bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pleistocene Bats (Late Irvingtonian and Late Rancholabrean) from
Nuckolls and Sherman Counties, Nebraska
Authors: Czaplewski Nicholas , Corner R. George
Published: October 2023

We documented rare finds of fossil bats from two localities representing the Pleistocene epoch in southern and central Nebraska,
Albert Ahrens locality (No-104, late Irvingtonian age, Middle Pleistocene), Nuckolls County, and Litchfield (Sm-102, late
Rancholabrean age, latest Pleistocene), Sherman County. The Albert Ahrens local fauna with strong boreal influence yielded two
bats, Lasiurus cf. borealis and Cf. Myotis sp. The Litchfield local fauna, also with a strong boreal influence, yielded two bats, Eptesicus
fuscus and Cf. Myotis, among a diverse Pleistocene fauna of small vertebrates and pollen record indicating a boreal mixed conifer
and deciduous woodland that contrasts with mixed grass prairies of the area in historic times prior to anthropogenic conversion.
Vertebrate fauna from the Litchfield site can be assigned to the Rancholabrean land mammal age based on the presence of Bison, on
faunal correlation, and on several extralimital taxa of small mammals. The fossil bat taxa are widespread in North America and still
extant in Nebraska today; their glacial stage occurrences in a nonkarstic (caveless) region is consistent with previous interpretations
of the Albert Ahrens and Litchfield local faunas as indicating cool equable climates and wooded parkland environments. These are
the first bats to be reported from each of the respective paleofaunas.
Detection of veterinary antibiotic residues in fresh fecal samples collected from selected pig farms in the City of Baybay, Leyte, Philippines
Authors: Ymas Bianca Therese , Peña Jr Santiago
Published: October 2023

Investigations on the presence of antibiotic residues in livestock manure are becoming an integral part on the quest against antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Moreover, as a potential hazard to human health and the environment, the threat of antibiotic residues cannot be taken lightly. As one of the biggest pig producers in Eastern Visayas, the Province of Leyte, Philippines is presented with the challenge to sustain the pork requirements of the region despite its limited overall production. This study aims to determine the prevalence of antibiotic residues present in the swine manure among selected commercial piggery farms in Baybay City, Leyte. Using147 fecal samples collected from different classes of pigs and following standard microbial inhibition plate technique, this study consistently found inhibitory action against the growth of Bacillus subtilis across three pH levels from fecal samples collected from grower-finishers, and breeders unlike samples collected from both the lactating and farrowing sows. These results may provide insights and baseline information useful for similar studies on antibiotic residues in meat and meat products that may have implications on human health.
Ruminal volatile fatty acid concentration and methane gas production in sheep (Ovis aries) fed two types of basal diets with of without Gliricidia sepium legume forage supplementation
Authors: Gaspe R-Jun Frederick , Bestil Lolito , Obitsu Taketo
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to clarify whether the type of forage diets, Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) vs. urea-treated rice straw, and supplementation with Gliricidia sepium affect rumen VFA production and methane emission as well as intake and digestibility in ruminants. The experiment was set up in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) composed of four treatments namely: Napier grass (T1), Napier + legume forage (T2), urea-treated rice straw (T3), and urea-treated rice straw + legume forage (T4). Each treatment was divided into four blocks (n=16) based on body weight and sex combination.

The daily dry matter intake tended to increase from treatments supplemented with G. sepium (T2 and T4) compared to treatment-fed pure basal diet alone (T1 and T3). Intake relative to metabolic weight (BW 0.75) is high in T2 and T4. The molar concentration of volatile fatty acid was higher in T1, which was found comparable with T2 and T3, while T4 has the lowest. The molar proportion of acetate tended to increase in T1 and T3, while the propionate concentration was significantly high in T2 and T4 leading to lesser CH4/CO2 production respectively. These results confirmed the potential of G. sepium as a methane-mitigating supplement to basal diets such as Napier and urea-treated rice straw as feed to ruminants.
APONTAMENTOS SOBRE A JUDICIALIZAÇÃO DO ACESSO À SAÚDE EM TEMPOS DE PANDEMIA
Authors: Almeida Bruna , Souza Lucimara Rocha de , Brutti Tiago Anderson
Published: October 2023

Este trabalho aborda o fenômeno da judicialização da saúde no contexto da pandemia de Covid-19, no Brasil. O objetivo é analisar o impacto da pandemia na saúde e no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), examinando os direitos fundamentais de acesso à saúde e acesso à justiça. Utilizou-se uma abordagem qualitativa e um método hipotético-dedutivo, com ênfase em pesquisa documental. Menciona-se, por fim, que a investigação faz parte da linha de pesquisa Linguagem, Comunicação e Sociedade, do Mestrado em Práticas Socioculturais e Desenvolvimento Social da Universidade de Cruz Alta e, busca discutir questões relacionadas às narrativas do cotidiano, construção de sentido e significado das ações sociais, culturais, políticas e econômicas, e sua relação com o desenvolvimento humano e social.
Pensar a escola como um espaço sonoro de escuta ativa: proposições a partir de Raymond Murray Schafer
Authors: Lima Lucas Marques Ferreira , Da Silva Mariana Sobrinho , De Almeida Jéssica
Published: October 2023

