bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scattered Radiation Distribution Utilizing Three Different Cone Beam Computed Tomography Devices
Authors: Petsaros Sotirios , Chatzipetros Emmanouil , Donta Catherine , Karaiskos Pantelis , Boziari Αrgiro , Papadakis Evangelos , Angelopoulos Christos
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to estimate scattered radiation and its spatial distribution around three Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) devices, in order to determine relatively safe positions for an operator to stand if needed to be inside the CBCT room. The following devices were tested: Morita Accuitomo (CBCT1), Newtom Giano HR (CBCT2), Newtom VGi (CBCT3). Scattered radiation measurements were performed using different kVp, mA and Field of View (FOV) options. An anthropomorphic phantom (NATHANIA) was placed inside the x-ray gantry to simulate clinical conditions. Scattered measurements were taken with the ionization chamber Inovision model 451P Victoreen once placed at fixed distances from each irradiation isocenter, away from the primary beam. A statistically significant (p<0.001) difference was found in the mean value of the scattered radiation estimations between the CBCT devices. Scattered radiation was reduced with a different rate for each CBCT device as distance was increased. For CBCT1 the reduction was 0.047μGy, for the CBCT2 0.036 μGy and 0.079 μGy for CBCT3, for every one meter away from the x-ray gantry. Therefore, at certain distances from the central x-ray, the scattered radiation was below the critical 1mGy. Consequently, an operator could stay inside the room accompanying the patient being scanned, if necessary.
Sustainable Agricultural Practices for the Production of Aromatic and Medicinal Plants: Evidences and Recommendations
Authors: Hamdane Samia , Marcelino Sara , Gaspar Pedro Dinis , Paço Arminda
Published: July 2023

As the demand for aromatic and medicinal herbs increases, so does the pressure to intensify production, increasing the risk of overexploitation of these natural resources. Sustainability corresponds to the preservation of something that exists in the present and must be maintained in the future, implying accountability and obligation. However, in order to maintain the conditions and essential goods for the survival of future generations, consumers and businesses must commit to sustainable practices. The circular economy is considered one of the solutions to promote a sustainable system and can be defined as a transition from a linear model, where resources are transformed, used and discarded, to a circular (regenerative) model, where materials are reused whenever possible. An ecologically correct approach to waste reuse avoids the negative impacts associated with improper disposal of agro-industrial wastes, such as mass proliferation of microorganisms, production of greenhouse gases, loss of energy potential, and other negative impacts on the environment or human health. The objective of this study is to provide a compilation of good agricultural practices that promote sustainability in the production of medicinal and aromatic herbs, particularly in the areas of cultivation, harvesting, drying, extraction, and packaging, and to highlight the potential for evaluating processing residues in medicinal and aromatic herbs.
Voluntary Running Improves Behavioral and Structural Abnormalities in a Mouse Model of CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder
Authors: Mottolese Nicola , Uguagliati Beatrice , Tassinari Marianna , Cerchier Camilla Bruna , Loi Manuela , Candini Giulia , Rimondini Roberto , Medici Giorgio , Trazzi Stefania , Ciani Elisabetta
Published: July 2023

Cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5) deficiency disorder (CDD) is a rare neurodevelopmental disease caused by mutations in the X-linked CDKL5 gene. CDD is characterized by a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, including early-onset refractory epileptic seizures, intellectual disability, hypotonia, visual disturbances, and autism-like features. The Cdkl5 knockout (KO) mouse recapitulates several features of CDD, including autistic-like behavior, impaired learning and memory, and motor stereotypies. These behavioral alterations are accompanied by diminished neuronal maturation and survival, reduced dendritic branching and spine maturation, and marked microglia activation. There is currently no cure or effective treatment to ameliorate the symptoms of the disease. Aerobic exercise is known to exert multiple beneficial effects in the brain, not only by increasing neurogenesis, but also by improving motor and cognitive tasks. To date, no studies have analyzed the effect of physical exercise on the phenotype of a CDD mouse model. In view of the positive effects of voluntary running on the brain of mouse models of various human neurodevelopmental disorders, we sought to determine whether voluntary daily running, sustained over a month, could improve brain development and behavioral defects in Cdkl5 KO mice. Our study showed that long-term voluntary running improved hyperlocomotion and impulsivity behaviors, and memory performance of Cdkl5 KO mice. This is correlated with increased hippocampal neurogenesis, neuronal survival, spine maturation, and inhibition of microglia activation. These behavioral and structural improvements were associated with increased BDNF levels. Given the positive effects of BDNF on brain development and function, the present findings support the positive benefits of exercise as an adjuvant therapy for CDD.
Concavity of the Conditional Mle for Logit Panel Data Models with Imputed Covariates
Authors: Otieno Opeyo Peter , Cheng Weihu
Published: July 2023

