλητών υποδειγμάτων για το σύνολο των χωρών μελών της Ε.Ε.. Η ανάλυση εστιάζει στις PMG (Pooled Mean Group) εκτιμήσεις, λόγω της ιδιότητάς τους να περιορίζουν την ομοιογένεια στη μακροχρόνια ισορροπία, επιτρέποντας ταυτόχρονα την ετερογένεια στις βραχυπρόθεσμες σχέσεις. Τα βασικότερα ευρήματα της εργασίας είναι: α) η ύπαρξη μακροχρόνιας σχέσης ανάμεσα στις ΑΞΕ και την οικονομική μεγέθυνση για το σύνολο των χωρών της Ε.Ε., β) η μείωση της διάχυσης θετικών επιδράσεων στην οικονομία-αποδέκτη λόγω διαφθοράς, αναφορικά με τα νέα μέλη της Ε.Ε., και γ) η υψηλότερη ταχύτητα προσαρμογής στη μακροχρόνια ισορροπία που χαρακτηρίζει τα παλιά μέλη σε σχέση με την αντίστοιχη των νεότερων μελών. Η ύπαρξη θετικής και στατιστικά σημαντικής μακροχρόνιας σχέσης ανάμεσα στις ΑΞΕ και την οικονομική μεγέθυνση για το σύνολο των χωρών υπογραμμίζει την αναγκαιότητα διαμόρφωσης πολιτικών προσέλκυσης ΑΞΕ. Επιπρόσθετα, τα αποτελέσματα της έρευνας δείχνουν ότι τα μέλη της Ε.Ε. που χαρακτηρίζονται από υψηλούς δείκτες διαφθοράς θα πρέπει να εστιάσουν σε πολιτικές καταπολέμησής της, καθώς η διαφθορά φαίνεται να ανακόπτει τις θετικές επιδράσεις τόσο από τις ΑΞΕ, όσο και από άλλους προσδιοριστικούς παράγοντες της οικονομικής μεγέθυνσης, όπως είναι η επένδυση, το ανθρώπινο κεφάλαιο και το άνοιγμα εμπορίου.
Introducing the Task Switching Game: a paradigm for neuroimaging and online studies
Authors: Kurtin Danielle L. , Jaquiery Dr. Matthew , Auer Dr. Tibor , Hampshire Prof. Adam , Violante Dr. Ines R.
Published: July 2022

While writing this abstract I received an email, which I promptly answered. When I returned my attention to the abstract, I struggled to regain my flow of writing. In order to understand this deficit in performance associated with switching from one task to another, or "switch cost", cognitive neuroscientists use task switching paradigms to recreate similar experiences. However, many researchers may be familiar with the difficulties that accompany modifying an established paradigm to suit their experimental design, or even the challenge of creating a new, unvalidated paradigm to perturb a particular aspect of cognitive function. This software tool article introduces a novel task switching paradigm for use and adaptation in online and neuroimaging task switching studies. The paradigm was constructed with a flexible, easily-adapted framework that can accommodate a variety of designs. This paradigm utilizes three psychometrically opposed but visually similar tasks- the Digit Span, the Spatial Span, and the Spatial Rotation. In two Use Cases we demonstrate the reliable nature of overall task performance and the dependence of switch costs on certain task parameters. This task framework can be adapted for use across different experimental designs and environment, and we encourage researchers to modify the task switching game for their experiments.
Pandemic Pedagogy: Perception of Nursing students’: A cross-sectional study
Authors: D'Souza Prima Jenevive Jyothi , Assariparambil Anil Raj , Muthamilselvi G , Joseph Veena M , George Linu Sara
Published: July 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic impacted across the globe disrupting all sectors including the higher education universities. Nursing institutions faced various challenges due to the pandemic restrictions, of which the abrupt shift of implementing the curriculum to online mode posed a major challenge to both the teachers and the students. To assess nursing students' perception of pandemic pedagogy and the challenges faced in remote teaching-learning, this cross-sectional survey was conducted among 982 undergraduate nursing students from three Deemed to be University nursing institutions of Southern India. Institutional Ethics Committee approval (IEC 444/2020), permission from the heads of the institutions and study participant’s consent was obtained. Data was collected using an online survey questionnaire which had three domains, including student-related (19 items), teacher-related(5 items), and physical learning environment-related factors (11 items).  The reliability was established using Cronbach’s Alpha (0.86). Explored the favouring, hindering factors and challenges faced during the emergency remote instruction with open-ended items. The overall mean score of perceptions on pandemic pedagogy was 89.03±10.03. Sixty-three percent of students had a total perception score above 87 which indicates that they preferred remote learning (synchronous) during the pandemic whereas 45% preferred face-to-face classes. There was a significant difference in the total perception scores and the years of study( F (3, 978) = 4.96, p = 0.002). The factors favouring remote learning were, an opportunity to view the recorded classes even after the live classes’ (n=165), and ‘more time to spend for learning activities’ (n=152). Factors that hindered the learning or the challenges faced were poor network connectivity (n=451), and lack of opportunity for group study  (n=326). Students favoured remote learning during the pandemic; however, there were several challenges. The educational institutions need to prepare themselves to overcome this and focus on a blended learning curriculum.
A systematic review of retinoic acid in the journey of spermatogonium to spermatozoa: From basic to clinical application
Authors: Margiana Ria , Pakpahan Cennikon , Pangestu Mulyoto
Published: July 2022

