bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Testing the reliability and ecological implications of ramping rates in the measurement of Critical Thermal maximum
Authors: Leong Chi-Man , Tsang Toby P. N. , Guénard Benoit
Published: March 2022

Critical Thermal maximum (CTmax) is often used to characterize the upper thermal limits of organisms and represents a key trait for evaluating the fitness of ectotherms. The lack of standardization in CTmax assays has, however, introduced methodological problems in its measurement, which can lead to questionable estimates of species’ upper thermal limits. Focusing on ants, which are model organisms for research on thermal ecology, we aim to obtain a reliable ramping rate that will yield the most rigorous measures of CTmax for the most species. After identifying three commonly used ramping rates (i.e., 0.2, 0.5 and 1.0°C min-1) in the literature, we experimentally determine their effects on the CTmax values of 27 species measured using dynamic assays. Next, we use static assays to evaluate the accuracy of these values in function of the time of exposure. Finally, we use field observations of species’ foraging activities across a wide range of ground temperatures to identify the most biologically relevant CTmax values and to develop a standardized method. Our results demonstrate that the use of a 1°C min-1 ramping rate in dynamic assays yields the most reliable CTmax values for comparing ant species’ upper thermal limits, which are further validated in static assays and field observations. We further illustrate how methodological biases in physiological trait measurements can affect subsequent analyses and conclusions on community comparisons between strata and habitats, and the detection of phylogenetic signal (Pagel’s λ and Bloomberg’s K). Overall, our study presents a methodological framework for identifying a reliable and standardized ramping rate to measure CTmax in ants, which can be applied to other ectotherms. Particular attention should be given to CTmax values obtained with less suitable ramping rates, and the potential biases they may introduce to trait-based research on global warming and habitat conversion, as well as inferences about phylogenetic conservatism.
Evaluation of processing mechanism in Astragali Radix by low-field nuclear magnetic resonance and magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Peng Jie , Ye Lifang , Wu Mengmei , Wu Menghua , Ma Zhiguo , Cao Hui , Zhang Ying
Published: March 2022

Astragali Radix (Huangqi) is an important herb medicine that is always processed into pieces for clinical use. Many operations need to be performed before use, among which drying of Astragali Radix (AR) pieces is a key step. Unfortunately, research on its drying mechanism is still limited. Low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF-NMR) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques were applied to study the moisture state and distribution during drying. The content of bioactive components and texture changes were measured by HPLC and texture analyzer, respectively. The moisture content of the AR pieces decreased significantly during drying, and the time to reach the drying equilibrium were different at different temperatures. The time when at 70°C, 80°C, and 90°C reach complete drying are 180 min, 150 min and 120 min, respectively. 80°C was determined as the optimum drying temperature, and it was observed that the four flavonoids and astragaloside IV have some thermal stability in AR pieces. When dried at 80°C, although the total water content decreased, the free water content decreased from 99.38% to 15.49%, in contrast to the increase in bound water content from 0.62% to 84.51%. The texture parameters such as hardness changed to some extent, with the hardness rising most significantly from 686.23 g to 2656.67 g. Correlation analysis revealed some connection between moisture content and LF-NMR and texture analyzer parameters, but the springiness did not show a clear correlation with most parameters. This study shows that HPLC, LF-NMR, MRI, and texture analyzers provide a scientific basis for elucidating the drying principles of AR pieces. The method is useful and shows potential for extension and application; therefore, it can be easily extended to other natural herb medicines.
Infliximab Is Not Associated With a General Long-Term Weight Gain in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Nationwide Study
Authors: Winter Rachel W. , Friedman Sonia , Nielsen Jan , Kjeldsen Jens , Nørgård Bente Mertz , Larsen Michael Due
Published: March 2022

INTRODUCTION:

Patients with Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) may lose weight during periods of active disease and may gain weight when inflammation heals. Studies have hypothesized an association between antitumor necrosis factor-alpha (anti-TNF-α) and unintended weight gain during maintenance therapy, and this association has not been previously clarified.

METHODS:

In a nationwide observational study based on Danish national health registries, we included patients who initiated therapy with infliximab and followed changes in weight during induction therapy (0–90 days) and maintenance therapy (91–270 days). The association between the use of infliximab and weight gain was analyzed by a multilevel mixed-effects linear regression model.

RESULTS:

Among 851 patients with CD and UC who initiated infliximab therapy, long-term weight gain was not observed during maintenance therapy in most of the patients. Women with CD who were underweight at the initiation of therapy had an average weight gain of 7.5 kg. Men and women with CD and UC with normal or increased body mass index had an average weight gain of <2 kg during maintenance therapy. Underweight men with CD and UC gained 2.9 kg (95% confidence interval 2.1–3.6) and 2.9 kg (95% confidence interval 1.9–3.9), respectively, in the first 90 days, although neither group had statistically significant weight gain in the maintenance period. Less than 3% of the patients had weight gain greater than 10% of their baseline body weight during the study period.

DISCUSSION:

Weight gain among patients treated with anti-TNF-α therapies is unlikely to be due to an effect from anti-TNF-α therapy.
A Smartphone Application Using Artificial Intelligence Is Superior To Subject Self-Reporting When Assessing Stool Form
Authors: Pimentel Mark , Mathur Ruchi , Wang Jiajing , Chang Christine , Hosseini Ava , Fiorentino Alyson , Rashid Mohamad , Pichetshote Nipaporn , Basseri Benjamin , Treyzon Leo , Chang Bianca , Leite Gabriela , Morales Walter , Weitsman Stacy , Kraus Asaf , Rezaie Ali
Published: March 2022

INTRODUCTION:

Stool form assessment relies on subjective patient reports using the Bristol Stool Scale (BSS). In a novel smartphone application (app), trained artificial intelligence (AI) characterizes digital images of users' stool. In this study, we evaluate this AI for accuracy in assessing stool characteristics.