In estimating logistic regression models, convergence of the maximization algorithm is critical, however, this may fail. Numerous bias correction methods for maximum likelihood estimates of the parameters have been conducted for cases of complete data sets and also longitudinal models. For binary response fixed effects panel data model, the conditional logit estimator is consistent for balanced data. When faced with missing covariates problem, researchers opt for various imputation techniques to make the data complete and without loss of generality consistent estimates still suffice asymptotically. For maximum likelihood estimates of the parameters for logistic regression in cases of imputed covariates, the optimal choice of an imputation technique which yields the best estimates with minimum variance is still elusive. The main aim of this paper is to examine the behaviour of the Hessian matrix with optimal values of the imputed covariates vector which will make the Newton-Raphson algorithm to converge faster through a reduced absolute value of the product of the score function and the inverse fisher information component. We focus on a method used to modify the conditional likelihood function through partitioning of the covariate matrix. We also confirm from the moduli of the Hessian matrices that the log likelihood of a panel data logistic model has a global maximum as the parameter estimates. Simulation results reveal that model based simulation perform better than classical imputation techniques yielding estimates with smaller bias and higher precision for the conditional maximum likelihood estimation of nonlinear panel models with single fixed effects.
Advancing Epidemiology and Genetic Approaches for the Treatment of Spinal and Bulbar Muscular Atrophy (SBMA): Focus on Prevalence in the Indigenous Population of Western Canada
Authors: Wilton-Clark Harry , Al-aghbari Ammar , Yang Jessica , Yokota Toshifumi
Published: July 2023

Spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA), also known as Kennedy’s disease, is a debilitating neuromuscular disease characterized by progressive muscular weakness and neuronal degeneration, affecting 1-2 individuals per 100,000 globally. While SBMA is relatively rare, recent studies have shown a significantly higher prevalence of the disease within the indigenous population of Western Canada compared to the general population. The disease is caused by a pathogenic expansion of polyglutamine residues in the androgen receptor protein, which acts as a key transcriptional regulator for numerous genes. SBMA has no cure, and current treatments are primarily supportive and focused on symptom management. Recently, a form of precision medicine known as antisense therapy has gained traction as a promising therapeutic option for numerous neuromuscular diseases. Antisense therapy uses small synthetic oligonucleotides to confer therapeutic benefit by acting on pathogenic mRNA molecules, serving to either degrade pathogenic mRNA transcripts or helping to modulate splicing. Recent studies have explored the suitability of antisense therapy for the treatment of SBMA, primarily focused on antisense-mediated mRNA knockdown approaches. Advancements in understanding the pathogenesis of SBMA and the development of targeted therapies offer hope for improved quality of life for individuals affected by this debilitating condition. Continued research is essential to optimize these genetic approaches, ensuring their safety and efficacy.
Open Questions about the Roles of DnaA, Related Proteins and Hyperstructure Dynamics in the Cell Cycle: a Cobblestone in the Pond?
Authors: Kohiyama Masamichi , Herrick John , Norris Vic
Published: July 2023

The DnaA protein has long been considered to play the key role in the initiation of chromosome replication in modern bacteria. Many questions about this role, however, remain unanswered. Here, we raise these questions within a framework based on the dynamics of hyperstructures alias large assemblies of molecules and macromolecules that perform a function. In this dynamics, hyperstructures can (1) emit and receive signals or (2) fuse and separate from one another. We ask whether the DnaA-based initiation hyperstructure acts as a logic gate receiving information from the membrane, the chromosome and metabolism to trigger replication; we try to phrase some of these questions in terms of DNA supercoiling, strand opening, glycolytic enzymes, SeqA, ribonucleotide reductase, the Macromolecular Synthesis operon, post-translational modifications and metabolic pools. Finally, we ask whether, underpinning the regulation of the cell cycle, there is a physico-chemical clock inherited from the first protocells, and whether this clock emits a single signal that triggers both chromosome replication and cell division.
Phenotypic Differences among Recently Diagnosed Drug-Naïve Patients with Parkinson’s Disease with or without SNCA Polymorphisms
Authors: Pérez-Lloret Santiago , Enet Alejandro , Chevalier Guenson , Bordet Sofia , Barbar Hanny , Capani Francisco , Udovin Lucas , Otero-Losada Matilde , Barrantes Francisco
Published: July 2023

Some studies show that patients with mutations in the SNCA gene, which codifies for the alpha-synuclein protein, show a particular phenotype. The effects of SNCA Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNPs) in recently diagnosed, drug-naïve patients with PD have been less explored. Therefore, we set out to explore the differences in the clinical characteristics of recently diagnosed drug-naïve sporadic PD patients with or without SNCA rs3910105 or rs356181 SNPs. Patients with a clinical diagnosis of PD in the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) database entered the study. We excluded those with missing data, dementia, psychiatric conditions, a diagnosis change over the first five years from the initial PD diagnosis, or with a familial history of PD. Subjects were evaluated with the MDS-Unified PD Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS), DAT imaging, the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), the SCOPA-AUT for autonomic function, the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), the RBD Questionnaire, and the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT). We included 308 PD patients fulfilling all inclusion and exclusion criteria. A logistic regression analysis and Machine-Learning models did not disclose any difference between patients either with or without the SNCA rs3910105 SNP or with or without the SNCA rs3910105 polymorphism. Our results suggest that the SNCA polymorphisms rs3910105 and rs356181 have no impact on the phenotype of idiopathic, sporadic, recently diagnosed, drug naïve PD patients.
Positioning System of Infrared Sensors Based on ZnO Thin Film
Authors: Tsai Chia-Yu , Lin Yan-Wen , Ku Hong Ming , Lee Chia-Yen
Published: July 2023

