bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sankofa
Authors:   , Williams Linda Vera la Hannah , Patterson Mary Lynn
Published: May 2024

This paper explores the role of dance as it relates to spirituality, mental health, and culturally held concepts of healing from mental illness. These connections are explored through an inquiry into Western based mental health practices and spiritual practices with an anthropological lens on West Africa and the African Diaspora in the Americas. The paper aims to inform the author's autoethnographic journey where she seeks to answer the following questions: 1. What is spirituality and how does it differ from religion? 2. What is healing about dance in conjunction with spirituality? 3. What is the connection between religion, spirituality, and psychotherapy? 4. Are there any connections to the healing aspects of dance and spirituality in the African Diaspora with Yalom's therapeutic factors and Schamais' healing properties? 5. Why did the prayer camp she observed during an educational trip to Ghana, practice rituals similar to what she observed in church during her youth? 6. What was the impact of colonialism on expressions of spirituality and dance in African Diaspora? 7. Is there a connection between hip movement and spirituality? 8. How will these findings inform my future practice as a dance movement therapist in working with members African Diaspora and military community members. Keywords: dance, altered states of consciousness, possession, West Africa, spirituality, Ghana, Ifa, Palo, Santeria, Vodou, Obeah, Candomble,' religion, spirituality, African diaspora, healing, mental health, culture, colonialism, decolonizing therapy, therapy, healing
The Impact of a Student Led Peer Mentor Program on Incoming, First-Year Health Sciences Students
Authors:   , Lee Robert , Bruneau Michael L
Published: May 2024

The transition from high school to college or university can be a tumultuous journey for unprepared students. Therefore, the current study explored use of a student-led peer mentoring program on freshman students at a large, private university in an urban-based community. First-year freshman students were measured after their first year of college on three prongs: satisfaction, retention, and cumulative grade point average. Previous studies in these areas have yielded positive findings; however, those studies lacked structured programming, training, and sample size for which this study encompassed. Notwithstanding, the findings from the current project neglected to yield statistically significant but practically meaningful findings. Grade point averages for mentored male students averaged 3.35 compared to 3.33 for non-mentored male students. Female students yielded a small difference in grade point average; 3.35 for mentored students and 3.37 for non-mentored students. Overall satisfaction among non-mentored male students was higher than females and slightly greater for mentored students. Student retention delivered the strongest findings with 89% staying within the Health Sciences major at the end of their freshman year. Limitations of the project included lack of generalizability, duration of study, and adequate number participant survey responses. Future research efforts should ensure the inclusion of mentor and mentee participants from more diverse backgrounds and experiences and consider a shorter timeline to increase survey response rate. Initial findings show promise for a smooth transition from high school to university.
Decreasing Readmission Rates in Acute Stroke Patients Using a Transition of Care Intervention
Authors:   , Patterson Shawanda M , Osborne Barbara Ruth , Cummings Jennifer L
Published: May 2024

Stroke patient readmissions 30 days after discharge are common across different hospital systems and associated with gaps in care post-discharge and are often preventable. An observed practice problem at a large comprehensive hospital is there is no standard of care for patients as they transition back into the community. Transition care models have been adopted by hospitals to help address the gaps in continuity of care. One method that hospitals use to address the transitions of care after discharge is the use of discharge phone calls, especially to patients discharged home. However, discharge calls are rarely made for patients discharged to subacute rehabilitation (SAR) facilities. The purpose of the project was to use a Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) methodology to implement a nurse-led quality improvement using discharge phone calls SAR facility providers (physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants) within one to 3 days after stroke patients are discharged to identify the feasibility of competing calls and assist with the post-acute care information transfer. A secondary goal was to evaluate if the calls helped decrease ED visits and rehospitalizations in less than 30 days. The project identified that discharge calls can be successfully completed to SAR providers. The discharge calls showed they are a helpful addition to ensuring continuity of patient care after a hospital stay. However, discharge calls in addition to more time and collaboration between hospitals and SAR providers are needed to see a decrease in ED visits and readmissions. Keywords: Stroke, discharge calls, subacute rehabilitation, nursing, readmissions
Exploration of Facilitating Health Professions Curriculum to Diverse Students
Authors:   , Clark Lyndsey A , Cornelius Frances Haider
Published: May 2024