METHODS:

Subjects with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome image-captured every stool for 2 weeks using the app, which assessed images for 5 visual characteristics (BSS, consistency, fragmentation, edge fuzziness, and volume). In the validation phase, using 2 expert gastroenterologists as a gold standard, sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and diagnostic odds ratios of subject-reported vs AI-graded BSS scores were compared. In the implementation phase, agreements between AI-graded and subject-reported daily average BSS scores were determined, and subject BSS and AI stool characteristics scores were correlated with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome symptom severity scores.

RESULTS:

In the validation phase (n = 14), there was good agreement between the 2 experts and AI characterizations for BSS (intraclass correlation coefficients [ICC] = 0.782–0.852), stool consistency (ICC = 0.873–0.890), edge fuzziness (ICC = 0.836–0.839), fragmentation (ICC = 0.837–0.863), and volume (ICC = 0.725–0.851). AI outperformed subjects' self-reports in categorizing daily average BSS scores as constipation, normal, or diarrhea. In the implementation phase (n = 25), the agreement between AI and self-reported BSS scores was moderate (ICC = 0.61). AI stool characterization also correlated better than subject reports with diarrhea severity scores.

DISCUSSION:

A novel smartphone application can determine BSS and other visual stool characteristics with high accuracy compared with the 2 expert gastroenterologists. Moreover, trained AI was superior to subject self-reporting of BSS. AI assessments could provide more objective outcome measures for stool characterization in gastroenterology.
Identification of Immunoglobulin G Autoantibody Against Malondialdehyde-Acetaldehyde Adduct as Novel Serological Biomarker for Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Duryee Michael J. , Ahmad Rizwan , Eichele Derrick D. , Hunter Carlos D. , Mitra Ananya , Talmon Geoffrey A. , Singh Shailender , Smith Lynette M. , Rosen Michael J. , Dhawan Punita , Thiele Geoffrey M. , Singh Amar B.
Published: March 2022

INTRODUCTION:

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is associated with immune responses with oxidative stress wherein high levels of malondialdehyde result in the formation of a highly stable and immunogenic malondialdehyde-acetaldehyde adduct (MAA). Thus, this study evaluated the status of MAA-adducts and anti-MAA antibody isotypes in IBD, and their potential as novel serologic biomarkers for differentiating ulcerative colitis (UC) from Crohn's disease (CD).

METHODS:

Levels of MAA-adduct and anti-MAA antibodies were examined in patients with IBD (171), non-IBD gastrointestinal diseases (77) and controls (83), from 2-independent cohorts using immunohistochemistry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Receiver operating characteristic curves and Youden cut-off index from logistic regression were used to determine the sensitivity and specificity.

RESULTS:

The MAA-adduct and blood immunoglobulin G (IgG) anti-MAA antibody levels were significantly elevated in IBD compared to non-IBD patients (P = 0.0008) or controls (P = 0.02). Interestingly, UC patients showed higher levels of IgG anti-MAA (P < 0.0001) than CD patients including those with colonic CD (P = 0.0067). Odds ratio by logistic regression analysis predicted stronger association of IgG anti-MAA antibody with UC than CD. Subsequent analysis showed that IgG anti-MAA antibody levels could accurately identify (P = 0.0004) UC in the adult cohort with sensitivity of (75.3%) and specificity of (71.4%), and area under the curve of 0.8072 (0.7121–0.9024). The pediatric cohort also showed area under the curve of 0.8801 (0.7988–0.9614) and precisely distinguished (P < 0.0001) UC with sensitivity (95.8%) and specificity (72.3%).

DISCUSSION:

Circulating IgG anti-MAA antibody levels can serve as novel, non-invasive, and highly sensitive test to identify UC patients, and possibly differentiate them from patients with CD.
Is There a Correlation of TSI Levels and Incidental Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma in Graves Disease? A Review of the Latest Evidence
Authors: Damaskos Christos , Garmpis Nikolaos , Dimitroulis Dimitrios , Kyriakos Georgios , Diamantis Evangelos
Published: March 2022

Purpose: Our aim is to clarify if there is an association between the TSI levels and the development of thyroid carcinoma in patients with Grave’s disease. Methods: A systematic search concerning original studies from 2010 to 2020 was carried out through the databases PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane, according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The terms used are ‘Graves’ disease’ and /or ‘Incidental Papillary thyroid cancer’ and ‘TSI’ levels. Retrospective studies upon the subject were concluded in the analysis. Results: Only three retrospective studies were found involving 916 patients with Graves’ disease and Euthyroid goiter. No significant correlation has been found between TSI and the occurrence of thyroid carcinoma in patients with Graves’ disease. Conclusion: Very little research has been conducted upon the subject. More assays are required in order to identify a possible prognostic role of TSI levels in Papillary thyroid carcinoma in patients with Graves disease.
Emergency Ilio-femoral Bypass during Kidney Transplantation due to External Iliac Artery Dissection: Case Report
Authors: Mokos Ivica , Penezić Luka , Figl Josip , Čikić Bojan , Marić Marjan , Bašić Jukić Nikolina , Kaštelan Željko
Published: March 2022