Infrared sensors incorporating suspended zinc oxide (ZnO) pyroelectric films and thermally-insulated silicon substrates are fabricated using conventional MEMS-based thin-film deposition, photolithography, and etching techniques. The responsivity of the pyroelectric film is improved through annealing at 500℃ for 4 h. The voltage response of the fabricated sensors is evaluated experimentally for a substrate thickness of 1 µm over a sensing range of 30 cm. The results show that the voltage signal varies as an inverse exponential function of the distance. A positioning system based on three infrared sensors is implemented in LabVIEW. It is shown that the position estimates obtained using the proposed system are in excellent agreement with the actual locations. In general, the results presented in this study provide a useful source of reference for the further development of MEMS-based pyroelectric infrared sensors.
IMPLEMENTASI PERLINDUNGAN HUKUM DALAM PEMBERIAN PELAYANAN SOSIAL LANSIA TERLANTAR BERDASARKAN UNDANG-UNDANG KESEJAHTERAAN LANSIA DI BALAI REHABILITASI SOSIAL LANSIA BUDHI DHARMA BEKASI
Authors: Nurazmimar Deyana Firdhausya
Published: July 2023

Artikel ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji dan menganalisis bentuk implementasi perlindungan hukum dalam pemberian pelayanan sosial berdasarkan Undang-Undang Kesejahteraan Lansia di Balai Rehabilitasi Sosial Lanjut Usia Budhi Dharma Bekasi. Metode yang digunakan adalah empiris atau nondoctrinal research yang bersifat deskriptif. Data sekunder yang digunakan berasal dari buku-buku, atau literatur hukum, peraturan perundang-undangan, dan data primer berasal dari wawancara serta observasi di lapangan. Hasil dari penelitian hukum ini menunjukan bahwa BRSLU Budhi Dharma Bekasi memberikan berbagai macam pelayanan sosial terhadap lansia terlantar secara optimal sesuai dengan Undang-Undang Kesejahteraan Lansia dalam mengupayakan peningkatan kesejahteraan lansia.
Total Hip Arthroplasty in Patients with Bilateral Upper-Limb Amelia
Authors: Gibian Joseph T. , Youngman Tyler R. , Clohisy John C.
Published: July 2023

Case:

We report two patients, a 43-year-old man and a 26-year-old woman, with bilateral absence of the upper extremity and severe hip osteoarthritis. The involved hip was the dominant extremity for both patients. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) was performed using a posterior approach with dual-mobility implants. Both patients report satisfactory outcomes including the ability to perform the significant range of motion required for daily activities such as toe-to-head motion.

Conclusion:

In patients with extreme range of motion requirements such as those affected with bilateral upper-limb amelia, a posterior THA with a dual-mobility implant may be safely and successfully performed to treat disabling hip osteoarthritis.
Incorporation of CEUS and SWE Parameters into a Multivariate Logistic Regression Model for the Differential Diagnosis of Benign and Malignant TI-RADS4 Thyroid Nodules
Authors: Li hong jing , sui guo qing , teng deng ke , lin yuan qiang , wang Hui
Published: July 2023

Purpose: To investigate the diagnostic value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) quantitative analysis parameters combined with shear wave elastography (SWE) quantitative parameters in the differentiation of benign and malignant ACR TI-RADS category 4 thyroid nodules and to provide a more effective reference for clinical work.
Methods: We analyzed 187 category 4 nodules, including 132 nodules in the development cohort and 55 nodules in the validation cohort, divided the development cohort into benign and malignant groups, and analyzed the differences in all CEUS and SWE quantitative parameters between the two groups. We selected the highest AUC of the two parameters, performed binary logistic regression analysis with the ACR TI-RADS score and constructed a diagnostic model. ROC curves were applied to evaluate their diagnostic efficacy.
Results: The diagnostic model had an AUC of 0.926, sensitivity of 87.5%, specificity of 86.8%, diagnostic threshold of 3, accuracy of 87.12%, positive predictive value of 86.15%, and negative predictive value of 88.06%. 2) The diagnostic model had an AUC of 0.890 in the validation cohort, sensitivity of 81.5%, specificity of 79.6%, and accuracy of 80.00%.
Conclusion: The combined multiparameter construction of the nodule diagnostic model can effectively improve the diagnostic efficacy of 4 types of thyroid nodules and provide a new reference index for clinical diagnostic work.
Efficacy of aqueous Aegle marmelos leaf extract for the control of Megacopta cribraria
Authors: Modak Moutushi , Begum Rubina Azmeera , Saikia Santana , Naorem Anjana Singha
Published: July 2023

Megacopta cribraria (F.), a pest of concern worldwide, has been extensively studied for control using synthetic pesticides. However, this study focuses on the efficacy of a plant-based extract derived from A. marmelos leaves. The ovicidal potential of crude A. marmelos leaf extract was tested at five concentrations (1.25%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10%), resulting in a maximum of 30% ovicidal action at the 10% concentration. The extract also exhibited deterrence activity against adult bugs. At all concentrations, significant deterrence was observed in terms of time spent on the treated surface and the frequency of visits. Bug activity decreased with increasing concentrations, spending only 2.5% of time on the treated surface at 10% concentration. Bug preference for the treated surface also decreased with concentration, with only 14% of visits on the treated surface at 10% concentration. This deterrence activity was supported by frequent grooming and avoidance behavior exhibited by the bugs, helping them cleanse their body receptors. The study concludes that A. marmelos shows potential as a biopesticide for controlling M. cribraria populations globally. These findings emphasize the need for eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic pesticides for effective pest control.
Phytochemical Analysis of Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus Spp.) and Carica Papaya Stems
Authors: Bassiag Sarrah Kirstine R. , Aguinaldo Kate R. , Singson Zanaya Adaline , Guzman Rodel
Published: July 2023

