bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating gender in medical curriculum of Bangladesh: exploring perceptions, prospects and challenges
Authors: Haseen Fariha , Khanam Mosammat Ivylata , Sharmin Sabrina , Mahindra Katia , Hasan Sanjida , Tabassum Fariba , Akhter Sharlin , Mahmud Sakib , Chowdhury Ayesha Afroz , Ahmed Abu Momtaz Saaduddin , Khan Md. Saidur Rahman , Rahman AGM Mashuqur , Mahmud Mohd. Shahadt Hossain , Islam Syed Shariful
Published: April 2022

Background
Gender is an important biological, behavioral, societal and cultural factor influencing affecting health and health care utilization. In medical education, gender tends to be less prioritized and limiting gender sensitivity among medical professionals leading to compromised and substandard health care. Our study aims to investigate the gender perceptions among medical students and practitioners identifying possibilities and challenges in better integrating gender into medical curriculum.
Method
Quantitative data were collected from 249 respondents (151 medical students, 33 service providers and 65 service recipients) by using structured questionnaires. Descriptive and univariate analysis were conducted to assess socio-demographic characteristics and gender perceptions of participants respectively. To determine the relations of mean perception score with socio-demographic variables, we used one-way ANOVA tests. Finally, we performed multivariate linear regression to determine socio-demographic variables predicting perceptions of respondents towards gender. SPSS version 25 was used for analysis. For qualitative data 16 key informants (6 administrative staffs, 2 policy makers and 8 teaching staffs) were interviewed. The interviews were analyzed manually using thematic analysis procedure.
Result
Mean score of perception on ‘gender’ among medical students and medical professionals were 10.29 (SD = 2.70) with 52% positive perception and 9.94 (SD = 2.98) with 50% positive perception out of 20 respectively. Significantly greater perception was found among female compared to male. Mean perception score was found significantly higher among respondents aged 20–25 years and students studying in Government medical college. In terms of opinion regarding gender integration in medical or dental curriculum, maximum respondents (91%) thought that inclusion may initiate gender sensitive attitude and respectful behavior and 85% respondents thought people’s health care rights will be ensured. Regarding challenges of integrating greater gender content in medical curriculum, majority service providers (42%) said there are no challenges, but 70% of students responded that due to the huge syllabus, it may create an extra burden to students. The majority of respondents recommended to start reviewing curriculum by a review board (91%) and to develop an intention module (85%). Qualitative findings supported the quantitative results.
Conclusion
An early sensitization on gender among medical personnel and it’s influence on health care system could contribute in ensuring gender equitable health services and achieving SDGs.
IVUS guided versus OCT guided PCI among patients presenting with Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Abdelmonaem Mostafa , Abushouk Abdelrahman , Arafa Sherif , Aboulenein Hisham , Bendary Ahmed
Published: April 2022

Purpose
We aimed to compare the procedural and short-term outcomes between IVUS guided and OCT guided percutaneous coronary interventions in patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome (ACS).
Methods
In the present retrospective study, we reviewed the data of 50 patients who had IVUS-guided PCI and 50 patients who had OCT-guided PCI for ACS between January 2021 and June 2021. Intravascular imaging was done before and after stenting. Both groups were compared in terms of minimal luminal area (MLA), stent dimensions, final minimal stent area (MSA) and stent expansion as well as negative angiographic outcomes. Patients were followed for six months to record MACE.
Results
The mean age of analyzed patients was 57 ± 13 years with male predominance (78%). The radiation time and dose were significantly higher among IVUS group. Pre-stenting MLA was significantly higher in IVUS group (2.63mm vs 2.22 mm in OCT, P = 0.013). Stent expansion was significantly higher among OCT group (97% vs 93% in IVUS group, P = 0.001) with no significant difference between both groups regarding MSA [mm2] (8.88 ± 2.87 in IVUS vs 8.1 ± 2.76 in OCT, P = 0.169). No significant difference between both groups was noted regarding contrast volume, edge dissection and no reflow. The rates of six-months MACE were significantly higher in the IVUS group.
Conclusion
OCT-guided PCI in ACS is safe and associated with similar MSA to that of IVUS-guided PCI.
The association of serum immunoglobulin and complement levels and liver fibrosis and inflammation stage in patients with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Lian Mingjian , Chen Shidong , Wang Qianming , Yang Yuanyuan , Hong Guolin
Published: April 2022

