bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
"Había una vez una menarquia": ecosistema digital colaborativo lúdico/afectivo y participativo que mejora la experiencia de la menarquia en las personas de 9 a 13 años con el fin de promover la educación menstrual integral.
Authors:   , Severino Springinsfeld Gerardinne Génesis
Published: October 2023

Luego de un proceso de exploración personal de 10 años y de investigación académica de 2 años nace “Había una vez una Menarquia” un “Ecosistema digital colaborativo lúdico/afectivo y participativo que mejora la experiencia de la menarquia en las personas de 9 a 13 años con el fin de promover la educación menstrual integral”. El que tiene como objetivo general “Diseñar un ecosistema digital con el fin de articular el contenido sobre el ciclo menstrual para promover la educación menstrual en las personas de 9 a 13 años”. Mediante la oportunidad de mejorar la experiencia de las escolares que están próximas a vivir su primera menstruación y aquellas que están experimentando sus primeros años de su ciclo, las que se enfrentan a un escenario lleno de mitos y tabúes asociados a la menstruación y que ha trascendido culturas, etnias, países, generaciones y géneros, a pesar de ser un suceso biológico completamente natural. En pleno 2023, existe una incomodidad asociada a la temática, que perjudica la experiencia de las adolescentes. Junto a esto, el cambio hormonal que viven las personas que están en plena pubertad altera el estado de anímico que se vuelve aún más variable con los prejuicios que emite el entorno y que se potencian con la falta de educación y las incompletas fuentes de información. Es así como este trabajo, posee una perspectiva homeostática del conocimiento al integrar aspectos biomédicos, psicológicos y culturales que promuevan una nueva forma de abordar la menarquia y la menstruación, al incorporar a expertas en el área, infancias, adolescencias, mujeres y personas menstruantes, entendiendo que el sangrado menstrual no es sólo cuestión de una representación identitaria más bien de cuerpos con útero que propician las condiciones para menstruar. Esta investigación – proyecto, utilizó metodologías esenciales una de ellas el “Método Double Diamond” (British Design Counsil, 2019) en coherencia con el propio método de estudio de postgrado del Magíster en Diseño Avanzado (MADA) UC, que comprende cuatro factores; “Research for design”, “Needfinding”, “Diseño” y “Modelo de Negocio”, además de recoger el enfoque metodológico del “diseño participativo” y del “diseño emocional”, permitiendo generar una propuesta de innovación social a través del diseño avanzado.
¿Cómo enfrentar con éxito la educación superior?: habilidades clave a desarrollar por estudiantes de la carrera de ingeniería civil en una universidad chilena
Authors:   , Vergara Huerta Sandy
Published: October 2023

Las altas tasas de deserción estudiantil en los primeros años de estudios superiores hacen necesario establecer estrategias para retener a los estudiantes en sus carreras. El presente estudio busca identificar las habilidades clave que deben desarrollar los estudiantes, en este caso de ingeniería civil, para poder enfrentar con éxito sus estudios. Para identificar estas habilidades, el presente estudio se basa en la realización y análisis de entrevistas a profesores de la escuela de Ingeniería Civil de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso. Las principales habilidades que se han identificado como carentes y necesarias de desarrollar son habilidades comunicativas, vida y carrera, y trabajo en equipo.
Percepciones de apoderados de un establecimiento educacional de Puente Alto en torno a los significados de la calificación en la evaluación de los aprendizajes
Authors:   , Paredes Aguilera Matías Ariel
Published: October 2023

Las calificaciones son una constante dentro de las prácticas de evaluación que han caracterizado a la escuela. Aunque su valor pedagógico está determinado por su utilidad para certificar el nivel de logro de los aprendizajes, las comprensiones que orbitan sobre ellas varían entre los diferentes actores que componen el sistema educativo. Este trabajo es una aproximación de carácter cualitativa y tradición fenomenológica hacia las percepciones que tienen los apoderados respecto a los significados que subyacen a este fenómeno, en los que se albergan las concepciones, las causas y los efectos, la importancia, el valor y la utilidad que ellos le atribuyen a partir de su experiencia. Para dar cuenta de ello se analizaron mediante codificación -facilitado por el programa ATLAS.ti- los testimonios de diez apoderados cuyos pupilos estaban cursando el nivel de sexto básico. Los resultados exponen que, en su gran mayoría, los apoderados atribuyen una importancia sustantiva, aunque no necesariamente consciente, a las calificaciones debido a que estas han derivado experiencias significativamente positivas y negativas en el plano académico, emocional y social de sus pupilos. Además, se constituyen como construcciones sociales que, aunque pueden ser percibidas como herramientas para el aprendizaje en algunos casos -no en todos-, adquieren valor en tanto se vinculan con factores como el esfuerzo, proyección del futuro y etiquetas sociales asociadas al desempeño académico.
Percepciones de las Prácticas de Liderazgo del director desde las familias: estudio de caso múltiple en contextos escolares de vulnerabilidad en el norte de Chile
Authors:   , Fredes Dubó Diego Nicolás
Published: October 2023

