bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Segmentation and Feature Extraction for Malaria Detection in Blood Smears
Authors: Rismayanti Nurul
Published: June 2024

Malaria remains a critical global health challenge, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment and control. Traditional methods of malaria diagnosis, such as microscopic examination of blood smears, are time-consuming and prone to human error. This study aims to develop an automated system for malaria detection using machine learning techniques, specifically a decision tree classifier. The dataset, sourced from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), comprises 27,558 blood smear images equally divided into Normal and Malaria classes. The preprocessing steps included segmentation using the Canny edge detector and feature extraction using Hu Moments, followed by data normalization to ensure a mean of 0 and variance of 1. The decision tree classifier was trained and evaluated using 5-fold cross-validation, yielding an average accuracy of 77.32%, precision of 77.31%, recall of 77.37%, and F1-Score of 77.48%. These results demonstrate the model's robustness and effectiveness in differentiating between malaria-infected and uninfected images. The study confirms the viability of using Hu Moments for feature extraction and highlights the decision tree classifier's suitability for this task. The proposed method has significant implications for automated malaria diagnosis, potentially improving diagnostic accuracy and efficiency in clinical settings. Future research should validate these findings on diverse datasets, explore advanced classification techniques, and integrate real-time image acquisition to enhance practical applicability. The integration of such automated systems in healthcare can revolutionize malaria diagnosis, especially in resource-limited settings.
A New Type of Extended Soft Set Operation: Complementary Extended Theta Operation
Authors: Sezgin Aslıhan , Demirci Ahmet Mücahit
Published: June 2024

Soft set theory, pioneered by Molodtsov in 1999, presents a soft framework for managing uncertainty in data analysis and decision-making. In contrast to conventional set theory, soft sets permit elements to possess parametrization, offering a more intricate portrayal of uncertainty. In this paper, we introduce a novel type of soft set operation known as complementary extended theta soft set operations to contribute the existing theory. We thoroughly analyze the properties of this operation and investigate the relationship between the complementary extended theta operation and other soft set operations in order to further study of algebraic structures of soft sets with respect to the new operation in the future studies.
Examining Emotional Factors of Smart Toilets Design for China's New Elderly
Authors: Li Qiuyi , Che Me Rosalam , Faiz Yahaya Mohd
Published: June 2024

The emergence of a “new elderly” group in China with unique emotional needs has highlighted the importance of smart toilet design. This study explores the emotional needs of the new elderly and the potential benefits of specialized sanitary products in addressing their emotional well-being. The study developed a framework based on Norman’s Three-level theory of Emotional Design (NTTED) and Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs Theory (MHNT) which have been widely used in the field of emotional design. A quantitative method is employed and a questionnaire survey was conducted to collect the data by using cluster sampling from the high-tech zone in Chengdu, Sichuan, China, about 501 respondents participated among 394 are new elderly and 108 are traditional elderly. The findings from a case study involving 501 elderly participants emphasize the significance of emotional factors in product design for the new elderly, specifically in the context of smart toilets in China. High-quality materials, personalized safety features, and cognitive enhancement contribute to user satisfaction. Lastly, the identified pain points underscore the need for privacy and safety measures, clear instructions, and sensory comfort. Enhancements in maneuverability address limited deftness and instruction readability, while adaptability focuses on tactile and visual cues. Respect, belonging, and progression considerations are pivotal in ensuring user satisfaction and well-being. This study identifies the emotional factors in product design for the new elderly in China to enhance emotional design in smart toilets for this demographic.
Relationship Between the Availability of Teaching Materials and Students’ Academic Performance in Rwanda
Authors: Nyirandimukaga Berthilde , Manizabayo Phanuel
Published: June 2024

One of the preoccupations of Rwandan educational leaders is to provide schools with enough teaching materials in order to increase students’ academic performance. This report describes the influence of the availability of teaching material on students’ academic performance. The study used quantitative research and employed a correlation research design. The questionnaires were distributed to 339 students at a university in Rwanda selected through purposive sampling. Among the respondents, 179 were male while 160 were female. 189 were doing sciences while 150 were in arts. Results show that the students agreed to have a high perception of their academic performance. They also agreed to the fact that their school has many teaching materials that are available. The results show that there was a moderate positive relationship between availability of teaching material and students’ academic performance (r = .454**, n = 339, p < .01). The study concluded that schools should keep providing quality teaching materials to maintain good students’ academic performance.
INCREASING THE STUDENTS’ VOCABULARY ACHIEVEMENT IN WRITING SKILL THROUGH WORD ANALOGY TECHNIQUE
Authors: Alamsari  , Ampa Hj. Andi Tenri , Natsir Ratu Yulianti
Published: June 2024

The objectives of this research is to find out How are the students’ vocabularies achievement in Writing through word analogy technique in term of noun at the Seventh Grade of MTS Al-hidayah Lemoa and How are the students’ vocabularies achievement through word analogy technique in term of adjective at the Seventh Grade of MTS Al Hidayah Lemoa. This research used Classroom Action Research (CAR), which consists of two cycles and each cycle has four meetings. The result of the study was the used of Word Analogy Tecnique in teaching vocabulary substantially increased students’ vocabulary achievement at MTS Al Hidayah Lemoa. The students increased in vocabulary after using word analogy technique was very good. The students total score in nouns got 895 score in cycle I and in cycle II got 1410 score while the students total score in adjective got 900 in cycle I and in cycle II got 1720 score. The mean score for noun in cycle I got 4,5 score and in cycle II got 7,5 score while for adjective in cycle I got 4,5 mean score and in cycle II got 7,8 mean score it shows that from the diagnostic test who noun got 2,9 score and adjective 2,0 score the students’ vocabulary has increased.
THE EFFECTIVENESS OF FLIPPED CLASSROOM MODEL BY USING GOOGLE CLASSROOM APPLICATION TO INCREASE STUDENTS’ LISTENING SKILL
Authors: Wafiqah Nurul , Ul Haq Muhammad Zia , Sangkala Ismail
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this study was to find out whether the Flipped Classroom model with the Google Classroom application increase student learning outcomes in listening skills at SMKN 6 Bone. This study used a quasi-experimental method with a nonequivalent control group designed and applied in two classes with two different learning models. Experimental classes with the Flipped Classroom model using the Google Classroom application and control classes with the Teacher Centered Learning model. The population of this study was 114 students of class X of SMKN 6 Bone, while the sample consisted of 60 students from the initial three classes who were given pretests to determine which classes had balanced abilities to be used as experimental classes and control classes. The research process is carried out with the following procedures: giving pretest, applying treatment, and giving posttest. From the results of the posttest descriptive analysis, it is known that there are significant differences between the control class and the experimental class.  This is evident from the from posttest result with p-value 0.03 (sig. <0.05). In addition, based on inferential gain analysis, it is known that p-value = 0.02 which means there are significant differences from the results of the pretest and posttest. So, it was concluded that the use of the Flipped Classroom model with Google Classroom application is effective to increase students' listening skills.
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF FIX UP STRATEGY STUDENTS’ READING COMPREHENSION SKIL
Authors: Asnidah Sri , Paturusi M. Arief , Burhanuddin Wildhan
Published: June 2024

