bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Flow Humidified Oxygen as an Early Intervention in Children With Acute Severe Asthma: Protocol for a Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rojas-Anaya Hector , Kapur Akshat , Roberts Graham , Roland Damian , Gupta Atul , Lazner Michaela , Bayreuther Jane , Pappachan John , Jones Christina , Bremner Stephen , Cantle Fleur , Seddon Paul
Published: January 2024

Background

Acute severe asthma (ASA) is a leading cause of hospital attendance in children. Standard first-line therapy consists of high-dose inhaled bronchodilators plus oral corticosteroids. Treatment for children who fail to respond to first-line therapy is problematic: the use of intravenous agents is inconsistent, and side effects are frequent. High-flow humidified oxygen (HiFlo) is widely used in respiratory conditions and is increasingly being used in ASA, but with little evidence for its effectiveness. A well-designed, adequately powered randomized controlled trial (RCT) of HiFlo therapy in ASA is urgently needed, and feasibility data are required to plan such an RCT. In this study, we describe the protocol for a feasibility study designed to fill this knowledge gap.

Objective

This study aims to establish whether a full RCT of early HiFlo therapy in children with ASA can be conducted successfully and safely, to establish whether recruitment using deferred consent is practicable, and to define appropriate outcome measures and sample sizes for a definitive RCT. The underlying hypothesis is that early HiFlo therapy in ASA will reduce the need for more invasive treatments, allow faster recovery and discharge from hospital, and in both these ways reduce distress to children and their families.

Methods

We conducted a feasibility RCT with deferred consent to assess the use of early HiFlo therapy in children aged 2 to 11 years with acute severe wheeze not responding to burst therapy (ie, high-dose inhaled salbutamol with or without ipratropium). Children with a Preschool Respiratory Assessment Measure score ≥5 after burst therapy were randomized to commence HiFlo therapy or follow standard care. The candidate primary outcomes assessed were treatment failure requiring escalation and time to meet hospital discharge criteria. Patient and parent experiences were also assessed using questionnaires and telephone interviews.

Results

The trial was opened to recruitment in February 2020 but was paused for 15 months owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. The trial was reopened at the lead site in July 2021 and opened at the other 3 sites from August to December 2022. Recruitment was completed in June 2023.

Conclusions

This feasibility RCT of early HiFlo therapy in children with ASA recruited to the target despite major disturbances owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. The data are currently being analyzed and will be published separately.

Trial Registration

International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number Registry ISRCTN78297040; https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN78297040

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/54081
Alasan konsumen dalam membeli dan mengonsumsi madu sebagai suplemen kesehatan
Authors: Wildiana Resha Ayu , Lestari Lily Arsanti , Supriyati Supriyati
Published: January 2024

Reason for consumers to buy and consume honey as a health supplementBackground: During the COVID-19 pandemic, people believed honey was a supplement to increase body endurance. Research on consumer perceptions regarding specific health benefits has never been done. The market's production and demand for honey have not balanced, giving rise to the potential for selling fraudulent honey. It is necessary to identify the public perception regarding the health benefits of honey using one of the determinants of the theory of planned behavior and consumer knowledge regarding labels on honey products. Objective: This research was conducted to determine the factors related to consumer behavior in buying and consuming honey as a health supplement. Methods: Quantitative research using a cross-sectional survey design. Online data collection was done by distributing questionnaire links through social media in October-November 2021 in various regions of Indonesia. A total of 426 research subjects were selected using the accidental sampling technique. The data were analyzed using the Spearman correlation test. Results: Consumer knowledge about honey product labels is categorized as sufficient (48.13%) and less (44.12%). Gender and education were significantly related to the purchase of honey (p=0.0308; p=0.0101), and gender was associated with consumption behavior (p=0.0086). Perception of overall and specific health benefits (improves immunity, diabetes, cancer, heart, cough, and asthma, accelerates healing after illness, reduces the frequency of diarrhea, lower blood pressure, lower levels of fat and cholesterol in the body) were significantly related to the behavior of buying and consuming honey (p=0.0001). Knowledge is significantly related to honey consumption behavior (p=0.0363). Conclusion: Honey buying and consumption behavior in Indonesia is related to consumer perceptions of overall and specific health benefits. It is necessary to review honey labels currently on the market and increase consumer knowledge about honey product labels.
The difference in physical activity and sedentary behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic in medical and non-medical students at Diponegoro University
Authors: Anwar Rylandnia Sucha , Dieny Fillah Fithra , Murbawani Etisa Adi , Fitranti Deny Yudi
Published: January 2024