Si bien se ha reconocido la importancia del director en las escuelas como agente clave en impulsar las mejoras de aprendizaje en las escuelas, como líder requiere construir metas compartidas con los distintos estamentos, entre ellos las familias. Pese a su importancia, existe escasa literatura que sistematice las prácticas de liderazgo que son percibidas por padres y apoderados para contribuir a ejercer mayor influencia en la comunidad educativa. El presente estudio de caso múltiple busca indagar en la percepción de las familias sobre las prácticas de liderazgo del director en dos contextos de alta vulnerabilidad de la ciudad de Ovalle. Para este fin se realizaron entrevista semiestructuradas y por medio de un análisis temático se codificaron los datos en el software Atlas.ti 9. Entre los resultados se destaca que existe una percepción positiva en el ejercicio de influencia del director en el establecimiento que tiene mejor rendimiento, caracterizado por promover la participación de las familias en el involucramiento de la educación de sus hijas e hijos. Se concluye que una mayor cantidad de prácticas percibidas de los marcos referenciales del director como la comunicación permanente con su comunidad, el trabajo colaborativo con los docentes o su capacidad de gestionar recursos se asocian a un desempeño académico importante de los centros educativos.
Percepción de docentes sobre las estrategias evaluativas y su vinculación con autoconcepto y motivación escolar: Proyecto Evaluación Sin Notas
Authors:   , Macías Jara Valeria Alejandra
Published: October 2023

La presente investigación propone conocer la percepción de docentes de educación básica, respecto de la estrategia de evaluación y su vinculación con el autoconcepto y motivación en el marco del Proyecto Evaluación Sin Notas (PESN). La Evaluación para el Aprendizaje (EpA) se posiciona como concepto central, el cual contribuye a la autorregulación de los aprendizajes por partes de las y los estudiantes, incidiendo en su motivación y autoestima. Para llevar a cabo esta investigación, se utilizó un enfoque cualitativo, a través del cual fue posible obtener la visión de profesionales de la educación, mediante entrevistas semiestructuradas que dieron espacio a una conversación amplia respecto de la temática y los puntos que son de interés. Los principales resultados dan cuenta de una valoración positiva de la perspectiva de la EpA, poniendo como centro la vinculación entre aprendizaje y evaluación. A su vez, se reconoce en la pertinencia de repensar los criterios de evaluación y diversificar los instrumentos que ofrece la evaluación tradicional, adaptándolos al proceso de aprendizaje de cada estudiante. Finalmente, se presentan una serie de mejoras que serán útiles para configurar estrategias de evaluación que sigan aportando al rol protagónico del estudiante y a la comprensión del proceso de evaluación como parte del aprendizaje, impactando de manera positiva en el autoconcepto académico y la motivación escolar.
¿Qué relaciones existen entre la formación del analista y la época?: la experiencia de la formación del analista en psicoanalistas de orientación lacaniana a partir del 18 de Octubre del 2019 en Chile
Authors:   , Gamboa López Cristóbal Gabriel
Published: October 2023

La presente investigación tiene como objetivo analizar las relaciones entre formación del analista, la época en la cual se forma, y los eventos ocurridos en Chile durante el 18 de octubre del 2019 para psicoanalistas de orientación lacaniana. Para conseguirlo, se hizo una revisión de antecedentes teóricos respecto a los principales conceptos y momentos que orientan el objetivo: formación del analista, análisis personal, trípode freudiano, analista ciudadano, época, Otro social y 18 de octubre del 2019 en Chile. La metodología cualitativa empleada consideró un paradigma constructivista del conocimiento, apuntando a situar el relato singular de cada uno de los participantes, quienes fueron analistas en formación de la Nueva Escuela Lacaniana y el Grupo Psicoanalítico Plus. La técnica de producción de datos fue a través de entrevistas en profundidad semi estructuradas, cuyo guion fue previamente puesto a prueba en una entrevista piloto. El análisis de los resultados buscó puntos comunes orientados a los objetivos específicos y preguntas directrices a través del análisis interentrevista, y también rescató los aspectos únicos de cada una, desde un análisis intraentrevista. El análisis de datos se llevó a través de la teoría fundamentada para dar lugar a los resultados emergentes, desarrollados a lo largo de la presentación de los resultados. Los principales resultados de la investigación destacan la heterogeneidad de la formación del analista, donde el análisis personal resulta protagonista para leer los efectos de la formación en estos analistas entrevistados, sin confluir en un programa particular ni rígido sobre algún entrenamiento respecto a la formación. Además, se puede destacar la relevancia en buscar incluir la época vivida dentro de la práctica analítica. Sin embargo, quedan dudas sobre la forma en que se incluye y se poner en acto dentro de la formación del analista. También, el 18 de octubre tocó de forma singular los distintos aspectos de la formación, donde los analistas tomaron una posición no neutral frente a la manera en que nombran el acontecimiento su quehacer analítico, lo cual fue cristalizado en su relación con la práctica analítica, posición del analista e instituciones analíticas. Finalmente, se destacan significantes singulares en la manera de dar explicación al 18 de octubre, los cuales en la mayoría de los entrevistados fueron relacionados con su propio análisis, con preguntas que apuntaron a la falla en el saber, la división subjetiva y la ganancia de saber, en línea de pensar los efectos-de-formación en cada uno.
Effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on children: an analysis of the situation through a cross-sectional study
Authors: Vo-Thi Tuong-Vy , Nguyen-Thi Ngoc-Bich , Dao-Thi Duy-Duyen , Le-Thi Nga , Nguyen-Vu Nguyen-Ha , Vo Hoang-Khoa
Published: October 2023