Background: The utility of serum immunoglobulin and complement in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients remains controversial. The study aimed to investigate the association of serum immunoglobulin and complement levels and liver fibrosis and inflammation stage in CHB patients.Methods: A total of 720 patients with CHB who underwent liver biopsy were enrolled. Serum immunoglobulin and complement were measured before liver biopsy. And liver pathological results were recorded. Associations of serum immunoglobulin and complement levels and liver fibrosis and inflammation stage were analyzed.Results:C3, C4, IgG and IgG1 had statistical difference among different fibrosis groups and among different inflammation groups, whereas IgM and IgA had no statistical difference. Also, both C3 and C4 negatively correlated with fibrosis stage and inflammation stage. And both IgG and IgG1 positively correlated with fibrosis stage and inflammation stage. The area under curve (AUC) of IgG and IgG1for predicting fibrosis stage≥S2, ≥S3 and ≥S4 were 0.601 (95%CI: 0.556-0.647) and 0.647 (95%CI: 0.585-0.710), 0.615 (95%CI: 0.568-0.661) and 0.645 (95%CI: 0.570-0.719), and 0.657 (95%CI: 0.578-0.736) and 0.773 (95%CI: 0.656-0.890), respectively. The AUC of IgG and IgG1for predicting liver inflammation stage≥G2, ≥G3 and ≥G4 were 0.625 (95%CI: 0.567-0.682) and 0.658 (95%CI: 0.577-0.739), 0.628 (95%CI: 0.587-0.670) and 0.710 (95%CI: 0.651-0.769) and 0.659 (95%CI: 0.582-0.736) and 0.692 (95%CI: 0.538-0.847), respectively. Conclusion: C3, C4, IgG and IgG1 were correlated with liver fibrosis and inflammation stage in CHB patients. IgG and IgG1 had diagnostic value for liver fibrosis and inflammation.
Ileocecal duplication in children: A single-center experience of 115 cases
Authors: Yan Jiayu , Lei Waiun , Yan Jun , Ding Cailin , Liu Tingting , Chen Yajun
Published: April 2022

Purpose To evaluate the clinical features, surgical management, and prognosis of ileocecal duplication in children.Methods A total of 115 patients diagnosed with ileocecal duplication at Beijing Children’s Hospital between January 2010 and June 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Ileocecal duplications were divided into ileal extraluminal (n = 24), ileal intraluminal (n = 41), ileocecal valve (n = 11), cecal extraluminal (n = 3), and cecal intraluminal (n = 18) types according to their locations.Results Mean age at diagnosis was 9.5 (0.1-169.2) months. Intussusception was only observed preoperatively in patients with the ileal intraluminal (8/41), ileocecal valve (4/11), and cecal intraluminal (7/18) types (P=0.004). Ileocecal resection and ileocolostomy, and cyst excision were performed in 41 (35.7%) and 74 (64.3%) patients, respectively. The proportions of cyst excision performed in patients with different types were 91.7% (22/24), 78.0% (32/41), 27.3% (3/11), 100.0% (3/3), and 27.8% (5/18) (P＜0.001). Mean time of oral intake and hospital stay after surgery were significantly shorter in patients undergoing cyst excision (P=0.003; P＜0.001). There were no significant differences in the complications, growth, and stool frequency (older than 4 years) between patients undergoing different surgical procedures. Regarding the stool consistency (older than 4 years), there was a lower proportion of dry stool in patients undergoing cyst excision (P=0.008).Conclusions Ileocecal duplications at specific locations are prone to intussusception and can influence the surgical procedure choice. At mid-term follow-up, the children’s growth and defecation patterns do not seem to be affected by ileocecal resection.
Experimentally-induced Endophthalmitis in a rabbit model with Staphylococcus epidermidis of two different virulence profiles
Authors: Samudio Margarita , Abente Sonia , Villalba Vanesa , Penniecook Jason , González Emilio , Correa Fátima , Schinini Alicia , Figueredo Susy , Duré Carolina , Laspina Florentina , Nentwich Martin , de Kaspar Herminia Mino
Published: April 2022

Purpose: To investigate the association between S. epidermidis virulence and severity of endophthalmitis in an animal model. Methodology: New Zealand albino rabbits were inoculated with 100 colony forming units (CFU) of S. epidermidis strains with different antibiotic-resistance and biofilm-producing profiles (virulent [Group 1] and no-virulent [Group 2] group). The virulent group comprised seven rabbits in total. Four rabbits were inoculated with a multi antibiotic resistant and mec A, ica and atlE genes carriers S. epidermidis isolated from the conjunctiva of patients undergoing cataract surgery, and three rabbits with S. epidermidis ATCC 35984 (biofilm-forming and antibiotic multi-resistance strain). In the non-virulent group (n = 8), five rabbits were inoculated with a strain sensitive to all tested antibiotics and non-carrier of the mec A, ica and atlE genes isolated from a patient, and three with S. epidermidis ATCC 29122 strain (none biofilm producer). Clinical and ultrasound examinations were performed in all animals every three hours until a sign of endophthalmitis was evident. The clinical course was evaluated every 24 hours thereafter. Fifteen days post inoculation the eyes were enucleated for histologic evaluations.Results: Rabbits inoculated with the less virulent strains showed less severe inflammation and damage to intraocular structures compared to those inoculated with more virulent strains by both clinical and ultrasound evaluation. However histopathologic results showed similar degree of inflammation 15 days after inoculation. Conclusions: S. epidermidis was able to induce endophthalmitis in all animals regardless of their virulence profile. While less virulent strains caused less severe inflammation and assessed clinically and by ultrasound examination, long-term effects in histopathologic evaluations were comparable with the more virulent strain.
Dispersion and Stability Mechanism of Pt Nanoparticles on Transition-Metal Oxides
Authors: Jeong Eun-Suk , Hwang In-Hui , Han Sang-Wook
Published: April 2022