The objective of the study is to find out whether the use of Fix-Up Strategy enhance the students’ in reading comprehension in terms of literal and interpretative comprehensions. The research method is pre-experimental design with pre-test and post-test as quantitative research. The population of the research was students of SMP Unismuh Makassar. The total number of sample was 22 students which chosen by using purposive sampling. The instrument used to collect data in reading comprehension was reading text (narrative text).
USING SUGGESTOPEDIA METHOD IN READING COMPREHENSION
Authors: Astuti Nina Sri , Syatriana Eny , Jumiaty Andi Asri
Published: June 2024

This research aimed to know whether Suggestopedia as Method can improve students reading comprehension especially at literal comprehension (main idea) and interpretative comprehension (conclusion) in the Second Grade Students of Madrasah Aliyah Guppi Samata. The researcher applied Pre-Experimental method with use one group pre-test and post-test design and collected data by giving pre-test and post-test. The sample for this research was Class XI of Madrasah Aliyah Guppi Samata that consisted of 15 students. The sample was taken by using Purposive Sampling Technique. The researcher wanted to know the students’ ability in reading comprehension so that, the researcher found that too much students when pre-test got poor score. The improvement of the students’ literal comprehension by using Suggestopedia Method at Second Grade of Madrasah Aliyah Guppi Samata was good. Suggestopedia method brings good effect in reading comprehension because with using Suggestopedia, the students be active, relax, and not afraid in the class, the students’ can improve reading skill, and can help students to stimulate good mental condition. Meanwhile, the improvement of the students’ interpretative comprehension by using Suggestopedia Method at Second Grade of Madrasah Aliyah Guppi Samata was good. The effect of suggestopedia method in reading comprehension in term of interpretative comprehension help students to stimulate students’ good mental condition before the students’ answer the questions.
THE USE OF TIKTOK APPLICATIONS IN LEARNING ENGLISH AT THE NINTH GRADE STUDENTS OF SMPN 1 BURU
Authors: Rahman Sakinah Nur , Setiadi Muhammad Astrianto , Hambali Uyunnasirah
Published: June 2024

This study aims to find out whether the use of TikTok application is effective in learning English at the ninth grade students of SMPN 1 Buru in the academic year 2022/2023. The type of research used is pre-experimental research using one class. The population in this study consisted of all grade IX students. The sample in this study was class IX.3 which consisted of 30 students. The sampling technique in this study used purposive sampling. This research was conducted for 6 meetings. The instrument used in this study is a prononciation test which is carried out on the pre test and post test. The data was processed using SPSS application. Based on the results of data analysis and discussion that has been put forward it can concluded that after applying TikTok in teaching english can improve students pronounciation in class IX.3 at SMPN 1 BURU. This is evidenced by the results of the students' scores. It is shown from the mean or average score of the students that there is an increase of . The students’ pre-test was gotten 44.67 and the students’ post-test was gotten 79,83. the post-test score shows higher score than the pre-test. In addition, the hypothesis testing is evidenced by t-test value, where the t-test (41.255) score is higher than the t-table (2.045) score. That means, that Ho is rejected and Ha is approved. As a result, the hypothesis of this study, that using TikTok has a significant effect on students' pronunciation in SMPN 1 BURU, is accepted.
Economic Determinants of Financial Service Accessibility
Authors: PALAS Md Jahir Uddin
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the influence of economic factors in ensuring access to financial services. Financial service accessibility is assessed using metrics such as the number of bank branches and ATMs per 100,000 people, as well as an index derived from these indicators. Drawing from existing literature, a set of economic variables - namely, employment, inflation, gross domestic savings, remittances, bank credit to deposits, and urbanization - are examined using data from 179 countries over eighteen years spanning from 2004 to 2021, with projections extending to 2023. The findings indicate that employment, remittances, bank credit to deposits, and urbanization exert statistically significant effects on access to financial services. These results are robust across alternative definitions of financial access, subsamples categorised by economic development, and exercises addressing endogeneity concerns.© 2024 The Author(s). This article is distributed under the terms of the license CC-BY 4.0., which permits any further distribution in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Investigating the Genetic Cause of Ichthyosis Disease in a Family with Exome Sequencing
Authors: Ghalavandi Farzaneh , Khoshnood Zahra
Published: June 2024

Background: Ichthyosis is a diverse skin disease characterized by dry skin and itching, particularly affecting the hands. Most forms of this condition are hereditary. Objectives: In this study, we investigated potential new mutations associated with this disease using the new technique of whole-exome sequencing. Methods: In this study, after collecting the patient's blood sample in an EDTA tube and extracting DNA using the salting-out method, next-generation sequencing was performed using the WES method. Following the analysis of the results and identification of the candidate gene, PCR technique and Chromas software were used to confirm the findings. Results: The results indicated the presence of a new variant, NM_001099287: Exon 6:c.C1083A: p.Y361X, in the NIPAL4 gene in a heterozygous form in the parents and a homozygous form in the patient. This variant occurred as a nucleotide substitution in the exon 6 region of the NIPAL4 mRNA sequence. Conclusions: Using the WES technique, it is possible to investigate the presence of new variants related to ichthyosis in a short time and at a low cost.
Justification of the choice of the approach to the determination of the invariant component in the behavior of polymorphic (metamorphic) malware on the basis of reducing the dimensionality of the sign space
Authors: Fesokha V. , Kysylenko D. , Fesokha N.
Published: June 2024