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic in Vietnam, providing support for children has emerged as a significant challenge for social workers. However, there is a lack of research examining how social workers assess the pandemic's impact on children. In this study, we conducted a survey within a population-based cohort of children in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. By employing the "Children’s Coping Strategies during COVID-19" scale, we evaluated the pandemic's multifaceted influence on children through the lens of the effectiveness of social work measures. The results revealed distinct and significant positive correlations between the impacts of COVID-19 on children, children’s coping strategies during COVID-19, the social work approach, and the effectiveness of the social work approach. Moreover, the impacts of COVID-19 on the effectiveness of the social work approach on children after the pandemic, encompassing aspects like ensuring primary care for children, personal intervention, discussions on the pandemic's impact on children's lives and activities, as well as school support, were all significantly and positively associated with the effectiveness of social work measures. Additionally, the analysis unveiled that social workers assessed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Vietnamese children as yielding average effects. These findings underscore the significance of interdisciplinary support and rehabilitation for children grappling with the consequences of COVID-19. Nevertheless, for a more comprehensive understanding of the long-term effects, future longitudinal research is imperative. Please review the text for grammar and accuracy.
Support and Barrier of Online Occupational Therapy Education During Covid-19 in Bangladesh: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Moniruzzaman Sk. , Chanda Nayan Kumer , Hossain Md. Saddam , Rahman Md. Habibur , Fatema Kaniz , Singha Monika
Published: October 2023

The novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has imposed significant challenges on medical education worldwide. During the pandemic in Bangladesh, Occupational Therapy students were participated in their class through online. The study aimed to identify support and barrier of online Occupational Therapy education during COVID-19 in Bangladesh.

A cross-sectional online survey was performed to conduct the study through email. Self-developed structured questionnaire were used for data collection. Descriptive analyses were used to analyze survey results.

Data were obtained from 112 responses where males were 34% and females were 66%. The study found that 75 (67%) participants had own devices and 37 (33%) participants responded that they were borrow the device from others during online study. Result revealed that students got support from the institution likes 80.4% (90) participants responded that they got regular online classes, 31.2% (35) said that teachers were supportive, 17.9% (20) participants responded that they got both review class and installment facilities. In family site 100.0% (112) Participant responded that they got internet support, 49.10% (55) quite space, 42.0% (47) care and 33.0% (37) got device support and encouragement. Online education barriers from the family found that 59.80% (67) participants responded that they had no family barrier, whereas 17.0% (19) faced financial barriers, 6.2% (7) internet connectivity, and a lack of parent’s knowledge about online education. On the other hand, 63.4% (71) of the participants responded that they had not faced any institutional barriers whereas 16.1% (18) participants have faced internet problems and 10.7% (12) practical class.

Participants recommended that necessary steps should be taken to improve internet speed and provide free internet package and lecture method up-gradation for future online education program.
Pharmacognostic Evaluation of Simarouba glauca DC Bark
Authors: Pandhari Ramachandra Mohan Rao , Taranath Tarikere Chandrashekharappa
Published: October 2023

Simarouba glauca DC also known as ‘Dysentery Bark’ is an important ethnomedicinal plant native to Tropical America. Later introduced India as “Lakshmi-Taru.” Bark is a potent anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, and hemolytic drug. This study presents a pharmacognostic evaluation of Simarouba glauca DC bark, mainly shedding light on its macroscopic and microscopic characteristics. Identification, authentication, macroscopic observation, and TLS, RLS and Powder microscopical examinations have been carried out.

The macroscopic examination of the bark revealed distinctive features, including a rough, fissured surface, and a yellowish-brown colour. Microscopic analysis showcased the presence of a thick periderm with small flakes raised above the periderm surface. The outer part of phellem is crushed and the inner portion is modified into a thick cylinder of sclereids. The Phelloderm becomes thick walled and dark coloured and stores calcium oxalate crystals. Large prismatic calcium oxalate crystals located in uniseriate vertical row within thin parenchyma cells. TLS revealed that the phloem fibers in dense compact bundles. The fibers being highly thick walled and lignified with narrow cell lumen. The rays are 250-280 µm in height and 40-60µm. RLS showed the rays are rentered heterocellular. Parenchyma cells and fibers are vertical position at right angles to the rays. Bark powder microscopy exhibited the presence of narrow and wide fibers, fiber-sclereids, long sieve elements, thick brachy sclereids, and large quantity of quadrangular, rectangular, and polygonal Calcium oxalate crystals. These observations provide valuable diagnostic tools for the authentication and quality control of S. glauca DC bark.