Este texto apresenta atividades para o Ensino Médio que objetivam promover a escola como um espaço sonoro de escuta ativa, de pesquisa e de criação artística. Parte-se dos pressupostos teórico-metodológicos de R. Murray Schafer para estruturar aulas que estimulem a percepção crítica e inventiva sobre os sons que rodeiam a escola, além de preparar os jovens para apreciarem repertórios distintos com ouvidos mais atentos. Com esse intuito, as propostas guiam-se a partir de três eixos que envolvem a criação de uma biblioteca de sons, a categorização de seus sons e a elaboração de arranjos musicais por intermédio da tecnologia. Essas práticas oportunizam a exploração dos materiais sonoros disponíveis na escola e, ao mesmo tempo, por meio de recursos tecnológicos, permitem manusear esses sons de forma criativa, em práticas musicais.
Por um mundo onde muitos mundos possam existir: patrimônio imaterial e música afro-brasileira na escola
Authors: Maciel do Carmo Raiana , Santana Sales Marcos
Published: October 2023

O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar uma proposta pedagógico-musical voltada para os anos finais do Ensino Fundamental, a qual contempla manifestações da cultura afro-brasileira que se constituem como patrimônios imateriais do Brasil, registrados pelo Instituto do Patrimônio Histórico e Artístico Nacional (IPHAN). Nessa perspectiva, tal proposta aborda três atividades que envolvem o Jongo do Sudeste, o Samba de Roda do Recôncavo Baiano e o Maracatu de Baque Virado. Cada atividade abrange uma contextualização histórica e cultural destes patrimônios, assim como momentos em que são trabalhados aspectos da apreciação, da performance e da criação musical.  Ao contemplar o rico patrimônio imaterial do Brasil, fortalecemos as múltiplas possibilidades de educação musical nas escolas e valorizamos a produção cultural afro-brasileira e dos seus descendentes.
MS Project como alternativa para la gestión de proyectos de redes de distribución eléctrica
Authors: Genovez Ramírez Karla Gabriela , Cordero González Diego Marcelo , Andrade Pesantez Daniel Jacobo
Published: October 2023

Introducción: En la actualidad, cumplir con los plazos de los proyectos es esencial para garantizar la eficiencia económica y social. Sin embargo, los retrasos son comunes debido a una planificación inadecuada o control deficiente. Objetivo: En este estudio, se analiza el uso de Microsoft Project para mejorar la gestión de los proyectos de redes de distribución de la Empresa Eléctrica Regional Centro Sur C.A. (CENTROSUR). Metodología: Se empleó una investigación cuantitativa con alcance descriptivo y un diseño no experimental de tipo transversal. Resultados: Los resultados indican que el 25% de los encuestados afirmaron que la mitad o menos de los proyectos finalizaron dentro del plazo desde enero de 2021 hasta mayo de 2023, siendo los retrasos más comunes de 2 a 3 meses. Las principales causas de incumplimiento fueron no considerar los riesgos y la falta de ajuste de tiempos y secuencias en caso de retrasos. Se destaca el uso del diagrama de Gantt y los informes de estado, pero la mayoría no utiliza un software especializado. Conclusión: Finalmente, se concluye que el uso de un software como el Ms Project, mejoraría el control de las actividades y la aplicación de las guías del PMBOK, aunque se deberá superar la falta de conocimiento del personal. Área de estudio general: Administración de Empresas. Área de estudio específica: Dirección y Gestión de Proyectos.
Duolingo app in the development of oral comprehension
Authors: Valladares Segovia Carla Stephanie , Pérez Sigcha Evelyn Amanda , Aguirre Alarcón Carlos Alberto
Published: October 2023

Introducción: La siguiente investigación demuestra que hoy en día existen tecnologías de información y comunicación altamente desarrolladas disponibles. Por esta razón, hacer uso del e-learning y el aprendizaje en línea en las instituciones educativas parece ser una necesidad fundamental. Objetivos: El estudio tiene como finalidad determinar el uso de la aplicación Duolingo en la compresión oral de los estudiantes del centro de idiomas de la Universidad UNIANDES. El articulo explica sobre la implementación de aplicaciones y como dichas actividades de gamificación ha inducido y motivado a generar nuevas habilidades de aprendizaje, lo cual facilita la comprensión oral de los estudiantes. Se ha analizado que, a través de audios, juegos, videos e imágenes multimedia, desarrolla el estilo y contexto de aprendizaje. Metodología: El proyecto tiene un enfoque cualitativo- cuantitativo dentro de un nivel descriptivo-explicativo, ya que está basada en datos reales. Los instrumentos de la investigación son una encuesta, la prueba estándar First Certificate in English (FCE) para establecer el nivel de comprensión oral que poseen los estudiantes y un post-test (FCE) con el fin de analizar cómo influye la aplicación en el desempeño de los estudiantes en dicha habilidad. Resultados: Después de analizar e interpretar los resultados, se identificó el nivel de inglés de los estudiantes de cuarto nivel para sugerir el uso de Duolingo a fin de potenciar la comprensión auditiva. Conclusiones: Como resultado es el desarrollo de un manual de actividades que incluye Duolingo con la intención de generar actividades innovadoras orientadas a fomentar mejores niveles de comprensión oral entre los estudiantes. Área de estudio: Educación Lingüística.
Evaluation of coal mines’ rock mass gas permeability in the equivalent stress zone
Authors: Shahsenko O. M , Cherednyk V. A , Khoziaikina N. V , Hapieiev S. M
Published: October 2023