The heterogeneous catalysts of Pt/transition-metal oxides are typically synthesized through calcination at 500℃, and Pt nanoparticles are uniformly and highly dispersed when hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is applied before calcination. The influence of H2O2 on the dispersion and the stability of Pt nanoparticles on titania-incorporated fumed silica (Pt/Ti-FS) supports was examined using x-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) measurements at the Pt L3- and Ti K-edges as well as density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The local structural and chemical properties around Pt and Ti atoms of Pt/Ti-FS with and without H2O2 treatment were monitored using in-situ XAFS during heating from room temperature to 500℃. XAFS revealed that the Pt nanoparticles of H2O2-Pt/Ti-FS are highly stable and that the Ti atoms of H2O2-Pt/Ti-FS support form into a distorted-anatase TiO2. DFT calculations showed that Pt atoms bond more stably to oxidized-TiO2 surfaces than they do to bare- and reduced-TiO2 surfaces. XAFS measurements and DFT calculations clarified that the presence of extra oxygen atoms due to the H2O2 treatment plays a critical role in the strong bonding of Pt atoms to TiO2 surfaces.
Verbascoside induces the cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of breast cancer via suppression of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway
Authors: Ou Yuying , Zhang Ye , Zhu Xinbing , Zhu Demiao
Published: April 2022

Despite the continuous progression in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer, the prognosis of breast cancer patients is still not optimistic. Verbascoside (VER), a pharmacologically active extract of Cistanche is proved possessing anti-cancer activities. Our study was aimed to investigate the anti-proliferation activities of VER and to explore the underlying mechanism in breast cancer MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. Our work evidenced that the anti-proliferation activity of VER in breast cancer cells may associate with cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. VER treatment dose-dependently altered the expression of cell cycle and apoptosis related proteins. CyclinB1, Cdc2, Bcl-2 and surviving were decreased, while cleaved PARP1, BAX, and cleaved caspase3/9 were increased. Mechanistically, VER suppressed the activity of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Our experimental data suggests that VER might be an effective and low toxicity drug against breast cancer.
Feasibility and Effects of Mobile Videoconference-based Parent- Implemented Early Start Denver Model Intervention for Early Autism
Authors: Kim Hye Hyeon , Choi Ki Won , Choi Ye Jin , Park So Young
Published: April 2022

Parent-implemented Early Start Denver Model (P-ESDM) is an evidence-based early intervention model for toddlers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We investigated the effectiveness of a low-intensity, mobile videoconferencing-based P-ESDM intervention, for 20 parents and their toddler with ASD. They were evaluated at baseline and after 3 months of intervention. We conducted stratified subgroup analysis based on participants’ characteristics and evaluated feasibility using parent questionnaires. Significant improvement was found in parental acquisition of ESDM intervention skills. However, there were no significant differences in any variables between baseline and after intervention. Stratified subgroup analysis based on ASD severity indicated significant effects on parent-child interaction among parents in the high ASD severity group. Stratified subgroup analysis based on personal health record (PHR) access frequency indicated significant effects on toddler's problem behaviour and parent’s stress among high PHR access frequency group. We observed promising feasibility outcomes for P-ESDM intervention through videoconferencing.
A genome-wide association study of longitudinal change in CSF tau among non-demented elders
Authors: Liu Ying-Bei , Chen Jing , Yang Chen-Li , Wang Ling , Li Hai-Yan , Gu De-An , Yu Xiao-Long , Liang Jue-yin , Sun Li , Zhong Xiao-ling
Published: April 2022

Tau is a microtubule-binding protein that is critical to the organization and stabilization of microtubules physiologically. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) total tau (t-tau) and CSF phosphorylated tau (p-tau) have been recommended as diagnostic biomarkers for AD according to the 2018 National Institute on Aging and Alzheimer’s Association (NIA-AA) research framework. We performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of longitudinal change in CSF t-tau among 317 non-demented elders from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) cohort in non-Hispanic Caucasians. We employed the linear regression model to identify novel variants associated with longitudinal change of t-tau in CSF. One single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) (rs17149074) in the region of C9orf171 (CFAP77) gene was found to reach genome-wide significance associated with longitudinal change of CSF t-tau. Five SNPs (rs10916844, rs10916846, rs9425869, rs3744474, rs8078303) were identified as potential candidate loci associated with longitudinal change of CSF t-tau. Validation of the identified loci in larger samples and various races was needed in future research.
Evaluation Nitrotyrosine and Nitric Oxide Levels in the Blood of Acute Mercury Intoxication
Authors: Arik Elif , Gungor Olcay , Temiz Fatih , Tepe Murat , Kurutas Ergul Belge , Dilber Cengiz
Published: April 2022

