bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The prediction of need of using ankle-foot orthoses in stroke patients based on findings of a transcranial magnetic stimulation study
Authors: Choo Yoo Jin , Kim Jang-Hwan , Chang Min Cheol
Published: April 2021

Ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) are widely prescribed for stroke rehabilitation. We investigated the potential of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) at an early stage, after stroke, to predict the need of using AFOs in stroke patients. We recruited 35 patients who could walk with intermittent support of one person or independently 3 months after onset of stroke. The patients included in the study were classified into two groups: a TMS (+) group (n = 10), in which motor-evoked potential (MEP) in the affected tibialis anterior (TA) was present, and a TMS (-) group (n = 25), in which the MEP in the affected TA was absent. Three months after the onset of stroke, we investigated whether patients were using AFOs or not. We also checked the motor function of the affected lower extremity using the Medical Research Council (MRC) scale. After 3 months of onset of stroke in the TMS (+) group, 4 patients (40%) were using an AFO during ambulation. In the TMS (-) group, 21 patients (84%) were using an AFO. The probability of using AFOs in the 2 groups were significantly different. Additionally, 3 months after the onset of stroke, the MRC scores of ankle dorsiflexor power, on the affected side, were significantly higher in the TMS (+) group. Early TMS evaluation of the corticospinal tract to the TA appears to be useful for predicting the need of using AFOs in stroke patients during the recovery phase.
Mannotriose induced differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into neuron-like cells
Authors: Lian Xiao-Lan , Ji Li-Ming , Zhang Li-Na
Published: April 2021

This article demonstrates that mannotriose effectively induces the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into neuron-like cells in vitro. Rat-derived mesenchymal stem cells were investigated on their potential to differentiate into neuron-like cells induced by mannotriose purified from Radix Rehmanniae Preparata in vitro. The percentage of the neuron-specific enolase positive cells and the Nissl positive cells after mannotriose treatment was increased. The mRNA levels of neurofilament medium and neuron-specific enolase were upregulated in the mannotriose group compared to the control. These findings demonstrate that mannotriose purified from Radix Rehmanniae Preparata can effectively induce differentiation of rat-derived mesenchymal stem cells into neuron-like cells.
Effects of maternal immune activation in porcine transcript isoforms of neuropeptide and receptor genes
Authors: Southey Bruce R. , Zhang Pan , Keever Marissa R. , Rymut Haley E. , Johnson Rodney W. , Sweedler Jonathan V. , Rodriguez-Zas Sandra L.
Published: April 2021

The prolonged effects of maternal immune activation in response stressors during gestation on the offspring’s molecular pathways after birth are beginning to be understood. An association between maternal immune activation and neurodevelopmental and behavior disorders such as autism and schizophrenia spectrum disorders has been detected in long-term gene dysregulation. The incidence of alternative splicing among neuropeptides and neuropeptide receptor genes, critical cell-cell signaling molecules, associated with behavior may compromise the replicability of reported maternal immune activation effects at the gene level. This study aims to advance the understanding of the effect of maternal immune activation on transcript isoforms of the neuropeptide system (including neuropeptide, receptor and connecting pathway genes) underlying behavior disorders later in life. Recognizing the wide range of bioactive peptides and functional receptors stemming from alternative splicing, we studied the effects of maternal immune activation at the transcript isoform level on the hippocampus and amygdala of three-week-old pigs exposed to maternal immune activation due to viral infection during gestation. In the hippocampus and amygdala, 29 and 9 transcript isoforms, respectively, had maternal immune activation effects (P-value < 0.01). We demonstrated that the study of the effect of maternal immune activation on neuropeptide systems at the isoform level is necessary to expose opposite effects among transcript isoforms from the same gene. Genes were maternal immune activation effects have also been associated with neurodevelopmental and behavior disorders. The characterization of maternal immune activation effects at the transcript isoform level advances the understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders and identifies precise therapeutic targets.
The neuroendocrine effects of dehydroepiandrosterone and 17β-estradiol in the in vitro preterm hyperoxia infant model
Authors: Hübner Stephanie , Sunny Donna E. , Zädow Christine , Ruhnau Johanna , Reich Bettina , Vogelgesang Antje , Heckmann Matthias
Published: April 2021

Preterm birth causes neurological deficits. Previously, we demonstrated that fetal zone steroids reduce hyperoxia-mediated cell death in vitro. In immature oligodendrocytes (OLN-93 cells), dehydroepiandrosterone + 17β-estradiol co-treatment had synergistic beneficial effects while signals were transduced through different receptors. In immature astrocytes (C6 cells), both hormones compete for the same receptor and no synergistic effects were observed. 17β-estradiol and progesterone drastically decrease while fetal zone steroids, mainly dehydroepiandrosterone, remain persistently high within preterm infants until term. Substitution of 17β-estradiol and progesterone does not improve neurological outcomes. We investigated the influence of dehydroepiandrosterone, 17β-estradiol or dehydroepiandrosterone + 17β-estradiol treatment in C6 or OLN-93 cells on steroid receptor availability and activation of intracellular signaling molecules in hyperoxic cell culture. We sought explanations of the observed synergistic effect in preliminary study. In C6 cells, the generated signaling of dehydroepiandrosterone + 17β-estradiol treatment has no synergistic effects. The combined effect on this particular pathway does not potentiate cell survival. In OLN-93 cells, we observed significant differences in the early generated signaling of 17β-estradiol + dehydroepiandrosterone treatment to either 17β-estradiol dehydroepiandrosterone alone but never to both at the same time. The latter finding needs, therefore, further investigation to explain synergistic effects. Nevertheless, we add insight into the receptor and signaling cascade alterations induced by 17β-estradiol, dehydroepiandrosterone or 17β-estradiol + dehydroepiandrosterone treatment of C6 and OLN-93 cells in hyperoxia.
Quantification of mitral regurgitation using transthoracic echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: ElTahlawy Walid MS. , Ragab Tamer M. , Elkhashab Khaled A. , Ebeid Hassan M.
Published: April 2021