The pharmacognostic characterization presented in this study serves as a foundation for further research and development of S. glauca DC bark-based herbal medicines and pharmaceutical formulations. The insights provided in this article contribute to the understanding and utilization of this valuable botanical resource, fostering a bridge between traditional knowledge and contemporary scientific approaches in pharmacognosy.
Evaluation of the Neurobehavioural Toxicity Potential of Aqueous Ethanol Extracts of Leaf/Seed of Datura metel, Mucuna pruriens, and Tapinanthus globiferus Growing on Azadirachta indica Host Tree in Mice
Authors: Umarudeen A. M.  , Khan F.  , Tahir Y.  , Modibbo M. R.
Published: October 2023

Aqueous ethanol extracts of Mucuna pruriens seed (AEMPS), Datura metel leaf (AEDML) and seed (AEDMS), and Tapinanthus globiferus (AETGL) Growing on Azadirachta indica host tree are being evaluated for their anxiolytic, antidepressant, anti-parkinsonian, and addictive activities in other studies. The aim of this study was to investigate the liability or otherwise of extracts of the selected medicinal plants for some benzodiazepines-related neurobehavioural toxicities in mice. Actophotometry was used for the evaluation of the locomotory activity related to central nervous system depressant (cns) effect, diazepam-induced sleep potentiation for hypnotic liability, rodent beam (rod)-walking assay for balance and motor co-ordination, and novel object recognition test (NORT) for cognitive deficit evaluation. The results indicate, compared to negative control (distilled water) treatment mean values of 4.69±0.95 % locomotory activity reduction, 430.71±16.80 sec. sleep onset and 168.43±10.56 min. duration, 5.00±0.00 balance/motor co-ordination performance, and 54.41±1.99 novel object recognition, treatments with high oral doses of AETGL and AEMPS (1500 mg/kg each) did not significantly negatively impact these behavioural indices but even enhanced novel object recognition. High oral doses of AEDML and AEDMS (750 mg/kg each), and tramadol (133 mg/kg) caused significant (p<0.05) 42.24±2.64, 27.73±2.17, and 36.74±4.44, mean % locomotory activity reductions, 196.86±10.12, 193.88±15.39, and 189.14±18.31 second mean sleep onsets and 319.71±18.85, 309.57±20.27, and 356.00±26.01 minute mean sleep durations, 1.67±0.42, 1.30±0.40, 1.833±0.48 mean balance/motor co-ordination performances,  and 40.49±5.45, 31.33±5.23, 19.37±3.96 mean novel object recognitions, respectively. Diazepam (2 mg/kg) treatment caused 33.71±2.19 mean % locomotory activity reduction, 1.33±0.49 mean balance/motor co-ordination performance, and 29.91±2.81 mean novel object recognitions. Additionally, most mouse groups exposed to tramadol, AEDML, and AEDMS extracts displayed unusual (hallucination-like, predator-like) fearful trepidations when in proximity with the novel objects. These findings indicate AETGL and AEMPS extracts may be devoid of neurobehavioural toxicities but tramadol, diazepam, AEDML and AEDMS extracts may be liable to significant sedative, hypnotic, myo-relaxant, and anti-cognitive effects. These findings justify the traditional uses of Tapinanthus species and Mucuna pruriens extracts for the treatment of memory deficits and related neurological disorders. They also justify the morbid and fatal toxicity risks associated with the use of Datura metel extracts, tramadol, and the benzodiazepines.
Antioxidative Potentials of Annona muricata Pulp and Allium cepa Bulb Juices
Authors: Ihejieto H. A.  , Ibegbulem C. O.  , Ujowundu C. O.  , Ukairo D. I.
Published: October 2023

Aim: To establish the in vitro antioxidative potentials of juice samples of Annona muricata (soursop) fruit pulp and Allium cepa (onion) bulb.                                                                                                    

Study Design: The experimental research design was adopted in this study, but without intervention.                     

Place and Duration of Study: Springboard Laboratories, Awka, Nigeria, in June 2022.                              

Methodology: Traditional method of juice preparation was used to prepare the juices of the soursop fruit pulp and onion bulb. The parameters assayed for were; ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), nitric oxide, ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid), superoxide, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), hydroxyl radical scavenging activities, total phenol content, total antioxidant capacity, and total flavonoids content using standard laboratory techniques at 100, 200 and 300 mg/ml concentrations of the samples in triplicates. Appropriate standards were set up alongside the tests to compare antioxidant properties of the test sample.            

Results: The results showed that Annona muricata pulp and Allium cepa bulb juices, at the concentrations studied, possessed these antioxidant properties studied in varying quantities. It was also observed that values for total antioxidant capacity for soursop juice at 300 mg/ml concentration, and ABTS scavenging activity for onion juice at all concentrations were significantly higher than the reference. The value obtained for DPPH scavenging activity for onion juice at 300 mg/ml concentration and total flavonoids content for onion juice were statistically similar to the reference.                                                                                    

Conclusion: Both juices are natural sources of exogenous antioxidants which can be exploited to benefit humans.
Influence of Pre-sowing Seed Treatments with Botanical and Organics on Yield Attributing Traits and Seedling Parameters of Cluster Bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L) Variety: RGC1066
Authors: Sravani Pandula , Dayal Abhinav , Rai Prashant Kumar , Sahi Vaidurya Pratap
Published: October 2023