Recent research has unveiled the potential therapeutic effects of plants, emphasizing their significance in medicinal applications. Numerous studies have indicated that certain plants harbor bioactive compounds, rendering them suitable for medicinal purposes. In this particular study, the researchers focused on Carica papaya and dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.) with the aim of identifying the present bioactive compounds present in their stems and evaluating their potential therapeutic effects. To determine the presence of certain bioactive compounds, the researchers conducted a preliminary phytochemical screening method based on established protocols by Cagayan State University-Andrews. Mayer's test was used to detect alkaloids, the alkaline reagent test for anthocyanins, Shinoda's test for flavonoids, the Ferric chloride test for phenols, the Froth test for saponins, Guevara’s Method for steroids, the Lead acetate test for tannins, and the Salwoski test for terpenoids. The results revealed that both Carica papaya and dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.) contained similar bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, phenols, saponins, steroids, and tannins. However, dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.) possessed an additional bioactive compound, namely terpenoids, which provided it with a comparative advantage over Carica papaya. Additionally, the researchers conducted a literature review on the therapeutic effects associated with the identified bioactive compounds. In the case of Carica papaya, its metabolites were found to contribute to various therapeutic effects, such as antiplatelet, anesthetic, antifungal, antiviral, anabolic, cholesterol-lowering, antidiabetic, analgesic, anthelmintic, anticarcinogen, antimutagenic, styptic, astringent, antiadhesive, antimicrobial, anticancer, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Similarly, dragon fruit exhibited therapeutic effects, including antiplatelet, anesthetic, antifungal, antiviral, anabolic, cholesterol-lowering, antidiabetic, anthelmintic, anticarcinogen, antimutagenic, styptic, astringent, antiadhesive, antihyperglycemic, antiparasitic, anticancer, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties. Overall, both Carica papaya and dragon fruit stems demonstrated potential therapeutic effects on human health, with dragon fruit exhibiting a slight advantage due to the presence of terpenoids. This study suggests that these plants hold promise for the development of natural medicines. However, further research is warranted to comprehensively understand the effects of the identified bioactive compounds on human health.
The Loch Ness Monster: If It’s Real, Could It Be an Eel? (Preprint)
Authors: Foxon Floe
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have estimated the size, mass, and population of hypothetical unknown animals in a large oligotrophic freshwater loch in Scotland based on biomass and other observational considerations. The “eel hypothesis” proposes that the anthrozoological phenomenon at Loch Ness can be explained in part by observations of large specimens of European eel (Anguilla anguilla), as these animals are most compatible with morphological, behavioral, and environmental considerations.

OBJECTIVE

This study expands upon the “eel hypothesis” and related literature by estimating the probability of observing eels at least as large as have been proposed, using catch data from Loch Ness and other freshwater bodies in Europe.

METHODS

Skew normal and generalized extreme value distributions were fitted to eel body length distributions to estimate cumulative distribution functions from which probabilities were obtained.

RESULTS

The chances of finding a large eel in Loch Ness are around 1 in 50,000 for a 1-meter specimen, which is reasonable given the loch’s fish stock and suggests some sightings of smaller unknown animals may be accounted for by large eels. However, the probability of finding a specimen upward of 6 meters is essentially zero; therefore, eels probably do not account for sightings of larger animals.

CONCLUSIONS

The existence of exceedingly large eels in the loch is not likely based on purely statistical considerations. (Reviewed by the Plan P #PeerRef Community).
Testing a Culturally Tailored Advance Care Planning Intervention (MY WAY) for an American Indian Tribe: Protocol for a Quasi-Experimental Waitlist Control Design (Preprint)
Authors: Anderson Elizabeth , Goins R Turner , Haozous Emily A , Schweinhart April
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

American Indian and Alaska Native peoples experience poor end-of-life care, including more hospitalizations and lower use of hospice and do-not-resuscitate orders. Although advance care planning (ACP) can improve end-of-life care, ACP rates are disproportionately low in American Indians and Alaska Natives.

OBJECTIVE

We culturally tailored and delivered an existing evidence-based ACP program for an American Indian tribal community. Here, we present the protocol for assessing the intervention’s feasibility and efficacy.

METHODS

We measured feasibility via participant recruitment, participants’ evaluation (acceptability, appropriateness, comprehension, and satisfaction), and intervention fidelity. Recruitment was measured with participant screening, eligibility, enrollment, and retention. Participant’s evaluation of the intervention was measured with surveys. Fidelity was measured with direct observation and the Make Your Wishes About You (MY WAY) Fidelity Checklist Tool. To assess the intervention’s efficacy, we used a quasi-experimental waitlist control design with 2 cohorts who were surveyed each on three separate occasions. The intervention’s efficacy was assessed by the following: ACP barriers and facilitators as well as ACP self-efficacy, readiness, and completion.