Both Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) have well-established role in mitral regurgitation (MR) quantification for optimal management strategy. We assessed the correlation between TTE and CMR in the quantification of MR. Participants with isolated MR and echocardiographic mitral regurgitant volume (RVol) ≥ 30 mL/beat were included. A consecutive sample of 30 participants (Mean age 52.7 ± 19.3 years, 50% males) was selected and referred for indirect and direct CMR quantification of mitral RVol. There was a statistically significant strong positive correlation between the echocardiographic and indirect CMR quantification of the mitral RVol (r = 0.753, P < 0.001) and a statistically significant moderate positive correlation between the echocardiographic and direct CMR quantification of the mitral RVol (r = 0.530, P < 0.003). The inter-observer reliability of the MR grade between TTE and CMR showed a statistically significant moderate agreement (κ = 0.502, P = 0.0001) when the observers used the echocardiographic mitral RVol for grading of MR. On the other hand, the inter-observer reliability of the MR grade between TTE and CMR showed a statistically significant faint agreement (κ = 0.251, P = 0.024) when the observers used the echocardiographic regurgitant fraction (RF) for grading of MR. The positive reciprocal relationship between the CMR and the TTE highlights the potential role of the CMR as a concomitant imaging tool for quantification of the mitral RVol and grading of isolated MR, especially with limited or inconclusive TTE studies. This will enhance the management strategy and improve outcomes.
Emerging role of spectral computed tomography in neurocardiology
Authors: Fontana Lucia , Cirio Juan J. , Lylyk Pedro , Rodriguez-Granillo Gaston A.
Published: April 2021

The complex and reciprocal relationship between the brain and the heart has gained increasing attention under the concept of neurocardiology. Myocardial injury is common in cerebrovascular disease, and cardiovascular complications are the second leading cause of death after stroke. Cardiac computed tomography (CT) is a fast and reliable non-invasive tool for the assessment of cardioembolic sources. Compared to single energy CT, spectral/dual energy cardiac CT improves tissue characterization and also leads to significant reductions in contrast volume. In this review article, we portray the potential clinical applications of spectral CT in neurocardiology, focusing in the enhanced diagnosis of cardioembolic sources and cardiovascular risk assessment of patients with stroke, including improved detection of thrombus, identification of subtle myocardial disease, and pulmonary complications within the same session.
Exploring the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on provision of cardiology services: a scoping review
Authors: Yasmin Farah , Shujauddin Syed Muhammad , Naeem Aisha , Jabeen Adina , Shah Syed Muhammad Ismail , Ochani Rohan Kumar , Mohiuddin Osama , Khan Anosh Aslam , Jalees Sumeen , Razzack Aminah Abdul , Salman Shiza , Khan Shuja Abdul Karim , Mustafa Ahmad , Lak Hassan Mehmood
Published: April 2021

The coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic has forced hospitals to prioritize COVID-19 patients, restrict resources, and cancel all non-urgent elective cardiac procedures. Clinical visits have only been facilitated for emergency purposes. Fewer patients have been admitted to the hospital for both ST-segment elevation myocardial infarctions (STEMI) and non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarctions (NSTEMI) and a profound decrease in heart failure services has been reported. A similar reduction in the patient presentation is seen for ischemic heart disease, decompensated heart failure, and endocarditis. Cardiovascular services, including catheterization, primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI), cardiac investigations such as electrocardiograms (ECGs), exercise tolerance test (ETT), dobutamine stress test, computed tomography (CT) angiography, transesophageal echocardiography (TOE) have been reported to have declined and performed on a priority basis. The long-term implications of this decline have been discussed with major concerns of severe cardiac complications and vulnerabilities in cardiac patients. The pandemic has also had psychological impacts on patients causing them to avoid seeking medical help. This review discusses the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the provision of various cardiology services and aims to provide strategies to restore cardiovascular services including structural changes in the hospital to make up for the reduced staff personnel, the use of personal protective equipment in healthcare workers, and provides alternatives for high-risk cardiac imaging, cardiac interventions, and procedures. Implementation of the triage system, risk assessment scores, and telemedicine services in patients and their adaptation to the cardiovascular department have been discussed.
Efficacy and safety of proton pump inhibitors combined with clopidogrel in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention: a meta-analysis
Authors: Han Yao-Yao , Li Zheng-Xiang , Duan Rong
Published: April 2021