The evolution of malware use scenarios necessitates the development of effective strategies to neutralise their destructive impact. One of the most threatening types of malware is polymorphic (metamorphic) viruses, as they are largely able to evade detection by intrusion detection systems, information security management (security events), antivirus software and systems for proactive detection of atypical threats and targeted attacks on endpoints due to their ability to change their own signature. In addition, there has been a rapid increase in recent cyber incidents involving the use of polymorphic (metamorphic) malware. The main reason for this growth is the availability of artificial intelligence technologies that allow attackers to modify the code of already classified malware quickly and efficiently, without requiring significant specialised technical competence.

A comparative analysis of existing approaches to detecting polymorphic, oligomorphic and metamorphic malware is carried out. It is found that no group of methods uses to its advantage the key feature of polymorphic (metamorphic) malware – invariant behaviour by a certain subset of features that characterise the same vector of destructive impact of malware.

With a view to neutralising the property of modification of its own code by polymorphic (metamorphic) malware, the article proposes an approach to determining its invariant component during behavioural analysis based on a combination of the advantages of behavioural analysis and machine learning techniques – reducing the dimensionality of the studied feature space. Such an approach will potentially allow determining the invariant behaviour of malware as a subset of the studied features for each known type of malware, which in turn forms the basis for implementing a new approach to the effective detection of modified (advanced) malware.
Effective strategies to maximise dextrin formation in brewing
Authors: Michiels Pieter , Croonen Dries , De Schepper Charlotte , Debyser Winok , Langenaeken Niels , Courtin Christophe
Published: June 2024

Why was the work done: Dextrin is the non-fermentable product of starch hydrolysis and plays a role in enhancing the perceived palate fullness of beer. Therefore, increasing dextrin formation is a promising strategy to improve palate fullness, particularly in non-alcoholic and low-alcohol beers.
How was the work done: This study investigated the impact of adjusting the mashing profile of a 100% barley malt mash on the dextrin content and molecular weight distribution in the wort. Mash thickness, heating rate, and mashing-in temperature with and without the addition of a thermostable α-amylase were adjusted during mashing to evaluate the impact on dextrin content and molecular weight distribution. To benchmark this work, the dextrin content and molecular weight distribution was determined in five pilsener beers and their non-alcoholic counterparts.
What are the main findings: With the exception of one non-alcoholic beer which contained 72 g/L, the concentration of dextrin ranged from 15 to 30 g/L in the five commercial pilsner-type beers and their non-alcoholic equivalents. The molecular weight distribution of dextrin among the beers was similar, with 85-98% of the dextrin population characterised by a degree of polymerisation below 35. Various strategies were applied during mashing to evaluate the impact on the content and the molecular weight distribution of dextrin. A strategy that promoted dextrin formation was mashing with a lower water-to-grist ratio. This resulted in delayed starch gelatinisation influenced by increased solid extract content in wort. Furthermore, at a low water-to-grist ratio, faster mash heating (up to 2°C/min) or isothermal mashing at temperatures below 72°C had no impact on dextrin formation. Isothermal mashing at 78°C supplemented with thermostable α-amylase increased the dextrin level in wort up to 60 g/L, while the molecular weight distribution of dextrin was similar to that found in commercial beers.
Why is the work important: This study demonstrates that increased dextrin formation is achievable in beer but requires significant changes to the mashing process. These insights will enable brewers to enhance the palate fullness of beers, especially those which are non-alcoholic or low in alcohol.
Effectiveness and Safety of Dexmedetomidine in Neonates With Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy Undergoing Therapeutic Hypothermia
Authors: Acun Ceyda , Ali Mahmoud , Liu Wei , Karnati Sreenivas , Fink Kelsey , Aly Hany
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the effectiveness and safety of dexmedetomidine as monotherapy between neonates with mild hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) and moderate to severe HIE treated with therapeutic hypothermia (TH).

METHODS

This retrospective study included neonates of gestational age ≥36 weeks with a diagnosis of HIE and undergoing TH between January 2014 and December 2021. Patients were included if they received at least 6 hours of continuous sedation with dexmedetomidine. Baseline characteristics, dose and duration of medication, adverse events, liver and kidney function tests, and hospital course were reviewed.

RESULTS

Of the 97 neonates included, 46 had mild, 42 had moderate, and 9 had severe HIE. Dexmedetomidine was initiated at a median 5 hours of life, and the median infusion duration was 77 (46–87) hours. Fifty-two (53.6%) required at least 1 breakthrough opioid or sedative during the first 24 hours of dexmedetomidine infusion. Overall, 40 patients (41.2%) had at least 1 bradycardia episode with heart rate <80 beats/min and 14 patients (14.4%) had heart rate <70 beats/min. Hypotension was experienced by 7 patients (7.2%). Fifty-two patients (53.6%) were intubated in the delivery room and 33/52 (63.5%) were extubated on day of life 1 during dexmedetomidine infusion.

CONCLUSIONS

Dexmedetomidine as monotherapy was effective and safe sedation for infants with HIE undergoing hypothermia. The most common side effect of dexmedetomidine was bradycardia. ­Dexmedetomidine may be considered as first and single agent for neonates with HIE undergoing TH.
Impact of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Circuitry on Remdesivir
Authors: Cies Jeffrey J. , Moore Wayne S. , Deacon Jillian , Enache Adela , Chopra Arun
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to determine the oxygenator impact on alterations of remdesivir (RDV) in a contemporary neonatal/pediatric (1/4-inch) and adolescent/adult (3/8-inch) extracorporeal membrane ­oxygenation (ECMO) circuit including the Quadrox-i oxygenator.