Health professions educators often utilize cultural competency and cultural humility constructs in health professions pedagogy. In 2018, Campinha-Bacote introduced the Process of Cultural Competemility in the Delivery of Healthcare Services model an amalgam of both cultural competency and humility to support health professionals' meaningful and impactful relationships with patients and institutions to advance the delivery of quality and equitable care. There is minimal research exploring cultural competemility in educational settings as a relatively new concept. This qualitative hermeneutic, interpretative phenomenological study aims to expand this knowledge by investigating faculty's lived experience facilitating diverse students, who are interested in health professions, using cultural competemility constructs in educational settings. Ten health professions faculty members were interviewed utilizing probing questions to uncover how they engage diverse students in the classroom. Campinha-Bacote's Process of Cultural Competemility in the Delivery of Healthcare Services model served as an interpretative conceptual framework. The study participants reconfirmed the appeal to expand culturally responsive practices beyond cultural competency alone. Additionally, the research study revealed that although the participating faculty may not have priorly known the five components of cultural competency (cultural awareness, cultural knowledge, cultural skill, cultural desire, and cultural encounters), these components were instinctively executed as evidenced by their responses. The study participants reconfirmed how cultural humility pervades cultural competency and its five components. Recommendations derived from study findings entail possible implications to teaching practice and research in relation to faculty and student relations as well as culturally responsive learning environments in health professions education.
Yoga and nurse burnout
Authors:   , Denisch Kelsey , Poyss Alicemarie R.
Published: May 2024

Nurse Burnout can cost a hospital system thousands of dollars in sick time and turnover. Yoga has been shown to influence the perceived stress of healthcare workers. This project aims to decrease nurse burnout through the initiation of a weekly email containing a link to an online yoga session. A microsystem assessment was conducted on the neuro stepdown unit. The issue of nurse job enjoyment was identified as a problem. A literature review was conducted to gather evidence to implement a change. The Perceived Stress Scale was given to all participants before intervention. The participants then received emails with a link to an online yoga session. The yoga sessions were emailed once a week, for eight weeks. After the eight weeks, the scale was given to all participants again. Sick hours used by all participants were also tracked pre and post intervention. The results of the baseline scale was an average score of 20. After the eight weeks of yoga sessions the average score dropped to 15.5. The number of sick hours used by the participants in the eight weeks before the project was a total of 96 hours. During the project, the total sick hours used were 44 hours. The cost of sick time prior to the intervention was $3,777 and after was reduced to $1,731. The cost of sick time used was reduced by 54%. This quality improvement project has shown that implementing a weekly yoga session can decrease perceived stress and decreased sick time used by nurses.
Factors Associated with Evaluation & Management Error Rates of Medical Students
Authors:   , Yacovelli Gina , Wilson Linda
Published: May 2024

Background: Medical record documentation skills play a vital role in various facets of healthcare. Medical students gain their knowledge of medical record documentation by way of formal curriculum-based training during medical school as well as on-the-job training as a resident. Practical experiential learning is useful but is also limited regarding exposure to the depth and breadth of documentation guidelines and practices. Previous research regarding medical documentation skills for medical students has shown that structured, curriculum-based training does not diminish the documentation error rates of medical students. Objective: The primary hypothesis is that existing curriculum-based E&M training of medical students is not adequate enough to yield documentation error rates to within an acceptable range. The acceptable benchmark range is no more than 10% error, meaning a 90% accuracy rate. Methods: Using a retrospective observational cohort design, this study aims to assess medical student Evaluation & Management (E & M) documentation skills. Results: The results indicate that the current curriculum-based E&M training is not sufficient enough to yield less than or equal to a 10% error rate. Thus, once medical students graduate and become credentialed providers, they are likely faced with a steep learning curve to complete clinical E&M documentation on par with their physician peers. Conclusion: There is a need for revised curriculum-based E & M training in order to address deficiencies in the current training model.
Identification of learning style preferences among first year MBBS students using VARK questionnaire
Authors: Sangam Muralidhar Reddy , Kalita Bitopan , Srinivasan Krishnan
Published: May 2024