Our objective was to systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of proton pump inhibitors combined with clopidogrel in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention and to provide an evidence basis for clinical treatment decision-making. The database EMBASE, PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library and CNKI records from establishment of each database until August 2020 were included. Articles were evaluated for quality. Meta-analysis of selected articles was conducted by RevMan5.3 software. Three RCTs and 4 cohort studies were included, with a total of 9932 patients. Four studies reported gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding events, 3 of which were RCT studies. Overall, there was a significantly lower risk of GI bleeding events in the PPI group compared to the no PPI group [OR = 3.06, 95% CI: 1.89 to 4.95] (P < 0.00001). In 3 RCT studies, there was also a significantly lower risk of GI bleeding events in the PPI group compared to the no PPI group [OR = 3.06, 95% CI: 1.80 to 5.21] (P < 0.0001). Seven studies including 3 RCTs and 4 cohort studies reported MACE. Overall, there was no significant difference in MACE events between PPI group and no PPI group [OR = 1.05, 95% CI: 0.91 to 1.21] (P = 0.50). Both in RCT and cohort studies subgroups, there also was no significant difference in MACE events between the PPI group and the no PPI group [OR = 1.16, 95% CI: 0.87 to 1.53] (P = 0.32), [OR = 1.02, 95% CI: 0.87 to 1.19] (P = 0.84), respectively. For PCI patients taking clopidogrel and PPI therapy, PPI reduced the risk of GI bleeding while having no impact on MACE.
DNA METHYLATION IN EMBRYOS AND SEEDLINGS OF PLANTS
Authors:   Ufa Institute of Biology of the Ufa Federal Research Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Ufa (Russia), Stupak E.E. , Vafina G.Kh. ,   Ufa Institute of Biology of the Ufa Federal Research Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Ufa (Russia)
Published: April 2021

A complex system of genetic and epigenetic networks controls growth and development of plants. DNA methylation is one of the epigenetic mechanisms involved in suppression of transposon activity, chromatin reorganization, genomic imprinting, and regulation of gene expression. Modulation of the degree of genome methylation is observed during the implementation of morphogenetic development programs and in response to external influences. The change in the degree and pattern of methylation at the embryo-seedling stage in this mini-review is considered. The issues of molecular mechanisms of methylation and its role in the processes of embryo formation, germination and seedling development are discussed.
COMPOSITION OF BIOLOGICALLY ACTIVE SUBSTANCES OF THE HORSE CHESTNUT (AECULUS HIPPOCASTANUM L.)
Authors:   Belarusian State University, Kurchenko V.P. , Sushinskaya N.V. ,   Belarusian State University, Maiorava K.I. ,   Belarusian State University, Tarun E.I. ,   International State Ecological Institute named after A.D. Sakharov, Bondaruk A.M. ,   Scientific and Practical Center for Hygiene, Tsygankov V.G. ,   Scientific and Practical Center for Hygiene, Fatykhava S.A. ,   Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, Shabunya P.S. ,   Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus
Published: April 2021

The study of the composition of biologically active substances, alcoholic extracts from flowers of Aeculus hippocastanum L. According to the results of HPLC-MS and GC-MS analyzes, the extract contains the main amounts of phenolic compounds: quercetin, epicatechin, kaempferol. In addition, the extract contains fatty acids and their esters, alcohols, 3-deoxy-d-manno lactone, 1,2,3,5-cyclohexantethrol, α-methyl-mannofuranoside, γ sitosterol. Antioxidant activity of an extract from flowers of A. hippocastanum is associated with the peculiarities of the compositionof biologically active substances. The toxological-hygienic assessment of flowers of this species in acute and subacute experiments showed that it belongs to the 4th hazard class (low hazard).
Metabolic syndrome the presence of inflammatory mechanisms in abdominal obesity is undeniable, gene therapy using nanoparticles and adenoviruses technologies is promising.
Authors: Dowaidar Moataz
Published: April 2021

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a key risk factor for cardiovascular disease(CVDs) MetS affects about 34% of individuals in the United States. Thepresence of inflammatory mechanisms in abdominal obesity is undeniable. Thisindicates that the immune system has been activated, most likely as a result ofthe activation of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) PRRs are located ininnate immune cells and are responsible for detecting viral diseases in the body.PRRs (TLRs and NLRs) are thought to play a part in the pathophysiology ofMetS, and targeting TLR4 receptors has been shown to assist with chronicconditions. Gene polymorphisms in humans have unexplained origins andeffects. The main contributor to MetS problems caused by inflammasome 22 isthe alteration of pro-inflammatory cytokines into their bioactive forms. TheFood and Drug Administration has approved statins for lowering LDLcholesterol. In human atherosclerotic lesions, TLR1, TLR2, and TLRR4 levelsare the most common, and they mediate insulin resistance, which is at the heartof MetS 8. Hypertension is a MetS comorbidity that has a strong connection toTLR signaling.The majority of chronic cardiovascular disorders are multifactorial, with manygenetic and environmental factors at play. Adenoviruses can be used to producegene therapy using nanoparticle technology. Cell proliferation, organogenesis,and metabolic function have also been shown to be influenced by peptides andmicropeptides. Metallic, ceramic, and non-metal lattices have recently showngood proof-of-concept in targeted cancer therapy and are gaining acceptance incardiovascular medicine. Because of the docking of subunits and regulatorypeptides, the NOX family of enzymes may be a candidate for peptide therapies.The term "nanoparticle" encompasses a broad range of nanoscale structures.
Forschendes Lernen virtuell: Wie Kinder auch im Netz zu Entdecker*innen werden
Authors: Heinle Simon , Kopatz Myriel , Fischer Christian
Published: April 2021