RESULTS

A total of 166 participants were screened for eligibility; 11 were deemed ineligible, and 155 participants were enrolled in the study. Of those enrolled, 113 completed the intervention and will be included in subsequent analyses. We finalized data collection in January 2023, and analyses are underway. Study enrollment was successful, and we expect that participants will report high levels of acceptability, appropriateness, comprehension, and satisfaction with the intervention. We expect that the intervention was implemented with fidelity and will demonstrate decreases in ACP barriers and increases in ACP facilitators, self-efficacy, readiness, and completion.

CONCLUSIONS

Enrolling over twice as many participants as we had hoped suggests that members of this tribal community are willing to engage in end-of-life ACP. We were able to implement a waitlist study design to show that a culturally tailored ACP program for a tribal community is feasible.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05304117; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05304117

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/50654
Evaluation of Staining Propensity of Silver Diamine Fluoride With and Without Potassium Iodide in Children (Project Healthy Smiles): Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Navaneethan Praveena , Mohammed Imran Pasha , Shenoy Rekha P , Junaid Junaid , Amanna Supriya , Alsughier Zeyad , Kolarkodi Shaul Hameed
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is becoming more widely recognized as a simple, cost-effective approach to minimize sensitivity and arrest caries. However, SDF results in caries that are stained black. Potassium iodide (KI) treatment with SDF may minimize or lessen the staining. However, the effectiveness of KI on staining has not been investigated. Studies demonstrating that potassium iodide reduces the black staining are still insufficient. This paper presents the study protocol for Healthy Smiles, a randomized controlled trial implemented to compare the staining propensity of SDF and SDF+KI.

OBJECTIVE

This study, Healthy Smiles, aims to evaluate the staining propensity of SDF and SDF+KI using a Nix Mini color sensor among children aged 4 to 6 years. Another objective of the study is to evaluate the caries-arresting effect of SDF and SDF+KI in the treatment of carious primary teeth.

METHODS

This study is a randomized controlled trial. A total of 60 children with caries that meet the criteria of the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (code 1 or above) will be randomly assigned to treatment groups, where group 1 will be treated with SDF and group 2 will be treated with SDF+KI. Discoloration of treated lesions will be assessed digitally using a Nix Mini color sensor. Participants will be followed up at 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment to digitally record the ∆L and ∆E values using the Nix Mini color sensor. Data will be analyzed using SPSS (version 28; IBM Corp). Independent sample t tests and the Mann-Whitney U test will be used to compare the 2 groups.

RESULTS

Enrollment started in October 2023. It is estimated that the enrollment period will be 12 months. Data collection is planned to be completed in 2024.

CONCLUSIONS

The presented paper describes Happy Smiles, a project that provides an opportunity to address the aesthetic inconvenience of patients without compromising the effectiveness of the SDF treatment. The trial findings will contribute to the limited evidence base related to discoloration after SDF intervention to improve aesthetic appearances in child oral health. If the results from the trial are promising, it will lead to the development of a model for child oral health and pave the way for further research in child oral health.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

PRR1-10.2196/51087
The Impact of Corporate Governance on Intellectual Capital. Empirical Evidence from Romanian Companies
Authors: ACHIM Monica Violeta , RUS Alexandra Ioana Daniela , LUCUȚ CAPRAȘ Isabella
Published: July 2023

This study aims to analyse the effects of corporate governance on the intellectual capital of companies. The sample is composed of 64 companies listed on the Bucharest Stock Exchange in the time span 2016-2021. The data were collected from companies' annual reports and from Thomson Reuters database. In this way, we investigated the relationship between corporate governance, measured as the compliance with the Bucharest Stock Exchange Code of Corporate Governance, and intellectual capital, measured by two different methods: Economic Value Added (EVA) and Value Added Intellectual Coefficient (VAIC). The results showed that there is a positive and statistically significant relationship between intellectual capital and corporate governance. The main results of our study indicate that there is a positive and statistically significant relationship between corporate governance and intellectual capital in all the cases. Furthermore, all the control variables, namely total assets, employee number, and leverage, show positive and statistically significant results. It has been found that intellectual capital and good corporate governance practices can contribute to the wealth creation of firms. Strategic planning, organisation, transparency, and accountability are the cornerstones of a good corporate governance system. These elements improve the quality of the internal control and risk management processes and increase investors’ and other stakeholders' trust. The importance of intellectual capital has been acknowledged by companies as a vital component of their competitive advantage. The outcomes of the present study can be used by policymakers in order to increase the efficiency of companies and to determine the need to invest in human capital.
Solitary metastasis to the skull as the first sign of hepatocellular carcinoma in a patient in long-term remission
Authors: Bernstein Zachary , Adamson David Cory
Published: July 2023

Background:

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignant tumor with a 5-year survival rate of 10%, presenting with extrahepatic metastases in 15–17% of patients. HCC-bone metastases represent approximately one-quarter of all HCC metastases, most frequently in the spine, pelvis, ribs, or femur. HCC-skull metastases, however, make up 0.4–1.6% of all HCC- bone metastases. Furthermore, solitary HCC-skull metastasis without known active primary HCC is an unusual presentation warranting further review and consideration.