Background: Several mechanisms shown in present data for identify the mercuric chloride’s biologocal toxicity, and oxidative stress is one of those mechanisms. Some studies showed mercury have some effects on human body. Such as; bind to sulfhidril groups which on proteins, expose the reactive oxygen molecules and lead to formation of free oxygen radicals. Superoxide radical can lead to peroxidation of lipid membrans, changes in activities of proteins and antioxidant enzymes and gene transcription. The nitrotirozyne formed by conjoint of peroxinitrit and tirozyne residues of proteins and it can be used as a marker for evaluate potential cytotoxic effects of NO (Nitric Oxide). Although animal experiments carried out to date, there was no human series about mercury poisoning and effects of this toxicity on nitrotirozyne and NO in the literature as we evaluated in our study. With this purpose, we planned the identify nitrotirozyne and NO levels in serums of children who exposured to mercury.Methods: 65 children who exposure mercury in school’s laboratory from Gaziantep and Kahramanmaraş were included in the study. Those children had> 10 μg/l blood-mercury levels and >15 μg/l urine- mercury levels. 23 children who refer out pediatric clinic for another reasons enrolled in the study as control group. Results: NO and nitrotirozyne levels found higher in mercury exposed children compared the control group. Conclusıon: Markers of oxidative stress such as NO and nitrotirozyne increase at the acute mercury intoxication.
Immunoglobulin-producing AT2-like cells secrete IgA into the extracellular matrix in pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Chao Jie , Chen Mengling , Wang Jing , Yuan Mengqin , Long Min , Wang Sha , Luo Wei , Huang Jie , Cheng Yusi , Zhang Wei , Jiang Wei
Published: April 2022

Pulmonary fibrosis is an interstitial lung disease that can be caused by various factors, such as exposure to workplace environmental factors, drugs or X-rays1–3. As one driving factor of pulmonary fibrosis, epithelial cells can proliferate and secrete many kinds of cytokines to affect fibroblasts, although the molecular mechanism is unclear4. IgA, traditionally thought to be secreted by B cells5, can activate fibroblasts6. Here, we first observed extensive IgA deposition in the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the lungs of mice with pulmonary fibrosis induced by silica inhalation. Consistent with this phenomenon, spatial transcriptomic sequencing of fresh mouse lung tissues from control mice and model mice showed that Igha transcripts were highly expressed in the lesion area. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) of whole mouse lung tissue from the control group and model group and reconstruction of B cell receptor (BCR) sequences revealed a new cluster of cells with a shared BCR and high expression of genes related to immunoglobulin IgA production. Surprisingly, these clonal cells had more characteristics of AT2 (alveolar epithelial cell type 2) cells than B cells, such as Sftpc, Sftpa1, and Sftpb; thus, these cells were named AT2-like cells. Therefore, we propose that secretion of IgA into the ECM by AT2-like cells is an important process that occurs during lung fibrosis. In fact, IgA has been reported to promote lung fibrosis by acting on fibroblasts6. Our research suggests that IgA levels can be used as a diagnostic tool for this type of lung fibrosis with IgA deposition. Targeted blockade of lung epithelial cell secretion of IgA may be a potential approach for treating pulmonary fibrosis.
Management accounting practices and organizational performance
Authors: Kumar Dahal Rewan
Published: April 2022

Management accounting practices (MAPs) are crucial for manufacturing firms to control diverse organizational operations and improve their organizational performance. The study aimed to analyze the scope of MAPs and their association with the organizational performance of Nepalese manufacturing firms. The outcomes relied on primary data obtained through structured survey from 223 medium to top-level employees of the selected companies. It was found that traditional management accounting practices had greater dominance (β = 0.817, p = 0.000) in the package of MAPs than contemporary management accounting practices (β = 0.707, p = 0.000) in Nepalese manufacturing firms. The extent of use of contemporary management accounting practices was marginally greater (mean = 3.757) than traditional management accounting practices (mean = 3.563). The analysis also disclosed no association of MAPs with organizational performance of Nepalese manufacturing firms. Though the study had a moderately small sample size from the manufacturing industry, future studies may examine the association between MAPs and organizational performance by taking samples of the manufacturing and service industry to ensure comparability and generalizations. The study endeavored to advance management accounting literature by presenting pragmatic evidence on the association of MAPs with organizational performance in the Nepalese scenario.
SAÚDE E DROGAS NO ENSINO DE CIÊNCIAS, CRIANDO UM PROBLEMA NO SUL DA COLÔMBIA
Authors: Ariza Vera Laura Lucía , Perdomo Trujillo Julián Camilo , Mosquera Jonathan Andrés , Amórtegui Cedeño Elías Francisco
Published: April 2022

Atualmente, o nível de reconhecimento e percepção que os jovens têm sobre questões de saúde responsáveis ​​é baixo. Por isso, na adolescência, os aspectos relacionados à saúde não são considerados essenciais. Essa concepção na população jovem leva, desde tenra idade, a se expor a riscos e problemas de saúde relacionados ao consumo e ingestão de várias substâncias. Entre essa diversidade de substâncias, existem drogas (depressores, estimulantes e alucinógenos) e alimentos que são ingeridos sem levar em consideração as consequências de seu consumo e às vezes causam danos ao organismo. Assim, a Educação em Saúde é um tema emergente na educação e sua conexão com a sala de aula de ciências contribui significativamente para o desenvolvimento de pensamento crítico e atitudes saudáveis. Desta forma, é apresentado um estudo documental, cujo objetivo é reconhecer as construções teóricas em torno da dimensão dos vícios e da educação científica. Para isso, foram revisadas 23 referências acadêmicas, incluindo teses de graduação e pós-graduação, compiladas em revistas indexadas, bancos de dados e repositórios bibliográficos. A sistematização foi realizada com o Resumo Analítico Educacional - RAE e, a partir disso, foi construída uma matriz de revisão. Entre os achados mais relevantes, destaca-se o agrupamento do material revisado em três categorias discursivas: Droga na Sala de Aula de Ciências Usa de Substâncias Psicoativas e Educação em Saúde - Drogas. Assim, são reconhecidas diretrizes metodológicas voltadas à prevenção do consumo de drogas, ou seja, posições de natureza biológica e clínica. Pelo contrário, os registros que incluem o assunto na sala de aula de maneira formal são poucos, devido a emoções como apatia e desinteresse no corpo docente e à tendência de pensar nos vícios como uma questão de psicologia.
Effect of Electrochemically Activated Water on the Quality Indicators of Dough and Wheat Flour Products
Authors: Pogorelov Alexander , Panait Artem , Kuznetsov Alexander , Molchanova Elena , Suvorov Oleg , Ipatova Larisa
Published: April 2022