Woher kommt unser Strom? Wie lassen sich Daten von einem Ort an einen anderen übertragen? Welche Rolle spielt Mutation dabei, dass bestimmte Individuen bessere Überlebenschancen haben als andere? Das Verständnis von naturwissenschaftlichen Zusammenhängen ist ein grundlegender Baustein in Bildungsprozessen. Entscheidend ist dabei jedoch vor allem die richtige Herangehensweise: Häufig werden Sachverhalte noch immer mehrheitlich auswendig gelernt anstatt tatsächlich verstanden und angewendet. Das Forschende Lernen will das ändern – sowohl im Unterricht, als auch virtuell im Netz.
An econometric analysis of the effectiveness of fiscal and monetary policies in India
Authors: Nadar Anand
Published: April 2021

This study investigatesthe effectiveness of fiscal policy and monetary policy in India. We collected thetime series data for India ranging from 1960 to 2019 from World Development Indicator (WDI). Weapplied the bound test co-integration approach to check the long-run relationship between fiscalpolicy, monetary policy, and economic growth in the context of Indian economy. The short-run andlong-run effects of fiscal policy and monetary policy have been estimated using ARDL models. Theresults showed that there is a long-run relationship between fiscal and monetary policies witheconomic growth. The estimated short-run coefficients indicated that a few immediate short runimpacts of fiscal and monetary policies are insignificant. However, the short-run impacts becomesignificant as time passes. The long-run results suggested that the long-run impact of both fiscal andmonetary policies on economic growth are positive and significant. More specifically, the GDP levelincreases if the money supply and government expenditure increase (Expansionary fiscal andmonetary policies). On the other hand, the GDP level decreasesif the money supply and governmentexpenditure decrease (contractionary fiscal and monetary policies). Therefore, this studyrecommends to use expansionary policies to spur the Indian economy.
miRNAs may be used as preventive agents for metabolic diseases in the near future. Understanding the interplay between pro-adipogenic_ and anti-ad Pipogenic miRNA' could lead to new biomarkers.
Authors: Dowaidar Moataz
Published: April 2021

Present and previous studies have shown that miRNAs may be used as preventiveagents for metabolic diseases in the near future, with their accompanyingadvantages and disadvantages. I have a large array of miRNAs with few targets,whose means of operation are unclear. miRNA, their origins, mechanisms ofsecretion, and targets are unclear. miRNAs for weight loss with efficacy Inconclusion, solving these issues, miRNAs and therapeutics may have greatpromise. as well as following miRNA-based medicines for obesity and associatedmetabolic disorders confirmation of the distinct miRNA signatures in distinctracial cohorts of newborns, teenagers, and adults Understanding the interplaybetween "pro-adipogenic" and "anti-adipogenic" miRNAs' could lead to newbiomarkers. As novel circulating miRNAs that have unique effects on adiposephenotypes are identified, new standards of measurement are created which areboth objective and accurate. a well-defined group of dietary elements, along withother factors such as life conditions, is required to stabilize the weight mechanismHere, the analysis of the anti-obesity therapies can be done alongside specialmRNAs to provide personalized nutrition and fitness plans for targeted outcomes.Although these findings support the association between various miRNAs, it isunknown if they are either necessary or sufficient for the onset of obesity. Thus, inorder to identify the precise mechanism (s) associated with obesity resolution,further studies would be needed.
Differential expression of TUFT1 in cancers of the breast.
Authors: Mamoor Shahan
Published: April 2021

Breast cancer affects women at relatively high frequency (1). We mined published microarray datasets (2, 3) to determine in an unbiased fashion and at the systems level genes most differentially expressed in the primary tumors of patients with breast cancer. We report here significant differential expression of the gene encoding the tuftelin 1, TUFT1, when comparing primary tumors of the breast to the tissue of origin, the normal breast. TUFT1 was also differentially expressed in the tumor cells of patients with triple negative breast cancer. TUFT1 mRNA was present at significantly higher quantities in tumors of the breast as compared to normal breast tissue. Analysis of human survival data revealed that expression of TUFT1 in primary tumors of the breast was correlated with distant metastasis-free survival in patients with basal and luminal A subtype cancer. TUFT1 may be of relevance to initiation, maintenance or progression of cancers of the female breast.
The Society of Clinical Psychology’s Manual for the Evaluation of Psychological Treatments Using the Tolin Criteria
Authors: Boness Cassandra L. , Hershenberg Rachel , Grasso Damion , Kaye Joanna , Mackintosh Margaret-Anne , Nason Erica , Shah Avani , Raffa Susan
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this manual is to provide standardized guidance on the application of the Tolin et al. (2015) Criteria for the purpose of inclusion on the Division 12 Society of Clinical Psychology’s Empirically Supported Treatments (ESTs) list or providing an updated rating on a given EST.
Trends in HIV Stigma Experienced by People Living with HIV in the Netherlands: A Comparison of Cross‐Sectional Surveys Over Time
Authors: Stutterheim Sarah E. , Kuijpers Kyran J. R. , Waldén Moon I. , Finkenflügel Renee N. N. , Brokx Pieter A. R. , Bos Arjan
Published: April 2021