The current global scenario firmly emphasizes the need to enhance eco-friendly agriculture practices for sustainable agriculture. Chemical agriculture has made an adverse impact of the health care of not only soil but also the beneficial soil microbial communities and the plants cultivated in these soil. This eventually has led to a high demand of botanical and organic produce by the present day health conscious society and periodic attempts are being made by farmers all over the world to depollute. Application of heavy doses of chemical fertilizers and pesticides are being used by the farmers to get a better yield of various agricultural crops. These chemical fertilizers and pesticides decrease soil fertility and cause health problems to the consumers. The new approaches to the use of botanical and organic amendments in farming have proven to be effective means of improving soil structure, enhancing soil fertility and increasing crop yields. Botanical and organics play vital roles in increasing soil fertility and increasing yield. The study was designed to check the response of botanical and organics on yield and seedling quality parameters such as field emergence percent, plant height (30, 60, 90 DAS), days to 50% flowering, number branches per plant, number of pods per plant, number of clusters per plant, days to maturity, seed yield per plant, seed yield per plot, harvest index, germination percentage, speed of germination, root length, shoot length, seedling length, seedling dry weight, seedling fresh weight, seedling growth rate, root: shoot ratio, seed metabolic efficiency, mobilization efficiency, vigour index-I, vigour index-II, electrical conductivity. For this experiment the seeds of RGC1066 variety collected from department of genetics and plant breeding, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj during 2021-2022, to find out the influence of pre-sowing seed treatments with botanical and organics, seeds treated with panchagavya, beejamruth, jeevamruth, neem leaf extract and vermiwash at different concentrations viz 2, 3, 5, and 10% for 12hours along with control (no treatment). It is found that all treatments showed improved performance than untreated seeds, but it was observed that seeds treated with panchagavya@10% for 12 hours performed better in comparison to other treatments. This study can be helpful to reach new horizons of research in the field of sustainable agriculture, natural resource conservation and seed technology to overcome the germination problem and improve crop growth and yield eventually.
Evaluation of Bioplastic Developed from Corn Starch and Euphorbia antiquorum Latex
Authors: Atchaya R. K. , Devipriya U. , Sreeja K. , Buvanesh P.
Published: October 2023

Traditional plastic materials have a negative environmental impact and one potential strategy to reduce this rising plastic pollution is to use compostable materials like bioplastic. An experiment was conducted at RVS School of Engineering and Technology, Dindigul to synthesize bioplastic from agricultural products like corn starch, latex of Euphorbia antiquorum and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Two sets of blend bioplastic film samples were prepared using solution casting method; Sample A (corn starch + latex of Euphorbia antiquorum) and Sample B (corn starch + latex of Euphorbia antiquorum + PVA). Studies on the degradation properties were carried out by solubility, swelling and soil burial test. The biodegradability of the samples was investigated by soil burial test. Based on this study, the Sample A film without PVA was found to be highly biodegradable as compared to Sample B. The solubility and swelling tests were performed using organic solvents; ammonia, acetic acid, methanol and water. The swelling property of Sample B film showed less percentage of swelling. The solubility test showed that none of the bioplastic samples were completely soluble in any of the organic solvents. Result of this research work indicated that the bioplastic with incorporation of PVA is a better alternative to conventional plastic films.
Genetic Improvement Methods with an Agroecological Approach for Plant Breeding
Authors: Oliveira Vinicius de Souza , Marchiori Johnatan Jair de Paula , Ferreira Lusiane de Sousa , Tognere Jasmyn , Holtz Anderson Mathias , Ferreira Tatiane Cristovam , Vargens Fernanda Nery , Bolsoni Evellyn Zuqui , Carriço Eduarda , Magnani Bruna de Oliveira , Scárdua Marcos Delboni
Published: October 2023

Conventional genetic improvement programs play a fundamental role in Brazilian agriculture, transforming this activity into an important contributor to the national economy. However, most of the time it does not serve family farmers, as this cultivation system has different characteristics from conventional agriculture, where it is often composed of agroecological and diversified crops, in a smaller territorial extension, without conditions for carrying out controls using technologies and inputs acquired externally. Thus, participatory breeding aims to align the improvement of cultivar productivity with the provision of biodiversity for family farming. This technique consists of the farmer's ability to select the cultivars best adapted to their environment based on the selection of their seeds, adopting agroecological principles and agrobiodiversity management.
Nutritional and Anti-nutritional Compositions of Rice Bran as a Potential Animal Feed
Authors: Isah Shehu , Okosun Joe
Published: October 2023

Rice bran, a byproduct of rice milling, is a valuable ingredient in animal feed formulations, particularly poultry feed, due to its high energy content, nutritional benefits, and ability to meet bird protein requirements. Rice bran, analyzed according to AOAC standards, is rich in energy, protein, and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and potassium, essential for poultry health. Its high-fat profile, with higher unsaturated fatty acids, has positive effects on poultry health, including improved egg quality, enhanced immune function, and reduced disease incidence.

Rice bran has a moisture content of 4.3338% and a crude  fibre content of 16.3675%. It has a total ash content of 18.8126% and a crude fat content of 12.0354%, 12.3676%, and 12.6180%. The compositions of rice bran were compared favourably to commercial feed formulations for starter, grower, and finisher meals. The crude fat content is 12.0354%, 12.3676%, and 12.6180%, while the crude protein content is 26.2688%, 27.5813%, and 21.8906%. The carbohydrate contents are 41.2677%, 41.8456% and 49.4032% and the total ash content was measured at 10.4377%, 6.3672% and 4.4905%.

The rice bran's trace mineral composition includes calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, sodium, iron, and copper. Heavy metals like lead and cadmium are below the detection limit of the M5 Thermo Scientific atomic absorption Spectrometer. The anti-nutrient composition includes anthraquinones, phenolics, tannins, saponins, and phytic acid.

