bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of hot air assisted radio frequency drying on physicochemical properties of indica-japonica hybrid rice
Authors: Yifei Dong , Zhu Lin , Lin Xudong , Li hong , Ling Jiangang G.
Published: May 2023

The study was aimed at investigating the effects of hot air assisted radio frequency drying (HA-RFD) on physicochemical properties and aromatic components of indica-japonica hybrid rice. Electrode gap of 9.5 cm and HA temperature of 50 ℃ were determined to the optimal drying conditions for HA-RFD. The results indicated that HA-RFD reduced the drying time by 40% compared to hot air drying (HAD). In addition, HA-RF dried-samples showed significantly higher color, vigor, taste value and less fatty acid value compared to HA dried-ones. While total sulfhydryl content of before and after drying had no significant difference. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) analysis revealed that HA-RFD had no effect on the protein profile of rice. Changes in volatile components of rice in before and after drying were characterized by GC-IMS, results showed that the content of aldehyde and ester aromatic compounds increased after drying and the content of most volatile components in HA-RF-dried rice was slightly higher than HA dried-samples. Thus, the inference drawn was that HA-RFD technology may be an innovative alternative to existing drying methods such as microwave, HA and other drying technologies.
Simultaneous measurements of surface spanwise waves and velocity in a turbulent boundary layer
Authors: Fumarola Isabella , Santer Matthew , Morrison Jonathan
Published: May 2023

Among the different passive and active techniques for skin friction drag reduction for turbulent boundary layers, near wall forcing through moving walls is one of the most promising techniques at low Reτ. Fewer studies have looked at the mechanism at high Reτ, closer to flight conditions, largerly because, in this regime, numerical simulations become harder and experiments more challenging. To that end, there is the need of a systematic study for different surface waves and flow conditions. A new model using a kagome lattice is presented. It will be tested in the 10x5 wind tunnel at Reτ ≈ 8000. This work introduces an experimental setup which combines simultaneous measurements of surface displacement and velocity in the boundary layer. Here the results from a shorted version of the model at Reτ ≈ 1000 are presented to demonstrate the capability of the experimental setup.
Vibration Induced Flow Facilitating Immunoagglutination for Rapid Detection and Quantification of Nanoparticles
Authors: Kaneko Kanji , Tsugane Mamiko , Sato Taku , Hayakawa Takeshi , Hasegawa Yosuke , Suzuki Hiroaki
Published: May 2023

The detection of bioactive nanoparticles (NPs) plays an important role in the medical and diagnostic fields. Conventional techniques for the sensitive detection of target NPs must overcome challenges such as long processing time, complex sample preparation, and high cost. Here, we show that vibration-induced flow (VIF), in which a local flow is induced around microscopic objects by applying small periodic vibrations, can facilitate immunoagglutination to realize rapid, facile, sensitive, and low-cost detection of NPs in a minute sample. In the proposed system, the presence of NPs in a sample is detected by the formation of aggregates of affinity microparticles (MPs) stirred by the VIF within a short time (approximately 15 min). The concentration of NPs can be quantified using the average area of aggregates observed in bright-field microscopic images. Finally, we demonstrate the detection of extracellular vesicles (EVs) to validate the applicability of the proposed system in diagnostic applications.
Effectiveness of early glucocorticoids in myasthenia gravis: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zhen Lu lu , Zhao Xue , Li Wen bo , Wu Jin ru , Shang Hao dong , Chen Shu fan , Zhu Xiao yan , Wang Yi ren , Yu Xiao xiao , Hu Guan lian , Sun Zhan , Zhang Ying na , Zhang Jing , Fang Hua , Zhang Yun ke , Zhang Qing yong , Cui Xin zheng , Lv Jie , Yang Jun hong , Gao Feng
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to clarify the effect of early glucocorticoid (GC) application on achieving minimal manifestation (MM) status or better in the treatment of myasthenia gravis (MG) in the early clinical phase. A retrospective analysis was performed on 366 patients with MG who had received immunotherapy in the Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences Myasthenia Gravis Biobank from January 2015 to September 2022. Patients were divided into two groups: the early mono-GC group (treated with GC within 6 months of MG onset) and delayed mono-GC group. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the early mono-GC group achieved MM status earlier and more frequently (Log-rank test,P = 0.0052; hazard ratio [HR], 1.59;P = 0.007). The early mono-GC group had a lower maintenance oral GC dose than delayed mono-GC group. In multivariate Cox regression analysis, early mono-GC (HR, 0.68;P = 0.026), early-onset MG (EOMG) (HR, 0.53;P = 0.004), ocular MG (OMG) (HR, 0.58;P = 0.002), and Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA) IV-V typing (HR, 2.51;P = 0.035) were associated with MM. In conclusion, EOMG, OMG, and low MGFA typing were positive predictors of treatment goals. Early intervention with GC leads to better long-term outcomes and reduces the necessary maintenance dose of oral GC for patients with MG.
Free flowing water retting holds the key for quality jute fibre production in minimal water and maintenance of water quality
Authors: Majumdar Bijan , Barai Shrestha , Paswan Alka , Naik Ranjan Kumar , Mazumdar Sonali Paul , Sarkar Sitangshu , Chattopadhyay Lipi , Kar Gouranga , Jha Suniti Kumar
Published: May 2023