Background: Retinoic acid plays an essential role in testicular development and functions, especially spermatogenesis. We have reviewed the role of retinoic acid from basic (molecular) to clinical application.

Methods: A search was conducted in the online database including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus for English studies published in the last eight years about this issue. We used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines in assessing the studies we are going to investigate.

Results: Studies indicated that retinoic acid plays an essential role during pluripotent stem cell migration and lineage commitment, cell differentiation, apoptosis, stem cell number regulation, and maturation arrest in spermatogenic cells. Retinoic acid can also affect related protein expression and signaling pathways at different stages of spermatogenesis. Four studies have applied retinoic acid to humans, all of them in the single-arm observational study. The results look promising but need further research with more controlled study methods, randomization, and large samples.

Conclusions: This current systematic review emphasizes a novel retinoic acid mechanism that has not been well described in the literature previously on its functions during the first seven days of spermatogenesis, leading to new directions or explanations of male infertility cause and treatments as a part of reproductive health care.
Mechanistic contribution of CaV3.2 calcium channels to trigeminal neuralgia pathophysiology not clarified
Authors: Liedtke Wolfgang
Published: July 2022

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a rare, yet debilitating trigeminal pain disorder, with jolts of supramaximal-debilitating pain in one or more of the three trigeminal branches. Familial TN is now recognized, with a recent report describing several human genetic polymorphisms. One affected gene is the voltage-gated calcium channel, CaV3.2 (CACNA1H), with 19 polymorphisms first described. A recent study in PAIN by Gambeta-et-al (DOI:10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002651) is entitled "CaV3.2 calcium channels contribute to trigeminal neuralgia ". Here, I call into question their claim. My main arguments are 1)-3):  1) Gambeta-et-al studied 4/19 mutations reported in heterologous cellular expression, with two mutations showing gain-of-function of CaV3.2, two mutations not showing gain-of-function. Therefore the exemplary picks of familial TN-associated CaV3.2 mutations do not show a uniform change of channel function, such as gain-of-function.  2) In Gambeta-et-al, one gain-of-function mutation, CaV3.2(G563R) was directed to mouse trigeminal ganglion (TG) neurons, and their resulting hyperexcitability was demonstrated. A critical control of a non-gain-of-function channel was not included here, it was unclear whether neurons were separated by sex, and human sensory neurons were not used. Importantly, it is not clear that TG  neurons are the critical cellular site of CaV3.2 mutations. 3) Gambeta-et-al used CaV3.2-/- pan-null knockout mice. Human TN-associated CaV3.2 mutations were not over-expressed. They used a infraorbital nerve constriction injury and measured facial heat hyperalgesia.  CaV3.2-/- show a pain phenotype similar to control, yet are not affected by a CaV3-inhibitory compound, Z944. My argument is that when starting with TN-associated human mutations, use of a trigeminal neuropathic pain model is of limited value, and that human mutations have to be expressed against a mouse null background. Re thermal cue, Gambeta-et-al failed to study cold-evoked pain which is a TN clinical hallmark.