Background: University students are already known as a population at high risk for inactive behavior, and the COVID-19 pandemic can increase this risk. Objective: This research was conducted to analyze differences in physical activity and sedentary behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic in medical and non-medical students at Diponegoro University and analyze factors correlated to physical activity and sedentary behavior. Methods: This was an observational research with a cross-sectional design in two groups conducted online. The subjects were students of Diponegoro University, as many as 102 subjects (51 medical students and 51 non-medical students aged 18-22 years). The research was conducted from September to November 2021. The selection was by quota sampling technique. Data were collected by filling out Google forms and an interview. The dependent variables are physical activity and sedentary behavior, measured by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Long Form (IPAQ-LF) and the Adolescent Sedentary Activity Questionnaire (ASAQ). Data were analyzed by the Mann-Whitney test and Spearman's correlation test.Results: Physical activity during the COVID-19 pandemic between medical and non-medical students did not differ significantly (p=0.497). There was no significant difference in physical activity related to work/college, transport, house chores, and recreation (p>0.05). Meanwhile, overall sedentary behavior was not significantly different (p=0.290), as well as sedentary behavior on weekdays and weekends (p>0.05). The level of motivation was significantly correlated with physical activity in medical (p=0.027) and non-medical students (p=0.042).Conclusion: Medical and non-medical students have no differences in physical activity and sedentary behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic. The level of motivation was positively correlated to physical activity in medical and non-medical students.
Effect of postmortem aging and fast-freezing on meat quality of various lamb cuts under prolonged frozen storage and repeated freezing/thawing conditions
Authors: Kim Yuan H. Brad , Seo Jinkyu , Kemp Robert , Stuart Adam
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effects of aging and fast-freezing on meat quality attributes of various lamb cuts under conditions of prolonged frozen storage (Experiment 1) and repeated freezing/thawing cycles (Experiment 2). The paired lamb muscles including longissimus dorsi, gluteus medius, quadriceps femoris, semimembranosus, and biceps femoris from 15 lamb carcasses were collected at 1 d postmortem. In Experiment 1, the muscles were vacuum-packaged and randomly assigned to one of 3 treatments: (1) non-frozen control (aged only for 5 wk at −1.5°C); (2) aging for 4 wk, fast-frozen in a −18°C glycol immersion chamber, and frozen storage in −18°C for 1 week; or (3) aging for 4 wk, fast-frozen, and frozen storage for 24 wk. In general, regardless of muscle cuts, samples that were aged, fast-frozen, stored for 1 wk, and thawed exhibited similar water-holding capacity, shear force, and color attributes as those of the aged-only (never frozen) lamb muscles (P>0.05). Furthermore, extending the frozen storage duration up to 24 wk did not result in any adverse effects on color, shear force, purge loss, or microbiological attributes of the aged/fast-frozen/thawed lamb muscles (P>0.05). In Experiment 2, the repeated freezing and thawing of aged and fast-frozen lamb loins (n=8) had no adverse impacts on color, tenderness, or microbiological attributes (P>0.05), although slight increases in purge and cook losses were observed compared to non-repeated slow-frozen loins. The findings of the present study suggest that the combined treatment of aging and fast-freezing can minimize changes in meat quality during the freezing and thawing process, even with prolonged frozen storage of up to 24 wk.
Efecto de la tala selectiva sobre la estructura del manglar en la laguna costera Mar Muerto, Oaxaca-Chiapas, México
Authors: Díaz-López Alan Mauri , Díaz-Gallegos José Reyes , Tovilla-Hernández Cristian , Romero-Berny Emilio Ismael
Published: January 2024

La extracción de madera de mangle es una actividad económica y de subsistencia común en el Neotrópico, cuyos efectos en la estructura forestal en esta comunidad han sido insuficientemente evaluados. El objetivo fue analizar los efectos ecológicos de la tala a pequeña escala sobre manglares de la zona oriental del sistema lagunar costero Mar Muerto, Pacífico sur Mexicano; específicamente se buscó responder las siguientes preguntas: i) ¿Existe un aprovechamiento diferenciado sobre el tamaño diamétrico de los mangles?; ii) ¿La tala selectiva afecta la distribución diamétrica, densidad y estructura forestal del manglar? Durante 2016, se estimó por hectárea la densidad de tocones e individuos vivos y muertos de mangles en 20 parcelas de 300 m2. La comparación del Valor de Importancia por especie (VIE) se realizó con métodos univariados y multivariados entre tipos de manglares y sitios conservados contra impactados. Una densidad media de 1 520 árboles ha-1, un área basal de 8.52 ± 1.9 m2 ha-1 y una altura de 4.59 ± 1.02 m fueron estimadas. La especie con mayor dominancia en los rodales fue Avicennia germinans. Se encontró que la tala selectiva es más frecuente sobre árboles de menor diámetro (2.5–8.5 cm) en tres especies de mangle: Avicennia germinans, Rhizophora mangle y Laguncularia racemosa, con algunas diferencias entre sitios. Los resultados obtenidos muestran que la tala selectiva afectó los atributos estructurales y de regeneración principalmente a Rhizophra mangle. Es recomendable establecer un sistema de monitoreo ecológico la tala selectiva para generar estrategias de aprovechamiento sostenible.
Los pulpos también seleccionan su casa para vivir
Authors: Granados-Alcantar Salvador , Diarte-Plata Genaro
Published: January 2024