Conventional retting of jute universally followed by the jute growers is characterized by higher water requirement, production of lower quality jute fibre and degradation of water quality from the environmental point of view. Among the improved retting methods evaluated under this study reflect that the free flowing water retting requires only 7135 litres of water for 1 quintal jute fibre production compared to 25,840 litres in conventional retting because of recirculation of the water after filtration. Free flowing water retting also recorded very low BOD (45.1 mg/l), COD (157.6 mg/l), and hardness (65 ppm) content in post-retting water which were significantly lower than the values recorded in conventional retting. Except pH, all other water quality parameters like EC, BOD, COD, Ca + Mg, bicarbonate, chloride and hardness values in post-retting water increased significantly compared to the pre-retting water in all the retting methods. Use of microbial consortium “CRIJAF SONA” helped to reduce the retting duration by 6 to 10 days in improved retting methods along with improvement in fibre quality parameters like fibre strength, fibre fineness, reduced root content etc. as compared to the conventional retting where no microbial consortium was used. The fibre yield in free flowing water retting was higher by 7.5, 6.0 and 22.4% respectively, over stagnant water retting in concrete retting tank, in-situ retting and conventional retting because of higher fibre recovery as a result of favourable condition for microbial growth and their enzymatic activity. The post-retting water in each retting methods recorded significantly higher nutrient content than their respective pre-retting water contents. Free flowing water retting along with in-situ retting and stagnant water retting in concrete tank recorded significantly higher polygalacturonase, pectin lyase and xylanase activities than conventional retting because of use of microbial consortium. Free flowing water retting proved to be the most vibrant jute retting method with very low water requirement and also maintains post-retting water quality along with higher fibre recovery and improved fibre quality.
A Dynamic Quantum-Inspired Genetic Algorithm for Multilevel Satellite Image Segmentation
Authors: Hakemi Shahin , Houshmand Mahboobeh , Hosseini Seyyed Abed
Published: May 2023

Thresholding is one of the methods of image segmentation, and metaheuristics have got much attention to find optimal thresholds. However, falling into local optima and lack of ability to thoroughly search in complicated search spaces like those in image thresholding problems, have always been a challenge for metaheuristics. In this paper, we applied a dynamic quantum-inspired genetic algorithm (DQGA) that utilizes the probabilistic representation of qubits in quantum computing, an adaptive look-up table for quantum gates, and introduced the lengthening chromosomes in order to promote the search power and local optima avoidance of the algorithm. Image segmentation using the proposed algorithm yielded promising results in comparison with the other competitive algorithms, which proves the merits of DQGA.
Assessing the Environment From Both Supply and Demand Aspects in New Emerging Countries: The LCC and the EKC Approaches
Authors: Bakirtas Tahsin , Acikgoz Furkan , Ozdilek Elveda
Published: May 2023

This study delves into the validity of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) and Load Capacity Curve (LCC) hypotheses as well as the effect of energy consumption (EC) and urbanization (URBAN) on the environment in BNIVMT countries (Bangladesh, Nigeria, Indonesia, Vietnam, Mexico, and Turkey) for the years 1990–2018. Two models were employed for this purpose. The following results are attained: i-) The first model purports that the EKC hypothesis is confirmed only in Nigeria and Vietnam, but the U-shape trajectory was found in Indonesia. ii-) The findings of the second model do not provide support for the validity of LCC theory in BNIVMT countries, whereas an inverted U-shaped relationship between GDP and LCF was revealed in Bangladesh and Indonesia. iii-) Energy consumption worsens environmental quality in Bangladesh, Nigeria, Indonesia, Turkey, and the entire panel. Urbanization deteriorates the environment in Bangladesh, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Turkey, whereas it ameliorates the environment in Nigeria. iv-) The causality relationship from GDP, EC, and URBAN to the ecological footprint (EF) and the load capacity factor (LCF) is attested in Nigeria. Findings evince EC causes environmental degradation in Turkey. Urbanization causes ecological degradation in Vietnam. v-) In countries where EKC has been ratified, the LCC may not necessarily follow a U-shaped trajectory, indicating that interpretations of the EKC hypothesis based on the LCC shape may yield inconsistent results.
Health-related Quality of Life and Utilities among Lebanese Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Dahham Jalal , Hiligsmann Mickaël , Kremer Ingrid , Khoury Samia J. , Darwish Hala , Hosseini Hassan , Hallit Souheil , Evers Silvia , Rizk Rana
Published: May 2023

ObjectiveThis study assessed the Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) and utilities of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients in Lebanon using generic and MS-specific QoL instruments, categorized by disease severity, and explored factors associated with HRQoL.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional, retrospective HRQoL study collecting data through face-to-face interviews using the EQ-5D-5L and the Multiple Sclerosis International Quality of Life (MusiQoL) questionnaires. We enrolled Lebanese patients aged ≥ 18 years, diagnosed with MS for > 6 months. Patients were categorized by disease severity using the expanded disability status scale (EDSS) scores: 0–3 (mild MS), 4–6.5 (moderate MS), and 7–9 (severe MS). Bivariate and linear regression analyses were performed to study factors associated with HRQoL.ResultsA total of 210 patients (mean age: 43.3 years; 65.7% females) were included. The mean EQ-5D-5L utility score was 0.74. This score decreased significantly with disease severity (p < 0.001 for the trend): 0.93, 0.60, and 0.32 for mild, moderate, and severe MS, respectively. The mean MusiQoL global index score was 71.33 and was significantly lower for severe MS (58.68), than for moderate (65.23) and mild (77.80), (p < 0.001 for the trend). Higher educational level, lower EDSS score, and longer disease duration were associated significantly with a higher EQ-5D-5L utility (R2 = 0.67), while employment, lower EDSS scores, and decrease in cognitive difficulties were associated with better MusiQoL utility (R2 = 0.46).ConclusionsThis study reveals a significant and gradual deterioration in HRQoL as MS progresses, resulting in low utility scores for patients with severe MS.
Machine learning-based personalized composite score dissects risk and protective factors for cognitive and motor function in elderly
Authors: Schalkamp Ann-Kathrin , Lerche Stefanie , Wurster Isabel , Roeben Benjamin , Zimmermann Milan , Fries Franca , Thaler Anna-Katharina , Eschweiler Gerhard , Gasser Thomas , Maetzler Walter , Berg Daniela , Brockmann Kathrin , Sinz Fabian
Published: May 2023