Thus, Gambeta-et-al's 2022 PAIN-paper offers little new mechanistic evidence why CaV3.2 polymorphisms are associated with trigeminal neuralgia.
Modified solid in oil nanodispersion containing vemurafenib-lipid complex-in vitro/in vivo study
Authors: Almajidi Yasir Q. , Maraie Nidhal K. , Raauf Ayad M. R.
Published: July 2022

Background: Vemurafenib (VEM) was a licensed drug for the treatment of skin melanoma and is available only in the market as oral tablets prescribed in huge doses (1920 mg/day). One reason for the high dose is vemurafenib's low oral bioavailability.

Methods: VEM-lipid complex (DLC) was predicted based on Conquest and Mercury programs and prepared using the solvent evaporation method using the lipid (phosphatidylethanolamine). DLC was subjected to characterization (FT-IR, Raman spectroscopy, DSC, TGA, P-XRD, and FESEM) to confirm complexation.  DLC was used to prepare solid in oil nanodispersion (DLC-SON) and subjected to in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo evaluation in comparison to our recently prepared conventional SON (VEM-SON) and DLC-control.

Results: Conquest and Mercury predict the availability of intermolecular hydrogen bonding between VEM and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE). All characterization tests of DLC ensure the complexation of the drug with PE. Ex vivo studies showed that the drug in DLC-SON has significantly (P<0.05) higher skin permeation than DLC-control but lower drug permeation than conventional SON but it has a higher % skin deposition (P<0.05) than others. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of the prepared DLC-SON is significantly high (P<0.05) in comparison to the conventional SON and pure VEM. In vivo permeation using confocal laser scanning microscopy (on the rat) results indicated that both conventional SON and DLC-SON can cross the SC and infiltrate the dermis and epidermis but DLC-SON has a higher luminance/gray value after 24 h in the dermis in comparison to the conventional SON.

Conclusion: The novel lipid complex for VEM prepared using PE as a lipid and enclosed in SON showed higher anticancer activity and topical permeation as well as sustained delivery and good retention time in the dermis that localize the drug in a sufficient concentration to eliminate early diagnosed skin melanoma.
In silico and in vitro analysis of THCA synthase gene in Moroccan Cannabis Sativa, L
Authors: Badrana Fadwa , El Fahime El Mostafa , Mokhtari Abdelrhani , Soulaymani Abdelmajid , Safini Najete , Chaouni Bouchra , Malka Gabriel , El Amri Hamid
Published: July 2022

Background: Cannabis (Cannabis sativa, L.) is an archaic, most infamous plant with unique therapeutic characteristics, and great economic interest. The identification of its THCAS synthesizing enzyme was a great leap forward in Cannabis investigation. However, basic molecular biology for THCAS gene expression remains largely unstudied.

Methods: In this paper, we explored the ability of bioinformatics resources in the design of molecular cloning protocol and prediction of three-dimensional structure of recombinant THCAS in Moroccan Cannabis sativa variety. We further described conventional experiments performed in vitro. We used specific markers to isolate the nucleotide sequence of THCAS from the leaves of Cannabis, without including the native signal sequence.

Results: As a result, we found high sequence similarity with THCAS and the mRNA precursor of the same gene as previously reported. In addition, we predicted the structure of the recombinant THCAS using the organic crystal structure prediction method, the amino acid sequence reference, and the artificial intelligence technology.

Conclusions: This study paves the way to successfully express recombinant THCAS enzyme in hosts like Pichia pastori.
INTEGRATION OF THE EMOTIONAL AND TECHNICAL COMPONENT IN TEACHING VISUALLY IMPAIRED STUDENTS TO PLAY THE GUITAR
Authors: CHURKIN A.I.
Published: July 2022

The method developed by the author for teaching visually impaired and blind children the skills of performing techniques on a musical instrument (guitar) without mastering embossed fonts is described. It is based on the compensation of emerging difficulties due to the synesthesia of the auditory and tactile (kinesthetic) analyzers.
Consequences of zinc deficiency in selected diseases - literature review
Authors: Płaczek Alicja , Machaj Dominik , Białas Filip , Cyboran Katarzyna , Kuc Monika
Published: July 2022