Learning style refers to the preference of the students for receiving and processing the information. In the present CBME curriculum, as the learning is more student-centric, understanding the learning style preferences of the students allows higher educational efficiency. Learning styles can be assessed by different models. Among them, the VARK model is more concise, simple, appropriate, and reliable. VARK categorizes learning by sensory preferences – Visual, Auditory, Read/Write, and Kinesthetic.

To identify the mode of learning and learning style preferences among first-year MBBS students using the VARK questionnaire and to determine the relationship between learning style preferences and gender.

This cross-sectional study was carried out among first-year MBBS students at AIIMS, Guwahati for 6 months after obtaining permission from the Institutional Ethics Committee. Consenting students were administered with a Google form of VARK questionnaire version 7.8. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the student’s preference for various VARK components. The chi-square test was used to compare four VARK learning styles between male and female students.

97 students (75 males and 22 females) studying first-year MBBS participated in the study. Most of the students were tetra-modal learners (38.14%) showing a preference for all four sensory modalities. 31 students (31.95%) showed an unimodal mode of learning. This is followed by trimodal (17.52%) and bimodal (12.37%) learners showing a preference for three and two sensory modalities respectively. The most preferred learning style was kinesthetic (mean score was 10±3.58) and the least was read/write (mean score was 4.79±3.48).

Knowledge of the learning style may allow the students to improve their academic performance. It helps the instructors to modify and adopt appropriate teaching methods addressing different learning styles for achieving higher educational efficiency.
Plan estratégico urbano y territorial para el desarrollo de Perito Moreno 2024
Authors: Zárate Rubén , Rópolo Laura , Salazar Alberto , Mange Gabriel , Magariños Paula , García Analía M. , Lacase Santiago , Guerrero Fernando , Urquiza Waldo , Rivas Leonel , Cánepa Isadora , Santander María Fernanda
Published: May 2024

Este Plan Estratégico Urbano y Territorial para el Desarrollo de Perito Moreno (PDPM), provincia de Santa Cruz, Argentina, es el resultado de un esfuerzo conjunto realizado entre marzo de 2019 y marzo de 2024 por el Banco Interamericano de Desarrollo, la Municipalidad de Perito Moreno y Newmont. Corresponde a la segunda edición de un Plan que contó también con la participación de especialistas a cargo de la elaboración de informes sectoriales; autoridades políticas, funcionarios y técnicos de la Municipalidad de Perito Moreno, académicos de la Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia Austral, de la Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia San Juan Bosco y de la Universidad Nacional de San Juan; representantes de la sociedad civil y del sector privado a través de cámaras, entrevistas y reuniones de participación ciudadana, contribuciones sin las cuales no hubiese sido posible este trabajo. El documento presenta las actividades de diagnóstico multisectorial y territorial realizadas en dicho período, incluyendo los principales resultados de los estudios técnicos llevados adelante, la priorización efectuada para determinar los principales retos para la sostenibilidad de Perito Moreno, y las estrategias y acciones acordadas para abordarlas. Esperamos que este Plan sirva como una hoja de ruta de corto, mediano y largo plazo para el desarrollo sostenible de Perito Moreno y para la competitividad económica regional.
Tabla de densidades de alimentos del Ecuador
Authors: Anchundia Andrea , Chisaguano Maribel , Castro Nancy , Lee Gwenyth O. , Levy Karen , Eisenber Joseph N.S. , Cevallos William
Published: May 2024