Background: Most nations worldwide have aging populations. With age, sensory, cognitive and motor abilities decline and the risk for neurodegenerative disorders increases. These multiple impairments influence the quality of life and increase the need for care, thus putting a high burden on society, the economy, and the healthcare system. Therefore, it is important to identify factors that influence healthy aging, in particular ones that are potentially modifiable by each subject through choice of lifestyle. However, large-scale studies that investigate the influence of multiple multi-modal factors on a global description of healthy aging measured by multiple clinical assessments are sparse.
Methods: We propose a Machine Learning model that simultaneously predicts multiple cognitive and motor outcome measurements on a personalized level recorded from one learned composite score. This personalized composite score is derived by the model from a large set of multi-modal components from the TREND cohort including genetic, biofluid, clinical, demographic and lifestyle factors.
Results: We found that a model based on a single composite score was able to predict cognitive and motor abilities almost as well as a flexible regression model specifically trained for each single clinical score. In contrast to the flexible regression model, our composite score-based model is able to identify factors that globally influence cognitive and motoric abilities as measured by multiple clinical scores. The model identified several risk and protective factors for healthy aging and recovered physical exercise as a major, modifiable, protective factor.
Conclusion: We conclude that our low parametric modeling approach successfully recovered known risk and protective factors of healthy aging on a personalized level while providing an interpretable composite score. The modeling approach is generalizable and could also be applied to other cohorts to investigate the complex interplay of risk and protective factors along with effect sizes from different dimensions such as lifestyle, medical, genetic and biochemical data.
Different standards shape everyday judgments of low and high wellbeing in individuals with and without psychopathology: A diary-based investigation
Authors: Meyer Thomas , Sickinghe Marthe , Matera Vanessa , Morina Nexhmedin
Published: May 2023

People can easily rate and express their current affect levels, but the cognitive foundations for such judgments are poorly understood. We examined whether comparisons to varying standards underlie fluctuating affect judgments within-person (i.e., throughout daily episodes) and between-person (i.e., high vs. low levels of psychopathology). Clinical and non-clinical participants recorded subjective affect for each distinct episode for one week. Participants briefly described current, best, and worst daily episodes, which we coded for presence and type of comparison standard (social, past temporal, criterion-based, counterfactual, prospective temporal, and dimensional). Participants also rated their engagement with these standards and the respective affective impact. During best episodes, participants reported more downward (vs. upward) comparisons that resulted in positive affective impact. In worst episodes, upward (vs. downward) comparisons were more frequent. In best and worst episodes, we most frequently identified past-temporal and criterion-based comparisons, respectively. The clinical group engaged more often with criterion-based standards and tended to be more negatively affected by them, amid consistently lower affect levels across all episode types. Our data suggest that judgments of affect and well-being may indeed rely on comparative thinking, whereby certain standards may characterize states of low affect and poor mental health.
The splicing factor SRSF6 regulates AR activity and represents a potential therapeutic target in prostate cancer
Authors: Jimenez-Vacas Juan Manuel , Montero-Hidalgo Antonio Jesus , Gomez-Gomez Enrique , Saez-Martinez Prudencio , Perez-Gomez Jesus Miguel , Fuentes-Fayos Antonio Carlos , Blazquez-Encinas Ricardo , Sanchez-Sanchez Rafael , Gonzalez-Serrano Teresa , Castro Elena , Lopez-Soto Pablo , Carrasco-Valiente Julia , Sarmento-Cabral André , Martinez-Fuentes Antonio Jesus , Eyras Eduardo , Castaño Justo P , Sharp Adam , Olmos David , Gahete Manuel D , Luque Raul M
Published: May 2023

Background Prostate cancer (PCa) is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Finding novel therapeutic strategies to tackle PCa, especially its most advanced phenotype, named castration-resistant PCa (CRPC), is urgently needed. In this sense, although the dysregulation of the splicing process has emerged as a distinctive feature of advanced PCa, the potential role that splicing regulators may play in advanced PCa remains understudied. In this project, we aimed to explore the levels, pathophysiological role, and associated molecular landscape of the splicing factor SRSF6 in PCa.Methods SRSF6 alterations (CNA/mRNA/protein) were analyzed in eight well-characterized cohorts of PCa patients and in the Hi-MYC transgenic model. The effect of SRSF6 overexpression and silencing was tested in vitro (cell proliferation, migration, colony and tumorspheres formation), and in vivo (xenograft tumors). RNA-Seq was performed in PCa cells to analyze gene expression and splicing pattern changes in response to SRSF6 silencing.Results Our results showed that SRSF6 levels (mRNA/protein) were upregulated in PCa vs. non-tumor prostate samples, linked to clinical parameters of tumor aggressiveness (e.g., Gleason score, T-stage, perineural infiltration, metastasis at diagnosis), and associated with poor prognosis (i.e., shorter progression-free survival time) in PCa patients. Moreover, SRSF6 overexpression increased, while its silencing decreased, relevant functional parameters of aggressiveness in vitro and tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, SRSF6 modulation resulted in the dysregulation of key oncogenic pathways, especially AR-activity through transcriptional regulation of APPBP2 and TOP2BConclusions SRSF6 could represent a new therapeutic target to inhibit persistent AR-signaling in advanced PCa.
Transcriptomic analysis reveals the differential genes associated with skin growth and pigmentation between Red Melon and Red Cover Discus
Authors: Danish-Daniel Muhd , Ng Tian Tsyh , Lau Cher Chien , Tan Min Pau , Wong Li Lian , Sung Yeong Yik , Muhammad Tengku Sifzizul Tengku , Sui LiYing
Published: May 2023