¿Alguna vez has visto un pulpo?, bueno, te platico, los octópodos (cuyo significado es que tienen ocho patas), mejor conocidos como pulpos, son uno de los grupos más destacados entre los cefalópodos (que tiene los pies en la cabeza), debido a su gran habilidad para camuflarse con su entorno y su gran capacidad de aprendizaje (se sabe que son muy inteligentes). Los miembros de la familia Octopodidae (que tienen ocho patas) son pescados en todo el mundo, siendo muy valorados para consumo humano y en menor grado, se usan como carnada. Se utilizan diversas técnicas para su captura, de forma directa empleando la mano, anzuelo o lanza; por captura de línea (usando señuelos y/o cebos); uso de ollas pesadas (sin cebo o con cebo); y el uso de redes, incluidas las redes de arrastre (por ejemplo, tipo nutria, cerco o vara), lance, y redes estáticas. El producto obtenido es utilizado como alimento de subsistencia (lo que se pesca, no se vende, es consumido por la familia del pescador) o como producto comercial (como los que encuentras en la Central de Abastos, en el mercado o en el tianguis).
Presencia de microplásticos en tracto digestivo de Anchoa hepsetus (Clupeiformes: Engraulidae) obtenidos de la pesca ribereña del municipio de Alvarado, Veracruz
Authors: García-Jaramillo Lakshmi Sofia , Morán-Silva Ángel , Chávez-López Rafael , Cházaro-Olvera Sergio
Published: January 2024

La producción mundial de plástico ha ido en incremento; se estima que para 2050 supere los 1000 millones de toneladas, lo que implica un impacto en los ecosistemas marinos. Anchoa hepsetus es una especie con importancia económica y ecológica para el golfo de México. Es una especie nerítica,consumidora de zooplancton y costera, por lo que es propensa a ingerir microplásticos suspendidos en la columna de agua que son generados por actividades antropogénicas. Se analizó la presencia de microplásticos en el contenido estomacal de A. hepsetus obtenida de la pesca ribereña en marzo de 2020 en el municipio de Alvarado, Veracruz. En laboratorio se identificó sexo, talla y peso de cada organismo, se analizó el contenido estomacal, se obtuvieron los microplásticos de manera directa y caracterizaron por sus propiedades físicas de forma, color y tamaño y fue determinada la frecuencia de ocurrencia. Se analizaron un total de 126 peces, la talla y peso promedio fue 10.5 ± 2.5 cm y 8.0 ± 4.7 g, respectivamente; en 18% de los organismos se encontraron microplásticos; las fibras fueron el único tipo encontrado de microplásticos con una longitud promedio de 1.17 ± 1.06 mm, predominando el color azul con 47%. La contaminación de ambientes marinos por plásticos está siendo una línea nueva y de importancia para la investigación debido a que es cada día más grande y se necesita llevar a cabo la toma de decisiones y acciones para la protección de los mares y debe ser una prioridad para las autoridades.
Louis Alphonse Adrian
Authors: Wisniak Jaime
Published: January 2024

Louis Alphonse Adrian (1832-1911) was a French pharmacist who with Auguste Trillat studied the synthesis and chemistry of phosphoglycerates, neutral and acid, their derivatives, properties, and dosage, particularly, organic and calcium phosphoglycerates, as well as the reaction between glycerin and phosphoric acid. They isolated several new first principles present in Artemisia absinthium, in Digitalis lutea, and in agaric acid. With Bardet and Blondel they carried a detailed botanical, chemical, and physiological study of Piligan, a moss originating from Brazil, and proved that the active component was the alkaloid piliganin. Adrian developed new dosage procedures for determining the amount of guaiacol present in commercial products.
Hacia una progresión de aprendizaje multidimensional del modelo escolar de sustancia
Authors: Marzábal Ainoa , Manrique Franklin , Delgado Virginia , Moreira Patricia
Published: January 2024

Dadas las implicaciones sociales y ambientales de los materiales en la vida actual, el modelo de sustancia se encuentra presente en todos los currículos escolares de Química. A pesar de existir un extenso corpus de literatura en torno a los procesos de aprendizaje de este modelo, la mayoría de las progresiones de aprendizaje se han centrado en una sola dimensión, proporcionando visiones parciales de cómo los estudiantes se van apropiando de ideas clave y van aprendiendo a aplicarlas en situaciones nuevas y desafiantes. En este artículo proponemos una progresión de aprendizaje multidimensional para el modelo de sustancia, caracterizando la forma en que se espera que progresen las ideas clave, las formas de razonamiento y las representaciones de los sistemas materiales. La progresión de aprendizaje, refinada empíricamente a partir de las producciones de 343 estudiantes de entre 13 y 18 años, se compone de seis estadios que constituyen la trayectoria esperada de los estudiantes, desde el estadio objetivista hasta el interaccionista. Esta progresión de aprendizaje puede ser usada tanto por investigadores como por profesores para avanzar hacia visiones más sofisticadas de las sustancias, que permitan a los estudiantes abordar los desafíos que el ejercicio de la ciudadanía demanda en la sociedad actual.
El plan de muestreo como elemento integrador en la didáctica de la química
Authors: Carballeira Amarelo Tania , Pacios Penelas Bibiana
Published: January 2024

La falta de contextualización, ausencia de relación con el entorno geográfico y productivo de las actividades propuestas son una de las debilidades en la didáctica de la química en la educación secundaria superior. Relacionando los distintos contenidos modulares mediante actividades interdisciplinares se  favorece el aprendizaje constructivista en el alumnado y el empleo y manejo de fuentes bibliográficas de bases de datos sobre artículos de investigación y normativa legal provocan el aumento de motivación en el alumnado y la adquisición de aptitudes basadas en el saber hacer. Esta propuesta metodológica sobre la elaboración y ejecución de un plan de muestreo en el entorno del alumnado busca solventar las debilidades anteriormente planteadas y fomentar una didáctica encaminada hacia un aprendizaje significativo.
Quantum dots: el trabajo conjunto premiado con el Premio Nobel de Química 2023
Authors: Catalá Rodes Rosa María
Published: January 2024