Intraoperative iliac artery dissection during kidney transplantation is a rare but serious complication that requires prompt intervention. We present a case of right external iliac artery dissection during deceased donor kidney transplantation. A 57-year-old male patient underwent standard pretransplant evaluation and had no signs of either significant aortoiliac occlusive disease or peripheral arterial occlusive disease. Diabetic nephropathy, arterial hypertension and smoking were the underlying causes of the patient’s end-stage renal disease. Transplantation was performed in the standard fashion. The kidney was positioned in the right iliac fossa and the venous end to-side anastomosis was performed first. A significant dissection of the right external iliac artery was found on arteriotomy. Immediate ilio-femoral bypass with a vascular prosthesis was performed. During two years of follow-up the kidney function is stable and there are no signs of lower limb vascular insufficiency.
Ignite some agency: how teaching assistants engage whiteness at a South African university
Authors: Conradie Marthinus Stander
Published: March 2022

Decolonial scholarship, although multifaceted, includes questioning how abstract theorisations could concretely reform department-specific pedagogies. This study builds on the proposition that decolonisation is served, at least partially, by department-specific pedagogies that oppose whiteness. It is grounded in a Department of English at a historically-white South African university. Using critical whiteness studies (CWS), I launch a discourse analysis of the experiential narratives expressed by Teaching Assistants during individual interviews. CWS equips me to examine how these contractually-employed educators manage their intersectional subjectivities as they facilitate small-group discussions among undergraduates in support of professors’ official lectures. I focus on their reactions to the way students explore experiences of subordination.
Faculty approaches to diversity in Eastern European education: implications for teaching sensitive topics
Authors: Rymarenko Margaryta , Dunajeva Jekatyerina
Published: March 2022

This article analyses the concept of diversity in education in the context of Eastern Europe, and how its meaning might differ from that used in Western-focused literature. The study explores the ways in which faculty interpret diversity based on their experience of teaching contexts as being homogenous, situational, or internationalized, for which interviews have been conducted with university educators in Eastern Europe. In a phenomenographic analysis, three different approaches to how teachers engage with diversity in the classroom were identified: (1) exposing students to diversity as an external phenomenon through teaching; (2) focusing on the diversities among students in a given classroom and learning how to navigate them; (3) using the diversities present in the classroom to facilitate inclusive teaching and learning. We argue that the meanings and intentions associated with the understanding of diversity are constitutive of how faculty see their role in facilitating student learning in diverse classroom, and especially of their strategies to address sensitive and controversial topics. Finally, we discuss the implications for teaching practice and academic development, in addition to the relevance of diversity in Eastern European classrooms.
Petrology and geochemistry of multiphase post-granitic dikes: A case study from the Gabal Serbal area, Southwestern Sinai, Egypt
Authors: Kamar Mohamed S. , Salem Ibrahim A. , El-Aassy Ibrahim E. , El-Sayed Abdu A. , Awad Hamdy A. , Tekin Huseyin Ozan , Alzahrai Abdullah M. , Lasheen El Saeed R.
Published: March 2022

Variable single and/or swarms of post-granitic dikes are widespread at Gabal Serbal, Southwestern Sinai, Egypt. The present article aims to identify and discriminate these multiphase dikes through detailed geological, petrographical, and geochemical examinations. These dikes are classified into two subphases: (1) acidic dikes (porphyritic dacite, microgranite, granophyre, and alkaline granophyre dikes); and (2) basic dikes (basalt and dolerite dikes). They range from vertical or steeply inclined bodies, 0.5–15 m wide, pink to black color, and NE–SW to N–S directions. Acidic dikes with different mineralogical constituents have medium to high k-characters, originating from calc-alkaline magma and extruded in a volcanic arc environment. In contrast, basic dikes have medium k-characters, originating from tholeiitic magma and developing within a plate environment. Basic dikes are enriched with opaque minerals, where the basaltic dike contains iron oxides (magnetite and hematite), such as apatite in addition to copper minerals. Dolerite dike comprises magnetite, titanomagnetite, and pyrite.
Distributed order model of labor migration
Authors: Balcı Mehmet Ali
Published: March 2022

In this study, we present a mathematical model of socio-economic process of labor force migration. We present our model in the terms of distributed order fractional partial differential equation. The proposed model involves time varying diffusion coefficient. To solve this model we propose an implicit discrete scheme by using graded meshes, and study numerically labor migration flow data from Turkey along with other countries throughout the period of 1966–2014.
On the systematic nature of Dinka noun number morphology
Authors: Ladd D. Robert , Blum Mirella L.
Published: March 2022

We present an analysis of noun number marking in Dinka, based on Andersen’s system of vowel grades and a new system of tone classes. Assuming that the ‘unmarked’ grade 1 form can be either singular or plural, we show that the morphology is more systematic than has been previously suggested. Roughly half of our dataset can be treated as synchronically regular, and in more than half the remainder the only exceptional features are simple alternations of lexical quantity or voice quality. Less than a quarter exhibit more unpredictable irregularities. With regard to tone, we posit nine classes that describe the patterns of tonal alternation between the grade 1 form and the more marked form of the noun; 60% of our dataset fall into just three of these classes. The tone classes show considerable cross-dialect validity even between a four-tone dialect (Luanyjang, Rek cluster) and a three-tone dialect (Agar).
Uncertainties of measurements in radiation protection
Authors: Steurer A. , Schmitzer C. , Gruen K.
Published: March 2022