METHODS

One-quarter–inch and a 3/8-inch, simulated closed-loop ECMO circuits were prepared with a Quadrox-i pediatric and Quadrox-i adult oxygenator and blood primed. Additionally, 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch circuits were also prepared without an oxygenator in series. A 1-time dose of RDV was administered into the circuits and serial preoxygenator and postoxygenator concentrations were obtained at 0 to 5 minutes, and 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, 5-, 6-, 8-, 12-, and 24-hour time points. The RDV was also maintained in a glass vial and samples were taken from the vial at the same time periods for control purposes to assess for spontaneous drug degradation.

RESULTS

For the 1/4-inch circuits with an oxygenator, there was a 35% to 60% RDV loss during the study period. For the 1/4-inch circuits without an oxygenator, there was a 5% to 20% RDV loss during the study period. For the 3/8-inch circuit with and without an oxygenator, there was a 60% to 70% RDV loss during the study period.

CONCLUSIONS

There was RDV loss within the circuit during the study period and the RDV loss was more pronounced with the larger 3/8-inch circuit when compared with the 1/4-inch circuit. The impact of the ­oxygenator on RDV loss appears to be variable and possibly dependent on the size of the circuit and ­oxygenator. These preliminary data suggest RDV dosing may need to be adjusted for concern of drug loss via the ECMO circuit. Additional single- and multiple-dose studies are needed to validate these findings.
Evaluation of Postoperative Efficacy and Safety of Celecoxib in Children Hospitalized After Adenotonsillectomy
Authors: Allard Audrey , Valois-Demers Julien , Pellerin Annie , Leclerc Jacques E. , Cloutier Karine
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVE

The choice of optimal analgesia following an adenotonsillectomy is a clinical issue because of the risk of respiratory depression and bleeding. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of celecoxib on opioid use and pain scores in children hospitalized after adenotonsillectomy and to document its adverse effects.

METHODS

This retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary care pediatric hospital. We compared a group of subjects aged 1 to 17 years who were prescribed celecoxib and opioids between January 2017 and June 2020 following an adenotonsillectomy during a 3-day or less hospitalization to a group of matched controls for sex, age, and length of stay who were prescribed opioids.

RESULTS

A total of 228 patients were identified (76 in the celecoxib + opioids group, 152 in the control group). Opioid use, in oral morphine equivalent daily dose, was lower in the celecoxib + opioids group at 0 to 24 hours of hospitalization (0.15 vs 0.20 mg/kg/day, p = 0.05). Initiating celecoxib within 24 hours of surgery (n = 60) significantly reduced opioid requirement for up to 48 hours compared with controls (0–24 hours: 0.12 vs 0.20 mg/kg/day, p = 0.002; 25–48 hours: 0.02 vs 0.09 mg/kg/day, p = 0.001). A shorter length of stay was observed for patients receiving celecoxib + opioids during the first 24-hour post-­operative period (27 vs 32 hours, p = 0.01). With celecoxib use, no significant change in pain scores and occurrence of adverse effects including bleeding was found.

CONCLUSIONS

Using celecoxib early after an adenotonsillectomy has reduced both opioid use and duration of hospital stay without increasing adverse effects or bleeding.
Impact of Intravenous Methadone Dosing Schedule on Iatrogenic Withdrawal Syndrome in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Groman Aleah , Spyhalsky Autumn , Michienzi Kelly , Breuer Ryan
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVE

To compare median Sophia Observation withdrawal Symptoms scale (SOS) scores between ­intravenous methadone dosing scheduled every 6 hours or every 8 hours for iatrogenic withdrawal ­syndrome (IWS).

METHODS

This single-center, retrospective chart review evaluated patients aged 4 weeks through 18 years treated with intravenous methadone for IWS. Children admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of a tertiary care children’s hospital between August 2017 and July 2021 and treated for IWS for at least 48 hours were eligible for inclusion. Methadone dosing schedules were compared, with a primary outcome of median Sophia Observation withdrawal Symptoms (SOS) score during the first 24 hours after cessation of continuous fentanyl infusion. Secondary outcomes included PICU and general pediatric unit lengths of stay, extubation failure rates, and mortality.

RESULTS

Twenty patients met inclusion criteria, with 9 in the 6-hour dosing group. There was no difference in median SOS score, extubation failure, length of stay, or mortality between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

During the first 24 hours after cessation of continuous fentanyl, there appears to be no ­difference in IWS severity, as determined by bedside nurse scoring, between patients treated with ­intravenous methadone every 6 hours compared with every 8 hours.
Measurement of Polyethylene Glycol 3350 With Standard Household Measuring Devices
Authors: Nichols Kristen R. , Streetman Darcie D. , Gordon Nicolette A. , Knoderer Chad A.
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVE

Though standard household measuring devices (e.g., teaspoons, tablespoons) are often used in clinical practice to measure pediatric doses of polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG-3350), no published ­literature documents the accuracy of these measurements. Standard dosing for adults is 17 grams, which is 1 capful according to the manufacturer. The objective of this study was to determine the weight of household teaspoons and tablespoons of PEG-3350.

METHODS

PEG-3350 measurements were performed using 5 different household measuring teaspoons and tablespoons and the cap that accompanies the bottle for 3 different brands of PEG-3350. Using an electronic balance to determine weights, 3 investigators completed 5 measurements for each of the 5 measurement devices and PEG-3350 bottle caps as follows: leveled teaspoons and tablespoons, unleveled teaspoons and tablespoons, “heaping” tablespoons, half-capfuls, and capfuls.