Se propone una hoja didáctica para comprender el artículo del Premio Nobel de Química 2023 sobre la nanotecnología y los puntos cuánticos. La estrategia incluye videos, actividades y correlación de conceptos para facilitar la comprensión y reflexionar sobre la ciencia colaborativa.
Advancements in Road Safety: A Comprehensive Review of YOLOv8 Models for Speed Breaker Detection and Road Segmentation
Authors: Reddy Pavan Kesava
Published: January 2024

Abstract: This literature review critically examines recent strides in road safety, centering on the integration of YOLOv8 models for speed breaker detection and road segmentation. The paper illuminates the project's triumphs, underscoring the multifaceted applications of YOLOv8 in intelligent transportation systems, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and the evolving landscape of autonomous vehicles. The exploration encompasses an insightful overview of traditional road safety systems, elucidating their limitations and the imperative for advanced technologies like YOLOv8. It delves into the rich tapestry of research integrating YOLOv8 models into broader road safety systems, elucidating their benefits and discerning potential challenges. The assessment further navigates through performance evaluations, featuring an array of studies analyzing YOLOv8's efficacy in road safety contexts. It scrutinizes case studies and real-world applications where YOLOv8-based integrated road safety systems have been successfully implemented, shedding light on both triumphs and tribulations. The discourse expands to future trends and research directions, foreseeing the trajectory of integrated road safety systems and their synergy with evolving computer vision technologies. Altogether, this literature review offers a panoramic understanding of YOLOv8's role in reshaping road safety paradigms, simultaneously outlining challenges and heralding future possibilities in this dynamic domain.
Hypothesis of Prevalence of Mal De Debarquement Syndrome (MdDS) in Merchant Marines and Navy Employees
Authors: Mitra Moupiya
Published: January 2024

Abstract: Objective: Mal de debarquement which is literally called “sickness of disembarkment”, refers to prolonged and infelicitous sensation of movement after exposure to motion and has gained prominence for its attributes and impact on vestibular system. This study addresses the scarcity of research on MdDS’s prevalence and severity on merchant navy, intending to exude flame on the unique challenges faced by this demographic in India. Method: The study enrolled 30 merchant marines and naval officers, including 25males and 5 females aged 25-60 with no previous history of otological issues. The MdDS assessment questionnaire, consisting of 20 questions with a 4-scale rating response (0,1,2,3), assessed the emotional, psychological and behavioural response to sound. It’s categorized via normal, mild, moderate, severe
Effectiveness of Plant-based Repellents against different Anopheles Species: a Systematic Review
Authors: Tilekar Gauri J.
Published: January 2024

Abstract: The deadliest pest that humans are aware of is the mosquito. One of the best ways to lower sickness is to avoid mosquito bites. In daily life, we utilize a variety of synthetic mosquito repellents; nevertheless, prolonged use of these repellents can pose health and environmental risks. Many plants have been utilized as fumigants, insecticidal agents, and repellents since ancient times. The majority of plants include phytochemicals that act as insect repellent, shielding them from numerous insect attacks. The study presented in this paper aims to create herbal insect repellent formulations that are both safe and effective. Insecticides used in the past included neem oil, camphor, orange peel powder, and orange seeds. There are numerous applications for the dehydrated peels of citrus fruits in pest management. An effective repellent is orange oil, which is derived from orange peels. Linalool, a widely used flavouring agent and ingredient in perfumes, exhibits insect repellent qualities in addition to its olfactory qualities. Furthermore, it has been included into flammable items and topical therapies. It can be used in place of synthetic repellent because it has little risk of negative effects and benefits human health. The purpose of our study is to look into the phytochemical extracts from herbal products' repelling properties.
A Research on Machine Learning Methods in a Healthcare Management Music System for Recommendations
Authors: Chaudhary Shikha
Published: January 2024

Abstract: One of the best treatments for illnesses is music, which accelerates healing for patients. Music stimulates the patient's emotional thinking, helping them to overcome their illness and become psychologically well. This study examines the many kinds of machine learning techniques and how they are used to music recommendations for healthcare management. Both supervised and unsupervised machine learning approaches, as well as their subcategories, are covered. According to study, music therapy enhances people's quality of life while gradually lessening the negative impacts of illness on the body. A strong recommendation system combined with music therapy is a powerful tool for treating people's emotional and psychological problems.One crucial metric used to assess the efficacy of music recommendation algorithms is classification accuracy. In this survey, music recommendations for patient care management are made using machine learning algorithms.
Characterization of cellulose from oil palm empty fruit bunches by fast delignification process with different solvents
Authors: Dimawarnita Firda , Faramitha Yora , Prakoso Haryo Tejo , Puspitasari Indah , Kalbuadi Doni Nugroho , Prasetyo Dedy
Published: January 2024