Zinc is one of the most important micronutrients. It is essential for maintaining health. It is supplied with food, therefore an appropriate diet is the basis for maintaining its appropriate level in the body. The cause of the deficiency may be insufficient supply or malabsorption. [2] Deficiency symptoms manifest themselves in the form of ailments from various systems. A relationship has been shown between zinc deficiency and the occurrence of certain diseases, e.g. cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and depression. Supplementation has a beneficial effect in the prevention and alleviation of the course of certain diseases. [1]
AFRONTANDO LEIS: UMA CARTOGRAFIA DO ESPAÇO DE CATAÇÃO DE MATERIAIS RECICLÁVEIS NO MUNICÍPIO DE CRICIÚMA, SANTA CATARINA
Authors: Oliveira de Souza Vitória , Kraieski de Assunção Viviane , Guadagnin Mário Ricardo
Published: July 2022

O presente artigo apresenta uma cartografia da catação de materiais recicláveis de Criciúma (SC), buscando discutir a espacialização do poder e os processos de subjetivação que constituem o espaço urbano. Partindo da noção de cartografia utilizada por Deleuze e Guattari, percorreu-se o território existencial da catação a partir de pistas contidas em discursos sobre catadores publicados em jornais locais e em três legislações implementadas no município a partir do ano 2000 que impactaram diretamente o trabalho destes sujeitos na cidade. Estas leis passaram a regular e limitar o tráfego e os serviços de transporte de veículos de tração animal e propulsão humana no perímetro urbano, além de estabelecer normas de conduta para estes trabalhadores. A pesquisa também contou com a vivência territorial dos pesquisadores junto aos catadores no município. A cartografia permitiu revelar o discurso higienista, engendrado na biopolítica que circunda a produção social deste espaço marcado pela desigualdade, além de apontar para a produção de heterotopias, espaços-outros quecontrapõem a matriz social hegemônica.
ELEMENTOS DA PRÁTICA PEDAGÓGICA DOS PROFESSORES DE GEOGRAFIA DA REDE ESTADUAL DE EDUCAÇÃO EM NATAL (RN)
Authors: Cabral Bragelone Jane Claudia , Dozena Alessandro , Dantas Eugênia Maria
Published: July 2022

O presente artigo é resultado de parte de uma pesquisa de mestrado, realizada no âmbito do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Geografia – Mestrado Profissional (GEOPROF), pela Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte. Ele busca apresentar as principais dificuldades relatadas pelos professores de Geografia das escolas públicas da rede estadual de Educação do RN, localizadas em Natal, e suas estratégias metodológicas utilizadas para ensinar Geografia. Os dados foram obtidos por meio da realização de questionários com os professores. Por meio dos quais obtivemos os seguintes resultados: as principais dificuldades apresentadas por esses professores estão atreladas a falta de recursos didáticos específicos para a disciplina de Geografia e as dificuldades de leitura e escrita de muitos alunos. Dentre as principais estratégias metodológicas citadas, a aula expositiva é a de maior destaque, com suporte do livro didático, que por sua vez é a base da seleção dos conteúdos. A avaliação, embora a prova escrita seja utilizada como recurso principal, também é realizada por outros meios como: atividades do livro ou elaboradas pelo professor e trabalhos de pesquisa.
Penerapan Teknologi Provent Mesin Pemotong Tempe, Guna Meningkatkan Produktivitas Dan Kehigienisan Produk Kripik Tempe Untuk UMKM di Kelurahan Manyar, Surabaya
Authors: Hakim Muhammad Lukman , Nugroho Giri , Mashuri Mashuri , Babgei Atar Fuady , Soedjono Denny M. E. , Subiyanto Hari
Published: July 2022