En el área de la nutrición humana conocer los pesos de los alimentos que los individuos o colectivos consumen, tiene implicaciones en el análisis del estado nutricional o la generación de estrategias de intervenciones nutricionales, ya que el profesional de la salud sólo a partir del peso del alimento puede definir su aporte en macro y micronutrientes. La densidad absoluta es la relación de la masa (g) por unidad de volumen (ml) de un cuerpo a una temperatura determinada. Esta propiedad permite estimar el peso o el volumen de un alimento. Hasta el momento, Ecuador no cuenta con una lista de referencia con las densidades de los alimentos consumidos en nuestro país, que faciliten la estimación de la cantidad en peso de los alimentos por ejemplo que consume un individuo. El equipo de investigación, con la finalidad de suplir esta necesidad, proporciona una base de datos como herramienta para investigadores y profesionales que requieren procesos conversión de volumen en peso y viceversa. Los datos fueron recolectados a través de mediciones directas y de esta forma los autores presentamos la primera tabla de densidades de alimentos del Ecuador.
Reuse of Brick Waste in the Construction Industry
Authors: Deb Saikat , Mazumdar Mriganka , Afre Rakesh A.
Published: May 2024

Demolition work produces a lot of waste or demolition waste made up of different materials like concrete, wood, metals, bricks, glass, plastics and asphalt. To maintain environmental sustainability this waste must be managed. This study offers a sustainable solution for the construction industry by providing a thorough analysis of demolition waste management with a focus on the reuse of brick aggregate and brick dust. Samples from a controlled demolition site were collected for the study. The brick samples from the demolition site were found through laboratory testing to have greater compressive strength than regular bricks, making them an acceptable building material. Brick dust was also discovered to be a superior void filler. These waste materials were used to create lean concrete, which was stronger than regular concrete and thus suitable for building. Cost comparisons revealed significant cost savings, making this strategy appealing from an economic standpoint. The study emphasises how using bricks made from demolition debris could lower carbon emissions. Responsible demolition waste management can also prevent priceless land resources from being turned into landfills, enhance soil quality and advance in building a circular economy. In conclusion, improving demolition waste management, particularly by recycling brick waste, offers a long-term solution for the building sector. It contributes to a greener and more sustainable future by minimising environmental impact, conserving resources, lowering construction costs and promoting a circular economy.
Effect of Reinforcement on Micro Structural and Compressive Deformation Behavior on Closed Cell AA7075 Aluminium Foam
Authors: Singh Nitish Kumar , Balaguru S. , Mehta Pavan , Kaimkuriya Amit , Namdeo Avinash Kumar , Deb Rupak Kumar
Published: May 2024

The fabrication of aluminium AA7075 and AA7075/SiC composite foams employ the stir casting method, incorporating calcium carbonate (CaCO3) as a blowing agent at a concentration constituting 2.5wt. % of the alloy. Notably, no viscosity-enhancing component was included in the process. The compressive parameters, including the yield strength (σc), plateau stress (σpl) and energy absorption (Eab), of the foam materials were examined to investigate the influence of Silicon Carbide (SiC) on the microstructure, namely the cell size and cell wall thickness. The incorporation of Silicon Carbide particles (SiC) into the cell wall imparts enhanced hardness and strength. The findings indicate that the inclusion of SiC particles may enhance the mechanical properties like σc, σp and Eab, of composite foams. The porosity of the composite foam increases from 59.07% to 68.68% with the incorporation of SiC particles. The cell dimensions fluctuated between 1.12 and 1.45mm as the relative density of the AA7075/SiC composite foam decreased from 0.4 to 0.31.
EXPERIMENTAL VERIFICATION OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE METHODOLOGY FOR DEVELOPING INTERCULTURAL COMPETENCE OF CHINESE STUDENTS (LEVEL B1) IN TEACHING SLAVIC AS FOREIGN LANGUAGES ON THE BASIS OF TEXTS FOR CHILDREN’S READING
Authors: Li Jingjing
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this study is to present the results of the analysis of the experimental verification of the effectiveness of the methodology for developing intercultural competence of Chinese students (level B1) in the process of teaching Slavic languages as foreign languages. The object of study is the results of the analysis of the above-mentioned experiment; the subject of study is the methodological methods of forming intercultural competence of Chinese students of Slavic languages. The material included in the experiment is several texts for children’s reading. To achieve this goal, the methods of describing the procedure of the experiment, systematizing its results, the method of mathematical processing, as well as methods of quantitative and qualitative analysis of the results of the experiment were used. The procedure for conducting experimental training based on the developed methodology is described. As conclusions, the results of testing at the stating and control stages of the experiment are presented in a comparative aspect. In the article are demonstrated the results of mathematical processing of the obtained statistical data. And the comments for further research in the development of methods for the formation of intercultural competence are proposed.
“Semester Marriages” and the Unintended Psycho-Social Challenges within Institutions of Higher Learning: Implications for Social Work Practice
Authors: Mafa Itai Hlonie , Simango Tapiwanashe G. , Chigangaidze Robert Kudakwashe , Mudehwe Elia
Published: May 2024