Purpose. Based on a comparative analysis of the internal mechanism of shape change of rock samples, which were loaded in specified deformations mode, and geomechanical and gas-dynamic processes in coal mass, to establish a causal link between these phenomena. To qualitatively characterise their gas permeability as a function of the rock’s volume expansion. To justify the possibility of using a full “stress-strain” diagram as a technogenic methane deposit formation model and its spatial localisation. Methodology. Theoretical research is based on using the solid mechanic constitutive principles and results of studying the rock samples failure in the mode of specified strains. Findings. The ability to use a full “stress-strain” diagram for detecting and localising methane reservoirs during the coal seams excavation was proved during the research. It was found that the compaction threshold coincides with the bearing pressure maximum in front of the longwall face. This area corresponds to the rock mass with minimal porosity and minimal filtration, which allows considering it as an envelope of an artificial gas deposit. Regularities that connect the three-dimensional equivalent stress state with the final gas permeability of the gas-saturated coal mass were obtained. These data allow creating a predictive numerical geomechanical model of methane migration paths. Originality. The ability to use a full “stress-strain” diagram in the controlled strain mode for numerical modelling of gas permeability of a methane-saturated coal mass during the mining of coal seams and the determination of technogenic gas deposit boundaries are justified. Dependences of the current and final gas permeability on the rock’s mechanical characteristics in a post-peak strain state are obtained. Practical value. Functional dependencies based on geomechanical models are obtained that allow the identification and localisation of technogenic methane reservoirs in mines during coal seam excavation, with subsequent utilisation of the extracted gas. Furthermore, methane removal enhances mining safety by reducing the risk of gas dynamic phenomena while decreasing gas emissions into the atmosphere contributes to reducing the greenhouse effect.
PENGARUH IKLAN HIJAU (GREEN ADVERTISING) DAN CITRA MEREK HIJAU (GREEN BRAND IMAGE) TERHADAP KEPUTUSAN PEMBELIAN PRODUK RAMAH LINGKUNGAN (GREEN PRODUCT)
Authors: Kurnia Kurnia , Astaginy Niar , Ismanto Ismanto
Published: October 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh iklan hijau (green advertising) dan citra merek hijau (green brand image) terhadap keputusan pembelian produk ramah lingkungan (green product). Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif dengan teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan kuesioner dengan skala likert. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah seluruh konsumen Garnier di Kabupaten Kolaka dan diambil 60 responden dengan menggunakan teknik purposive sampling. Teknis analisis yang digunkan untuk menguji hipotesis adalah metode Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) dengan teknik analisis data menggunakan Partial Least Square (PLS). Hasil analisis menunjukkan bahwa iklan hijau (green advertising) terbukti memiliki pengaruh signifikan terhadap keputusan pembelian produk ramah lingkungan (green product) pada brand Garnier. Hal ini dibuktikan dengan t-hitung atau t-statistik yaitu 3,844 lebih tinggi dari nilai t-tabel yaitu 1,672 dan pada variabel citra merek hijau (green brand image) menunjukkan pengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap keputusan pembelian produk ramah lingkungan karena nilai t-hitung atau t-statistik yaitu sebesar 5,288 lebih tinggi dari nilai t-tabel yaitu 1,672. Maka dapat disimpulkan  kedua variabel dependen berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap variabel independen.Kata Kunci: Iklan hijau; citra merek hijau; keputusan pembelian produk ramah lingkungan.
PENAKARAN AKAR DETERMINAN KINERJA KARYAWAN
Authors: Sari Lusita , Widowati Sri Yuni
Published: October 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menguji secara empiris pengaruh kepemimpinan, motivasi kerja dan disiplin kerja terhadap kinerja karyawan di Instalasi Sterilisasi Rumah Sakit Dr. Kariadi Semarang. Populasi penelitian ini seluruh karyawan sebanyak 75 orang di Instalasi Sterilisasi Rumah Sakit Dr. Kariadi Semarang. Sampel yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah 75 orang responden dengan menggunakan teknik sensus, yaitu teknik penggunaan seluruh populasi tanpa harus menarik sampel penelitian sebagai unit observasi. Kemudian metode pengumpulan data melalui kuosioner dan analisa data menggunakan SPSS 21 yang meliputi : uji validitas, uji reliabilitas, uji asumsi klasik, analisis regresi berganda, pengujian hipotesis menggunakan uji t, uji F, uji R2 . Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa seluruh variabel bebas, yaitu kepemimpinan, motivasi kerja dan disiplin kerja berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap kinerja karyawan secara parsial maupun stimultan (bersama-sama). Berdasarkan nilai koefisien determinasi diketahui bahwa Kepemimpinan, motivasi kerja dan disiplin kerja berpengaruh terhadap variabel kinerja karyawan sebesar 69,2 % sedangkan sisanya dipengaruhi oleh variabel lain yang tidak diteliti dalam penelitian ini.
ANALISIS DIVERSIFIKASI PRODUK TAHU UNTUK MENINGKATKAN DAYA SAING PRODUK
Authors: Siswati Endang , Ardana Ardi , Pudjowati Juliani
Published: October 2023