We investigated whether HIV stigma in the Netherlands has changed in recent years. We compared data on stigma settings and manifestations from 2007 (n = 667) and, specifically for the health care sector, 2009 (n = 262), to data acquired in 2019 and 2020 (n = 258). Results showed reductions in stigma from friends, family, acquaintances, at work, in the financial services sector, and in media. However, stigmatizing messages in media remained highly prevalent. Stigma in the LGBTQI+ community, with sexual partners, and while partying remained prevalent and, disconcertingly, relatively unchanged. Stigma in health care increased for a number of stigma manifestations, including physical distance, excessive preventive measures, awkward social interactions, avoidance, and unnecessary referrals. As expected, HIV stigma was positively related to psychological distress, and negatively related to social support and medication adherence. Further, most participants were familiar with U=U and PrEP, but 13.3% questioned the accuracy of U=U. Overall, the findings suggest that stigma reduction efforts should focus on reducing stigma in media, in the LGBTQI+ community and while dating, and in health care. In all of these contexts, a key message is U=U.
Language transfer and positional bias in English stress
Authors: Garcia Guilherme D.
Published: April 2021

This paper shows that L1 transfer may not be eﬀectively maintained in the interlanguage due to confounding factors in the L2. When two factors, A and B, are correlated in the L2, second language learners may only acquire B, even if A is present in the L1. Transfer may not be eﬀective because B, being more robust in the input, conceals A. Native speakers, on the other hand, generalize A in spite of B. The variables in question are weight-sensitivity (A) and positional bias (B) in English, both of which can predict the location of stress in the language. I show that two seemingly target-like groups of second language learners of English (speakers of Mandarin and speakers Portuguese) fail to accurately generalize weight-sensitivity in the language, and instead display response patterns which are predictable given the existing positional bias in English stress.
Pemanfaatan Media Sosial Sebagai Wadah Promosi Kesehatan Mengenai TBC
Authors: Nurul Rifda , Fafidah Farwah
Published: April 2021

TBC merupakan jenis penyakit yang dapat disembuhkan dan dicegah karena menurut data antara tahun 2000 hingga 2019 diperkirakan 60 juta nyawa diselamatkan melalui diagnosis dan pengobatan TBC. Namun, angka keberhasilan (success rate) pengobatan pasien TBC di Indonesia dari tahun 2008 hingga tahun 2017 mengalami penurunan. Dalam upaya pengendalian penyakit, adanya penurunan keberhasilan pengobatan ini perlu adanya perhatian besar karena akan berpengaruh terhadap penularan penyakit TBC. Berdasarkan penelitian yang dilakukan oleh Pulungan dan Permatasari 2021 bahwa faktor-faktor yang paling terkait dengan keberhasilan pengobatan adalah status ketenagakerjaan, kepatuhan obat-obatan, dan akses ke fasilitas kesehatan. Maka dari itu, perlu adanya promosi kesehatan yang dilakukan secara komprehensif untuk menyadarkan masyarakat akan pentingnya tindakan pencegahan dan pengendalian TBC termasuk didalamnya bahaya jika putus pengobatan. Di era modern ini promosi kesehatan dapat dilakukan dengan pemanfaatan media sosial menggunakan tokoh publik yang banyak digemari masyarakat untuk mensosialisasikan pentingnya melakukan pengobatan secara rutin, masyarakat cenderung akan percaya dan mengikuti jika yang menyampaikan pesannya adalah orang yang dijadikan panutan.
Data Driven Manufacturing: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Wicaksono Hendro
Published: April 2021

The presentation starts with the history of industrial revolutions, the differences between industry 3.0 and 4.0, the enabling innovation and technologies of industry 4.0. It then explains that smart products, processes, and resources (PPR) that lead to the generation and use of big data. Big data has high implications on both customer-centric activities and operations in the manufacturing sector. Manufacturing operations can be optimized using big data analytics, such as the product or service design, production planning and optimization, material tracking, condition monitoring, quality control, predictive maintenance, and sustainability optimization. Data can revolutionize the industry through data-driven services as add-ons to conventional products. Finally, the presentation presents research and development projects related to data-driven manufacturing, especially for sustainable and collaborative manufacturing.
Focus on exosomes could help make the use of circulating miRNA as biomarkers more practical. A detailed understanding of miRNA behavior should be a subject of gene therapy.
Authors: Dowaidar Moataz
Published: April 2021

Focus on exosomes could help make the use of circulating miRNA asbiomarkers more practical. A detailed understanding of miRNA behaviorshould be a subject of gene therapy.
Kỳ vọng Chính phủ mới: Tạo đột phá, đưa đất nước phát triển bền vững
Authors: Si H.L. Cu
Published: April 2021