Case Description:

Here, the authors report a unique case of a solitary HCC-skull metastasis in a patient without known active cancer but in long-term remission for HCC. The patient is a 69-year-old male with past HCC who presented with a nontender skull mass. A computed tomography scan showed a heterogeneously enhancing mass centered in the high left parietal bone with intracranial extension. There was a noted mass effect on the left posterior frontoparietal region without worrisome midline shift. Pathology ultimately revealed the mass to be metastatic HCC. To aid in the understanding and clinical management of this rare presentation, we reviewed the literature regarding clinical presentation, radiological features, pathology, and outcome.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, early detection of the primary source of cancer is pivotal to successful treatment and prognosis, and skull lesions such as these must include HCC in the differential diagnosis.
A MODEL OF A COMPREHENSIVE SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM OF STRATIFICATION CONFLICTS OF YOUNGER ADOLESCENTS IN THE EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Суханова И.В.
Published: July 2023

Рассматривается проблема стратификационных конфликтов школьников, которая представляет собой риск психологической безопасности в образовательной среде. Обозначаются признаки эмоционального неблагополучия ребенка, которые возникают и проявляются по причине стратификации. Предложены меры преодоления рисков социального неравенства в школьном окружении. Представлена модель комплексного решения проблемы стратификационных конфликтов младших подростков, которая предполагает психолого-социально-педагогическое взаимодействие субъектов образовательного процесса для сохранения психологической безопасности образовательной среды.

This article deals with the problem of stratification conflicts of schoolchildren, which is a risk of psychological security in the educational environment. The signs of emotional distress of the child, which arise and manifest themselves due to stratification, are indicated. Measures to overcome the risks of social inequality in the school environment are proposed. A model of a comprehensive solution to the problem of stratification conflicts of younger adolescents is presented, which assumes psychological, socio-pedagogical interaction of subjects of the educational process to preserve the psychological safety of the educational environment.
Caracterización de cepas bacterianas resistentes a antibióticos provenientes de aislamientos de áreas críticas de un hospital de Guayaquil
Authors: Farfán-Cano Galo Guillermo , Farfán-Cano Stanley Guillermo , Farfán-Cano Harold Reynaldo , Silva-Rojas Glen Andrés
Published: July 2023

Introducción: existe una abundante evidencia acerca del incremento de la resistencia a antibióticos como un problema de salud mundial, la cual tiene un impacto importante en los pacientes hospitalizados y los sistemas sanitarios. Materiales y Métodos: el presente es un estudio exploratorio, retrospectivo, a partir de la base de datos de WHONET de un hospital de la ciudad de Guayaquil, que tiene por objeto el registro de los microorganismos detectados con resistencia a antimicrobianos. En el presente no se incluyó microorganismos con resistencia a meticilina o vancomicina, solo se incluyó resistencia a cefalosporinas de 3ra y 4ta generación, cepas productoras de carbapenemasas, cepas KPC, multidrogorresistentes y resistentes a colistina. Resultados: dentro de los patrones de resistencia analizados la resistencia a cefalosporinas de 3ª y 4ª generación alcanzo 68%, seguido de producción de carbapenemasas 17%. Conclusiones: la resistencia a antibióticos es un problema en auge que requiere de mayor investigación en los diferentes países, para implementar estudios que permitan a efectuar intervenciones en distintos sectores, con la finalidad de disminuir la resistencia, fomentar programas de uso racional de antimicrobianos, y disminuir los costos derivados de la atención sanitaria.
MENINGKATKAN KRETAIFITAS DAN MOTIVASI BELAJAR SISWA DENGAN MODEL PEMBELAJARAN DISCOVERY LEARNING
Authors: Yuliani Nunung
Published: July 2023

Model discovery learning baik digunakan dalam pembelajaran untuk menilai sikap kerjasama peserta didik. Karena model ini memaksa untuk mencari informasi yang ditugaskan oleh guru. Dengan bekerjasama, peserta didik dapat bertukar fikiran dan menemukan penemuan-penemuan baru. Sehingga memudahkan peserta didik mengingat pembelajaran, dan memperoleh hasil belajar yang sesuai dengan harapan. Dapat disimpulkan bahwa metode discovery learning atau penemuan dapat meningkatkan minat dan motivasi peserta didik dan dapat lebih mudah dipahami serta simulasi yang dilakukan guru dan peserta didik memudahkan dalam penyampaian materi dan tujuan pembelajaran sehingga dapat meningkatkan kemampuan peserta didik
Peningkatan Keterampilan Dasar Tehnik Instruksional–Applied Approach (PEKERTI-AA)
Authors: Suprianto Suprianto
Published: July 2023

Program Peningkatan Keterampilan Dasar Tehnik Instruksional – Applied Approach ( PEKERTI-AA ) sebagai salah satu bukti para peserta mampu dan memahami materi. Materi diharapkan dapat dijadikan sebagai acuan dalam usaha memperbaiki Sistem Pembelajan bidang studi Kimia Organik di Institut Kesehatan Helvetia Medan. Semoga dapat berguna bagi kita semua
Extraction of Essential Oils from Citrus By-Products Using Microwave Steam Distillation
Authors: Shakir Ibtehal K. , Salih Sarah J.
Published: July 2023

The main objectives of this research is to extract essential oil from: orange ( citrus sinensis), lemon( citrus limon) and mandarin( citrus reticulata) peels by two methods: steam distillation (SD) and microwave assisted steam distillation (MASD), study the effect of extraction conditions (weight of the sample, extraction time, and microwave power, citrus peel type) on oil yield and compare the results of the two methods, the resulting essential oil was analyzed by Gas Chromatography (GC).