On September 1st, 2001, the Austrian standard OENORM S 5255-1 with the title “Uncertainties of measurements and limiting values in radiation protection – Part 1: Basics” was published. A part 2 of the standard with the subtitle “Assessment of measurements with regard to limiting values” was published on April 1st, 2002. Part 1 of the standard is a consequent application of the “Guide to the expression of uncertainty in measurement” (GUM) for measurements in radiation protection. It contains a summary of the most important definitions and mathematical methods, which are relevant for measurements in radiation protection. An important prerequisite is the standardisation of the coverage factor k = 1 for measurements in radiation protection. Finally, the use of the standard is demonstrated by a detailed example there (dose rate meter). First, the uncertainty of a dose rate meter is stated, using only information on tolerances available e. g. from instrument specifications. Additionally, the strategies to reduce the uncertainty and the necessary detailed knowledge of the dose rate meter are demonstrated. Part 2 of the standard gives a simple concept for interpretation of limits using the uncertainties calculated based on part 1 of the standard.
Area dose measurements by thermoluminescence dosemeters for environmental monitoring
Authors: Pillath J. , Knaps A. , Hille R.
Published: March 2022

For more than 25 years, thermoluminescence dosemeters (TLDs) have been used at Research Centre Jülich for the dose determination of photon radiation in environmental monitoring. Dose measurements are performed in six-month exposure intervals at 78 measuring locations in total at the outer fence and some additional locations inside and outside the research centre. Long-term variations in natural background radiation are analysed in comparison with climate data and the local conditions near the measuring locations and discussed with a view to determining the area-specific parameters. Taking the special conditions of Research Centre Jülich into account, the problems relating to the detection limit of 0.1 mSv/a, stipulated in the guideline for the emission and immission monitoring of nuclear facilities, are considered in more detail compared to natural background radiation.
Some comments on Herndon’s nuclear georeactor
Authors: Seifritz W.
Published: March 2022

Light was thrown on the nuclear aspects of Herndon’s georeactor. His thesis is that a power producing droplet of liquid uranium, possessing a radius of about 5 km, operated during the last 4.5 billions of years in the center of the Earth and producing 3–6 TW of thermal power.

It could be shown that indeed initial criticality was possible due to the high U-235/U-238 enrichment of approximately 30% at that time. Furthermore, the U-238/Pu-239/U-235 conversion cycle guarantees also a stabilized U-235/U-238 enrichment of about 10% during the whole history of Earth. For this, a constant critical neutron flux in the realm of 108 n/(cm2s) has to be present to convert U-238 via the Pu-239 route and its eddecay into U-235 with a conversion ratio of exactly unity.

Herndon’s georeactor is compared with other exotic fission reactors in Nature, too, but the decisive answer whether such a georeactor really exists needs further – particularly chemical, thermodynamical and geological – research work.
Mitochondrial DNA and other lines of evidence clarify species diversity in the Peromyscus truei species group (Cricetidae: Neotominae)
Authors: Hernández-Canchola Giovani , León-Paniagua Livia , Esselstyn Jacob A.
Published: March 2022

Deer mice (genus Peromyscus) are among the commonest small mammals in the Nearctic zoogeographic region. Nevertheless, systematic relationships are only partially settled and numerous taxonomic questions await resolution. For instance, researchers have found that some members of the Peromyscus truei species group contain high levels of genetic divergence that could indicate the presence of cryptic species. We analyzed the systematics and phylogenetic relationships of the P. truei group using new and previously published mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences. Our analyses verify several earlier conclusions, but we also detected new clades that deserve recognition. Considering their mitochondrial distinctiveness, allopatric ranges, and previously reported molecular, biochemical, chromosomal, morphological, and ecological differences, we elevate three previously described taxa to species. We support the recognition of two subgroupings. The first comprises P. gratus, P. truei, and possibly P. cf. martirensis and P. cf. zapotecae. The second contains to P. amplus, P. attwateri, P. collinus, P. difficilis, P. felipensis, P. laceianus, P. nasutus, P. ochraventer, and P. pectoralis. Placement of P. bullatus will likely remain unknown until genetic data are available. Further research could improve our understanding of the evolutionary history of Peromyscus, but in some cases taxonomic issues must be resolved first.
Supply Chain Workers’ Inquiries: Class Struggle along Value Chains
Authors: Hartman Gifford
Published: March 2022

The following is an account of my own personal involvement, over the last 20 years, with a circle of militants in California’s San Francisco Bay Area who have been researching changes in the class composition of global production. We have been using informal and formal inquiries with rank-and-file workers to analyze how transformations in communication, data gathering, and transportation technologies have revolutionized the logistics industry. Our goal has been finding supply chain vulnerabilities, where working class solidarity has the greatest possibility to spread up and down these value chains, and for class struggle to be effectively cross-sectoral and international. The following is a balance sheet of our efforts, demonstrating the instances when we were able to realize our goals, as well as critiquing our limitations. We hope this will point to the importance of workers’ inquiries in the current era, especially in adjusting to the many changes the COVID-19 pandemic has wrought, exposing the weaknesses of just-in-time production chains spanning the planet, changes to class composition, and encouraging new forms of class struggle along ever-changing value chains.
Predicting remaining useful life of turbofan engines using degradation signal based echo state network
Authors: Sharanya S. , Venkataraman Revathi , Murali G.
Published: March 2022