Cellulose extraction typically begins with a delignification reaction using conventional methods, namely alkaline treatment. So far, the delignification process using alkaline treatment requires quite a long time, which is over 6 hours of the cooking process, so the cost to produce cellulose is quite large. The delignification approach using a variety of solvents is needed to answer the current problem, which is to shorten the reaction time. In this study, two types of solvents were carried out for the delignification process of EFB, namely NaOH and H2O2, while the time used for the delignification process was 15 minutes. Parameters of research observations included levels of lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose.Extraction of cellulose from EFB using H2O2 and NaOH produced cellulose content of 52.76% and 66.46%, respectively. However, based on visual results of treatment using NaOH are still brown in color which indicates that lignin is still contained in EFB. The Fourier Transform Infra Red (FTIR)and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) characterization results before and after delignified EFB showed that a peak of 3301.75 cm−1 dominated the functional group that show cellulose, with the highest crystallinity index of 12.43% in the H2O2 treatment. The results of Thermogravimetry Analysis (TGA)and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analyses showed that EFB before and after treatment were different, which can be observed from the loss of lignin structure and TGA values which began to degrade at 351.78°C. Therefore, based on this research the best solvent for fast delignification of EFB was H2O2 (only need 15 min).
Pengaruh tiga jenis formula teknologi Sucrosin terhadap pertumbuhan dan produktivitas tebu (Saccharum officinarum L.)
Authors: Aziz Muhammad Abdul , Yusup Ciptadi Ahmad , Siswanto Siswanto , Santoso Djoko , Priyono Priyono , Widiastuti Happy
Published: January 2024

Sucrosin technology, have been tested in ​​more than 10,000 ha of sugarcane planting area, resulted in highly variable increases in productivity. However, fulfilling standard operational procedures when implemented on a wide scale is complicated, so it needs to be simplified regarding product formulation and application techniques. This study aimed to evaluate the three different formulas of Sucrosin technology in increasing sugarcane growth and productivity. The study was conducted on PC sugarcane at RNI Plantation, Majalengka, West Java, using the Bululawang 1303 variety. The research design was a completely randomized design with four treatments consisting of Sucrosin technology existing (Se), formula 1 (S1), and formula 2 (S2) and control. The application of formula 2 Sucrosin technology (S2) could significantly increase the height and diameter of sugarcane stalks at 6 and 9 MAP. Sugarcane production in Se, S1, and S2 treatments increased by 22.49% (112.71 ton ha-1), 20.47% (110.85 ton ha-1), and 16.45% (107.15 ton ha-1) compared to controls (92.02 ton ha-1), respectively. These results show that Sucrosin Se technology produces the highest production. Nevertheless, from a technical perspective for implementation in the field, the most straightforward Sucrosin technology is S2. However, further research needs to be conducted in the broader area across different agro-ecologies to confirm the current findings.
Mitigation of 3-MCPDE and GE in palm oil in Indonesia
Authors: Elisabeth Jenny
Published: January 2024

Among consumed-vegetable oils, RBDPO (refined, bleached and deodorized palm oil) is indicated containing higher level of 3-MCPDE and GE, which have been classified as potentially carcinogenic and/or genotoxic to human. Those contaminants in RBDPO are formed during deodorization process with high temperature and also correlate with chloride content and quality of CPO as raw material.  The maximum limit for 3-MCPDE and GE content in vegetable oil has been set at 2500 and 1000 µg kg-1, and as low as 750 and 500 µg kg-1 when used for production of baby food and cereal-based foods for infants and young children. The mitigation of 3-MCPDE and GE in RBDPO is quite challenging for palm oil refineries in producing a good quality of palm oil in term of sensory, stability, safety, and nutritional value, especially in Indonesia.  It has been proven that modification of conventional refining process can reduce the 3-MCPDE and GE content. They are including pre-treatment of CPO by water washing to reduce the chloride content, alkali neutralization to remove any acids present in the oil prior to deodorization, using neutral bleaching earth, adding antioxidants after bleaching to reduce free radical-mediated formation of 3-MCPDE and GE, lowering the deodorization temperature with a longer time, and even double bleaching and/or double deodorization of the palm oil.  Post-refining treatment using specific adsorbents is also applied to remove the 3-MCPDE  and GE. However, palm oil  refineries  have  to  apply combination of several mitigation strategies to adequately reduce the levels of 3-MCPDE and GE, including using good quality of CPO with low FFA, chloride, and oxidized components content.
Sterilization method of contaminated oil palm plantlets affects the survival rate during acclimatization
Authors: Sinta Masna Maya , Zubaidah Lailia , Saptari Rizka Tamania , Riyadi Imron , Permatasari Galuh Wening , Putranto Riza Arief , Aksa Annisa A , Mahardhika Larasati D , Setiawati Yuli , Minarsih Hayati , Ernayunita Ernayunita
Published: January 2024