This research is a descriptive qualitative research that aims to analyze the diversification of tofu products and the factors that encourage it. The research location is in the tofu company, Mrs. Mujiani, Tropodo village, Krian sub-district. The informants in this study were the tofu business owner, Mrs. Mujiani, an employee of the production department, a customer, and a customer of a competitor's product. After the data was taken and checked for validity with triangulation methods including data triangulation, source, and technique triangulation, then data analysis was carried out. The results of the analysis are that the product diversification at Mrs. Mujiani's tofu company is in the tofu variants, namely fried tofu, half-cooked Chinese tofu and raw Chinese tofu, after product diversification there is an increase in sales so that the company's income also increases, this can increase product competitiveness in the market. . Whereas the driving factors for product diversification are, among others, the company wants to increase sales turnover so that profits can increase, increase distributors or salespeople, reduce production costs so that efficiency and effectiveness are obtained, employees become solid and strong, and are driven by the desire to use large capacity machines.
Upaya Peningkatan Kreativitas Belajar Siswa melalui Model Project Based Learning (PjBL) pada Mata Pelajaran IPA di Kelas IV SDN Simpenan
Authors: Agustin Laila , Sutisnawati Astri , Hamdani Maula Luthfi
Published: October 2023

This study was motivated by the low learning creativity of students in science subjects in class IV SDN Simpenan so that it requires improvement to increase learning creativity. The purpose of this study is to describe the planning and implementation of science learning using the project-based learning (PjBL) model to improve student learning creativity and describe the increase in student learning creativity after using the PjBL model in science subjects. The subjects of this study were fourth grade students of SDN Simpenan, totaling 22 students. The type of research used is Kemmis and Mc Taggart design classroom action research which consists of four stages, namely planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. Data were collected using observation and documentation techniques and then processed using descriptive statistical techniques. The results of this study will be described regarding the planning and implementation of science learning using the PjBL model to increase student learning creativity and increase student learning creativity after using the PjBL model in science subjects

[Penelitian ini dilatarbelakangi oleh rendahnya kreativitas belajar siswa pada mata pelajaran IPA di kelas IV SDN Simpenan sehingga memerlukan perbaikan untuk meningkatkan kreativitas belajar. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mendeskripsikan perencanaan dan pelaksanaan pembelajaran IPA meng-gunakan model Project Based Learning (PjBL) untuk meningkatkan kreativitas belajar siswa serta mendeskripsikan peningkatan kreativitas belajar siswa setelah digunakan model PjBL dalam mata pelajaran IPA. Subjek dari penelitian ini adalah siswa kelas IV SDN Simpenan yang berjumlah 22  siswa. Jenis penelitian yang digunakan adalah penelitian tindakan kelas desain Kemmis dan Mc Taggart yang terdiri dari empat tahap yaitu perencanaan, pelaksanaan, observasi, dan refleksi. Data dikumpulkan menggunakan teknik observasi dan dokumentasi kemudian diolah menggunakan teknik statistik deskriptif. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan pada pra siklus nilai rata-rata yang diperoleh adalah 2,28 sehingga kreativitas belajar siswa pada pra siklus masuk dalam kriteria kurang. Pada siklus I nilai rata-rata yang diperoleh adalah 3,08 dan masuk dalam kriteria baik. Untuk siklus II nilai rata-rata yang diperoleh adalah 3,53 dan masuk dalam kriteria baik. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian dapat disimpulkan bahwa model PjBL dapat meningkatkan kreativitas belajar siswa kelas IV SDN Simpenan pada mata pelajaran IPA]
Changes in Aqueous Concentrations of Various Cytokines after Intravitreal Bevacizumab Injection for Chronic Central Serous Chorioretinopathy
Authors: Park Jooye , Hwang Sung Ha , Nam Dong Heun , Lee Dae Yeong
Published: October 2023

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate changes in cytokine levels after intravitreal bevacizumab injection in patients with chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).Methods: In a prospective interventional trial, 12 eyes from 12 patients with chronic CSC and six eyes from six patients who underwent cataract surgery were included as controls. Patients diagnosed as with CSC received a single intravitreal injection of bevacizumab (1.25 mg/0.05 mL). Aqueous humor samples were collected from the patients and controls. Best-corrected visual acuity and foveal thickness were evaluated, and aqueous samples were obtained before and 4 weeks after injection. The aqueous concentrations of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, interferon-induced protein (IP)-10, monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-AA, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were measured using a multiplex bead assay.Results: After injection, the foveal thickness decreased significantly from 328.08 μm (range, 210–477 μm) to 283.91 μm (range, 168–356 μm; p = 0.048), but the best-corrected visual acuity was not significantly different (p = 0.066). The aqueous levels of IL-8 increased significantly from 3.3 pg/mL (range, 1.5–8.3 pg/mL) to 4.7 pg/mL (range, 2.2–11.6 pg/mL) at 4 weeks after the injection (p = 0.046). The aqueous levels of VEGF decreased significantly from 31.4 pg/mL (range, 17.0–53.3 pg/mL) to 15.2 pg/mL (range, 7.7–21.5 pg/mL; p < 0.01). No significant changes in levels of IL-6 (p = 0.455), IP-10 (p = 0.055), MCP-1 (p = 0.076), and PDGF-AA (p = 0.339) were noted 4 weeks after injection.Conclusions: In this study we found intravitreal bevacizumab injection decreased VEGF and increased IL-8 in the eyes of patients with chronic CSC. This study suggests the possibility that the pathogenesis of CSC may be related to abnormal circulation of the choroidal blood vessels through VEGF and IL-8 cytokine level changes.
Central Corneal Thickness and Intraocular Pressure in Children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Zulhisham Mohmad , Suhaimi Hussain , Shatriah Ismail
Published: October 2023