Electrochemically activated water has a high physicochemical and biological activity. It interacts with food ingredients and affects the baking process in a different way than untreated water. The research objective was to study the effect of the anodic and cathodic fractions of electrochemically activated water on the quality indicators of wheat flour, dough, and bread.

The study featured electrochemically activated water fractions, wheat flour, yeast, dough, and wheat bread. It employed standard physicochemical and organoleptic methods of analysis to study the redox potential and pH of electrochemically activated water during relaxation.

The indicators returned to the initial level, but they changed significantly after 72 h. The experiment included the quantity and quality of gluten, extensibility and hydration, water-retaining capacity of flour, yeast fermentation, titratable acidity, dough fermentation rate, and the quality of finished products. The anolyte did not change the quality of gluten but decreased its amount by 2.0–3.7%, probably due to a weaker protein hydration. As for the effect of catholyte on the quality of gluten, the bonds between proteins became stronger in weak as the measurement of gluten deformation index decreased by 11.3%; they relaxed in stronger as the measurement of gluten deformation index increased by 20%. Catholyte increased the water-retaining capacity of weak flour by 11.7% and that of resistant gluten – by 5.3%. It also activated yeast cells. The samples of bread cooked on catholyte had a greater specific volume by 3.7–5.4% and porosity – by 2.3–4.6%, compared to the samples cooked on anolyte. The research also included a comparative analysis of the shape of the hearth bread samples. It confirmed that the catholyte strengthened the dough when the flour was weak and relaxed it when resistant gluten was used.

The research revealed some patterns regarding the effect of electrochemically activated water fractions on the amount and properties of gluten, water-retaining capacity of flour, yeast activity, and bread quality indicators. The results can be used to correct the properties of dough from low-quality flour, as well as for reagent-free control of the properties and behavior of

food and biological raw materials.
Effect of Dry Maturation Time and the Curing Composition on Proteins in High Quality Beef
Authors: Gurinovich Galina , Patrakova Irina , Khrenov Vladislav
Published: April 2022

Meat quality largely depends on the maturation conditions and natural biochemical processes that affect its taste, aroma, tenderness, and technological properties. Dry maturation and technological processing attract a lot of scientific attention. The research objective was to study the effect of dry maturation time on the physicochemical parameters of high-quality beef, as well as the effect of a new curing mix on the properties of raw materials.

The research featured dorsal-lumbar cuts of high-quality beef on maturation days 21 and 40. Matured meat was tested for the main components, the solubility of sarcoplasmic and myofibrillar proteins, the hydrophobicity of myofibrillar proteins, protein oxidation products, and the activity of catalase and peroxidase. The chemical composition was evaluated depending on the dry maturation time using the arbitration method. The solubility of proteins was determined by the calorimetric method with a biuret reagent. The hydrophobicity of myofibrillar proteins was determined by bromophenol blue reaction, and the activity of catalase and peroxidase was determined by standard methods. Proteins were extracted with potassium phosphate buffer (pH 7.2), while myofibrillar proteins were extracted with Tris-HCl and KCl buffers at pH 7.5 and 7.0.

The meat samples were deboned and salted using sodium chloride and a combined mix of 70% magnesium chloride and 30% sodium chloride. The solubility of myofibrillar proteins on day 21 increased by 23.95% but decreased by 14.1% by day 40. The solubility of sarcoplasmic proteins decreased continuously (22.10 and 31.12%, respectively). The obtained data matched the hydrophobicity of proteins. Dry maturation initiated protein oxidation, as demonstrated by carbonyl and sulfhydryl groups of myofibrillar proteins on maturation day 40 (27.85 nmol/L and 27.3 µmol/g of protein, respectively). Sodium chloride and its mix increased the extractability of proteins by 5.2 and 6.9% on day 21 and by 6.8 and 10.6% on day 40 but triggered protein oxidation.