Contamination in the in vitro culture is a critical problem causing the failure of seed production. Contamination in the oil palm plantlet is detrimental, considering that oil palm propagation is difficult and takes a long time. This research aimed to study the effect of sterilization during acclimatization of the contaminated oil palm plantlets by fungi on viability and to determine the optimum viability achieved from the contaminated materials. The materials used were contaminated plantlets of oil palm with roots, four leaves, and a height of about 17 cm. The plantlets were removed from the tube and cleaned with running tap water, then were sterilized, with treatments P1: soaking in benomyl-mancozeb-sodium hypochlorite and mannitol and rinsing with aquadest, P2: soaking in benomyl-mancozeb, P3: soaking in mancozeb. Cleaning plantlets under running tap water was carried out as a control treatment. The results showed that at 10 weeks after acclimatization, the survival rate of plantlets in each treatment (P1, P2, and P3) was significantly higher than that of the control. Sterilization methods affect the time new leaves emerge, leaf condition after sterilization treatment, and shoot height. The lowest fungal contamination after treatments was found in P2, followed by P3. After 3 months, plantlet survival rate decreased, with the highest survival rate in treatment P3 (32.3%) followed by treatment P2 (22.5%). In conclusion, acclimatization of contaminated oil palm plantlets can be carried out using a suitable sterilization treatment. Sterilization affects the survival rate and growth of in vitro-contaminated oil palm plantlets during acclimatization.
Políticas sobre ecoturismo en Colombia: oportunidad de inclusión laboral en el posacuerdo con las FARC-EP
Authors: López de Parra Lillyam , Balanta Martínez Víctor Julio
Published: January 2024

Objetivo: analizar políticas sobre ecoturismo en Colombia como oportunidad de inclusión laboral en el posacuerdo con las FARC-EP, cuyo alcance consistió en identificar las políticas públicas para el impulso del ecoturismo y su aporte para la inserción laboral de víctimas del conflicto armado colombiano.
Diseño/metodología: tuvo carácter descriptivo y analítico, tipo mixto. Los métodos empleados fueron: recolección de datos o heurístico y hermenéutico. Las fases se desarrollaron en tres etapas: indagación, a documentos de política ecoturística; heurística, organización de datos para solución de interrogantes; analítica e interpretativa, de definiciones, tendencias, relaciones y propuesta de políticas.
Resultados: se encontró que en el marco legal-conceptual de las políticas no hubo transformación de fondo de su quehacer para implementar el enfoque de sustentabilidad fuerte ni la pluralidad. Las oportunidades de inclusión laboral no están explícitas. La propuesta de política sobre ecoturismo comunitario radicó en: formulación de políticas básicas de desarrollo productivo, valoración e implementación de procesos de incorporación a la vida civil desde la visión de los mismos actores; valoración y estímulo para alianzas y promoción de relaciones entre diferentes agentes sociales del territorio y su participación en toma de decisiones: atención primordial a la seguridad; priorización de inversión en infraestructura; asignación de capital semilla para emprendimiento; apoyo tributario y diferencial para comunidades; formación; mejoramiento de la conectividad digital; y fomento de la investigación.
Conclusiones: el ecoturismo integra las dimensiones: cultural, ambiental y productiva. Las tendencias se fundamentan en la participación de la comunidad y la sustentabilidad. Con relación a la inclusión laboral, no son explícitos los mecanismos que posibiliten su materialización.
Originalidad: el estudio explora la pertinencia e integración de las políticas públicas del Estado colombiano en relación con la paz, las comunidades y el ecoturismo.
Modeling mobile payment acceptance among working-age users in the emerging market
Authors: Abdullah Nurul Jannah , Othman Intan Waheedah , Urus Sharina Tajul
Published: January 2024

Mobile payments are poised to become the predominant method of transaction as we progress towards a society with reduced reliance on cash. Despite the rapid growth of mobile payments, not everyone is willing to accept them due to their perception of a lack of security and confidence (Aboobucker & Bao, 2018). This study aims to examine the factors influencing the acceptance of mobile payment among working-age individuals in Malaysia. Data was collected through questionnaires, generating a 49 percent response rate. Descriptive, univariate, and multivariate analyses were performed to analyze the data. Based on the underpinning of the technology acceptance model (TAM) the study discovers that perceived ease of use, personal innovativeness, and behavioral intention have a significant positive relationship with working-age acceptance of mobile payment. In contrast, perceived risk and social influence demonstrated an insignificant effect on working-age acceptance of mobile payment. Understanding these factors may enable service providers to allocate resources effectively and create a sustainable mobile payment ecosystem in the country (Moghavvemi et al., 2021). The study further holds significance for both managers and policymakers in their efforts to harness the potential of mobile payment services, in line with Bank Negara’s objective in transitioning towards a cashless society.
Auditor choice, board of directors’ characteristics and ownership structure: Evidence from Greece
Authors: Fasoulas Marios , Chytis Evangelos , Lekarakou Ekaterini , Tasios Stergios
Published: January 2024

Auditing is a key factor of financial reporting quality which reduces information asymmetry, improves regulatory compliance, and enhances internal control effectiveness. The decision to select an audit firm is complex and the reasons for choosing a specific auditor are likely to differ across organizations (Knechel et al., 2008). Several factors drive auditor selection, including ownership structure, governance attributes, the risk of information asymmetry, and country-level determinants (Habib et al., 2019). This study aims to examine whether corporate governance mechanisms affect auditor choice. For this purpose, using a sample of the biggest companies listed on the Athens Stock Exchange (ASE) for the period of 2014 to 2018, a logit regression model was developed to investigate the influence of the board characteristics and ownership structure on the decision to appoint a Big Four or non-Big Four audit firm. Results indicate that corporate governance mechanisms do affect auditor selection in Greece. Firms with larger boards, with more independent members and women on their boards’ composition, are more likely to appoint a Big Four audit firm. On the other hand, family-owned firms are less likely to engage a Big Four audit firm. The study’s results add new evidence on the factors that affect auditor choice in a European emerging market and could be useful to the regulatory authorities, investors, boards, and all other parties engaged in corporate governance.
Mini narraciones ancestrales
Authors: Giraldo Herrera John Harold
Published: January 2024