Hôm nay, theo dự kiến, tân Chủ tịch nước và tân Thủ tướng Chính phủ sẽ tuyên thệ nhậm chức. Rất nhiều gửi gắm đã được nêu ra với tân Thủ tướng và bộ máy Chính phủ, đó là phải tạo đột phá đưa đất nước phát triển nhanh hơn nhưng phải bền vững.
Emotional experiences in technology-mediated and in-person interactions: An experience-sampling study
Authors: Petrova Kate , Schulz Marc
Published: April 2021

As the ubiquity of technology-mediated communication grows, so does the number of questions about the costs and benefits of replacing in-person interactions with technology-mediated ones. In the present study, we used a daily diary design to examine how people’s emotional experiences vary across in-person, video-, phone-, and text-mediated interactions in day-to-day life. We hypothesized that individuals would report less positive affect and more negative affect after less life-like interactions (where in-person is defined as the most life-like and text-mediated as the least life-like). In line with this hypothesis, the analysis of 527 unique interactions reported by 102 individuals (mean age = 19.3; 85.6% female) over the course of 7 days reveals that people feel lonelier, sadder, less affectionate, less supported, and less happy following less life-like interactions. Additional analyses show that the links between life-like communication and momentary experiences are independent of properties of individual interactions such as interaction length and participants’ overall evaluations of interaction quality. These findings provide initial evidence that there may be inherent properties of common technology-mediated communication tools that may lead to momentary changes in affective experiences and make social connection more challenging.
Following Majority Rule versus Deferring to Elders: Educational Background Shapes Group Decision Preference in Burmese Children
Authors: Nakawake Yo , Stanford Mark
Published: April 2021

Previous studies showed that most children believe majority rule is the right decision rule, and prefer it to authority rule when making group decisions among peers. Yet, these were conducted mostly in Western or similar populations. Here, we conducted experiments with fifty-one Burmese children (4 to 11 years old) at three types of educational institutions: international schools, a monastery school and a day-care centre for street children. In the experiment, children were asked whether they prefer majority or authority rule in a hypothetical story. The result showed the educational institution influences the proportion choosing majority rule, suggesting that preference for majority rule may not be a universal pattern and decision preference may be shaped by cultural factors.
A longitudinal neuroimaging dataset on language processing in children ages 5, 7, and 9 years old.
Authors: Wang Jin , Lytle Marisa N. , Weiss Yael , Yamasaki Brianna L. , Booth James R.
Published: April 2021

This dataset examines language development with a longitudinal design and includes diffusion- and T1-weighted structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), task-based functional MRI (fMRI), and a battery of psycho-educational assessments and parental questionnaires. We collected data from 5.5-6.5-year-old children (ses-5) and followed them up when they were 7-8 years old (ses-7) and then again at 8.5-10 years old (ses-9). To increase the sample size at the older time points, another cohort of 7-8-year-old children (ses-7) were recruited and followed up when they were 8.5-10 years old (ses-9). In total, 322 children who completed at least one structural and functional scan were included. Children performed four fMRI tasks consisting of two word-level tasks examining phonological and semantic processing and two sentence-level tasks investigating semantic and syntactic processing. The MRI data is valuable for examining changes over time in interactive specialization due to the use of multiple imaging modalities and tasks in this longitudinal design. In addition, the extensive psycho-educational assessments and questionnaires provide opportunities to explore brain-behavior and brain-environment associations.
Modal History versus Counterfactual History: History as Intention
Authors: Penchev Vasil Dinev
Published: April 2021

The distinction of whether real or counterfactual history makes sense only post factum. However, modal history is to be defined only as ones’ intention and thus, ex-ante. Modal history is probable history, and its probability is subjective. One needs phenomenological “epoché” in relation to its reality (respectively, counterfactuality). Thus, modal history describes historical “phenomena” in Husserl’s sense and would need a specific application of phenomenological reduction, which can be called historical reduction. Modal history doubles history just as the recorded history of historiography does it. That doubling is a necessary condition of historical objectivity including one’s subjectivity: whether actors’, ex-ante or historians’, post factum. The objectivity doubled by ones’ subjectivity constitute “hermeneutical circle”.
Productivity and Growth of Manufacturing Industries in Nepal
Authors: Mainali Pradip Kumar
Published: April 2021

This paper examines efficiencies measures including factors influencing on output, total factor productivity (TFPG) and factors affecting on TFPG of manufacturing industries of Nepal. Regression equation is estimated to find factors influencing on output and factors affecting TFPG. Extended Cobb-Douglas production function is examined to find TFPG. As it is disclosed by efficiencies measures such as labor productivity, capital productivity and material efficiency, there is not coherent relation among efficiency measures and output rather than in few cases. It implies that  output increase due to many reasons such as protection, internal demand, availability of material input, comparative advantage and so on. As it is evident by the regression result; output is mainly interrelated with the inherent components like labour, capital and material input though road is also notices as positive factor. Liberalization dummy notifies negative impact on output. Improved TFPG at post liberalization phase is realized to those years in which capital is also increased which suggests increment tin capital probably with improved technology is required to increase overall efficiencies. Capital intensity, export incentive and foreign direct investment are found as factors affecting on TFPG. This study under scores the importance of comparative advantage production since there is not coherence on productivity, growth and efficiencies measures.
Micromorphological Studies of the Genus Ipomoea L. (Convolvulaceae) in Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Saugat , Shrestha Nawal , Rajbhandary Sangeeta
Published: April 2021