The field of Prognostics and Health Management (PHM) in industries is gaining greater popularity to achieve high reliability by shifting the preventive maintenance to predictive maintenance. Estimation of Remaining Useful Life (RUL) is an effective prognostic measure that forecasts the health state of machine based on degradation modelling and condition monitoring. This article proposes a novel and robust methodology that uses Reduced Affinity Propagation (RAP) clustering technique that extracts representatives from the temporal signals measured through various heterogeneous sensors to predict the RUL using Echo State Network (ESN) with dynamic lateral inhibiting connections. The main advantage of the proposed model is that it does not overlook the features from the degradation signals and also learns the natural mapping among the representative points from the integrated sensor value. This approach is verified using CMAPPS dataset to show hopeful results in predicting the RUL of aircraft turbo fan engine. Also, this methodology can be a deployed as a tool in real time industrial applications to schedule predictive maintenance activities.
ADSORPTION OF QUINOLINE YELLOW FROM AQUEOUS SOLUTION BY SILICA GEL MODIFIED WITH CETYLPYRIDINIUM CHLORIDE
Authors:   Odessa I.I. Mechnikov National University, Zhukovetska О. , Guzenko О ,   Odessa I.I. Mechnikov National University, Ignatenko І. ,   Odessa I.I. Mechnikov National University, Snihur K. ,   Odessa I.I. Mechnikov National University, Chebotarev О. ,   Odessa I.I. Mechnikov National University, Snigur D. ,   Odessa I.I. Mechnikov National University
Published: March 2022

In the current paper, adsorbent based on silica gel L 5/40 modified with cetylpyridinium chloride for the effective preconcentration of anionic food dye quinoline yellow from dilute aqueous solutions was proposed. The presence of cetylpyridinium cations on the silica gel surface was confirmed by the diffuse reflectance infrared fourier transform spectroscopy method. The adsorption conditions of quinoline yellow from dilute aqueous solutions with the proposed adsorbent were studied and optimized. It is shown that the use of modified silica gel allows efficient (>95 %) extraction of quinoline yellow from aqueous solutions. Under optimal sorption conditions (pH 2, sorbent dosage 0.2 g and sorption time is 15 min), the adsorption capacity of modified adsorbent was determined. It is shown that, with increasing temperature, a change in the isotherm type from the L-type to the H-type is observed. It was shown that adsorption isotherms were well described by the Langmuir equation. Thermodynamic studies have made it possible to establish the spontaneous sorption.The desorption of qunoline yellow from the surface of silica gel modified with cetylpyridinium chloride was studied. It is shown that when using solutions of sulfuric acid, sodium hydroxide and distilled water, desorption does not occur. It was shown that the most effective eluent is a 0.001 mol/L solution of sodium dodecyl sulfate in 0.1 mol/L ammonium hydroxide, and desorption of quinoline yellow occurs due to the destruction of ion pairs of dye anions with cetylpyridinium cations fixed on the surface. The data obtained can then be used to develop a test system for determination of quinoline yellow via corresponding colorimetric scales or for quantitative solid phase extraction and adsorption-spectroscopic quantification of quinoline yellow in some real samples.
APPLICATION OF GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY METHODS FOR ANALYSIS OF EXHALED AIR BY PATIENTS WITH RESPIRATORY DISEASES
Authors:   Odessa National Medical University, Zaitsev A. , Matsegora N. ,   Odessa National Medical University, Zaitsev S. ,   Odessа Polytechnic State University, Kaminska S. ,   Odessа Polytechnic State University, Тikhenko V. ,   Odessа Polytechnic State University
Published: March 2022

. Improvement of gas chromatography methods for analyzing the exhaled air of patients when diagnosing the presence and development of pathologies of their respiratory organs is an urgent task. The aim of this work is to analyze proven and promising methods for monitoring the content of vaporous and (or) gaseous biological markers in the exhaled air of patients with respiratory pathologies, as well as the choice of optimal measurement techniques using gas chromatography methods. The analysis of scientific researches and publications in the field of modern methods of control of the content of vapor and (or) gaseous biological markers in the exhaled air of patients is made. The technical requirements are determined and the structural scheme of the multichannel gas chromatograph for measuring the content of vapor and (or) gaseous biological markers in the air exhaled by patients is improved. The main metrological characteristics of the results of measurements of concentrations of vapor and / or gaseous biological markers in air using gas chromatography methods are determined. The main technical requirements for a multichannel gas chromatograph for determining the content of vaporous and (or) gaseous biological markers in exhaled air have been determined. It has been determined that the boundaries of the total relative error of the measurement results at a confidence level of P = 0.95 depend on the ranges of the concentrations of biological markers in the exhaled air of patients. The obtained results make it possible to simplify the procedures for determining the content of biological markers by gas chromatography in the exhaled air, as well as non-invasively to diagnose the presence and development of pathologies of the patients' respiratory organs.
Factores asociados a anemia en post-cesareadas con y sin COVID-19 en el Hospital Nacional Alberto Sabogal Sologuren
Authors: López Obando Fanny Liliana , Moran Ruth , Medrano Katherine
Published: March 2022