Purpose: The aim of this study is to determine the mean central corneal thickness (CCT) and mean intraocular pressure (IOP) in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and to determine the relationship between CCT and IOP on the one hand and age, sex, retinopathy hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and duration of diabetes on the other.Methods: This is a case-control, hospital-based study conducted at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia between January and November 2022. Thirty-eight children with T1DM were recruited as cases, and 38 healthy children were recruited as controls. The cases and controls then underwent ophthalmic examination, IOP measurement, and CCT measurement using optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the right eye. The IOP measurements were adjusted for CCT for further analysis.Results: The means of CCT and IOP values were significantly higher in the T1DM group than in the control group (all p = 0.02). The mean CCT was 542.18 ± 20.40 μm in the T1DM group, and 529.52 ± 26.17 μm in the control group. The mean IOP was 14.68 ± 1.98 mmHg in the T1DM group, and 13.52 ± 1.66 mmHg in the control group. The mean HbA1c was 10.68% ± 2.49% in the T1DM group. Age and duration of DM were found to have a significant association with CCT in children with T1DM. The duration of DM was also found to be significantly associated with the IOP. Sex and HbA1c levels were found to have no significant relationship with either CCT or IOP.Conclusions: Children with T1DM have significantly higher CCT and IOP than the average child. The duration of DM is a significant factor that impacts both CCT and IOP. In addition, age is another factor that affects CCT in children with T1DM.
Key species and indicators revealed by an uncertainty analysis of the marine ecosystem model OSMOSE
Authors: Luján C , Oliveros-Ramos R , Barrier N , Leadley P , Shin YJ
Published: October 2023

Systematic analyses that examine uncertainty in models are essential for assessing their credibility. In this study, we implemented an uncertainty analysis that quantifies the effect of parameter uncertainty on a set of ecological indicators in outputs of the marine ecosystem OSMOSE model applied to the northern Peru Current ecosystem (NPCE OSMOSE). We worked under simple uncertainty assumptions corresponding to ranges of 10, 20, and 30% variability around the reference values of the parameters describing the dynamics of the species modelled in NPCE OSMOSE. The results based on nearly 1.5 million simulations help to identify the main sources of uncertainty that could be of use to focus future research and point to the most reliable indicators in the face of uncertainty. First, uncertainty in the parameters of some species, in particular a key zooplankton species and Humboldt squid, have far-reaching impacts on the modelled biomass of other key species. Second, a set of ecological indicators appear to be relatively insensitive to input uncertainty and may therefore be useful in supporting ecosystem-based management. Furthermore, our findings underline the need for better species representation in terms of data quality but also bottom-up and top-down processes in trophic models. We highlight the difficulties of studying uncertainty in complex models while presenting an approach that can serve as a template for addressing uncertainty analysis in other ecosystem models. Finally, although this approach focuses on parameter uncertainty, it could also serve as a guide to address structural, initial conditions and model forcing uncertainties.
Characterization of Bioethanol from Tuber of Porang Waste Fermented with Saccharomyces cerevisiae Enzyme: Effect of Fermentation Time and Yeast Ratio
Authors: Ridara Rina , Muhammad Muhammad , Setiawan Adi , Riskina Shafira , Nurjannah Siti
Published: October 2023

The production of bioethanol from non-plant lignocellulosic materials has reached a commercial scale and is advocated as a possible solution for the decarbonization of the transport sector. Porang pulp tubers can be converted into bioethanol because they have abundant potential due to their high glucomannan content. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of fermentation time and the ratio of yeast addition on bioethanol production. The methods used are hydrolysis, fermentation and distillation methods. The hydrolysis process used 5% (v/v) HCl catalyst, the fermentation process with 6 gr sample powder tuber of waste used Saccharomyces cerevisiae bacteria with varying ratios of 2.5, 4 and 6.5 g and variations in fermentation time for 2, 4 and 6 days at 38-40˚C. The results showed that the duration of fermentation had a significant effect on the yield of bioethanol, where microorganisms have the opportunity to break down more glucose to produce bioethanol. While the ratio of the addition of yeast added to the fermentation process, the greater the ratio of the addition of yeast, the greater the bioethanol produced. Where the addition of 6.5 grams of yeast and 6 days of fermentation time, resulted in a yield of 9.889%, a bioethanol concentration of 37.599%, a refractive index of 1.3642 and a density of 1.04 g/ml.
Effect of yogurt on fluoride induced toxicity of plasma markers of kidney in rabbits
Authors: Sallam Abdul , Bughio Shamsuddin , Buriro Rehana , Jamali Muneer Ahmed , Mughal Gulfam Ali , Arain Muhammad Bilawal , Lanjar Zainab
Published: October 2023