This is the first report to describe the differential growth of cutaneous pigments and the molecular processes involved in two red discus (Symphysodon spp.), Red Melon and Red Cover, with different tones of red pigmentation develop from juveniles to adults. Microscopic observation detected xanthophores in all samples, erythrophores in both adult groups and Red Melon juveniles, while melanophores were only found in Red Cover. The skin transcriptome analysis revealed extracellular matrix (ECM) activities and collagen metabolic genes were elevated in both juveniles, as compared to the adults. The development of erythrophores and xanthophores in the Red Melon juveniles were regulated by genes involved in the pteridine synthesis, one-carbon metabolism, and lipid metabolism. Temporal inhibition of melanophore development in Red Melon juveniles might be attributed to the active expression of Wnt-signalling inhibitor genes, sost and notum2. Melanosome transport in Red Cover was likely relied on microtubules and the spectrin-associated cytoskeleton. Tyrosinase late N-glycan processing and its transport from Golgi apparatus into the melanosome were differentially expressed in RC adults and juveniles.
Investigation of long-term behavioral models of salt cavern under cyclic loading
Authors: Alishvandi Ali , Ahmadi Morteza , Goshtasbi Kamran , Asgari Amin
Published: May 2023

Natural gas, air and oil materials can be stored in caverns, which are created in salt domes and have thick rock salt layers. These caverns may be subject to cyclic loading on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis due to the internal consumption of accumulated materials. The amount of deformation created over long periods of time effects the stability of the cavern. A number of models have been proposed to predict the long-term deformation of rock salt. One of these models is the Lubby2 model. In this research, the long-term behavior and stability of salt cavern storage under cyclic loading has been investigated. As a case study, the geometry of the German Hantorf salt cavern compressed air has been used. Salt rock properties of the Nasrabad Dome were considered. Creep tests were conducted on samples of rock salt at three stress levels in a stepwise manner and each test in different temperatures. Parameters of the Lubby2 model were determined. In order to investigate the effect of loading and unloading frequency on rock salt behavior, cyclic loading tests with different frequencies were also performed. For the purposes of this research, LOCAS finite element software with the Lubby2 model was utilized. A geometrical model of the cavern was built and executed in the software. The long term stability of the cavern and ground settlement were also investigated. tThe results showed that the Maxwell's viscoelastic coefficient in Lubby2 model is dependent on cycle loading frequency and it decreases exponentially with increasing loading frequency. Maxwell's viscosity coefficient decreases with increasing loading frequency. The deformation of cavern and ground subsidence with daily loading frequency has a rate of 10% and 8.6% higher than a cavern with constant loading, respectively. The effect of the cyclic load on Maxwell's viscoelastic coefficient was seen and the Lubby2 model was corrected for cyclic loading.
Plant and Bird Communities of Riparian and Upland Woodlands Respond Differently to an Atlantic- Mediterranean Climatic Gradient in Mainland Spain
Authors: Hera Iván de la , Alcaraz Juan Diego , Mezger Gabriel , Soler Joaquín , Corrochano Alfredo
Published: May 2023

Riparian habitats are key landscape elements promoting regional biodiversity, particularly in areas where water availability is scarce. In Mediterranean Iberia, the microclimatic conditions that occur near rivers allow the development of humid riparian woodlands that differ markedly from those growing in equivalent upland areas, but resemble higher-latitude (Atlantic) formations in their structure and composition. However, the effects of this variation on the animal species assemblages inhabiting each woodland type have not been well-documented. We characterized the vegetation of riparian and upland woodlands (general structure and composition) and their avian breeding communities (diversity, climatic and habitat preferences) in 38 sites distributed across mainland Spain to explore how they changed across a climatic gradient of increasing summer drought. Our results revealed that deciduous woody plants decreased as summer drought increased, but this reduction was more attenuated in riparian than in upland woodlands, reinforcing the idea that Mediterranean riparian areas act as microclimatic refugia where more Atlantic (deciduous) woody species can persist. Interestingly, we also found a lower similarity between riparian and upland bird assemblages in areas with higher indexes of summer drought, making riparian woodlands comparatively more diverse than upland woodlands in the Mediterranean. This pattern was partly due to the presence of deciduous-tree-related bird species that were unable to persist in equivalent upland woodlands. These findings suggest that restoring habitat of riparian woodlands would provide refuges with suitable conditions for many woodland species whose persistence on the limit of their distribution range in southern Iberia is threatened by global warming.
Therapeutic Choices for Ovulatory Dysfunctional Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: A Cross-sectional Study in Chinese Women
Authors: ZHAO Xiaoyue , Luo Min , TIAN Qinjie
Published: May 2023