Rice bran in poultry feed formulations enhances nutritional needs and outperforms commercial feeds. In addition, to increase nutrient availability, it is necessary to add a phytase enzyme in order to break down phytic acid.
As Climate Change Takes a Toll on Mental Health in Africa, Experts Call for More Research and Interventions
Authors: Suran Melissa
Published: October 2023

This Medical News article discusses how climate change is affecting mental health in Africa and what efforts are needed to mitigate the effects.
Dupilumab-Associated Lymphoid Reactions in Patients With Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Boesjes Celeste M. , van der Gang Lian F. , Bakker Daphne S. , ten Cate Tess A. , Spekhorst Lotte S. , de Graaf Marlies , van Dijk Marijke R. , de Bruin-Weller Marjolein S.
Published: October 2023

Importance

Since the increased use of dupilumab for atopic dermatitis (AD) in daily practice, several cases have been reported on the development of cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCL) and lymphoid infiltrates.

Objective

To provide insight in the clinical and histopathologic features of patients with AD clinically suspected for CTCL during dupilumab treatment.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective observational case series included adult (≥18 years) patients with AD treated with dupilumab between October 2017 and July 2022 at the University Medical Center Utrecht in the Netherlands.

Main outcomes and measures

Relevant patient, disease, and treatment characteristics were evaluated. Skin biopsies before, during, and after treatment were collected and reassessed.

Results

Fourteen patients (54.5% male) with a median (IQR) age of 56 (36-66) years suspected for CTCL with deterioration of symptoms during dupilumab treatment were included. Of 14 patients, 3 were retrospectively diagnosed with preexistent mycosis fungoides (MF). Eleven patients with AD were eventually diagnosed with a lymphoid reaction (LR). These patients showed MF-like symptoms; however, histopathologic findings were different, and included sprinkled distribution of small hyperchromatic lymphocytes in the upper epidermal section, a dysregulated CD4:CD8 ratio, and CD30 overexpression, without loss of CD2/CD3/CD5. The median time to clinical worsening was 4.0 months (IQR, 1.4-10.0). Posttreatment biopsies showed complete clearance of the LR in all patients.

Conclusions and relevance

This study found that dupilumab treatment can cause a reversible and benign LR, which mimics a CTCL, though has distinctive histopathologic features.
Violent Experiences and Patterns of Firearm Ownership From Childhood to Young Adulthood
Authors: Caves Sivaraman Josie , Tong Guangyu , Easter Michele , Swanson Jeffrey , Copeland William
Published: October 2023

Importance

Young adults in their 20s are at high relative risk for self- and other-directed firearm injury, but little is known about gun access patterns for this group.

Objective

To describe the longitudinal patterns of firearm access from childhood to young adulthood and to estimate whether violence experienced as a child or as an adult is associated with gun ownership in young adulthood.

Design, Setting, and Participants

The Great Smoky Mountains Study included participants from 11 contiguous, mostly rural counties in the Southeastern US. The first wave was completed in 1993 and the most recent in 2019. Periodic survey data were gathered in adolescence through participants’ late 20s. In 2023, adjusted Poisson regression with incident rate ratios (IRRs) and 95% CIs were used to estimate associations between violence and gun ownership in young adulthood in 3 age cohorts from the original sample.

Exposures

Violent experiences in childhood (bullying, sexual and physical abuse, violent events, witnessing trauma, physical violence between parents, and school/neighborhood dangerousness) or adulthood (physical and sexual assault).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Initiating gun ownership was defined as no gun access or ownership in childhood followed by gun ownership at age 25 or 30 years. Maintaining gun ownership was defined as reporting gun access or ownership in at least 1 survey in childhood and ownership at age 25 or 30 years.

Results

Among 1260 participants (679 [54%] male; ages 9, 11, and 13 years), gun access or ownership was more common in childhood (women: 366 [63%]; men: 517 [76%]) than in adulthood (women: 207 [36%]; men: 370 [54%]). The most common longitudinal pattern was consistent access or ownership from childhood to adulthood (373 [35%]) followed by having access or ownership in childhood only (408 [32%]). Most of the violent exposures evaluated were not significantly associated with the outcomes. Being bullied at school was common and was associated with reduced ownership initiation (IRR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.61-0.94). Witnessing a violent event was significantly associated with increased probability of becoming a gun owner in adulthood (IRR, 1.24; 95% CI, 1.03-1.49).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, gun ownership and access were transitory, even in a geographic area where gun culture is strong. Early adulthood—when the prevalence of gun ownership was relatively low—may represent an opportune time for clinicians and communities to provide education on the risks associated with firearm access, as well as strategies for risk mitigation.
Association of Antepartum and Postpartum Air Pollution Exposure With Postpartum Depression in Southern California
Authors: Sun Yi , Headon Kathryne S. , Jiao Anqi , Slezak Jeff M. , Avila Chantal C. , Chiu Vicki Y. , Sacks David A. , Molitor John , Benmarhnia Tarik , Chen Jiu-Chiuan , Getahun Darios , Wu Jun
Published: October 2023

Importance

Women are especially vulnerable to mental health matters post partum because of biological, emotional, and social changes during this period. However, epidemiologic evidence of an association between air pollution exposure and postpartum depression (PPD) is limited.

Objective

To examine the associations between antepartum and postpartum maternal air pollution exposure and PPD.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study used data from Kaiser Permanente Southern California (KPSC) electronic health records and included women who had singleton live births at KPSC facilities between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2016. Data were analyzed between January 1 and May 10, 2023.