Objetivo. Conocer los factores intrínsecos y extrínsecos asociados a anemia en pacientes post-operadas atendidas en las áreas de obstetricia COVID-19 y no COVID-19, del Hospital Nacional Alberto Sabogal Sologuren, EsSalud. Métodos. El estudio fue observacional, retrospectivo y transversal, enfoque cuantitativo, nivel explicativo, de modelo caso control, aplicado a 358 puérperas; de las cuales 179 fueron los casos, es decir aquellas puérperas con anemia en el post parto y 179 los controles, tomados de ambas áreas. Los datos fueron procesados con el estadístico SPSS 25. Resultados. Los factores intrínsecos: alimentación sin variación, sobrepeso u obesidad mórbida, paridad de 4 a más, número de cesáreas de 3 a más, y el periodo intergenésico menor de 2 años, fueron condiciones que representaron riesgo doble de producir anemia en el puerperio entre las mujeres del estudio, en relación a las que no tuvieron estas características. Además, el factor intrínseco o condición de haber tenido anemia durante el embarazo, resultó en una probabilidad 5 veces mayor a producir anemia en el puerperio entre las mujeres del estudio (Odds Ratio 5,156), en comparación a las mujeres que no tuvieron anemia. La ingesta de ácido fólico tuvo una probabilidad 3,4 veces menor (Odds Ratio de 3,408) de desarrollar la anemia respecto de aquellas que no lo hicieron y las complicaciones en el puerperio inmediato (Odds Ratio de 3,397) estuvieron asociados a la anemia en puérperas. Conclusiones. Los factores intrínsecos como el diagnóstico de anemia durante el embarazo y los factores extrínsecos como la no ingesta de ácido fólico y complicaciones en el puerperio inmediato, estuvieron asociados a la anemia en puérperas en el área de obstetricia COVID-19 y no COVID-19 del Hospital Alberto Sabogal.
Counting the Parts to Understand the Whole: Rethinking Monitoring of Steelhead in California’s Central Valley
Authors:   FISHBIO, Eschenroeder Jackman , Peterson Matthew ,   FISHBIO, Hellmair Michael ,   FISHBIO, Pilger Tyler ,   FISHBIO, Demko Doug ,   FISHBIO, Fuller Andrea ,   FISHBIO
Published: March 2022

Steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss expressing an anadromous life history) in the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers and their tributaries in California’s Central Valley (CCV) belong to a Distinct Population Segment (DPS) that is listed as threatened under the US Endangered Species Act. Although contemporary management and recovery plans include numerous planned and ongoing efforts seeking to aid in DPS recovery—such as gravel augmentation, manipulation of spring flows, and restoration of rearing and spawning habitat—a paucity of data precludes the possibility of evaluating the effect of these actions on populations of Steelhead in CCV streams. Knowledge gaps relating to historic and current abundance, population-specific ratios of resident and anadromous life-history expression, and the influence of hatchery-reared fish remain largely unaddressed. This is partly a result of aspects of Steelhead biology that make them difficult to monitor, including the multitude of factors that contribute to the expression of anadromy, polymorphic populations, and migration periods that coincide with challenging field conditions. However, these gaps in understanding are also partly the result of an institutional focus on Chinook Salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) and a pervasive notion that actions benefiting Chinook populations will also benefit Steelhead populations. To evaluate these gaps and to suggest approaches for assessing DPS recovery actions, we review available data and existing monitoring efforts, and consider the actions necessary to inform the development of targeted O. mykiss monitoring programs. Current management and recovery goals focus on abundance estimates of Steelhead only, yet current monitoring is insufficient for reliable estimates. We argue that a reallocation of monitoring resources to better understand the interaction between resident O. mykiss and Steelhead would provide better data to estimate the vital rates needed to evaluate the effects of recovery actions.
Survey on fatty acid profiles of retail pasteurised cow’s milk and cow’s yogurt in Bulgaria
Authors: Kalinova G.
Published: March 2022

Assessing the consumer’s awareness of the diet-health relationship, this study presents the fatty acid composition of cow’s milk available on Bulgarian market. Over a 5-year period, 100 samples of pasteurised cow’s milk and 135 samples cow’s yogurt were analysed by gas chromatography (ISO 15885:2002). The saturated fatty acids predominated - average amount 70.1% for milk and 71.1% for yogurt. The unsaturated fatty acids proportions were 29.9% and 28.9% respectively. Seasonal variations in the fatty acid composition of milk were detected, due to feeding practices. Non-milk fat was identified in 5 yogurt samples, while all pasteurised milk samples were not adulterated. This study provides the first scientific information for fatty acid composition of cow’s milk on Bulgarian market with respect to dietary intake estimation.
Welcome To Death: Islamic And Catholic Perspectives
Authors: Nisa Khoirun , Nasution Abdul Karim , Nugroho Nugroho
Published: March 2022