Background Ovulatory dysfunction is the primary cause of abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB); however, data on nationwide therapeutic choices of Chinese women are lacking. The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic choices of ovulatory dysfunctional abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB-O) in Chinese women and analyse the factors on the selection results.Methods This was a cross-sectional study involving 3527 patients with AUB-O diagnosed by local doctor between 14 and 55 years old. We used questionnaire compiled according to the Chinese AUB-O treatment guidelines to collect the demographic and therapeutic information. Their therapeutic choices were regarded as generally representative of the nation ’s choices.Results The patients were divided into the juvenile group (14–18 years old, n = 84), the reproductive group (19–39 years old, n = 2962) and the senior group (perimenopausal period: 40–55 years old, n = 481). The results showed that irregular menstruation (37.6% − 46.3%), dysmenorrhea (29.9% − 44.4%), and heavy menstrual bleeding (16.7% − 32.2%) were the main symptoms in Chinese AUB-O patients of different ages. Most of the patients chose to seek help in the Department of General Gynecology (78.6% − 90.7%). Among the therapeutic options, combined oral contraceptives (COCs), such as Yasmin I and Yasmin II, met the treatment expectations with high acceptance among patients (36.6%-52.2%).Conclusions It is important to strengthen the endocrine diagnosis ability of doctors in the Department of General Gynecology. With rational education and clinical applications, COCs are expected to become a more prevalent therapeutic option for AUB-O.
PERCEPTION OF MEDICAL POST GRADUATE STUDENTS ON LEARNING MEDICAL ETHICS IN THE CURRICULUM- A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY IN A MEDICAL COLLEGE IN MAHARASHTRA
Authors:   Final Year Post Graduate student, Department of Community Medicine, Govt Medical College, Aurangabad, Maharashtra., M.C Mahitha , M. Kuril Bina ,   Associate Professor, Department of Community Medicine, Govt Medical College, Aurangabad, Maharashtra., K. Doibale Mohan ,   Professor & Head, Department of Community Medicine, Govt Medical College, Aurangabad, Maharashtra.
Published: May 2023

Background: Ethical practice of medicine is an area of increasing public awareness and attack on doctors on breach of the same is a growing concern nowadays. Along with a medical post graduate degree, a health personnel is expected to know all about medical ethics and mold their clinical practice accordingly. But it has not been included as a part of curriculum in most of the institutions. Improving the perception of students towards medical ethics education is an essential task. Objective: To assess medical post graduate students perception regarding incorporation of medical ethics in medical curriculum in a teaching institute. Method: A cross-sectional study including 300 post graduate medical students was conducted in a medical college in Maharashtra during October-November 2022,after obtaining informed consent from them. A self- administered questionnaire about awareness on medical ethics and their perception towards including the same in the curriculum was given to the participants. Result was entered in MS Excel and analyzed using SPSS trial version 29. Results: Among 242 postgraduates who responded,66.9% were females ,70.2% belonged to second year of course,55.4% were from class I &II of Modified BG Prasad socioeconomic scale,71.1% had place of residence as urban area. Adequate knowledge regarding medical ethics was seen among 54.1%, appropriate attitude was shown by 46.7% and practice by 33.1%.Statistically significant association was found between age, socioeconomic status, year of study and place of residence and knowledge about and practice of medical ethics(p<0.05). Conclusion: It is being concluded that even though there is adequate knowledge in medical ethics, future physicians are lacking appropriate perception on the same, which throws light towards need of improvement of awareness and also inclusion of medical ethics as an important part of postgraduate curriculum.
CONSULTING SERVICES FOR ELDERLY CARE FACILITIES IN HA NOI
Authors:   Faculty of Social Work, University of Labor and Social Affairs., Thi Lien Nguyen
Published: May 2023

Our countrys aging population is rapidly increasing, leading to an increasing need for social support services, especially for the elderly in care facilities. Through surveys and research, consulting services for the elderly in both public and private care facilities were found to be important to them. This study analyzed the types of consulting services for the elderly living in care centers, including (1) health care and functional recovery counseling, (2) social assistance policy counseling, (3) psychological counseling for the elderly, and (4) psychological counseling for their families. the frequency of providing these services was found to be 50.0% or higher, indicating that they were all available but at an average frequency. 96.2% of social workers confirmed that the elderly in care centers received social assistance policy counseling, while only 54.8% of the elderly reported receiving psychological counseling for their families. the effectiveness of these services ranged from 2.08 to 3.1, which is higher than the average level (2.5-3.5).
SEQUELAE OF HAND BURN: EPIDEMIOLOGICAL AND THERAPEUTIC ASPECTS IN MOROCCAN STUDY
Authors:   Department of Plastic Surgery and Burns, CHU Mohamed VI, Marrakech, Morocco., M. Marzak , O. Elatiqi ,   Department of Plastic Surgery and Burns, CHU Mohamed VI, Marrakech, Morocco., D. Laamrani ,   Department of Plastic Surgery and Burns, CHU Mohamed VI, Marrakech, Morocco., Y. Benchamkha ,   Department of Plastic Surgery and Burns, CHU Mohamed VI, Marrakech, Morocco.
Published: May 2023