Exposures

Ambient air pollution exposures were assessed based on maternal residential addresses using monthly averages of particulate matter less than or equal to 2.5 μm (PM2.5), particulate matter less than or equal to 10 μm (PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3) from spatial interpolation of monitoring station measurements. Constituents of PM2.5 (sulfate, nitrate, ammonium, organic matter, and black carbon) were obtained from fine-resolution geoscience-derived models based on satellite, ground-based monitor, and chemical transport modeling data.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Participants with an Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale score of 10 or higher during the 6 months after giving birth were referred to a clinical interview for further assessment and diagnosis. Ascertainment of PPD was defined using a combination of diagnostic codes and prescription medications.

Results

The study included 340 679 participants (mean [SD] age, 30.05 [5.81] years), with 25 674 having PPD (7.54%). Increased risks for PPD were observed to be associated with per-IQR increases in antepartum and postpartum exposures to O3 (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.09; 95% CI, 1.06-1.12), PM10 (AOR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.00-1.04), and PM2.5 (AOR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1. 00-1.03) but not with NO2; PPD risks were mainly associated with PM2.5 organic matter and black carbon. Overall, a higher risk of PPD was associated with O3 during the entire pregnancy and postpartum periods and with PM exposure during the late pregnancy and postpartum periods.

Conclusions and Relevance

The study findings suggest that long-term exposure to antepartum and postpartum air pollution was associated with higher PPD risks. Identifying the modifiable environmental risk factors and developing interventions are important public health issues to improve maternal mental health and alleviate the disease burden of PPD.
Population-Modifiable Risk Factors Associated With Childhood Stunting in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Ahmed Kedir Y. , Dadi Abel F. , Ogbo Felix Akpojene , Page Andrew , Agho Kingsley E. , Akalu Temesgen Yihunie , Baraki Adhanom Gebreegziabher , Tesema Getayeneh Antehunegn , Teshale Achamyeleh Birhanu , Alamneh Tesfa Sewunet , Tessema Zemenu Tadesse , Kabthymer Robel Hussen , Tamirat Koku Sisay , Ross Allen G.
Published: October 2023

Importance

Identifying modifiable risk factors associated with childhood stunting in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is imperative for the development of evidence-based interventions and to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

Objective

To evaluate key modifiable risk factors associated with childhood stunting in SSA.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study examined the most recent (2014-2021) Demographic and Health Surveys data for children younger than 5 years from 25 SSA countries.

Exposures

Modifiable risk factors included history of diarrhea within 2 weeks, consumption of dairy products, maternal body mass index, maternal educational level, antenatal care visits, place of birth, wealth index, type of toilet, and type of cooking fuel.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Stunting and severe stunting, measured using the height-for-age z score, were the main outcomes. Children who scored below −2.0 SDs or −3.0 SDs were classified as having stunted or severely stunted growth, respectively. Relative risks and 95% CIs were computed using generalized linear latent and mixed models and log-binomial link functions. Population-attributable fractions (PAFs) were calculated using adjusted relative risks and prevalence estimates for key modifiable risk factors.

Results

This study included 145 900 children from 25 SSA countries. The mean (SD) age of the children was 29.4 (17.3) months, and 50.6% were male. The highest PAFs of severe childhood stunting were observed for mothers lacking a formal education (PAF, 21.9%; 95% CI, 19.0%-24.8%), children lacking consumption of dairy products (PAF, 20.8%; 95% CI, 16.8%-24.9%), unclean cooking fuel (PAF, 9.5%; 95% CI, 2.6%-16.3%), home birth (PAF, 8.3%; 95% CI, 6.3%-10.0%), and low-income household (PAF, 5.8%; 95% CI, 3.4%-8.0%). These 5 modifiable risk factors were associated with 51.6% (95% CI, 40.5%-60.9%) of the severe childhood stunting in SSA.

Conclusions and Relevance

This cross-sectional study identified 5 modifiable risk factors that were associated with 51.6% of severe childhood stunting in SSA. These factors should be a priority for policy makers when considering future child health interventions to address chronic malnutrition in SSA.
Estimated Average Treatment Effect of Psychiatric Hospitalization in Patients With Suicidal Behaviors
Authors: Ross Eric L. , Bossarte Robert M. , Dobscha Steven K. , Gildea Sarah M. , Hwang Irving , Kennedy Chris J. , Liu Howard , Luedtke Alex , Marx Brian P. , Nock Matthew K. , Petukhova Maria V. , Sampson Nancy A. , Zainal Nur Hani , Sverdrup Erik , Wager Stefan , Kessler Ronald C.
Published: October 2023

Importance

Psychiatric hospitalization is the standard of care for patients presenting to an emergency department (ED) or urgent care (UC) with high suicide risk. However, the effect of hospitalization in reducing subsequent suicidal behaviors is poorly understood and likely heterogeneous.

Objectives

To estimate the association of psychiatric hospitalization with subsequent suicidal behaviors using observational data and develop a preliminary predictive analytics individualized treatment rule accounting for heterogeneity in this association across patients.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A machine learning analysis of retrospective data was conducted. All veterans presenting with suicidal ideation (SI) or suicide attempt (SA) from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2015, were included. Data were analyzed from September 1, 2022, to March 10, 2023. Subgroups were defined by primary psychiatric diagnosis (nonaffective psychosis, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and other) and suicidality (SI only, SA in past 2-7 days, and SA in past day). Models were trained in 70.0% of the training samples and tested in the remaining 30.0%.