RESULTS

A leveled teaspoonful of PEG-3350 weighed ∼3.3 grams and an unleveled teaspoonful weighed ∼3.7 grams. A leveled, unleveled, and heaping tablespoon of PEG-3350 weighed about 10, 11, and 15 grams, respectively. Heaping tablespoons, half-capfuls, and capfuls resulted in the most measurement variability.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of a kitchen scale may be the most precise method of measurement, however not all patients have kitchen scales. Standard household measuring devices (teaspoons and tablespoons) may be used to conveniently measure PEG-3350 doses. Using 1 dedicated measurement device and leveling the dose may improve consistency, which could be beneficial for patients who are sensitive to dose variability.
Mycophenolate Metabolite Trough Concentrations Are Not Well Correlated With Dosing or Adverse Outcomes in Pediatric Heart Transplant Recipients
Authors: Saad Maria Sedky , Chen Justin , Salerno David , Corbo Heather
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVE

Although mycophenolate metabolite trough concentrations in serum are routinely obtained for pediatric orthotopic heart transplant (OHT) recipients, limited data support this practice. We sought to investigate the relationship of mycophenolic acid (MPA) and MPA glucuronide (MPAG) serum concentrations to dosing and adverse outcomes among pediatric OHT patients.

METHODS

This retrospective study included OHT recipients ages 0 to 21 years who received mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) with MPA and MPAG serum trough concentration monitoring. The primary outcome was the relationship between MPA and MPAG serum concentrations and dosing. Secondary outcomes included the relationship of adverse outcomes to either MPA and MPAG concentrations or dosing.

RESULTS

A total of 98 patients with 1287 MPA and MPAG trough serum concentrations (each) were included. The median initial MMF dose was 40.3 mg/kg/day (IQR, 35.12–51.83) and 1164.4 mg/m2/day (IQR, 1080.77–1206.86). There was no correlation between either MPA or MPAG serum concentrations and mg/kg dosing, or mg/m2 dosing. When comparing the adverse effect of bone marrow suppression with no adverse effect, the median MPA serum trough concentration was 2 (IQR, 1.1–3.2) versus 1.6 (IQR, 0.8–2.5), p = 0.003. When comparing the adverse effect of infection with no adverse effect, median MPA serum trough concentration was 0.9 (IQR, 0.49–1.7) versus 1.6 (IQR, 0.8–2.5), p < 0.001. The clinical utility of this finding is of uncertain benefit. There was no association between MPAG serum concentrations and any adverse outcome (p = 0.053).

CONCLUSIONS

We did not identify a correlation between mycophenolate serum trough concentrations and either adverse outcomes or dosing. Based on these results, we discourage routine monitoring of mycophenolate trough concentrations.
Evaluation of the Effect of Smart Pump Interoperability on Infusion Errors in the Pediatric Hospital Setting
Authors: VanHorn Tracie , Harris Jordi , Mayes Shannon , Infanti Lisa M. , Kennedy Amy
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVES

Smart pump interoperability is a newer technology integrating intravenous medication ­infusion instructions from the electronic medical record into a smart pump. This technology has demonstrated significantly decreased medication errors in the adult population; however, this has not been reported in pediatrics. The purpose of this study was to compare the frequency and severity of infusion related errors before and after the implementation of smart pump interoperability at a pediatric institution.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study conducted at multiple institutions within the same health care system to assess the effect of smart pump interoperability on infusion errors. Data were retrospectively analyzed for a 6-month period prior to (January–June 2020) and after (January–June 2022) smart pump interoperability implementation. All who received medications via a smart pump were included in the analysis. Infusions were excluded if administered via a patient-controlled analgesia pump, epidural pump, or intravenously pushed without using a smart pump.

RESULTS

A total of 143,997 versus 165,343 infusions were administered in the before versus after interoperability group. There were significant decreases in mild, moderate, and severe harm averted events once interoperability was implemented (p < 0.001). Errors caught before administration decreased after interoperability implementation from 197 events to 20 events because of fewer overall errors (p < 0.001). The number of guardrail alert overrides was significantly reduced, from 23,751 to 5885 (p < 0.001), as was the number of high-risk overrides, from 5851 to 207 (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Implementing smart pump interoperability significantly reduced the frequency and severity of infusion errors and high-risk overrides at a pediatric institution.
การเปลี่ยนแปลงของปริมาณไขมันและองค์ประกอบตามระยะการเติบโตปะการังแข็ง
Authors:   , ชินกลาง ภานุชนาถ
Published: June 2024

ปะการังประกอบด้วยไขมันภายในเนื้อเยื่อปริมาณมาก  ในการศึกษาครั้งนี้ได้ศึกษาการเปลี่ยนแปลงของปริมาณและองค์ประกอบชนิดไขมันในแต่ละระยะการเติบโตของปะการังเขากวาง 2 ชนิด Acropora humilis และ Acropora millepora และปะการังสมอง 1 ชนิด Platygyra sinensis ที่เติบโตภายใต้การเพาะฟักในระบบอนุบาล โดยเก็บเซลล์สืบพันธุ์จากแนวปะการังในอำเภอสัตหีบ จังหวัดชลบุรี ขณะปล่อยเซลล์สืบพันธุ์ตามธรรมชาติ  พบว่า ปริมาณไขมันของไข่ปะการังทั้ง 3 ชนิด มีมากกว่า 70 % ของน้ำหนักแห้ง และมีการเปลี่ยนแปลงตามระยะการเติบโต โดยปริมาณไขมันลดลงอย่างรวดเร็วในช่วงการเติบโตระยะต้น  อย่างไรก็ตาม อัตราการลดลงของปริมาณไขมันในปะการังสมองน้อยกว่าในปะการังเขากวางทั้ง 2 ชนิด  อนึ่ง องค์ประกอบชนิดไขมันในปะการังมีการเปลี่ยนแปลงเช่นเดียวกัน  โดยมี wax ester เป็นไขมันชนิดเด่น พบในเซลล์ไข่ปะการังมากกว่า 80 % ของไขมันทั้งหมด และมีแนวโน้มสัดส่วนลดลงตามอายุปะการังที่เพิ่มขึ้น  นอกจากนั้น เมื่อเปรียบเทียบปริมาณไขมันของปะการังระยะโตเต็มวัยที่มาจากการเพาะขยายพันธุ์แบบอาศัยเพศซึ่งย้ายปลูกสู่ทะเล และปะการังชนิดเดียวกันที่เกิดขึ้นเองในธรรมชาติ พบว่าไม่มีความแตกต่างอย่างมีนัยสำคัญ โดยมีปริมาณไขมันประมาณ 22 – 25 % ของน้ำหนักแห้ง  ทั้งนี้ ปะการังมีการสะสมไขมันปริมาณมากในช่วงที่มีการสร้างเซลล์สืบพันธุ์และลดลงอย่างมีนัยสำคัญหลังการปล่อยเซลล์สืบพันธุ์ออกสู่มวลน้ำ  ผลการศึกษาในครั้งนี้ แสดงให้เห็นว่า ไขมันในปะการังมีการเปลี่ยนแปลงไปตามระยะการเติบโต โดยเกี่ยวข้องกับกิจกรรมต่าง ๆ ในแต่ละช่วงของการดำรงชีวิต ตั้งแต่การปฏิสนธิ การพัฒนาและแพร่กระจายของตัวอ่อน และการเติบโตของปะการัง
Venom characterization and toxicology of box jellyfish chironex indrasaksajiae
Authors:   , Yongstar Chanikarn
Published: June 2024