Keripik tempe merupakan makanan ringan khas Indonesia yang berasal dari irisan tempe yang dibumbui dan dicampur dengan berbagai bahan seperti tepung tapioca, garam, telur, dan berbagai bumbu lainya. Sebagai jajanan khas Indonesia, keripik tempe tidak hanya diminati di dalam negri tetapi juga diminat dimanca negara seperti, Amerika, Korea, dan Jepang. UKM Syafrida Snack merupakan UKM yang memproduksi jajanan keripik tempe. Selain dijual didalam negri, keripik tempe yang diproduksi juga keluar negri, terutama Korea dan Jepang. Akan tetapi UKM ini memperoleh kendala dimana kualitas produk keripik tempe yang dihasilkan tidak bisa sama. Hal ini dikarena dalam proses produksinya (proses pemotongan) masih dilakukan secara manual. Sehingga mengakibatkan ketebalan keripik tempe yang dihasilkan tidak sama dan waktunya lama. Selain itu proses pomotongan manual mengakibatkan kehigienisan produk keripik tempe menjadi berkurang. Dari observasi permasalahan yang ada pada mitra dan diskusi dengan praktisi terkait mesin pemotong tempe, tim Pengabidan masyarakat Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember menawarkan solusi yakni penerapan teknologi provent mesin pemotong tempe otomatis. Dengan dengan diimplementasikannya mesin ini akan meningkatkan kapasitas, kualitas, dan waktu produksi secara signifikan, serta UKM Syafrida Snack dapat meningkatkan kapasitas produksinya untuk memenuhi kebutuhan permintaan keripik tempe dalam negri dan mancanegara. Dengan meningkatnya kapasitas produksi, perekonomian UKM Syafrida Snack dan masyarakat sekitar akan meningkat.
Perbaikan dan Pemanfaatan Aplikasi Android Pencatatan Hewan Ternak (Siternak) di Desa Binaan LAZ Al-Azhar
Authors: Ariyani Nurul Fajrin , Ahmadiyah Adhatus Solichah
Published: July 2022

Siternak atau Sistem Informasi Pencatatan Data Ternak merupakan aplikasi yang dibangun untuk mempermudah para peternak dalam melakukan pencatatan ternak di desa binaan Lembaga Amil Zakat (LAZ) Al-Azhar. Selain menghemat waktu, aplikasi ini juga bertujuan untuk meminimalkan sumber daya dalam pencatatan data ternak. Aplikasi Siternak yang berjalan pada platform Android sebelumnya memiliki keterbatasan. Fungsionalitas aplikasi tersebut hanya dapat berjalan dalam keadaan online atau ketika perangkat pengguna terhubung dengan koneksi internet. Batasan ini cenderung menghambat peternak mengingat sebagian besar lokasi desa binaan berada di daerah dengan infrastruktur jaringan internet yang kurang memadai, sehingga peternak sulit untuk mendapatkan koneksi internet yang stabil. Pada kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat ini tim pengabdi melakukan perbaikan aplikasi dengan mengimplementasikan manajemen offline storage. Pengembangan ini bertujuan agar aplikasi tetep dapat berfungsi dengan baik meskipun dalam keadaan tidak sedang terhubung dengan koneksi internet. Adanya perbaikan aplikasi menjadi versi terbaru menuntut kebutuhan sosialisasi agar para pengguna aplikasi memahami cara kerja sistem dan mampu mengoperasikan aplikasi secara mandiri. Kegiatan pengabdian juga meliputi penyusunan materi sosialisasi mandiri berupa buku petunjuk penggunaan (user manual) dan video tutorial yang dapat diakses oleh umum. Berdasarkan hasil kuisioner kepuasan yang dilakukan terhadap para pengguna aplikasi baik peternak maupun pihak mitra LAZ Al-Azhar dapat disimpulkan bahwa aplikasi dapat beroperasi dengan lancar dan dapat membantu pengguna dalam mengelola data ternaknya secara efisien.
Merintis Kafetaria Halal di Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember: Penelusuran Bahan Pangan Halal
Authors: Solichah Adhatus Solichah
Published: July 2022

Kantin kampus merupakan fasilitas vital yang menyediakan kebutuhan pangan bagi sivitas akademika. Seiring perkembangan jaman, variasi makanan dan minuman yang dijual semakin beragam. Namun, kehalalan produk yang dijajakan belum terjamin. Umumnya, produk yang dijual di kantin adalah makanan siap santap, makanan ringan dan aneka minuman produk olahan UMKM atau pedagang yang menyewa tempat di kantin dimana UMKM dan penjual tersebut umumnya belum memiliki sertifikasi halal atau ijin edar yang jelas. Pemahaman UMKM penyedia makanan dan minuman mengenai halal pun belum mendalam. Hal ini lah yang mendorong tim pengabdian masyarakat untuk merintis berdirinya kantin halal di kampus Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember dengan memulai dari pemberian pemahaman tentang halal-haram yang benar dan menyeluruh kepada penjual di kantin dan UMKM penyuplai makanan dan minuman yang dijajakan di kantin kampus. Dengan pemberian pelatihan kelas halal dan pendampingan diharapkan mitra UMKM dan penjual dapat mengamalkan pemahaman yang didapatkan dan lebih hati-hati dalam memilih bahan baku dan memroses bahan tersebut hingga menjadi produk Sehingga nantinya berdampak pada meningkatnya rasa aman dan nyaman bagi para pembeli, sivitas akademika ITS, yang mayoritas beragama Islam.
Analisis Efektivitas Pelatihan Singkat 3D Modelling, 3D Scanning dan 3D Printing pada Siswa SMA
Authors: Syaifudin Achmad , Effendi Muhammad Khoirul , Pramono Agus Sigit , Kaelani Yusuf , Ariatedja Julendra Bambang , Harnany Dinny , Yohanes Yohanes
Published: July 2022