Death is one of the eschatological arenas in religions including Islam and Catholicism. Various things are done in preparation for welcoming death. This study was conducted to show how the two religions prepare their respective people to face it. This research relies on books and journals that examine the research topic from an Islamic and Catholic perspective. This research shows that in Islam, a good death is called husnul khatimah, namely dying in a state of being Muslim and doing good. For that, a Muslim must repent, maintain monotheism, keep the five daily prayers, pay zakat, fast in the month of Ramadan, make the pilgrimage if they are well-to-do, do what is required by religion and stay away from what is forbidden, have a noble character, guard the tongue. Meanwhile, according to Catholicism, human death is the result of human sin, good sinythat occurred as a result of the fall of the first human (Adam) as well as the sins committed by every human in the world. Therefore Catholicism teaches that prepare the kids to live independently, have character and education the good one; keep the way life and healthy so as not to bother children; financial preparation both for myself and children, keep the testimony alive, and have social relations good; inherent value and noble traditions in children and grandchildren.Kematian adalah salah satu arena eskatologis dalam agama-agama termasuk dalam Islam dan Katolik. Berbagai hal dilakukan sebagai persiapan untuk menyambut kematian. Studi ini dilakukan untuk memperlihatkan bagaimana kedua agama mempersiapkan umat masing-masing dalam menghadapinya. Penelitian ini bertumpu pada buku-buku dan jurnal yang mengkaji topik penelitian dimaksud dari perspektif Islam dan Katolik. Penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa dalam Islam, kematian yang baik itu disebut dengan husnul khatimah yaitu mati dalam keadaan beragama Islam dan berbuat kebaikan. Untuk itu seorang muslim harus banyak bertaubat, menjaga tauhid, menjaga salat lima waktu, menunaikan zakat, berpuasa di bulan ramadhan, berhaji jika mampu, mengerjakan apa-apa yang telah diwajibkan oleh agama dan menjauhi yang dilarang, berakhlak mulia, menjaga lisan. Sedangkan menurut Katolik kematian manusia merupakan akibat dosa manusia, baik dosay yang terjadi akibat kejatuhan manusia pertama (Adam) maupun dosa yang dilakukan oleh setiap manusia di dunia. Untuk itu agama Katolik mengajarkan agar menyiapkan anak-anak hidup mandiri, memiliki karakter dan pendidikan yang baik;  menjaga cara hidup dan kesehatan agar tidak merepotkan anak-anak; menyiapkan finansial baik untuk diri sendiri maupun untuk anak-anak; menjaga kesaksian hidup, dan memiliki  relasi sosial yang baik; mewariskan nilai dan tradisi luhur pada anak dan cucu.
PERKEMBANGAN KONSEP RAHN DALAM PEGADAIAN
Authors: Khoirunnazilah Khoirunnazilah , Nurwanti Nurwanti , Larasati Ayu
Published: March 2022

The development of the Rahn Concept in Sharia Pawnshops in Indonesia is relevant for further research. With this study, it will be known how to analyze public interest in using Sharia Pawnshops. The aim of this research is to analyze the development of the concept of rahn in pawnshops. The research to be carried out is library research, namely by collecting data related to the themes discussed. Understanding Sharia Pawnshops In Arabic terms, pawns are termed rahn and can also be named al-hasbu. The amount of the loan is determined by the pawnshop, depending on the value and amount of the pawned goods. Etymologically, the meaning of rahn is permanent and long, while al- hasbu means the detention of an item with rights so that it can be used as payment for the item. The services and products offered by sharia pawnshops are: Providing loans or financing on the basis of the law of pawning, Providing loans or financing on the basis of the law of pawning, Custody of goods (ijarah), Gold counters. Many people who pawn their goods in the form of gold to be used as business capital in investing. The customer pays off the pawned goods according to the contract: full repayment, re-pawning, installments, or partial redemption.Keywords: Sharia Pawnshops, Public Interest, Sharia Pawnshop Products
DAMPAK COVID-19 TERHADAP KINERJA KEUANGAN BANK RAKYAT INDONESIA (BRI) SYARIAH
Authors: Ahmad Mardhatillah , Yulianti Lina
Published: March 2022

Salah satu tolak ukur dalam menilai keberhasilan pengelolaan sumber daya suatu perusahaan yaitu dengan melihat kinerja keuangannya. Parameter yang umum dipergunakan dalam menilai kinerja keuangan perusahaan adalah dengan mempergunakan rasio keuangan. Selanjutnya rasio ini akan sangat bermanfaat bagi para pengguna dalam pengambilan keputusan. Dalam kondisi normal, performa keuangan yang dihasilkan akan mencerminkan kondisi yang diharapkan dan dapat menunjukan target pencapaian. Namun untuk kondisi pandemi covid saat ini tentunya akan membawa dampak yang signifikan terhadap kinerja keuangan tersebut. Salah satu sektor usaha yang terkena dampak pandemi covid-19 adalah industri perbankan. Hal ini sebagai akibat banyak diantara debitur yang diberhentikan dari pekerjaan dan terhambat untuk membayar pembiayaan. Sehingga mengakibatkan meningkatnya pembiayaan yang tidak lancar pada bank, yang secara otomatis mempengaruhi performa keuangannya. Pengkajian ini ditujukan untuk menganalisa dampak covid-19 terhadap kinerja keuangan pada Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) Syariah periode 2019-2020. Data diambil dari publikasi laporan keuangan Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) Syariah periode 2019-2020. Yaitu tiga (tiga) triwulan sebelum pandemi dan 3 (tiga) triwulan pasca pandemi covid. Adapun rasio keuangan yang digunakan adalah tingkat kecukupan modal (CAR), tingkat pengembalian aset (ROA), rasio pembiayaan bermasalah (NPF) dan pembiayaan deposit rasio (FDR). Hasil penelitian ini secara keseluruhan menunjukan tidak substansial adanya distingsi dari aspek yang dianalisa terkecuali untuk aspek rasio pembiayaan bermasalah (NPF). Dengan demikian secara spesifik penelitian ini merekomendasikan agar Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) Syariah lebih meningkatkan lagi pembiayaan melalui intrumen penjadwalan ulang pembayaran (rescheduling), persyaratan kembali (reconditioning) dan penataan kembali (restructuring) serta membuka bidang usaha baru yang tidak terkena dampak covid-19 sebagai upaya meningkatkan rasio Return on Asset (ROA). Kata Kunci: Kinerja Keuangan Bank, CAR, ROA, NPF, FDR.
PERFORMANCE QUALITY OF EMPLOYEES WHEN WORK FROM HOME: AN ANALYSIS OF EMPLOYEE COMPETENCY DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Zulkarnaen Wandy
Published: March 2022