Box jellyfish is considered one of the most venomous animals. The genus Chironex (C. indrasaksajiae) is a multi-tentacle box jellyfish found in Thai waters that are dangerous to humans, particularly the venom that could cause death within minutes. This study aimed to perform a proteomic approach to characterize the protein components of C. indrasaksajiae venom. A total of 532 unique protein groups were identified, including toxins and proteins essential for nematocyte development and nematocyst formation (nematogenesis). Toxins CfTX-1 and CfTX-2, with sequence coverage of 39.3 percent and 34.8 percent, respectively, are the most abundant in the venom of C. indrasaksajiae. The CfTX-like proteins are members of a group of potent toxins unique to Cnidaria.  These toxins are linked with cytolytic, hemolytic, inflammatory, dermonecrotic, and deadly activities. This work is the first to describe the cubozoan jellyfish venom proteome and sheds light on the range and diversity of protein toxins produced by this dangerous box jellyfish. Furthermore, our findings indicated that the venom had strong hemolytic activity that demonstrated 100-fold more potently hemolytic activity (HU50) than C. fleckeri which is currently mentioned as the most lethal animal on the planet. Current therapies focus on symptom alleviation after envenomation. Therefore, effective treatments are required to lower the death rates associated with cnidarian envenomation. Copper gluconate showed the potent inhibitory effect on the hemolysis induced by C. indrasaksajiae venom. The considerable inhibition of hemolytic activity following cubozoan stinging by copper gluconate-based products represents a novel and effective therapeutic approach for the treatment of cnidarian envenomation. Heat also influenced the hemolytic activity induced by C. indrasaksajiae venom. At 37°C and 45 °C, the temperatures appropriate for such inactivation of the venom activity. This work provides an enhanced understanding of C. indrasaksajiae box jellyfish venom that can be used for future comparative studies, toxin evolution analysis, and drug discovery.
การผลิตโปรตีนไฮโดรไลเสตจากกุ้งฝอย Macrobrachium lanchesteri โดยการทำแห้งแบบพ่นฝอยและเสถียรภาพระหว่างการเก็บรักษา
Authors:   , ไพศาลศักดิ์ ฉัตรชนก
Published: June 2024

กุ้งฝอย (Macrobranchium lanchesteri) เป็นสัตว์น้ำจืดที่มีโปรตีนเป็นองค์ประกอบซึ่งประกอบด้วยกรดอะมิโนและเปปไทด์ที่เป็นสารตั้งต้นสำคัญในการสร้างกลิ่นรสและรสชาติในระหว่างกระบวนการแปรรูปอาหาร งานวิจัยนี้มีวัตถุประสงค์เพื่อศึกษาสภาวะที่เหมาะสมสำหรับกระบวนการไฮโดรลิซิสของโปรตีนจากกุ้งฝอยด้วยฟลาโวไซม์ ศึกษาสภาวะการทำแห้งด้วยกระบวนการทำแห้งแบบพ่นฝอย และศึกษาเสถียรภาพของผงโปรตีนไฮโดรไลเสตในระหว่างการเก็บรักษา โดยใช้ response surface methodology (RSM) และออกแบบการทดลองแบบ central composite design (CCD) กำหนดตัวแปรต้น 3 ปัจจัย ได้แก่ อัตราส่วนความเข้มข้นของเอนไซม์ต่อสารตั้งต้น (E/S; 5-15 LAPU/g protein) อุณหภูมิ (45-55 °C) และ pH (6-8) กำหนดให้ค่าระดับการย่อยของโปรตีน (degree of hydrolysis; DH) เป็นตัวแปรอิสระ พบว่าการใช้ E/S ที่ 10 LAPU/g protein อุณหภูมิ 50°C และ pH  7 เป็นสภาวะที่เหมาะสม มีค่าระดับการย่อยของโปรตีนสูงที่สุด (20.97±0.86%) โปรตีนไฮโดรไลเสตมีน้ำหนักโมเลกุลเฉลี่ยเป็น 48.3 kDa มีปริมาณกรดอะมิโนอิสระสูงกว่าตัวอย่างควบคุม และมีคะแนนความโดยรวม ความชอบด้านกลิ่นรสและด้านรสชาติเพิ่มขึ้น เมื่อนำโปรตีนไฮโดรไลเสตไปทำแห้งแบบพ่นฝอยโดยศึกษาสภาวะที่เหมาะสมสำหรับการทำแห้งแบบพ่นฝอยของโปรตีนไฮโดรไลเสต กำหนดปัจจัยอุณหภูมิขาเข้าของกระบวนการทำแห้งแบบพ่นฝอย (120, 150 และ 180°C), อุณหภูมิขาออก 95 °C และอัตราการป้อน 10 mL/min พบว่าเมื่อใช้อุณหภูมิขาเข้า 150°C ได้ปริมาณร้อยละผลผลิตสูงสุด (72.41±0.53%) นอกจากนี้ ค่ากิจกรรมของน้ำ ค่าความชื้น และค่าความขาว เท่ากับ 0.159±0.02, 4.29±0.36 %, และ 69.83±0.50 ตามลำดับ และเมื่อศึกษาการเปลี่ยนแปลงในระหว่างการเก็บรักษาของผงโปรตีนไฮโดรไลเสตโดยบรรจุในถุงอลูมิเนียมลามิเนตชนิด aluminum/LLDPE ทึบแสงปิดสนิทแบบสุญญากาศเป็นเวลา 12 สัปดาห์ ที่อุณหภูมิ 25 ºC ติดตามผลการเปลี่ยนแปลงทุก 2 สัปดาห์ พบว่า เมื่ออายุการเก็บรักษาเพิ่มขึ้น ค่าความชื้นเพิ่มขึ้นเล็กน้อย แต่ค่ากิจกรรมของน้ำไม่เปลี่ยนแปลง ส่วนค่าความขาวลดลง นอกจากนี้เมื่อทดสอบทางประสาทสัมผัส พบว่าระดับความเข้มของกลิ่นกุ้งและกลิ่นรสกุ้งลดลง แต่ระดับความหวานเพิ่มขี้นเมื่อระยะเวลาการเก็บรักษาเพิ่มขึ้น ซึ่งสอดคล้องกับผลการวิเคราะห์สารให้กลิ่นสำคัญ ที่พบว่าปริมาณความเข้มข้นของสารที่ให้กลิ่นสำคัญเช่น N,N-dimethyl-methylamine ซึ่งให้กลิ่นคาวลดลง แต่ความเข้มข้นของ 2-furanmethanol, maltol และ vanillin ซึ่งให้กลิ่นหอมหวานและคาราเมลเพิ่มขึ้น
การประกอบตัวด้วยตนเองและการตอบสนองโดยการเปลี่ยนสีของวัสดุเชิงประกอบระดับนาโนเมตรพอลิไดแอเซทิลีน/โลหะออกไซด์ โดยวิธีการผสมในรูปแบบสารละลาย
Authors:   , แสงวารินทร์ จิดาภา
Published: June 2024