Hand burns can result in both aesthetic and functional sequelae, which are often intertwined, ranging from simple dyschromia to multidigital amputation. They can be minor, requiring medical treatment, or major, requiring surgical treatment consisting of skin grafting or various flaps and plasties. To study the epidemiological, clinical, therapeutic, and evolutionary characteristics of burned hand sequelae, we conducted a retrospective study at the Plastic and Burn Surgery Department of the Mohammed VI University Hospital Center in Marrakech, from January 2013 to December 2017. The study collected 104 cases, including patients with burn sequelae in at least one hand. This work shows that almost one in two patients hospitalized for burns has a burn on at least one hand. The study also shows the frequency of young adult injuries (42%) and children under six years old (33%) in domestic accidents (76%), the frequency of burns to the dorsal surface of the hands from butane flames in the Hand-Face Syndrome in adults, and the frequency of burns to the palmar surface in children. Concerning the sequelae phase, our study shows the frequent association of major sequelae (contractures, retraction, pathological scars) and minor sequelae (dyschromia, itching, scar fragility, cutaneous hyperesthesia). The sequelae were dominated by digital and digito-palmar retractions (65.5%). A functional deficit was observed in more than two-thirds of cases. Various means of reconstruction were used depending on the location and type of sequelae local plasties were performed in 84.6% of cases, and excision-grafts in 76.9% of cases. The most commonly used local plasties were the Z plastie (65.5% of cases) and the trident plasty (26.5% of cases). 78% of the grafts used to treat sequelae were full-thickness skin grafts. The evolution was marked by a satisfactory result for most treated patients. The management of burned hands is multidisciplinary, requiring cooperation between surgeons, physicians, rehabilitators, physiotherapists, and psychologists.
A PROSPECTIVE STUDY TO EVALUATE EFFECTIVENESS OF KINESIO TAPING IN NON-TRAUMATIC CHRONIC KNEE PAIN
Authors: Vidyarthi Ashok , Gupta Alokik
Published: May 2023

Background: Kinesio tape has multiple benefits including decreasing pain, increasing proprioception, increasing quadriceps muscle strength, and improving lymphaticcirculation at the knee joint. To evaluate the effectiveness of kinesiotape innon traumatic chronic knee pain. Material and Methods: Aprospective study was done from august 2020 to January 2022 in nscb medical college jabalpur on 80 patients with patello femoral arthritis of knee joint and early grade medial joint line arthritis of knee joint(kellgenlawrencegrading) in which kinesio tape was applied over knee for 6 days by an orthopaedicsurgeonand followed up at end of 1st , 2nd , 3rd , 4th week and outcomes were measured using WOMAC(western Ontario and mcmaster university arthritis index) and Vas(visual analogue scale) scores. Results: VAS score(pre application:7.12, after 4 weeks:4.68)and WOMAC score( pre application:46.18, after 4 weeks:35.65)showed a statistically decrease in scores in cases of patellofemoral arthritis and early grade medial joint line arthritis of knee joint.(p value <0.001) Conclusion: Kinesio tape appears to beaneffective,easy and cheap method in early symptomaticpatello femoralosteoarthritis and early grade medial joint line arthritis of knee joint.
PREDICTING THE FUTURE OF SALES: A MACHINE LEARNING ANALYSIS OF ROSSMAN STORE SALES
Authors:   Research Scholar, Department Of Computer Science and Engineering, Meenakshi Sundararajan Engineering College, Chennai., K. Ramkumar , Monica Jenefer B. ,   HOD, Department Of Computer Science and Engineering, Meenakshi Sundararajan Engineering College, Chennai., Sundararajan Paavarasan ,   Research Scholar, Department Of Computer Science and Engineering, Meenakshi Sundararajan Engineering College, Chennai.
Published: May 2023

Predictive sales analysis based on previous data is crucial for organizations to make educated decisions and remain competitive. Machine learning is a powerful technology that can automate this process, producing more accurate and informed forecasts. Machine learning has revolutionized many sectors, including sales and marketing. Machine learning algorithms can forecast consumer behaviour and sales trends by analyzing data and discovering patterns, hidden patterns, and linkages. The purpose of this research is to propose an understanding of the usage of machine learning algorithms for predicting future sales of Big Mart enterprises based on past year sales. Utilizing machine learning methods like Linear Regression and Gradient Boost, a thorough study of sales forecasting is undertaken. The performance of the Linear Regression and Gradient Boosting methods was evaluated using metrics such as mean absolute error, mean squared error, R2 score, and Accuracy. The studys findings can help businesses make better informed decisions about resource allocation, production planning, and marketing methods. Overall, machine learning is a powerful tool for forecasting sales and can assist organizations in staying ahead of the curve in a fast changing industry.
A claws and hair cortisol levels correlation in cats.
Authors: WOJTAŚ JUSTYNA , GARBIEC ALEKSANDRA , KARPIŃSKI MIROSŁAW , CZYŻOWSKI PIOTR , KALISZYK KLAUDIA , NIEDZIELSKI PAWEŁ , OGRODNIK ALEKSANDRA , SKOWRONEK PATRYCJA , STRACHECKA ANETA
Published: May 2023

The accumulation of cortisol in hair and claws, which grow slowly, makes it possible to retrospectively assess chronic stress levels. The study involved 47 cats from a shelter for homeless animals. Hair from the lumbosacral region and the dead part of claws from the front paw were collected. The average cortisol levels were 0.85 ng/ml in the cats’ hair and 4.56 ng/ml in the claws. There was no significant relationship between cortisol levels in hair and claws. To date, too little research has been done on the correlation between cortisol levels in the hair and claws of cats. It is insufficient to unequivocally prove the existence of such a relationship.
Pelvic osteotomy techniques in the management of canine hip dysplasia – evolution of the treatment paradigm
Authors: WIKTOR TUREK , ROMAN ALEKSIEWICZ , KATERYNA ALBU
Published: May 2023

Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD) is considered to be one of the most common orthopaedic diseases and it consists of coxofemoral joint incongruence leading to femoral head subluxation and osteoarthritic changes. The affected dogs tend to present progressive pain and mobility issues. The widely used CHD managing strategies, among others, include pelvic osteotomy techniques. In recent years, great efforts have been made to improve the surgical procedure and reduce the rate of complications, which seems to be a possibility due to the introduction of constructional changes in modern TPO/DPO plates.
Transportation of hydrogen by main gas pipelines as a methane-hydrogen mixture
Authors: Darsaliya N. M. , Farukhshina R. R. , Saddik Z. E.
Published: May 2023

Due to the emergence of new technologies that make it possible to obtain hydrogen from associated petroleum gas, it has become necessary to store and transport it. As a solution to this problem, the possibility of hydrogen transportation as a methane-hydrogen mixture was considered, i.e. natural gas with a certain hydrogen content. The article considers the issues of methane-hydrogen mixture (MHM) transportation through existing main gas pipelines at various percentages of hydrogen to natural gas. As an example, the Urengoyskoye field was chosen, where it is possible to produce hydrogen from the associated gas of gas condensate fields, and a section of the Novopskovskiy corridor, through which it is possible to transport MHM. In the work, the influence of the hydrogen content in the methane-hydrogen mixture on the gas-dynamic characteristics of the pipeline, mainly on the pressure and throughput capacity of gas in the pipeline, as well as the influence of its content on the operating mode of the compressor station and the power of the gas turbine, when using MHM for the station's own needs, was studied. The obtained results show an insignificant effect of the hydrogen percentage in the mixture on the pressure and throughput of the gas pipeline, which is a weighty argument in favor of the possibility of transporting hydrogen through existing gas pipelines.
INVESTIGATING THE EFFECTS OF FATIGUE PROTOCOL ON SPATIOTEMPORAL CHARACTERISTICS OF GAIT IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC NECK PAIN
Authors: ONAN Dilara , DEMİREL Aynur , ÜLGER Özlem
Published: May 2023

Purpose: Chronic neck pain (CNP) may lead to problems, such as functional limitations, disability, and fatigue. Gait maintains postural orientation; It is important to investigate the effects of fatigue on walking in patients who subjectively define a certain level of fatigue, not for a certain period. This study aimed to investigate the effects of fatigue protocol on gait spatiotemporal characteristics in patients with CNP.

Methods: Fifty-three patients with CNP, and twenty-six healthy controls were included. The groups were matched with Propensity Score Matching in terms of age and fatigue threshold as 26 individuals. Pain intensity and disability were evaluated with the Visual Analog Scale, and Neck Disability Index, respectively. Gait assessment was recorded with OptoGait (1.6.4.0, Microgate, Bolzano, Italy) for one minute while individuals walked at their preferred speed on the treadmill. Individuals keep walking on the treadmill and fatigue levels were asked for Modified Borg Scale. While fatigue reached 4 points, gait assessment was recorded for one minute. A two-way repeated-measures ANOVA was used for interaction time-by-group.

Results: The median pain intensity was 7(4-9), and the disability was moderate in patients. Left step length, stride length, and cadence, showed significant, similar changes within the groups over time(p
PHYSIOTHERAPY IN CERVICOGENIC HEADACHE FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF CERTIFIED MULLIGAN CONCEPT® PRACTITIONERS - A DELPHI STUDY
Authors: ÖZEL ASLIYÜCE Yasemin , ÜLGER Özlem
Published: May 2023

Purpose: Cervicogenic headache is a common disorder that physiotherapists may encounter in the clinic. There are many methods in the literature about the evaluation and treatment of this disorder. This study aims to create a consensus on the opinions of physiotherapist with certification Mulligan Concept Practitioners about Mulligan Concept and other frequently used physiotherapy approaches in people with cervical headache.

Methods: This study was planned to be completed in 3 internet-based survey rounds. The surveys were sent to physiotherapist certified as Mulligan Practitioner. The consensus was achieved when 70% of the experts agreed.

Results: Consensus was reached on 16 key messages. The most frequently preferred assessment methods are Visual Analogue Scale, Neck Disability Index, Flexion Rotataion Test, and Range of Motion. In addition to Mulligan mobilization, exercise therapy and patient education were the most commonly used treatment options.

Conclusions: It is thought that this study provides important key messages about Mulligan mobilization and physiotherapy methods that can be used in addition to this technique in the evaluation and rehabilitation of people with cervicogenic headache.
BİLATERAL TOTAL DİZ PROTEZİ SONRASI ERKEN İLERLEYİCİ KAPALI KİNETİK ZİNCİR EGZERSİZLERİNİN STANDART EGZERSİZ PROGRAMINA GÖRE ETKİLERİ - RANDOMİZE KONTROLLÜ ÇALIŞMA
Authors: KIRAÇ CAN Elif , TOMRUK Murat , GELECEK Nihal
Published: May 2023

Amaç: Bu çalışma ilerleyici kapalı kinetik zincir egzersiz (KKZE) programının, açık kinetik pozisyonda verilen standart egzersiz programına göre bilateral total diz protezi (TDP) hastalarında ağrı şiddeti, ödem, eklem hareket açıklığı ve fonksiyonel durum üzerine kısa dönem etkilerini belirlemek amacıyla yapıldı.