Exposures

Psychiatric hospitalization vs nonhospitalization.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Fatal and nonfatal SAs within 12 months of ED/UC visits were identified in administrative records and the National Death Index. Baseline covariates were drawn from electronic health records and geospatial databases.

Results

Of 196 610 visits (90.3% men; median [IQR] age, 53 [41-59] years), 71.5% resulted in hospitalization. The 12-month SA risk was 11.9% with hospitalization and 12.0% with nonhospitalization (difference, −0.1%; 95% CI, −0.4% to 0.2%). In patients with SI only or SA in the past 2 to 7 days, most hospitalization was not associated with subsequent SAs. For patients with SA in the past day, hospitalization was associated with risk reductions ranging from −6.9% to −9.6% across diagnoses. Accounting for heterogeneity, hospitalization was associated with reduced risk of subsequent SAs in 28.1% of the patients and increased risk in 24.0%. An individualized treatment rule based on these associations may reduce SAs by 16.0% and hospitalizations by 13.0% compared with current rates.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this study suggest that psychiatric hospitalization is associated with reduced average SA risk in the immediate aftermath of an SA but not after other recent SAs or SI only. Substantial heterogeneity exists in these associations across patients. An individualized treatment rule accounting for this heterogeneity could both reduce SAs and avert hospitalizations.
Defining a High-Quality and Effective Morbidity and Mortality Conference
Authors: Beaulieu-Jones Brendin R. , Wilson Spencer , Howard Daniel S. , Rasic Gordana , Rembetski Ben , Brotschi Erica A. , Pernar Luise I.
Published: October 2023

Importance

Morbidity and mortality conferences (MMCs) are thought to advance trainee education, quality improvement (QI), and faculty development. However, there is considerable variability with regard to their completion.

Objective

To compile and analyze the literature describing the format, design, and other attributes of MMCs that appear to best advance their stated objectives related to QI and practitioner education.

Evidence Review

For this systematic review, a literature search with terms combining conference and QI or morbidity and mortality was performed in January 2022, using the PubMed, Embase, and ERIC (Education Resources Information Center) databases with no date restrictions. Included studies were published in English and described surgical or nonsurgical MMCs with explicit reference to quality or system improvement, education, professional development, or patient outcomes; these studies were classified by design as survey based, intervention based, or other methodologies. For survey-based studies, positively and negatively regarded attributes of conference design, format, and completion were extracted. For intervention-based studies, details of the intervention and their impact on stated MMC objectives were abstracted. Principal study findings were summarized for the other group. Study quality was assessed using the Medical Education Research Study Quality Instrument (MERSQI). Abstract screening, full-text review, and data extraction and analysis were completed between January 2022 and December 2022.

Findings

A total of 59 studies met appropriateness for study inclusion. The mean MERSQI score for the included studies was 6.7 (range, 5.0-9.5) of a maximum possible 18, which implied that the studies were of average quality. The evidence suggested that preparation and postconference follow-up regarding QI initiatives are equally as important as both (1) succinctly presenting case details, opportunities for improvement, and educational topics and (2) creating a constructive space for accountability, engagement, and multistakeholder discussion.

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest that the published literature on MMCs provides substantial insight into the optimal format, design, and related attributes of an effective MMC. This systematic review provides a road map for surgical departments to improve MMCs in order to align their format and design with their principal objectives related to practitioner and trainee education, error prevention, and QI.
Nicholas Reaction
Authors: Kondoh Azusa , Terada Masahiro
Published: October 2023

This chapter summarizes the recent progress on the Nicholas reaction, including the expansion of the scope of nucleophiles, the development of new reaction systems and asymmetric reactions, and the representative synthetic applications.
Cobalt‐Catalyzed [2 + 2 + 2] Cycloaddition Reactions
Authors: Glasel Tim , Hapke Marko
Published: October 2023

Cobalt‐catalyzed [2 + 2 + 2] cycloaddition reactions are an important tool for the assembly of carbo‐ and hetero‐cyclic ring systems from simple precursor molecules such as alkynes, alkenes, nitriles, and other heterocumulenes such as isocyanates. Cyclopentadienyl (Cp)‐cobalt complexes are still one of the most important classes of catalysts, butin situgenerated cobalt catalyst systems are becoming increasingly important for the assembly of achiral as well as chiral target molecules from a large variety of substrates. Substrates comprise simple terminal as well as internal alkynes, diynes, and higher oligoynes and also allow target‐oriented syntheses of unusually large as well as highly substituted molecules as well as natural product synthesis with a cyclotrimerization as the key step of the synthetic sequence. The utilization of olefins as cyclization partners allows the synthesis of products with lesser degree of unsaturation such as cyclohexadienes, cyclohexenes, and dihydropyridines, just to name a view examples. Chiral catalyst systems allow the enantioselective synthesis of biaryls and products with central chirality, and chiral starting materials allow the synthesis of diastereomeric helicenes in an efficient manner. Novel catalysts and reaction engineering allow reaction conditions such as conventional thermal or microwave heating, photochemically assisted cyclizations, and the use of plug‐flow reactors.