Fluoride (F) is one of the major chemical substances that damage the renal tissue prevention tubular reabsorption, increasing the excretion of sodium (Na+) and chloride (cl-), and enhancing creatinine (Cr), uric acid (UA), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and potassium (K+) level.  Results revealed that on 16th day in groups B, D, E and G, Cr. values were significantly (P˂0.05) increased on 31st day in group-F, Cr. value was significantly (P˂0.05) decreased, whereas, in groups-B, D, E and G, Cr. values were significantly increased (P˂0.05). On 16th and 31st day, in yogurt-treated groups i.e.- C and F, UA values were significantly (P˂0.05) decreased, whereas, in groups B, D, E and G, UA values were significantly (P˂0.05) increased. On 16th and 31st day, in groups-B, D, E and G BUN level was significantly (P˂0.05) increased. On 16th and 31st day in groups-B and E, Na+ level was significantly (P˂0.05) decreased. Whereas, in groups C, D, F and G, Na+ level was significantly (P˂0.05) increased. Likewise, on 16th and 31st day, in groups-B, D, E and G, K+ level was significantly (P˂0.05) increased. On 16th day in groups-B and E, cl- level was significantly (P˂0.05) decreased. While, in groups- F and G cl- level was significantly (P˂0.05) increased. On 31st in groups-B & E, cl- level was significantly (P˂0.05) decreased. While, in groups-C, D, F and G, cl- levels was significantly (P˂0.05) increased. It has been concluded that increased levels of sCr, UA, BUN, K+ and reduced levels of Na+ and cl- were observed in all fluoride treated groups. Yogurt-treated groups showed decreased levels of Cr, UA, BUN and K+ and increased levels of Na+ and Cl- in experimental rabbits
Effect of the inclusion of rumen-protected amino acids in the diet of growing beef cattle on animal performance and meat quality
Authors: Cabezas Almudena , De la Fuente Jesús , Díaz María Teresa , Bermejo-Poza Rubén , del Olmo Diego Martínez , Mateos Javier , Llanes Nuria , Jimeno Vicente
Published: October 2023

Introduction

This study investigated the impact of rumen-protected amino acids on beef cattle's growth, fattening performance, and meat quality.

Methods

Two groups of 40 Montbeliard steers (237.8 ± 30 kg body weight) were housed separately and fed, with mono-tunnel feeders, either a control diet (CON) or a diet containing rumen-protected lysine and methionine with 3% less crude protein (APR). Feed consumption and weight were tracked in all animals, and meat quality analysis focused on the longissimus muscle, with 10 steers randomly selected from each treatment.

Results and discussion

Results for overall performance revealed no significant differences in body weight, average daily gain (ADG), and concentrate conversion ratio between the CON and APR diets (p > 0.05). However, during the final 90 days of the trial, the APR group showed significantly higher ADG (p < 0.05) than the CON group, while the concentrate conversion ratio was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the CON group compared to the APR group. The hot carcass weight, dressing percentage, and carcass conformation did not differ significantly between the CON and APR diets (p > 0.05). There was a slight tendency (p = 0.06) for higher fatness score in the CON group. Regarding meat composition, the diet did not significantly affect proximate composition, but a tendency (p = 0.059) for higher crude protein content in APR cattle's meat compared to the CON group was observed. The APR meat showed slightly lower levels of C17:1 (0.56% vs. 0.72%) and C18:1n9 (31.7% vs. 34%). There was a tendency for C14:0 to be lower (P = 0.07), and for C16:0, C18:2 and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) to be greater in meat from cattle fed APR compared to CON. However, meat quality attributes like pH, water-holding capacity, color, and texture were similar in both CON and APR groups (p > 0.05). The findings indicate that utilizing rumen-protected amino acids enables formulating diets with reduced crude protein levels while enhancing nitrogen utilization efficiency for protein synthesis in intensively reared steers. Importantly, these dietary improvements do not adversely affect meat quality.
The early history of freshwater fish production and consumption in Thailand
Authors: Edwards Peter
Published: October 2023

The history of freshwater fish production and consumption in Thailand were reviewed in the late 1970s. While aquaculture had a history of more than a century in the country it had only started to expand relatively recently because of the abundance of wild fish in former times. Historical aspects of freshwater capture fisheries and freshwater aquaculture in Thailand, and the development of irrigation in Central Thailand which played an important role in facilitating the development of inland aquaculture in the country were reviewed. While dam construction led to the demise of the flood plain capture fishery, it provided a controlled water supply necessary for the subsequent development of aquaculture. The study informed the development of education and research in aquaculture at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT). More recent developments in Thai aquaculture are outlined. Malnutrition in developing countries and fish in the Thai diet at the time of the study were also reviewed.
When too much closeness harms: circumflex artery injury during mitral valve surgery
Authors: Dumps Christian , Simon Philipp , Girdauskas Evaldas , Girrbach Felix
Published: October 2023

Occlusion of the left coronary circumflex artery (LCX) during surgical procedures of the mitral valve is an infrequent but potentially life-threatening complication (1–3). Due to its close anatomical relationship to the posterior mitral valve annulus, there is a relevant risk of causing a stenosis or an occlusion of the left circumflex artery, especially by surgical annular sutures. The perioperative clinical course is heterogeneous, ranging from—initially—asymptomatic or solely electrocardiographic abnormalities to cardiogenic shock. Both severely impaired ventricular contractility or malignant arrhythmia may potentially lead to a weaning failure from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and eventually result in chronic heart failure with persistently reduced ejection fraction. Possible therapeutic strategies include the immediate reopening of causal sutures, aortocoronary bypass grafting or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), yet PCI seems to be the preferred method at present.
Waist circumference cut-off points to identify major cardiovascular events and incident diabetes in Latin America: findings from the prospective Urban rural epidemiology study Colombia
Authors: Lopez-Lopez Jose P. , Gonzalez Ana María , Lanza Paola , Martinez-Bello Daniel , Gomez-Arbelaez Diego , Otero Johanna , Cohen Daniel D. , Perez-Mayorga Maritza , Garcia-Peña Angel A. , Rangarajan Sumathy , Yusuf Salim , Lopez-Jaramillo Patricio
Published: October 2023