Pada era revolusi industri 4.0, teknologi cetak tiga dimensi (3D printing) sedang berkembang pesat. Di Taiwan dan Korea Selatan, siswa sekolah menengah telah memiliki kemampuan menjalankan 3D printing. Sebaliknya di Indonesia, lulusan sekolah menengah be-lum memiliki kompetensi sejenis. Oleh sebab itu, tim Pengabdian Masyarakat dari departemen Teknik Mesin ITS memberikan pengenalan dasar teknologi cetak 3D untuk meningkatkan kompetensi siswa sekolah mene-ngah. Pelatihan ini diberikan secara singkat kepada 29 siswa SMAN 1 Boyolangu, Tulungagung dengan persen-tase 25% berupa pemberian teori dasar dan 75% berupa praktik mengerjakan proses 3D modelling-scanning-printing. Berdasarkan analisis kuantitatif, pemahaman peserta meningkat sebesar 35.05% untuk materi 3D modelling dan 22.55% untuk materi 3D scanning dan printing. Adapun berdasarkan analisis kualitatif, hasil pencetakan produk 3D dengan metode 3D printing yang dikerjakan oleh peserta sudah cukup bagus. Hal ini menunjukkan bahwa kegiatan pelatihan singkat selama dua hari mampu meningkatkan kompetensi siswa SMA dalam memahami dasar teknologi manufaktur 3D printing.
Inovasi Snack Bergizi Tanaman Toga dalam Peningkatan Ekonomi Masa New Normal
Authors: Erma Widiana Muslichah , Wahyudi Suhud , Shofwan Moch. , Enny Widyaningrum Mahmudah
Published: July 2022

Industrialisasi harus mengutamakan efisiensi, nilai tambah yang memiliki daya saing pasar, serta terus dikembangkan sebanyak mungkin masyarakat yang berperan serta dalam kegiatan industri didaerah-daerah sampai tingkat pedesaan. Paguyupan Sejahtera Mandiri  Tembok Dukuh Surabaya selama ini memproduksi snack sehat yaitu menggoreng kripik yang terbuat dari bahan baku tanaman toga memakai cara konvensional dengan menggunakan wajan sehingga hasil snack dari tanaman toga masih mengandung minyak sehingga tidak sehat karena dapat memicu kolesterol dan mudah berubah aroma, dalam proses kegiatan belum usaha tersebut belum menerapkan pengetahuan yang berkaitan dengan manajemen. Dengan melihat permasalahan maka perlu adanya penyuluhan pemberdayaan produksi dengan pengetahuan manajemen dan penggunaan teknologi tepat guna dalam berproduksi agar terciptanya kreatifitas dalam olahan pangan untuk mewujudkan peningkatan ekonomi dan ketahanan pangan dengan produksi snack/camilan yang sehat pencegah covid-19 Tembok Dukuh Surabaya Jawa-Timur. Dengan: alat peniris minyak yaitu: mesin spiner, kapasitas 5kg, bahan peniris stainless stell, dimensi total 41x41x64cm, dimeter tabung luar 39 cm, diameter saringan 34 cm, tinggi saringan 23cm, daya listrik 135w 220v. Memberikan pelatihan pendampingan pengetahuan konsep dan pemahaman fungsi manajemen dan fungsi operasional manajemen. Memberikan pelatihan ekonomi kreatif dan inovasi pembuatan produk dari bahan tanaman toga yang dapat dilakukan dengan lahan terbatas penanaman secara hidroponik.
The impact of lumbosacral alignment on lumbar mobility, functional disability and psychological wellbeing in office workers with chronic low back pain
Authors: Abdel-Aziem Amr Almaz , Elzaki Amin Ahmed
Published: July 2022

Background/aims

The lumbosacral curvature of the spine has a special role in its mobility during weight-bearing activities. Office work is a sedentary role, which requires sitting for long durations, having a negative effect on spinal posture. Therefore, low back pain risk factors in office workers are different from other populations. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of lumbosacral joint angle on the lumbar mobility, functional disability, pain intensity and overall health in office workers with chronic low back pain.