Yöntem: Çalışmaya yaş ortalaması 65,22 ± 6,81 yıl olan ve bilateral TDP uygulanan 36 hasta (72 diz) dahil edildi. Hastalar KKZE grubu (KKZE, n=16) ve standart egzersizlerden oluşan kontrol grubu (KG, n=16) olarak iki gruba ayrıldı. Ameliyat sonrası 1. haftada tüm hastalara aynı fizyoterapi programı uygulandı. Ameliyat sonrası 2. haftada hastalar iki gruba ayrıldı ve gruplarına uygun egzersiz eğitimine başlandı. Haftada 3 gün ve toplamda 6 hafta uygulanan programlarda hastaların ağrı, ödem, eklem hareket açıklığı ölçümleri, başlangıçta ve ameliyat sonrası 4. ve 7. haftada yapıldı. Fonksiyonel durum değerlendirmesi ise sadece son ölçümde yapıldı.

Sonuçlar: Her iki grupta da ağrı, ödem, diz eklemi hareketlerinde 6 hafta sonunda istatistiksel olarak anlamlı iyileşmeler oldu (p
COVID-19 PHOBIA AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVEL IN PATIENTS WITH NON-CYSTIC FIBROSIS BRONCHIECTASIS DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: FIRAT Merve , VARDAR YAGLI Naciye , ÇAKMAK Aslıhan , SAĞLAM Melda , ÇALIK KÜTÜKCÜ Ebru , İNCE Deniz , ÇÖPLÜ Lütfi
Published: May 2023

Purpose: The COVID-19 pandemic period may affect physical and mental health of non-cystic fibrosis (CF) bronchiectasis patients. The aim of this study was to compare COVID-19 phobia, quality of life, health anxiety, physical activity level and sleep quality during the pandemic between patients with non-CF bronchiectasis and healthy controls.

Methods: Thirty non-CF bronchiectasis patients and 44 healthy controls were included. COVID-19 phobia (Coronavirus 19 Phobia Scale (CP19-S)), quality of life (Nottingham Health Profile (NHP)), health anxiety (Health Anxiety Inventory (HAI)), physical activity level (short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-SF)) and sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI)) were evaluated.

Results: NHP energy, pain, and physical mobility scores and moderate-intensity physical activity levels were significantly lower; PSQI sleep disturbance score was significantly higher in patients compared with controls (p0.05). The majority of patients and controls did not meet the recommended levels of moderate or high-intensity physical activity per week.

Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a decline in quality of life, reduced moderateintensity physical activity, and increased sleep disturbances among non-CF bronchiectasis patients. Both patients and healthy individuals have experienced coronaphobia and exhibited low levels of physical activity. These results reveal the importance of providing physical activity counseling during the pandemic period.
THE ACUTE EFFECT OF STATIC VERSUS PROPRIOCEPTIVE NEUROMUSCULAR FACILITATION STRETCHING COMBINED WITH KINESIOLOGY TAPING® OF HAMSTRING MUSCLES ON FUNCTIONAL TESTS IN ADOLESCENT TAEKWONDO ATHLETES
Authors: ARJANG Negin , MOHSENİFAR Holakoo , AMİRİ Ali , DADGOO Mehdi , RASAEİFAR Golnaz
Published: May 2023

Purpose: In taekwondo, muscle flexibility specifically in the lower limb is of great importance for athletic performance. In this study, we evaluated the acute effects of static versus proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching combined with kinesiology taping (KT) of the hamstring muscle on functional tests in adolescent taekwondo athletes.

Methods: 20 adolescent taekwondo athletes aged 9 to 18 years with red, black belt color participated in this study. They performed static, or PNF stretching in both legs, then two I strips with 30% tension as an inhibitory fashion was applied over the hamstring muscles of one leg and the other leg was determined as control. Single leg vertical jump test, single leg hop test, and taekwondo specific agility test (TSAT) were performed before, just after, and 24 hours after interventions.

Results: Repeated measures ANOVA test was used for statistical analysis of the data. All functional tests results demonstrated significant improvement over time (Single leg vertical jump (p=0.005), single leg hop test (p=0.01), and TSAT (p=0.03)) but none of the stretching or the KT groups affected the functional performance of the participants (Single leg vertical jump (p=0.36) and single leg hop test (p=0.50)).

Conclusion: We think that both static and PNF stretching exercises improve the functional performance of adolescent taekwando athletes for up to 24 hours, however KT application has no significant effect.
Impact assessment of land use/land cover changes on surface runoff characteristics in the Shetrunji River Basin using the SWAT model
Authors: Waikhom Sahita I. , Yadav Vipinkumar , Azamathulla Hazi Md. , Solanki Naval
Published: May 2023

Land use/land cover (LU/LC) change has a considerable effect on the runoff characteristics of any watershed. LU/LC change studies are necessary for policymakers to identify the challenges and adopt the course of action such as soil and water conservation measures for improvement. The current research is undertaken for the upper Shetrunji River basin using a hydrological model linked with GIS. Input data like LU/LC, meteorological, and soil elements are necessary to execute watershed modeling. The model was calibrated and validated in SWAT-CUP using the SUFI-2 algorithm. The data from 2000 to 2010 were utilized for calibration, whereas the data from 2011 to 2020 were used for validation with a three-year warm-up period from 1997 to 1999. LU/LC change detection has been accomplished using ERDAS IMAGINE 2015 via a supervised classification approach. Close agreement was obtained between simulated and observed streamflow data during model calibration (NSE = 0.74 and R2 = 0.78) and validation (NSE = 0.70 and R2 = 0.73). LU/LC change detection shows that agricultural, urban, and water body areas increased between 2000–2010 and 2010–2020, and forest areas increased in 2010 and decreased in 2020. Thus, it is concluded that the change in LU/LC significantly influenced the runoff of the upper Shetrunji River basin.