งานวิจัยนี้ศึกษาการประกอบตัวของวัสดุเชิงประกอบระดับนาโนเมตรพอลิไดแอเซทิลีน/โลหะออกไซด์ และพฤติกรรมการตอบสนองโดยการเปลี่ยนสีต่อสิ่งกระตุ้นภายนอก โดยทำการสังเคราะห์โลหะออกไซด์ได้แก่ ซิลิกาจากวิธีโซล-เจล และซิงก์ออกไซด์จากวิธีโซลโวเทอร์มอล และนำมาเตรียมเป็นวัสดุเชิงประกอบระดับนาโนเมตรพอลิไดแอเซทิลีน/โลหะออกไซด์ โดยใช้ 10,12 pentacosadiynoic acid (PCDA) เป็นมอนอเมอร์ ด้วยวิธีการผสมในรูปแบบสารละลาย จากนั้นทดสอบสมบัติการตอบสนองโดยการเปลี่ยนสีต่ออุณหภูมิ และกรด-เบสของวัสดุเชิงประกอบที่เตรียมได้ เนื่องจากโซล-เจลซิลิกา มีลักษณะเป็นทรงกลม ขนาดเล็ก และมีขนาดสม่ำเสมอ ทำให้วัสดุเชิงประกอบระดับนาโนเมตรพอลิไดแอเซทิลีน/ซิงก์ไอออน/โซล-เจลซิลิกา มีปริมาณผลิตภัณฑ์ที่สูงกว่าการเตรียมโดยใช้ผงซิลิกาที่ได้มีการศึกษามาก่อน และมีความไวในการตอบสนองโดยการเปลี่ยนสีต่อกรด-เบสที่สูงกว่า นอกจากนี้พบว่า วัสดุเชิงประกอบระดับนาโนเมตรพอลิไดแอเซทิลีน/ซิงก์ไอออน/โซล-เจลซิลิกา สามารถเกิดการเปลี่ยนสีแบบผันกลับได้เมื่อทำการเพิ่ม-ลดอุณหภูมิ สำหรับวัสดุเชิงประกอบระดับนาโนเมตรพอลิไดแอเซทิลีน/ซิงก์ไอออน/ซิงก์ออกไซด์ เตรียมจากซิงก์ออกไซด์ที่สังเคราะห์ให้มีขนาดและรูปร่างของซิงก์ออกไซด์ที่แตกต่างกัน ได้แก่ ทรงกลม รูปแท่ง และรูปร่างไม่สม่ำเสมอ โดยขนาดและรูปร่างของอนุภาคซิงก์ออกไซด์ส่งผลต่อการประกอบและจัดเรียงตัวของสายโซ่พอลิเมอร์ วัสดุเชิงประกอบระดับนาโนเมตรที่เตรียมจากซิงก์ออกไซด์ทรงกลมและรูปแท่งที่มีขนาดระดับนาโนเมตร เกิดการประกอบตัวได้เหมาะสม สามารถเกิดพอลิเมอไรเซชันได้ดี จึงได้ปริมาณผลิตภัณฑ์ที่สูงกว่าการใช้ซิงก์ออกไซด์รูปร่างไม่สม่ำเสมอและมีขนาดใหญ่ระดับไมโครเมตร วัสดุเชิงประกอบระดับนาโนเมตรพอลิไดแอเซทิลีน/ซิงก์ไอออน/ซิงก์ออกไซด์ ทั้งหมดเกิดการเปลี่ยนสีแบบผันกลับได้ต่ออุณหภูมิ และแสดงการตอบสนองโดยการเปลี่ยนสีต่อกรดและเบส
Computational fluid dynamics model of ethylene-butene copolymerization in fluidized bed reactor
Authors:   , Kreesaeng Suchart
Published: June 2024