Methods

A total of 116 male office workers with chronic low back pain (aged between 30–59 years) participated in this cross-sectional study. The lumbosacral radiography was used to divide the participants into two groups, according to the value of their lumbosacral joint angle: group A (lumbosacral joint angle <20°, n=61) and group B (lumbosacral joint angle group >20°, n=55). The lumbar mobility, functional disability, pain intensity and overall health issues of participants were measured.

Results

The functional disability and pain intensity of individuals in group A were significantly higher than group B (P<0.05). There was a significant decrease in the lumbar flexion and extension range of motion and activities of daily living of those in group A compared to group B (P<0.05). There was a significant increase in emotional health problems and impaired social activity of individuals in group A compared to group B (P<0.05). There were fair positive correlations between lumbosacral joint angle values and functional disability, pain intensity and social activity in office workers in group B (r=0.292, 0.036, 0.333 respectively).

Conclusions

A decreased lumbosacral joint angle increases functional disability and pain intensity, decreasing lumbar mobility and level of functionality. Furthermore, it reduces emotional health and social activity in participants with low back pain. Therefore, measuring the lumbosacral joint angle of patients with chronic low back pain during treatment may be useful to decrease their pain intensity and improve their functional disability and quality of life.
‘I am the educator and the learner at the same time’: a qualitative survey of the knowledge and use of adult learning theory in UK musculoskeletal physiotherapists' patient education
Authors: Boland Katy , Pigott Tim , Forbes Roma
Published: July 2022

Background/Aims

Patient education is a core component of musculoskeletal care, yet broad definitions exist and effective delivery methods are unclear. Musculoskeletal physiotherapists' use of patient education has been described as individualised and collaborative, reflecting a person-centred model of care. However, discrepancies between perceived and actual practice, and therapist-centred approaches to education, have been observed. Little is known about the theoretical basis of musculoskeletal physiotherapists' patient education practice, yet the adult learning theory frames how adults interact with education and echoes the principles of person-centred care. The aim of this study was to analyse the use of adult learning theory to inform patient education practice among UK musculoskeletal physiotherapists.

Methods

This study used a novel, online questionnaire to collect quantitative and qualitative data from a self-selecting sample of UK musculoskeletal physiotherapists, using a multimodal recruitment strategy. Complete responses were provided by 66 participants. Categorical and narrative data were collected and descriptive and thematic analyses undertaken.

Results

Participants generally self-rated their educational competencies highly, with the exception of evaluating patient education. Participants were more familiar with reflective and self-directed learning than with other adult learning theories. Two main themes were described: implicit adult learning theory knowledge and challenges in applying adult learning theory.

Conclusions

The results suggest that musculoskeletal physiotherapists may have implicit knowledge of adult learning theory, yet challenges exist in applying them. This finding supports the establishment of ongoing training in educational skills for physiotherapists and could be used as a catalyst for musculoskeletal physiotherapists to reflect on their knowledge and use of adult learning theory.
A Model for the State of Charge of a Battery Connected to a Wind Power Plant Under a Ramp Rate Limitation Regime
Authors: D’Amico Guglielmo , Gismondi Fulvio , Vergine Salvatore
Published: July 2022

In this paper, the expected value of the first hitting time of a threshold of the state of charge of a battery is investigated. The model considers a battery storage system connected to a wind power plant under a ramp rate limitation scheme. The level of charge in the battery is the result of operations that are modelled by a Markov chain model with random rewards. The Markov chain and reward characteristics do depend on the considered ramp rate limitation scheme that the wind power producer has to respect in order to guarantee a quasi-stable output power to the grid. In this paper, we derive a system of integral equations for the hitting time of the state of charge of the battery and the application to real data validates the analytical results.