Background

Abdominal obesity (AO) indirectly represents visceral adiposity and can be assessed by waist circumference (WC) measurement. In Latin America, cut-off points for the diagnosis of AO are based on Asian population data. We aim to establish the WC cut-off points to predict major cardiovascular events (MACE) and incident diabetes.

Methods

We analyzed data from the cohort PURE study in Colombia. WC cut-off points were defined according to the maximum Youden index. Multivariate logistic regression was used to obtain associations between WC and MACE, diabetes, and cumulative incidence of outcomes visualized using Kaplan-Meier curves.

Results

After a mean follow-up of 12 years, 6,580 individuals with a mean age of 50.7 ± 9.7 years were included; 64.2% were women, and 53.5% were from rural areas. The mean WC was 85.2 ± 11.6 cm and 88.3 ± 11.1 cm in women and men, respectively. There were 635 cases of the MACE composite plus incident diabetes (5.25 events per 1,000 person-years). Using a cut-off value of 88.85 cm in men (sensitivity = 0.565) and 85.65 cm in women (sensitivity = 0.558) resulted in the highest value for the prediction of the main outcome. These values were associated with a 1.76 and 1.41-fold increased risk of presenting the composite outcome in men and women, respectively.

Conclusions

We defined WC cut-off points of 89 cm in men and 86 cm in women to identify the elevated risk of MACE and incident diabetes. Therefore, we suggest using these values in cardiovascular risk assessment in Latin America.
Machine learning-based prediction of acute mortality in emergency department patients using twelve-lead electrocardiogram
Authors: Chang Po-Cheng , Liu Zhi-Yong , Huang Yu-Chang , Hsu Yu-Chun , Chen Jung-Sheng , Lin Ching-Heng , Tsai Richard , Chou Chung-Chuan , Wen Ming-Shien , Wo Hung-Ta , Lee Wen-Chen , Liu Hao-Tien , Wang Chun-Chieh , Kuo Chang-Fu
Published: October 2023

Background

The risk of mortality is relatively high among patients who visit the emergency department (ED), and stratifying patients at high risk can help improve medical care. This study aimed to create a machine-learning model that utilizes the standard 12-lead ECG to forecast acute mortality risk in ED patients.

Methods

The database included patients who visited the EDs and underwent standard 12-lead ECG between October 2007 and December 2017. A convolutional neural network (CNN) ECG model was developed to classify survival and mortality using 12-lead ECG tracings acquired from 345,593 ED patients. For machine learning model development, the patients were randomly divided into training, validation and testing datasets. The performance of the mortality risk prediction in this model was evaluated for various causes of death.

Results

Patients who visited the ED and underwent one or more ECG examinations experienced a high incidence of 30-day mortality [18,734 (5.42%)]. The developed CNN model demonstrated high accuracy in predicting acute mortality (hazard ratio 8.50, 95% confidence interval 8.20–8.80) with areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of 0.84 for the 30-day mortality risk prediction models. This CNN model also demonstrated good performance in predicting one-year mortality (hazard ratio 3.34, 95% confidence interval 3.30–3.39). This model exhibited good predictive performance for 30-day mortality not only for cardiovascular diseases but also across various diseases.

Conclusions

The machine learning-based ECG model utilizing CNN screens the risks for 30-day mortality. This model can complement traditional early warning scoring indexes as a useful screening tool for mortality prediction.
How safe and effective are paediatric virtual fracture clinics? A systematic review
Authors: Waite Emma , Ahmed Zubair
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Virtual fracture clinics (VFC) involve a consultant-led multidisciplinary team meeting where cases are reviewed before a telephone consultation with the patient. VFCs have the advantages of reducing waiting times, outpatient appointments and time off school compared to face-to-face (F2F) fracture clinics. There has been a surge in VFC use since the COVID-19 pandemic but there are still concerns over safety in the paediatric population. Fractures make up a large burden of paediatric injuries, therefore research is required on the safety and efficacy of paediatric VFCs. This systematic review will look at the safety and effectiveness of paediatric VFCs, as well as determine the cost-effectiveness and parent preferences.

Methods

As per the PRISMA guidelines two independent reviewers searched the following databases: Medline, Embase and Web of Science. Studies were included if children under 18 years old presented to A&E with a suspected or confirmed simple un-displaced fracture and were referred to a VFC. The primary outcomes assessed were effectiveness and safety, with the secondary outcomes of cost-effectiveness and parent satisfaction.

Results

Six studies met the inclusion criteria for this systematic review. There was a high rate of direct discharge from the VFC leading to reduced outpatient appointments. All patients were seen within 72 h of presentation. There were limited incidences of missed fractures and the rates of re-presentation were similar to that of F2F orthopaedic clinics. There were significant cost savings for the hospitals and high parent satisfaction.