Los conocimientos de los pueblos de origen, es decir, de quienes son primero que los demás, deberían ser divulgados con mayor fuerza. Una de sus consignas básicas y vitales, es la de re-existir, en otras palabras: volver a ser, disponer de voz, de encuentros, de perspectivas, de reconocimiento, de identidades, donde se pueda sacudir una epidemia que todavía los salpica: la vergüenza, la sumisión, también dejarlos ser. En varios de ellas y ellos, quedó la idea de considerarse menos, inferiores, por la injerencia de las iglesias que los ha sometido y el poder político que los ha relegado. Todavía en Colombia se avizoran posturas de considerarlos como en la Constitución de 1886: sin alma, incivilizados, irracionales, cercanos a lo animal. Mini narraciones ancestrales, ofrece 44 relatos, donde se habla de seres en lengua propia como: Tutriaka, Pishimisak, Kirma, Kumba, Serankua, jais, Pütshipu, Shikwakala, entre muchos más. Intenta recuperar los nombres originales de las comunidades, entre otras: Yanakuna, Iku, Misak, Nasa, Kaggabba, y muchos más, que, al desplazar sus nombres originales por otros, también les quitaron parte de su esencia. Caminar la palabra, es encontrar identidades. Al recorrer tanto personas como lugares, este libro da cuenta de ellos y de sus cosmovisiones.
Clinical Features of Paediatric Inflammatory Epidermolysis Bullosa Acquisita: A Case Series Study
Authors: Zhang Yuexin , Dang Jingyang , Li Ruoyu , Chen Xixue , Zhu Xuejun , Wang Mingyue
Published: January 2024

Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita (EBA) rarely develops in childhood. This study retrospectively recruited paediatric patients with EBA (age ≤ 16 years), diagnosed by clinical and histopathological features and results of immunofluorescence, immunoblotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and reviews their clinical manifestations, histopathology, immunological features, and responses to various treatments. All 7 included patients presented with inflammatory EBA. Among them, 3 had a bullous pemphigoid-like phenotype. Pathologically, in addition to dermal–epidermal blistering, in all patients, the distribution of neutrophils was superficial perivascular or interstitial, or in the dermal papilla. Mixed neutrophils and eosinophils were detected in 2 of the 3 patients with bullous pemphigoid-like phenotypes. In addition to treatment with glucocorticoids, dapsone was administered in 4 patients, while thalidomide and sulfasalazine were administered in 1 patient. All patients responded to the these therapies. Relapse was mainly due to reduction and cessation of glucocorticoids. In conclusion, EBA in childhood may be unique, and thus distinct from its adult counterpart. Specific treatment and follow-up protocols are required for therapy of this rare autoimmune skin disease in children.
Telangiectatic Macules Spreading During More Than 30 Years: A Quiz
Authors: Aromolo Italo Francesco , Di Michele Eleonora , Boggio Francesca Laura , Cattaneo Angelo , Marzano Angelo Valerio
Published: January 2024

Abstract is missing (Quiz)
An Overview of Cancer
Authors: Sucharitha Are
Published: January 2024

Cancer is defined as one of the large groups of diseases characterized by the development of abnormal cells that grow beyond their boundaries, which can invade adjoining tissues via circulation, and spread to other organs in the body. Cancer can be initiated anywhere in the body, where damaged cells grow and multiply where they shouldn't. These cells form tumors, also called neoplasm- an abnormal mass of cells. Tumors can be non-cancerous (benign) and cancerous (malignant). Cancers are grouped according to their origin of tissue or organ. Four major types of cancers- • Carcinomas – are malignancies that begin in the epithelial cells, which make up the skin , and tissues that line other internal organs. Examples of carcinomas involved are prostate cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, and colorectal cancer. • Sarcomas- sarcoma is a type of cancer that starts in tissues like bone or soft tissues and connective tissues . • Leukemias- leukemias are cancer of the white blood cells, which begins in the bone marrow as the bone marrow produces an excessive amount of abnormal white blood cells, that do not function properly. There are 4 major types of leukemia - acute lymphocytic leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, acute myelogenous leukemia, and chronic myelogenous leukemia . • Lymphoma- a cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, the lymphatic system includes the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus gland, and other network of vessels. There are main types of lymphomas- Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. • And there are also other types of cancer • In overview, cancer is a condition where cells multiply abnormally over time. The cells divide and grow rebelliously, they invade surrounding tissues and spread to distant parts of the body. In the course of time, the mass of the cancer cells can get massive enough to make lumps(tumors) that can be felt or seen. But not all tumors are cancer.
Glucolipotoxicity: A Novel Different Perspective on the Causes of Cancer
Authors: Akl Maher Monir
Published: January 2024