Ipomoea is a large and complex genus, which comprises the largest number of species within the family Convolvulaceae. Globally, the genus consists of about 600 species of vines and shrubs, which are widely distributed throughout the tropics and the subtropics. In Nepal, the genus comprises 15 species, which are distributed throughout the tropical, subtropical and temperate region of the country. Besides few enumerations and floristic surveys, no comprehensive anatomy and pollen characters of 16 species of Ipomoea occurring in Nepal to evaluate the qualitative and quantitative differences in these characters. We found that the all species of Ipomoea have paracytic type stomata. However, there is considerable variation in the size and frequency of the stomata. The size and shape of the epidermal cells also varies from species to species. Ipomoea nil has the highest stomatal frequency, while I. purpurea has the lowest frequency. All species of Ipomoea have globose, isopolar, echinate, pentoporate and radially symmetrical pollen grains. I. quamoclit has the largest pollen, while I. aquatica has the smallest pollen. The anatomy of stem shows no distinct structural differences among species. Although no qualitative differences in the studied characters are found among species, there is considerable variation in the quantitative characters, such as the size of stomata, frequency of stomata and pollen size. These characters could have important taxonomic and ecological implications and therefore, are as valuable as the morphological characters.
Study of Fodder Plants of Rupandehi
Authors: Singh Anant Gopal
Published: April 2021

Fodder, a type of animal feed, is any agricultural food stuff used specifically to feed domesticated livestock. In the present study 37 plant species belonging to 22 families and 26 genera as fodder plants were recorded form different parts of Rupandehi and its surrounding area.
Algal Flora of Nagdaha Lake, Lalitpur, Nepal
Authors: Parajuli Bishnu Prasad
Published: April 2021

This paper is a report of algal flora of Nagdaha Lake, Dhapakhel, Lalitpur. Algal Samples were collected out in the months of May, August and December 1996, from four different sampling sites of the lake. From the investigation, 25 different algal taxa belonging to 16 families were observed. Among them, 17 species were observed in summer and winter season while in rainy season 19 species were observed.
Viewpoint of the Supreme Court of Nepal on the Arbitration Process in the Light of Party Autonomy
Authors: Devkota Sanad
Published: April 2021

Arbitration is a contract-based form of binding dispute resolution. In other words, a party’s right to refer a dispute to arbitration depends on the existence of an agreement between them and the other parties to the dispute that the dispute may be referred to arbitration. Arbitration is a private process where disputing parties agree that one or several individuals can make a decision about the dispute after receiving evidence and hearing arguments. The arbitration process is similar to a trial in that the parties make opening statements and present evidence to the arbitrator. Conflicts have existed in all cultures, religions and societies since time immemorial, as long as human have walked the earth. Human society is a repertoire where differences arise and persist as salient features, but this is also a platform where varieties of disputes find management in the form of resolution to energize the society. As conflicts are an integral part of human interaction, one must learn to deal with them tactfully, conventionally, disputes – commercial or otherwise were resolved by litigation but due to delays, costs, publicity and technicality associated with litigation, alternative dispute resolution (ADR) processes evolved. Various means of ADR or out of court settlement of disputes such as negotiation, conciliation and arbitration have come into practice. In the modern era, the business activities are increasing day by day. Along with the business activities, its complexities, differences, and disputes are also increasing day by day. The traditional method of settling disputes is the litigation process in the court of law. From the perspective of concerned parties, settlement of these disputes as quick as possible is desired. But because of the lengthily procedure and case load settlement through court is not possible. For this reason, parties were looking for the alternative process where both the parties can trust impartial person who will solve their disputes within short period of time.
Deuki Pratha in Nepal: Problems and Changing Beliefs
Authors: K.C. Dipendra Bahadur
Published: April 2021

In the far-western region of Nepal, particularly, in Doti, Baitadi and Dadeldhura, deuki pratha has been practiced as a long established tradition. However, Deuki pratha is considered illegal in Nepal. Deukis are offered to different deities by parents or others (wealthier couples). The reason behind deuki pratha rests on the belief that one’s family gets protection and good favour from the gods. Once offered as Deuki, the girl is not allowed to get married and is devoid of the family support. The major duty of Deuki is to serve the goddess and temple such as cleaning and looking after the temple.

The study was conducted in Melauli Municipality of Baitadi district in Sudurpaschim province. This paper aims to highlight the social issues due to deuki in the study area. The study aimed to understand the socio-cultural beliefs of deuki tradition in the changing social and cultural contexts from the gender perspective and development.

The study was based primarily on qualitative methods. The study revealed that deuki tradition is still practiced, though it is reported to be declined in the recent years. Unlike in the past, with the growing awareness by the joint efforts of government and non-government organizations' agencies, practice of Deuki has declined to a great extent but not abolished yet. There was mixed reaction regarding beliefs upon Deuki tradition among the locals.