Muscle proteins of high-quality beef proved functional after 21 days of dry maturation. The new mix with reduced sodium content can be recommended for high-quality dry-aged beef production.
State-Funded Housing for Orphaned Children: Normative Provision of Transfer of State Powers to Local Authorities
Authors: Nikolaeva Kseniya
Published: April 2022

As they come of age, orphaned children have the right for state-funded housing. Unfortunately, the procedure still remains a complicated legal issue, and graduates of orphanages spent years in the accommodation waiting list. In this regard, the constituent entities of the Russian Federation are striving to increase the effectiveness of regional policy, but the number of orphans in need of housing is increasing. In most regions, state authorities transfer their powers to provide housing for orphans to local authorities. The research objective was to analyze the normative security of this transfer and to identify the problems that prevent orphans from obtaining housing. The institutional approach served as basis for a comparative legal analysis of related regulatory documents and practices. The legal and organizational problems of registering orphans in need of housing include the shortcomings of legal support and municipal services. The article introduces a list of inconsistencies found in federal, regional, and municipal legal acts. It also contains some recommendations on how to improve the regional legislation on the transfer in question.
Urban Conflict Actors and Their Strategies
Authors: Sokolov Aleksandr , Abramovskiy Il'ya
Published: April 2022

The present research featured the concept of conflict. The authors defined and classified urban conflicts, as well as the strategies chosen by their main actors, i.e. state and municipal authorities, business structures, and urban communities. The article introduces three cases of urban conflicts that happened in the Yaroslavl region in 2020–2021 and were triggered by such events as the transport reform, the "We Decide Together!" public vote, and the new master plan for the historical town of Pereslavl-Zalessky. The analysis focused on the main actors, i.e. their interaction, interests, strategies, patterns of action, key methods, and tools. The authors particularly stressed the importance of protests and digital tools. The analysis revealed two main strategies of urban conflicts: administrative-legal and informational-organizational. The dialogue between the conflict parties proved to be the most effective strategy. The article also contains some recommendations, e.g. collective appeals, information campaigns, etc.
A pilot-scale anaerobic moving-bed biofilm reactor with PVA gel beads as media for the treatment of fish canning industry wastewater
Authors: Jirasaranporn Akarawin , Jantharadej Krittayapong , Wongwailikhit Kritchart , Chawengkijwanich Chamorn , Lohwatcharin Jenyuk , Suwannasilp Benjaporn Boonchayaanant
Published: April 2022

This research aims to investigate the performance of a pilot-scale anaerobic moving-bed biofilm reactor (AnMBBR) using PVA gels as media for the treatment of real wastewater from a fish canning factory. The chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiencies at different organic loading rates (OLRs) were investigated at 3.0, 4.3, 6.5, and 8.7 kg COD/m3day by adjusting the flow rates to 350, 500, 750 and 1,000 L/d, respectively. The soluble COD removal efficiencies of the system at flow rates of 350, 500, 750, and 1,000 L/d were 81.0 ± 12.4%, 76.8 ± 8.2%, 74.7 ± 6.2%, and 70.6 ± 12.4%, respectively. According to the residence time distribution (RTD) tests at the highest and lowest flow rates, the mean residence times of both flow rates were significantly higher than the theoretical residence time, indicating very strong external recirculation inside the AnMBBR. The results suggest a 3-pass flow pattern through the AnMBBR. From 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing (MiSeq, Illumina) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, Methanosaeta, acetoclastic methanogens, were the predominant microorganisms in the system. Most of the microorganisms were located within a 1.994 ± 0.266 mm depth from the PVA gel surface, with two distinct layers.
Cognitive impairment in patients with atrial fibrillation and arterial hypertension
Authors: Kovaleva A.Ya. , Lukinov V.L. , Lifshits G.I.
Published: April 2022

Aim. To study the influence of atrial fibrillation on the severity of cognitive impairment in patients with arterial hypertension.Methods. The study included 25 patients with atrial fibrillation and arterial hypertension, the control group of 25 patients with arterial hypertension, but without cardiac arrhythmias. All patients underwent general clinical and instrumental examination of the cardiovascular system. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment test was used to assess memory and attention, the degree of mastering visual-constructive skills, abstract thinking and speech.Results. Cognitive functions in patients with atrial fibrillation were significantly worse than in patients in the control group (testing to assess indicators: 22.7 ± 3.2 and 25.6 ± 2.2 points, respectively, p < 0.001). Cognitive indicators such as memory, speech and abstract thinking are most severely affected in patients with arrhythmia.Conclusion. Atrial fibrillation creates conditions for the development of cognitive deficits. Cerebral hypoperfusion, the occurrence of "silent" cerebral infarctions and hypercoagulation are important pathogenetic factors of cognitive impairment in patients with atrial fibrillation.
Received 29 July 2021. Revised 11 September 2021. Accepted 20 September 2021.
Funding: The research was carried out within the state assignment of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences (No. 121031300045-2).
Conflict of interest: Authors declare no conflict of interest.
Contribution of the authors: The authors contributed equally to this article.
Enhancing low cost camera laparoscopic system based on embedded systems
Authors: Bdaiwi Noor Ibrahim , AI-Dhhan Ziad Tarik
Published: April 2022

A laparoscopic camera is a device used to view internal organs in the abdomen when a laparoscopic camera is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen.We use an embedded system to develop a low-cost laparoscopic camera and refine and evaluate the whole system. Small size production using various parameters to evaluate the usefulness of a portable, low-cost, camera-less laparoscopic simulator for training laparoscopy in abdominal surgery and the inexpensively of hospital environment constraints. Characterization of Raspberry Pi Embedded Compact system with perfect camera and image processing system. Design and compact, low-cost laparoscopic camera system and performance evaluation by hospital staff.
Interaction Empowerment in Mobile Health: Concepts, Challenges, and Perspectives
Authors: Hamberger Marietta , Ikonomi Nensi , Schwab Julian D , Werle Silke D , Fürstberger Axel , Kestler Angelika MR , Holderried Martin , Kaisers Udo X , Steger Florian , Kestler Hans A
Published: April 2022