In this era, every company will definitely try to increase company productivity. Therefore companies really need Human Resources because every company company will compete fiercely in developing or improving the quality of their company. Especially with the current conditions with the emergence of Covid-19, companies will try to find employees who have good competencies and abilities. Data released by LIPI states that as many as 63.8% of employees do WFH. Based on the background, this research will analyze the competence of employees' performance in conducting WFH during the Covid-19 pandemic. The data used in this paper is secondary data obtained by the author through various literatures. The result of the research is the need for someone's competence in working anywhere or in any field. This includes being in a pandemic and working with the WFH system. Therefore, employees must develop the competencies that exist within themselves and continue to show good performance.
PENGARUH STRUKTUR PEKERJAAN DAN KARAKTERISTIK INDIVIDU TERHADAP KINERJA KARYAWAN PT. TANTO INTIM LINE DI SAMARINDA
Authors: Sattar Sattar , Romadloni2 Moh , Sutrisno H.M. Andreas Y , Buton Amrin
Published: March 2022

Hasil analisa dan pembahasan menunjukkan bahwa berdasarkan uji F, maka variabel Struktur Pekerjaan dan Karakteristik Individu secara simultan atau bersama-sama berpengaruh signifikan terhadap Kinerja Karyawan PT. Tanto Intim Line di Samarinda. Berdasarkan uji t, maka variabel Struktur Pekerjaan secara parsial berpengaruh signifikan terhadap Kinerja Karyawan PT. Tanto Intim Line di Samarinda. Begitu juga dengan variabel Karakteristik Individu berpengaruh signifikan terhadap Kinerja Karyawan PT. Tanto Intim Line Di Samarinda. Berdasarkan uji korelasi menggambarkan keeratan hubungan variabel independen dan variabel dependen. Nilai korelasi 0,683 artinya nilai tersebut memiliki tingkat hubungan kuat antara Struktur Pekerjaan dan Karakteristik Individu Terhadap Kinerja Karyawan PT. Tanto Intim Line di Samarinda. Sedangkan berdasarkan nilai R square 0,466 atau sebesar 46,4% artinya variabel Struktur Pekerjaan dan Karakteristik Individu Terhadap Kinerja Karyawan PT. Tanto Intim Line Di Samarinda memiliki hubungan persentase sebesar 46,6% terhadap Pengaruh Struktur Pekerjaan dan Karakteristik Individu Terhadap Kinerja Karyawan PT. Tanto Intim Line di Samarinda, sedangkan sisanya sejumlah 53,4 dipengaruhi oleh variabel lain seperti sumber daya manusia, motivasi kerja, lingkungan kerja dan sebagainya..
PENGARUH BUZZ MARKETING DAN BRAND AMBASSADOR TERHADAP PURCHASE DECISION DENGAN BRAND AWARENESS SEBAGAI VARIABEL INTERVENING
Authors: Setiawan Gawik , Novari Eri , Kusumadewi Rahayu
Published: March 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh buzz marketing dan brand ambassador terhadap purchase decision dengan brand awareness sebagai variabel intervening pada pengguna produk ponsel merek vivo di Kota Bandung. Metode yang digunakan adalah deskriptif dan verifikatif dengan pendekatan kuantitatif. Sampel yang digunakan adalah sebanyak 110 responden pengguna produk ponsel merek vivo di Kota Bandung dengan teknik purposive sampling dan accidental sampling melalui penyebaran kuesioner. Pengujian instrumen dilakukan dengan uji asumsi dasar dan asumsi klasik, pengujian hipotesis dilakukan dengan uji regresi linear berganda, uji t, uji f, dan uji koefisien determinasi yang kemudian dilanjutkan dengan menggunakan path analys. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa buzz marketing, brand ambassador, brand awareness berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap purchase decision secara langsung maupun tidak langsung.
STRATEGI ENTREPRENEURIAL GOVERNMENT DALAM PELAKSANAAN REFORMASI BIROKRASI
Authors: Ashshiddiqi Muhammad Taufan , Nisa Elvira Amelia , Hasanah Faizah Ummul , Juniar Farida , Pamungkas Handika Ardana
Published: March 2022

Penelitian ini dilatarbelakangi oleh berbagai masalah yang berkaitan dengan budaya birokrasi pemerintah yang berbelit, mahal, tidak efektif dan tidak efisien. Masalah penelitian ini adalah bagaimana strategi entrepreneurial government dalam reformasi birokrasi di Kelurahan Kotakulon, Kecamatan Sumedang Selatan, Kabupaten Sumedang. Pada penelitian ini, metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah pendekatan kualitatif deskriptif. Penelitian dilaksanakan di Kantor Kelurahan Kotakulon, Kecamatan Sumedang Selatan, Kabupaten Sumedang. Teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan pada penelitian ini yaitu wawancara, observasi, dan dokumentasi. Informan penelitian melakukan wawancara dengan sekretaris lurah Kelurahan Kotakulon, kemudian kepada pegawai Kelurahan Kotakulon, dan yang terakhir kepada masyarakat setempat di Kelurahan Kotakulon. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa analisis strategi entrepreneurial government dalam reformasi birokrasi di Kelurahan Kotakulon, Kecamatan Sumedang Selatan, Kabupaten Sumedang memperlihatkan bahwa beberapa dimensi strategi sudah diwujudkan oleh Kelurahan Kotakulon Kecamatan Sumedang Selatan Kabupaten Sumedang, hal tersebut didukung oleh potensi fisik dan non fisik yang berada di lingkungan kelurahan, meskipun begitu hambatan-hambatan dalam proses reformasi masih dirasakan oleh kelurahan.