The Warburg effect, characterized by increased glucose uptake and lactate production in cancer cells even in the presence of oxygen, has long been recognized as a hallmark of cancer metabolism. This metabolic alteration provides cancer cells with a growth advantage, facilitating their rapid proliferation. The underlying mechanisms driving the Warburg effect involve dysregulated glucose metabolism, upregulation of glucose transporters, and metabolic reprogramming favoring glycolysis. The resulting accumulation of metabolic intermediates, such as lactate, contributes to the acidic tumor microenvironment, promoting tumor progression. However, a novel perspective proposed by Maher Akl suggests that dysregulated glycolipid metabolism, particularly the accumulation of glycolipids within cells, plays a pivotal role in tumor development. This glucolipotoxicity hypothesis offers a broader understanding of the primary causes of cancer, emphasizing the interference of accumulated glycolipids with cellular processes and the activation of oncogenic pathways. In this abstract, we summarize the mechanisms underlying the Warburg effect and glucolipotoxicity, highlighting their implications for tumor growth. Understanding these paradoxical conditions that activate tumor growth provides insights for the development of innovative therapeutic strategies targeting the primary cause of cancer.
Role of New Insulin Analogs in the Management of Diabetes. A Clinical Review
Authors: Ahmed Aziz Kamran Mahmood
Published: January 2024

This paper has reviewed different insulin analogs currently available in the market and pharma industry, their safety, efficacy and their roles in the diabetes management, comparing with human regular and NPH insulin. Traditional insulins (human regular and NPH insulins) do not have constant or smoother pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles and are usually associated with erratic blood glucose profiles with hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia when compared with analog insulins. Similarly they do not match physiologic insulin profiles with basal bolus format. According to the medical literature, current insulin analogs are more efficacious and also it has been documented in research trials that recent insulin analogs are better and safer as compared to human regular and NPH insulin in terms of hypoglycemia and HbA1c reductions. Hence this paper has reviewed these insulins analogs (longer acting basal and rapid acting insulin analogs) for their safety and efficacy in terms of hypoglycemia and HbA1c control, for the management of both type-1 and type-2 diabetics in hospitals and clinics.
Body Mass and Biochemical Indexes in Obese Children: Changes in Metabolic Syndrome Development
Authors: Povarova Oxana V
Published: January 2024

Biochemical indices in obese children for early metabolic syndrome (MS) diagnostics were analyzed. Prospective study enrolled control (n=32, -1.0≤BMI SD score ≤+1.0) and obese (n=40, BMI SD score>+2.0) groups of children (12 yr mean age). Obese children demonstrated enhanced total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, ALT, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR and elevated atherogenic index (AI). In most obese children, cardiovascular (40%) and hepatic (85%) disturbances were observed. Association of obesity with hepatic pathology was reflected in all examinees by correlations between BMI and ALT (r=0.511, p=0.001) and between BMI and ALT/AST ratio (r=0.638, p=0.001). AI increased in parallel with ALT/AST ratio elevation (r=0.436, р=0.006). Value of ALT/AST ratio in obese children group with signs of MS was 1.0 (0.5-1.6), exceeding value in control group (0.6; 0.3-1.1). To clarify ALT/AST ratio reference values as a manifestation of MS in obese children, an analysis of data from a larger number of patients is required. Control group demonstrated correlations between plasma coenzyme Q10 and total cholesterol (r=0.474, p=0.009) as well as between coenzyme Q10 and ALT (r=0.412, p=0.023) attesting to adequate lipoprotein antioxidant function and normal action of liver. In obese children, these relationships were distorted indicating advisability to prevent MS with membrane-stabilizing and/or antioxidant agents.
Knowledge, Perceived Risks and Factors Affecting the Utilization of Cervical Screening Services among Females in Owerri North LGA
Authors: Innocent David Chinaecherem
Published: January 2024

Background: Globally, cervical cancer screening services involves procedures put in to prevent and checkmate complications in the cervix. Lack of cervical screening services can lead to cervical cancers, one of the leading causes of death in women, which begin in cells on the surface of the cervix. The objective of this study was to determine the knowledge, perceived risks and factors affecting the utilization of cervical screening services among females in Owerri North LGA. Methods: A descriptive cross sectional study was employed in this research. The multi-stage simple random sampling procedure was employed to obtain a sample size of 424 respondents and a self-administered semi structured questionnaire was used to gather data for this study. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was used in the analysis of the data gotten from the study. Results: The results of this study revealed that majority, 27.8% (118) of the women represented age groups between 25-34 and 45-49. For the level of knowledge of cervical screening services, most of the respondents 86.4% (366) demonstrated knowledge of cervical screening, while 13.6% (58) denied. The study also showed a good number of females, about 41.2% (175), agreed that it was risky to avoid uptake of cervical screening. Majority of the respondents reported demonstrated their approval to utilize cervix screening if offered a chance (85.9%), while 14.1% (60) denied based on results from level of knowledge of cervical screening. 19.3% (82) reported family/husband acceptance, 18.7% (79) said “distance to facility” as some of the factors affecting the utilization of cervical screening practice. Further results for the test of a statistically significant association between socio-demographic characteristics and level of knowledge of cervical screening services, age (p=0.010), parity (p=0.0008), level of income (p=0.0092) and level of education (p=0.0327) were associated with level of knowledge of cervical screening services. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study showed good knowledge of the perceived risks of cervical screening among the females but this did not translate to willingness to utilize screening and awareness campaigns must provide accurate information on cervical screening so that females can make informed choices was recommended by this study