In its most trending interpretation, empowerment in health care is implemented as a patient-centered approach. In the same sense, many mobile health (mHealth) apps are being developed with a primary focus on the individual user. The integration of mHealth apps into the health care system has the potential to counteract existing challenges, including incomplete or nonstandardized medical data and lack of communication, especially in the intersectional context (eg, patients, medical forces). However, concerns about data security and privacy, regional differences in regulations, lack of accessibility, and nontransparent apps hinder the successful integration of mHealth into the health care system. One approach to address this is to rethink the interpretation of empowerment. On that basis, we here examine existing approaches of individual empowerment and subsequently analyze a different view of empowerment in digital health, namely interaction empowerment. Such a change of perspective could positively influence intersectoral communication and facilitate secure data and knowledge sharing. We discuss this novel viewpoint on empowerment, focusing on more efficient integration and development of mHealth approaches. A renewed interpretation of empowerment could thus buffer current limitations of individual empowerment while also advancing digitization of the health system.
The Dispersion of Health Information–Seeking Behavior and Health Literacy in a State in the Southern United States: Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Rao Nikita , Tighe Elizabeth L , Feinberg Iris
Published: April 2022

Background

The transmission of health information from in-person communication to web-based sources has changed over time. Patients can find, understand, and use their health information without meeting a health care provider and are able to participate more in their health care management. In recent years, the internet has emerged as the primary source of health information, although clinical providers remain the most credible source. The ease of access, anonymity, and busy schedules may be motivating factors to seek health information on the web. Social media has surfaced as a popular source of health information, as it can provide news in real time. The increase in the breadth and depth of health information available on the web has also led to a plethora of misinformation, and individuals are often unable to discern facts from fiction. Competencies in health literacy (HL) can help individuals better understand health information and enhance patient decision-making, as adequate HL is a precursor to positive health information–seeking behaviors (HISBs). Several factors such as age, sex, and socioeconomic status are known to moderate the association between HL and HISBs.

Objective

In this study, we aimed to examine the relationship between HL and HISBs in individuals living in a southern state in the United States by considering different demographic factors.

Methods

Participants aged ≥18 years were recruited using Qualtrics Research Services and stratified to match the statewide demographic characteristics of race and age. Demographics and source and frequency of health information were collected. The Health Literacy Questionnaire was used to collect self-reported HL experiences. SPSS (version 27; IBM Corp) was used for the analysis.

Results

A total of 520 participants met the criteria and completed the survey (mean age 36.3, SD 12.79 years). The internet was cited as the most used source of health information (mean 2.41, SD 0.93). Females are more likely to seek health information from physicians than males (r=0.121; P=.006). Older individuals are less likely to seek health information from the internet (r=−0.108; P=.02), social media (r=−0.225; P<.001), and friends (r=−0.090; P=.045) than younger individuals. Cluster analysis demonstrated that individuals with higher levels of HISBs were more likely to seek information from multiple sources than those with lower levels of HISBs (mean range 3.05-4.09, SD range 0.57-0.66; P<.001).

Conclusions

Age and sex are significantly associated with HISB. Older adults may benefit from web-based resources to monitor their health conditions. Higher levels of HL are significantly associated with greater HISB. Targeted strategies to improve HISB among individuals with lower levels of HL may improve their access, understanding, and use of health information.
Experience of Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery Clinics patients with teledermatology amidst the Coronavirus Disease-19 lockdown: Cross-sectional survey (Preprint)
Authors: Infante Caridad , Jueng Jeremy , Su Ashley , Harding Tanner , Maner Brittany , Eubanks Stephen , Solomon James
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND

Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery (ADCS) is a practice with over 4.7 million dermatology patients, 350 providers, and 140 offices nationwide. During the coronavirus disease-19 lockdown all but 16 offices were closed, and the electronic medical record was integrated with video teledermatology.

OBJECTIVE

Although the pandemic has allowed for the exploration and enhancement of these services, robust studies of teledermatology are warranted to ensure optimal delivery of high-quality care while minimizing COVID-19 exposure. The purpose of this study is to identify determine the current knowledge of, utilization of, and sentiment about teledermatology in patients that have recently had the opportunity to use some modality to have a virtual encounter. Other aims include to explore the factors that deter patients from using teledermatology during and after the COVID-19 lockdown, and to elucidate the advantages and limitations that need to be addressed moving forward.

METHODS

An anonymous internet-based survey was distributed to adult ADCS Clinics patients who signed consent to accept email communication via Qualtrics. Based on patient participation in teledermatology, the survey had up to 62 questions that evaluated patient utilization and sentiment of the various technologies involved in teledermatology visits both during and after the COVID-19 lockdown.