The study found that Deuki women who had been offered to the deity was unknowingly been isolated, when still as a girl and abused from the society as these came at the cost of personal and social life of women. With the growing awareness, and changing society, the locals and the followers of deuki pratha seem to welcome the changes and attitudes towards deuki pratha. However, the social and economic life styles of deukis are at stake. Though, some deukis own some private property, due to the lack of emotional and social support are bound to live forbidden and isolated life. Unlike, in the past, where deukis received reverence and importance, the perception towards deukis has worsened in the study area often belittled as prostitution and the disgrace to the society.
METODE PARTICLE SWARM OPTIMIZATION UNTUK MENENTUKAN DAYA OPTIMAL TURBIN GAS PLTGU GRATI BERDASARKAN HEAT RATE
Authors: Wahyudi Mohammad Faris , Setiawidayat Sabar , Hunaini Fachrudin
Published: April 2021

Pembangkit tenaga listrik thermal merupakan suatu pembangkit yang menghasilkan energi listrik yang berasal dari energi thermal. Energi thermal bisa dihasilkan melalui pembakaran bahan bakar berupa gas ataupun batubara. Berdasarkan hal tersebut, pada pembangkit tenaga listrik thermal konsumsi bahan bakar sangatlah mempengaruhi biaya produksi energi listrik, sehingga diperlukan suatu teknik pengoperasian pembangkit yang optimum. Salah satunya pada PT Indonesia Power UPJP Perak Grati yang merupakan perusahaan pembangkitan tenaga listrik yang dalam pengopeasiannya memerlukan cara dalam penghematan bahan bakar gas berdasarkan nilai heat rate (Kcal/kWh) khususnya dalam penghematan biaya pokok produksi. Pada penelitian ini Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) digunakan sebagai metode untuk penentuan daya optimal pada generator Pembangkit Listrik Tenaga Gas (PLTG) Perak Grati. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, dihasilkan adanya penghematan konsumsi gas antara metode PSO dengan kondisi aktual, dimana saat permintaan daya 310 MW, terjadi penghematan konsumsi gas sebesar 0.5968 BBTU/h atau setara dengan Rp 57.168,00/h.Pembangkit tenaga listrik thermal merupakan suatu pembangkit yang menghasilkan energi listrik yang berasal dari energi thermal. Energi thermal bisa dihasilkan melalui pembakaran bahan bakar berupa gas ataupun batubara. Berdasarkan hal tersebut, pada pembangkit tenaga listrik thermal konsumsi bahan bakar sangatlah mempengaruhi biaya produksi energi listrik, sehingga diperlukan suatu teknik pengoperasian pembangkit yang optimum. Salah satunya pada PT Indonesia Power UPJP Perak Grati yang merupakan perusahaan pembangkitan tenaga listrik yang dalam pengopeasiannya memerlukan cara dalam penghematan bahan bakar gas berdasarkan nilai heat rate (Kcal/kWh) khususnya dalam penghematan biaya pokok produksi. Pada penelitian ini Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) digunakan sebagai metode untuk penentuan daya optimal pada generator Pembangkit Listrik Tenaga Gas (PLTG) Perak Grati. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, dihasilkan adanya penghematan konsumsi gas antara metode PSO dengan kondisi aktual, dimana saat permintaan daya 310 MW, terjadi penghematan konsumsi gas sebesar 0.5968 BBTU/h atau setara dengan Rp 57.168,00/h.
МЕТОДИЧНА ПІДГОТОВКА МАЙБУТНІХ УЧИТЕЛІВ ІНФОРМАТИКИ ЯК СУЧАСНА ПЕДАГОГІЧНА ПРОБЛЕМА
Authors: Павлова Наталія Степанівна
Published: April 2021

Описано методичну підготовку майбутніх учителів інформатики в закладах вищої освіти як сучасну педагогічну проблему. Розкрито актуальність та доцільність удосконалення методичної підготовки майбутніх учителів інформатики як складової неперервного професійного становлення та як процесу оволодіння методичними знаннями, формування методичних умінь, розвитку професійних та особистісних якостей. Акцентовано увагу на окремих напрямках методичної підготовки, зокрема, на поєднанні навчально–методичної та науково–методичної діяльності студентів, які здобувають вищу освіту за спеціальністю 014 Середня освіта (інформатика). Визначено, що потрібно орієнтувати майбутніх учителів на сьогодення й майбутнє, навчити їх гнучко й виважено реагувати на зміни у професійній діяльності, прогнозувати методичні завдання, які будуть сформовані внаслідок динамічного розвитку інформатики як фундаментальної науки та як шкільного предмету. Основою таких перспектив є: формування у студентів фундаментальних знань з інформатики, методики навчання інформатики, психології і педагогіки; розвиток у студентів готовності до неперервного всебічного саморозвитку і самовдосконалення в професії й суміжних галузях знань; вироблення у майбутніх учителів умінь самостійно організовувати освітній процес у закладах загальної середньої освіти відповідно до профілів вивчення шкільного курсу інформатики, аналізувати здобуті результати навчання, приймати професійні рішення і нести за них відповідальність. Методичну підготовку майбутніх учителів інформатики розглядаємо як: етап і результат професійного становлення; систему, що об’єднує в  єдине ціле інші компоненти професійної освіти; процес оволодіння методичними знанням і вміннями, розвитку професійно значущих особистісних якостей, що спрямований на підвищення якості вищої педагогічної освіти.