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is a powerful tool for studying fluid phenomena in various systems. In this study, the focus is on developing a CFD model to investigate the copolymerization reaction in a fluidized bed reactor. The CFD model consists of two main parts: the hydrodynamic model and the polymerization model. The hydrodynamic model was used to analyze the particle segregation behavior within the system. The simulations revealed that the introduction of baffles into the reactor could reduce segregation. Particularly, inserting a baffle at a 45-degree angle in the middle of the reaction zone, and adding another baffle layer above the first one, proved to be the most effective approach in minimizing segregation behavior. On the other hand, the polymerization model is developed using the method of moments approach. This approach simplifies the mass balance equations for chain species, allowing for a more manageable set of equations. By coupling the hydrodynamic model with the polymerization model, it becomes possible to represent the copolymerization of ethylene and 1-butene. The CFD model provides insights into the copolymerization reaction by obtaining important parameters such as average molecular weight and polydispersity index. These parameters can be analyzed using statistical tools, leading to a better understanding of the copolymerization process in the fluidized bed reactor. Overall, the developed CFD model contributes to the knowledge and understanding of copolymerization reactions, and it serves as a valuable tool for optimizing reactor design and improving polymer product quality.
Isolation and characterization of methyl viologen-resistant synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 mutants
Authors:   , Leksingto Jidapa
Published: June 2024

Methyl viologen (MV) is a widely used herbicide that competes electrons from photosystem I and induces the formation of active radical species causing cellular oxidative stress in plants and photosynthetic cyanobacteria. However, the exact target molecule of methyl viologen in the cells has yet to be identified. This study aimed to identify the mutation(s) that lead to MV resistance in cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803. Synechocystis wild type was cultured for 30 days to reach the stationary-growth phase to allow the occurrence of spontaneous mutations in aged cells. Approximately 109 cells were spread on an agar medium containing high MV concentrations (10-40 µM), which could completely inhibit cell growth. After 30-40 days, spontaneous MV-resistant mutants up to 23, 176 and 2,936 colonies were obtained from agar plates containing 40, 20 and 10 µM of MV, respectively. MV-resistant mutations were subsequently identified in seven selected MV-resistant mutants using genome sequencing. Mutant A9 contained the stop codon gained mutation that disrupted the function of the cntO_1 gene encoding the TonB-dependent receptor involved in the transport of positively charged ions across the cell membrane. Thus, this TonB-dependent receptor might transport MV to the cell, and the disrupted function leads to MV resistance. Mutant C14 and C21 contained the frameshift mutation that abolished the function of the menH_2 gene encoding triacylglycerol lipase (enzyme generating diacylglycerol, the main component of cell membrane), suggesting that this gene disruption may affect MV import to the cells. Moreover, mutant A9, A11, B1, B14, C10, C14 and C21 contained one amino acid alteration (53Met-->Lys) in a small hypothetical protein (a 92-amino-acid protein product of the gene FMAMFGPO_01147) with an unknown function. Protein structure prediction showed that the structure of this hypothetical protein was significantly changed upon 53Met-->Lys substitution. Additionally, the mutations in genes associated with the biosynthesis of cell-membrane component, the biosynthesis of cell-wall peptidoglycan, the biofilm formation, and the antioxidant defense were found in the MV-resistant mutants A9, C14 and C21. In conclusion, the mechanisms of MV resistance found in this study is related to the alteration of MV transport and the modified composition of the cell membrane. This data provides basic information on spontaneous MV resistance in an aquatic photosynthetic microbe.
Surface-enhanced raman scattering technique for nanoplastics detection
Authors:   , Chaisrikhwun Boonphop
Published: June 2024

The size-dependent effect of nanoplastics (NPLs) restricts the quantification of NPLs by surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) technique. In this study, we successfully established an innovative preparation method to eliminate this effect. This developed SERS method allowed us to quantify 100-, 300-, 600-, and 800-nm polystyrene nanospheres (PSNSs) in diverse aqueous conditions at a low concentration. The SERS substrate was easily fabricated and used as NPLs signal enhancement with sputtering gold particles onto a glass cover slide. By preconcentrating and dissolving PSNSs in toluene, SERS technique can be successfully quantify NPLs at extremely low concentrations with a limit of detection (LOD) down to 0.12 µg/mL. Moreover, the SERS method was also performed in several media such as salts, sugars, amino acids, and detergents in order to investigate the interference effect. Moreover, the SERS method was effectively validated for quantitative analysis of a mixture of 100-, 300-, 600-, and 800-nm PSNSs in a ratio of 1:1:1:1 in real-world media (i.e., tap water, mineral water, and river water). Using our proposed method, the SERS technique successfully approaches the evaluation of PSNSs in the range of 10 to 40 µg/mL with a LOD of down to 0.32–0.52 µg/mL.
Theoretical study of lithium absorption in silicon nanostructures for application as anodes in lithium-ion batteries
Authors:   , Mulya Fadjar
Published: June 2024

The absorption and adsorption of lithium in silicon nanostructures: silicon quantum dots (SiQDs), silicon nanowires (SiNWs) and silicon nanopores (SiNPs) were studied using density functional theory (DFT) with M06-2X hybrid functional and 6-31G+(d) basis set. The tetrahedral sites, both Tdinner and Tdsurface, are the most preferred sites for lithiation due to their favorable binding energy profiles. For single lithium absorption and adsorption, SiQDs exhibit a binding energy of 1 eV, SiNWs demonstrate a binding energy of 1.28 eV, and SiNPs display a binding energy of 0.73 eV. Similarly, multiple lithium adsorptions yield binding energies of 1.12 eV for SiQDs, 1.21 eV for SiNWs, and 0.94 eV for SiNPs. The binding energy is altered more with the adsorption site, than with the cluster size. Molecular volume had been calculated to assess the volume expansion. A volume change of no greater than 2.51% was observed and it does not vary with the number of Li atoms, but depends on the absorption and adsorption sites. The energy gap of silicon nanostructures depends on the size (the larger being more conductive) and lithiation. Thus, large-sized silicon nanostructures are recommended for anode materials of Li-ion batteries, since the materials can yield high energy density and have small volume expansion with reasonable conductivity.