RESULTS

The mean general satisfaction rating with teledermatology was 7.48 during and 7.92 after the lockdown, with 10 being very satisfied. Patients were somewhat satisfied with several aspects of teledermatology including convenience, simplicity, how well the concern was addressed, security, follow-up, and photo transmission. Patient satisfaction with how well their concern was addressed and with the security of their data was significantly greater after the lockdown compared to during, which was determined using an independent samples t-test with statistical significance at p < 0.05. Most patients utilized live video interaction both during and after the pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, patients are satisfied with teledermatology and believe that it improves the provision of health services. The factors addressed can continue to be enhanced to facilitate optimal service delivery while minimizing COVID-19 exposure.
Digital technologies in cancer care: a review from the clinician's perspective
Authors: Briggs Logan G , Labban Muhieddine , Alkhatib Khalid , Nguyen David-Dan , Cole Alexander P , Trinh Quoc-Dien
Published: April 2022

Physicians are increasingly utilizing digital health technologies (DHT) such as smartphone applications, network-enabled wearable devices, web-based communication platforms, videoconferencing, chatbots, artificial intelligence and virtual reality to improve access to, and quality of, care. DHT aid in cancer screening, patient education, shared decision-making, promotion of positive health habits, symptom monitoring and intervention, patient–provider communication, provision of psychological support and delivery of effective survivorship care. This narrative review outlines how physicians may utilize digital health to improve or augment their delivery of cancer care. For the full potential of DHT to be realized, experts must develop appropriate solutions to issues surrounding the regulation, liability, quality, security, equity and reimbursement of DHT.
Design and methods of a tailored approach for diabetes prevention in women with previous gestational diabetes
Authors: Pike Julie M , Yazel Lisa G , Haberlin-Pittz Kathryn M , Machuca Luz A , McKinney Brett M , Hannon Tamara S
Published: April 2022

Aim:
To describe the design and methods of an intervention that engaged women with previous gestational diabetes mellitus in a tailored approach for diabetes prevention.
Methods:
Women participated in biometric tests for BMI and hemoglobin A1c, psychosocial questionnaires and an informed decision-making process to select a lifestyle change program for Type 2 diabetes prevention based on their needs and priorities. Measure time points were at baseline, 6 months and 12 months.
Results:
The authors recruited 116 women. The outcomes of this study will evaluate the effect of this strategy on participant engagement in lifestyle change programs for Type 2 diabetes prevention.
Conclusion:
This paper describes a variety of lifestyle change programs and an informed decision-making process for tailoring diabetes prevention programs for a high-risk population.
A Research on Customer Service Quality and Customer Satisfaction of Organized Apparel Sector: a Case of Pantaloons, Kolkata
Authors: Sarma Grahadish , Chakraborty Sumit
Published: April 2022

Abstract: Customer loyalty and C.S(Customer Satisfaction) have a proven relationship with supply chain, procurement. Availability of various services at store adds incentives to the customers of how they feel about a particular retail outlet. Product mix and range with intensive market survey and promotional stunts are necessary to tap customers’ reluctance towards buying. Physical appearance and employee behavior are also directly incident to how customers perceive how good or effective a retail outlet is. Pantaloons, an Aditya Birla Group flagship entity have marked its prominence in the recent years; thanks to the brilliance in promotions, store operations, etc. It is needless to mention that a certain class of the consumer Diaspora has found their buying sentiments and product match overtly at Pantaloons. An industry which has been on and off chartered by big players like Future Group is hard to penetrate and create market space. Keywords: C.S, Products, Service, Customer Loyalty
Skin Cancer Detection and Classification using GUI and Deep Neural Network
Authors: Hamid Afsha , Saini Dr. Satish
Published: April 2022

Abstract: Due to the good diversity in the pattern of lesion, classification of skin disease by photographs is tough. Deep networks (CNNs) have always shown promise in a variety of quite ok item categorization for a wide range of applications with significant variability. [6–11]. We illustrate how to categorise skin lesions using just pixels and disease labels as inputs, using a single CNN that was trained end-to-end from pictures. Early detection Malignant and other types of skin carcinoma focal cell carcinoma is crucial and can help prevent the progression of numerous forms of skin cancer. Regardless, there are several variables that reduce the accuracy of detection. In recent years, the usage in especially in the medical uses of image recognition and object recognition has skyrocketed. Based on previous clinical imaging data, we employed Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) to detect and categorise cancer groups in this study. Some of our study objectives include developing a CNN model to detect skin cancer with an accuracy of >80%, keeping the false negative rate in the prediction below 10%, achieving a precision of >80%, and visualising our data. The suggested technique outperforms the other options under consideration, according to simulation results. Keywords: CNN, Skin Cancers, Lesions, Fine grained.
Finding Feature Selection for Business Dataset using PCA on Big Data Environment using Spark
Authors: Tiwari Shubham , Bhansali Rohit , Kumar Gagan , D K Chandrashekar
Published: April 2022

Abstract: Business is important in development of any country as it contributes into the country’s GDP. India has 29% of GDP and 28% of employment. Its nominal output ranks 16th in the world and the service industry ranks 15th. This project is example of business process improvement or re-engineering. The proposed project applies machine learning concepts and determines the appropriate change in tread for any business firm. Using Principle Component Analysis as a dimensionality reduction technique we have reduced number of feature to minimum. This feature reduction technique helps the model to execute efficiently and provide better results. Index terms: Big Data, Spark, PCA, machine learning and data visualization.