   Essential oils are highly concentrated substances used for their flavor and therapeutic or odoriferous properties, in a wide selection of products such as foods, medicines and cosmetics. Extraction of essential oil is one of the most time and effort consuming process. Microwave-assisted extraction is a green technique for the extraction of natural products. (MASD) was better than (SD) in terms of rapidity, energy saving and yield. (MASD) gave higher yield than (SD) with shorter extraction time, yield of orange oil extracted by (MASD) was (1.150%) in (35min.) compared to (1.095%) in (45min.) by (SD) process, same results obtained for lemon and mandarin.

   The optimal microwave power was (135W) gave oil yield: (1.150%, 1.115%, 0.940%) for orange, lemon and mandarin respectively, (MASD) increased extraction temperature in short time and to a higher level compared to (SD). The optimal weight was (398.56gm) gave yield in (SD): (1.095%) and MASD (1.091%) for orange oil, same results obtained for lemon and mandarin. The best citrus peel type which gave the highest yield was orange followed by lemon then mandarin in both processes.

Limonene is the most abundant component in citrus essential oil, (GC) analysis showed that (SD) was more convenient to give high amount of limonene because of the graduate temperature rise, while in microwave extraction exposure to low microwave
Pengaruh Hidroterapi Air Hangat Dengan Pemberian ekstrak kulit Pepaya (Carica Papaya) Terhadap Perubahan Tekanan Darah Pada Lansia Dengan Hipertensi
Authors: Ayu Firsty , Pertiwi Citra
Published: July 2023

Hipertensi pada lansia di Kota Bukittinggi masih tinggi, puskesmas Guguk Panjang dengan jumlah lansia resiko tinggi sebanyak 3610 kasus dari 7 puskesmas di Kota Bukittinggi. Terapi hipertensi bisa dengan cara farmakologi dan non farmakologi. Salah satu terapi non farmakologi untuk pelaksanaan hipertensi adalah hidroterapi ekstrak pepaya (Carica Papaya) yang bermanfaat untuk penurunan tekanan darah pada pasien hipertensi. Desain penelitian ini adalah quasi eksperimen dengan rancangan Two Group pre-test post-test, populasi pada penelitian ini adalah lansia dengan hipertensi yang berada di Wilayah Kerja Puskesmas Guguk Panjang KotaBukittinggi. Pengambilan sampel menggunakan teknik purposive sampling sehingga didapat sampel sebanyak 20 orang. Pengumpulan data menggunakan lembar observasi dan analisis data meliputi analisis univariat dan analisis bivariat menggunakan uji Wilcoxon. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan tekanan darah systole dan diastole mengalami penurunan signifikan. yang berarti ada pengaruh hidroterapi ekstrak kulit pepaya terhadap penurunan tekanan darah pada lansia di Puskesmas Guguk Panjang Kota Bukittinggi Tahun 2018. Dapat disimpulkan bahwa hidroterapi ekstrak kulit kulit papaya mempunyai pengaruh dalam menurunkan tekanan darah pada lansia. Untuk itu disarankan kepada keluarga yang memiliki lansia dengan penderita hipertensi untuk melakukan hidroterapi ekstrak kulit papaya selama 15 menit pada pagi dan sore hari sampai tekanan darah dinyatakan normal
PEMBELAJARAN ADAB DALAM ISLAM MELALUI PENGENALAN DESAIN KARAKTER UNTUK ANAK
Authors: Kartika Vira Tri , Synakarya Masnuna , Synakarya Mahimma Romadhona
Published: July 2023

Courtesy which is the norm that applies to religious life. The problem of courtesy is still widely felt in Indonesia, especially in behavior that is also against the law. An example of courtesy learning is on the science of hadith and prayer which contains knowledge about rules in life. The frequent occurrence of criminal cases and moral crises are still a serious problem in Indonesia. These symptoms make courtesy education highly recommended for early childhood education. Children with narrow insights about courtesy will find it difficult to live well. Courtesy learning can be conveyed through interesting learning such as the depiction of a character to make it easier for children to cultivate imagination. Making character designs is one way for this courtesy learning to be maximally conveyed. Through some research such as interviews and observations, designers will form an interesting character which of course can be easily accepted by children. With this character design, it can foster children's enthusiasm for learning, especially towards learning courtesy.
Concurrent influence of geological parameters on the integrated nano-pore structure and discretized pore families of the petroliferous Cambay shale assessed through multivariate dependence measure
Authors: Bal Abinash , Misra Santanu , Mukherjee Manab , Dutta Tapas Kumar , Sen Debasis , Patra Abhijit , Raja Elangovan
Published: July 2023