Discussion

VFCs have shown to be safe and effective at managing most stable, low operative risk paediatric fractures. Safety must be ensured with a telephone helpline and an open return to fracture clinic policy. More research is needed into specific paediatric fracture types to be managed in the VFC.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/#searchadvanced, identifier: CRD42023423795.
Acculturative game design with Latine communities: a bridging review on acculturative stress, behavior change, and serious games
Authors: Conde Samantha , Elor Aviv , Mateas Michael , Kurniawan Sri
Published: October 2023

Acculturative stress disproportionately impacts first-generation Latine-Americans, leading to significant mental health risks stemming from intergenerational cultural norms around gender identity and sexuality. Facilitating communication is critical in reducing this stress, yet it can be challenging for Latine individuals to take the first step in expanding their views due to limited resources, cultural pressure, and motivational needs. On the other hand, serious games provide a unique opportunity to address this challenge by introducing novel experiences to encourage the growth of perspectives in acculturative norms. This article presents a narrative review that bridges three key concepts: (1) acculturative stress in Latine-American communities, (2) modern behavior change theory and model, and (3) the design of serious games. We conclude by proposing a framework for Acculturative Game Design (AGD) and discuss considerations for fostering the support of intergenerational relationships around Latine identity.
Skeletal defects and bone metabolism in Noonan, Costello and cardio-facio-cutaneous syndromes
Authors: Papadopoulou Anna , Bountouvi Evangelia
Published: October 2023

Noonan, Costello and Cardio-facio-cutaneous syndromes belong to a group of disorders named RASopathies due to their common pathogenetic origin that lies on the Ras/MAPK signaling pathway. Genetics has eased, at least in part, the distinction of these entities as they are presented with overlapping clinical features which, sometimes, become more pronounced with age. Distinctive face, cardiac and skeletal defects are among the primary abnormalities seen in these patients. Skeletal dysmorphisms range from mild to severe and may include anterior chest wall anomalies, scoliosis, kyphosis, short stature, hand anomalies, muscle weakness, osteopenia or/and osteoporosis. Patients usually have increased serum concentrations of bone resorption markers, while markers of bone formation are within normal range. The causative molecular defects encompass the members of the Ras/MAPK/ERK pathway and the adjacent cascades, important for the maintenance of normal bone homeostasis. It has been suggested that modulation of the expression of specific molecules involved in the processes of bone remodeling may affect the osteogenic fate decision, potentially, bringing out new pharmaceutical targets. Currently, the laboratory imprint of bone metabolism on the clinical picture of the affected individuals is not clear, maybe due to the rarity of these syndromes, the small number of the recruited patients and the methods used for the description of their clinical and biochemical profiles.
Relationship between weight-adjusted waist circumference index and prevalence of gallstones in U.S. adults: a study based on the NHANES 2017-2020
Authors: Ke Bin , Sun Ying , Dai Xin , Gui Yang , Chen Song
Published: October 2023

Objective

We aimed to assess the association between weight-adjusted waist circumference index (WWI) and gallstone prevalence in US adults.

Methods

We selected individuals from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database from 2017 to 2020 and used logistic regression analyses, subgroup analyses, and dose-response curves to assess the association between WWI and gallbladder stone prevalence and age, sex, and ethnicity.

Results

A total of 7971 participants aged ≥20 years were enrolled in our study; 828 patients had a self-reported history of gallstones. After correcting for confounders, for each unit of WWI after Ln conversion, the prevalence of gallbladder stones increased by 34% (OR=1.34, 95% CI:1.20, 1.50). Dose-response curves showed a positive correlation between WWI and gallbladder stone prevalence.According to the subgroup analysis, the positive association between TyG index and high-frequency HI was more significant in males(OR=1.34, 95% CI:1.07, 1.69), <40 years old(OR=1.42, 95% CI:1.18, 1.71), white people Americans(OR=1.35, 95% CI:1.08, 1.68) and other races(OR= 1.56, 95% CI:1.13, 2.14).

Conclusion

Higher WWI was positively associated with the prevalence of gallbladder stones and was associated with gender, age, and ethnicity. This is noteworthy, although a causal relationship could not be established.
Analysis of water resource ecological optimization and obstacles based on the water resources – socio – economic – ecological environment model framework – a case study of the core area of the Central Plains urban agglomeration
Authors: Li Jinhang , Zhao Mengdie , Han Yuping , Wei Jinhai
Published: October 2023

The ecological health level of water resources plays a crucial role in achieving sustainable development in society. This study focuses on the core area of the Central Plains urban agglomeration. A comprehensive evaluation system, based on the Water Resources - Socio-Economic - Ecological Environment model framework, was constructed, incorporating 22 evaluation indicators in the indicator layer. Using an improved entropy weighting method combined with the ITOPSIS model, the water ecological health level in the study area from 2013 to 2022 was evaluated, and corresponding measures were proposed based on the evaluation results. Furthermore, the Barrier Degree model was applied to identify the eight major hindering factors influencing the water resource ecological environment in the research area. The results show that: The overall water resource ecological health level in the core area of the Central Plains urban agglomeration from 2013 to 2022 showed a generally improving trend. The eight major hindering factors indicate that cities should focus on green urban development while promoting the construction of smart water management systems and sponge cities.