Heterogeneous nanopore structure and distribution regulate the gas trapping, desorption kinetics, and diffusion in shale matrices. In shale, pores range from continuous micro- and mesopore size distributions, varying with organic (total organic matter-TOC) and inorganic constituents (clay content, Fe-bearing minerals, quartz, etc.). Previous research only showed a linear relationship of pore parameters with these intrinsic properties of shale, which limits our understanding of the concurrent influence of multiple intrinsic rock properties. As a result, in this work, we established multivariate dependency of nanopore structure, distribution, and complexity (from low-pressure N2 and CO2 sorption and small-angle scattering; SAXS/MSANS) in the previously little-studied Cambay shales and provided a better tool (partial least square regression) for analyzing the simultaneous effect of intrinsic shale properties on multiply connected pore-parameters. Furthermore, we discretized continuous pore-size distribution into individual pore families using deconvolution to understand the pore space better. Additionally, predicted shale formation environment in terms of deposition probability (P+) and dissolution probability (P−) using a dynamic model of the fractal interface by precipitation and dissolution. Our findings indicate that the Cambay shales have a high potential for future hydrocarbon exploration (S2: 2.42–12.04 mg HC/g rock), “very good” (2-4 wt.%) to “excellent” (>4 wt.%) TOC content, and thermally mature type II–III admixed and type III kerogen. Deconvolution of the micro- and mesopore size distributions reveals that pore width (w) ranges ∼15.30–35 nm occupies greater than 50% of the total pore volume, and its pore volume increases with the presence of quartz, Fe-bearing minerals, and clay content. However, pores with w∼ 3.60–15.30 nm increase exclusively with TOC. In the micro- and early mesopore region, pore volume decreases with TOC from w∼ 0.30–0.75 nm and increases with TOC from w∼ 0.75–3.60 nm. Furthermore, TOC in shale increases the specific surface area and pore volume (micro-, meso-, and total pores), enhancing both sorption and free gas storage capacities. Cambay shales were likely deposited in three distinct environments, with precipitation probability (P+) values of 1, 0.7–0.8, and 0.5, as revealed by a fractal dimension (Ds) analysis of multiple samples.
Remote sensing and environmental assessment of wetland ecological degradation in the Small Sanjiang Plain, Northeast China
Authors: Sun Yuxin , Wu Genghong , Mao Mingjiang , Duan Xuanyu , Hu Jihan , Zhang Yangyang , Xie Yidan , Qiu Xincai , Gong Wenfeng , Liu Tao , Liu Tiedong
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The plain marsh wetland ecosystems are sensitive to changes in the natural environment and the intensity of human activities. The Sanjiang Plain is China’s largest area of concentrated marsh wetland, the Small Sanjiang Plain is the most important component of the Sanjiang Plain. However, with the acceleration of the urbanization and development of large-scale agricultural reclamation activities in the Small Sanjiang Plain in Northeast China, the wetland has been seriously damaged. In light of this degradation this study examines the Small Sanjiang Plain.

Methods

From the four aspects of area, structure, function, and human activities, we try to construct a wetland degradation comprehensive index (WDCI) in cold region with expert scoring methods and analytic hierarchy process (AHP), coupled with network and administrative unit. The objective was to reveal the degradation of wetlands in Northeast China over three decades at a regional scale.

Results

The results showed that (1) the overall wetland area decreased between 1990 and 2020 by 39.26×103 hm2. Within this period a significant decrease of 336.56×103 hm2 occurred between 1990 and 200 and a significant increase of 214.62×103 hm2 occurred between 2010 and 2020. (2) In terms of structural changes, the fractal dimension (FRAC) has the same trend as the Landscape Fragmentation Index (LFI) with little change. (3) In terms of functional changes, the average above-ground biomass (AGB) increased from 1029.73 kg/hm2 to 1405.38 kg/hm2 between 1990 and 2020 in the study area. (4) In terms of human activities, the average human disturbance was 0.52, 0.46, 0.57 and 0.53 in 1990, 2000, 2010 and 2020, with the highest in 2010. (5) The composite wetland degradation index shows that the most severe wetland degradation was 49.61% in 2010 occurred between 1990 and 2020. (6) Among the severely deteriorated trajectory types in 2010–2020, mild degradation → serious degradation accounted for the largest area of 240.23×103 hm2, and the significant improvement trajectory type in 1990–2000 accounted for the largest area of 238.50×103 hm2.

Discussion

In brief, we conclude that the degradation of the Small Sanjiang Plain wetland was caused mainly by construction, overgrazing, deforestation, and farmland reclamation. This study can also provide new views for monitoring and managing wetland degradation by remote sensing in cold regions.
Beyond CPAP: modifying upper airway output for the treatment of OSA
Authors: Gruenberg Eli , Cooper Jessica , Zamora Tania , Stepnowsky Carl , Vahabzadeh-Hagh Andrew M. , Malhotra Atul , Nokes Brandon
Published: July 2023

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is exceedingly common but often under-treated. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) has long been considered the gold standard of OSA therapy. Limitations to CPAP therapy include adherence and availability. The 2021 global CPAP shortage highlighted the need to tailor patient treatments beyond CPAP alone. Common CPAP alternative approaches include positional therapy, mandibular advancement devices, and upper airway surgery. Upper airway training consists of a variety of therapies, including exercise regimens, external neuromuscular electrical stimulation, and woodwind instruments. More invasive approaches include hypoglossal nerve stimulation devices. This review will focus on the approaches for modifying upper airway muscle behavior as a therapeutic modality in OSA.