The sexual economy prevalent within universities, as well as how young people perceive, interpret, and experience their sexuality, present complex dynamics, which, if not handled with great emotional intelligence, may disrupt their educational aspirations. This paper investigates the psycho-social implications of “semester marriages” within institutions of higher learning. Guided by principles of the qualitative approach and the theory of planned action, the paper disinterred that students experienced intense regret and guilt as a result of backstreet abortions. Soul-tie complications emanating from sharing the “wife-husband” bond also made it difficult for some students to move on after a breakup, leading to disruptions in their educational focus. In extreme cases, such an inability to deal with the adverse effects of “semester marriages” culminated in crimes of passion. The paper desists from pathologizing the “semester marriages” phenomenon and advocates for the strengthening of psycho-social support modalities within university settings to increase the accessibility and visibility of therapeutic services through a school social work model. Furthermore, universities, in partnership with other relevant stakeholders, are urged to prioritize sexual and reproductive education and services among the youth as provided for in the Constitution of Zimbabwe of 2013 to impart life skills that can equip students to make informed sexual and reproductive decisions.
Impact of Agronomic Management Practices on Quality and Productivity of Fodder Crops: A Review
Authors: Prasanna S.P. , Choudhary Manisha , Bhattacharjee Subhradip , Praveen B.R. , Naik Vinodakumar S.
Published: May 2024

Livestock is the backbone of agriculture, in spite of that, its performance is poor with low productivity, the reason is lack of nutritious fodder in sufficient quantities that reduces milk production in cattle and causes health issues. The nutritional quality and yield of fodder crops can be improved by using appropriate agronomic practices such as adequate tillage operations, proper/timely water management, weed management, nutrient management, sowing at the right time with the right seed rate, timely harvesting and so on. In this review paper, several research and review papers have been studied to understand the impact of different agronomic practices on quality and productivity of fodder crops. When compared to zero tillage, the use of tillage operations such as primary, secondary, conventional and deep tillage increases dry matter and green fodder yield. Irrigation at critical phases and on a frequent basis boosts the organic matter (OM) content and dry matter of feed. In comparison to late harvesting, early harvested forages have higher DMD (Dry matter digestibility) and CP (crude protein) content. Nitrogen application certainly fostered crop growth and development resulting in higher green fodder yield with improved fodder quality. When it comes to raising the DMD % of fodder crops, intercropping is crucial. DMD % in intercropping of Maize + cowpea (2:1) is higher as compared to sole maize and sole cowpea. Fodder yield and quality are reduced as a result of late sowing. Therefore, we conclude that agronomic interventions have a significant impact on the primary and secondary quality characteristics of fodder crops. As a result, proper methods for improving nutritional quality and overall crop productivity should be implemented in the fields.
The Possible Side Effects of Ziziphus spina-christi Extract on the Liver, Kidneys of Female Rats
Authors: Ammari Aiman A. , Alhimaidi Ahmad R. , Amran Ramzi A. , Rady Ahmed M.
Published: May 2024

Background: It has become important to provide advice and education to herbal remedies users to increase evidence-based awareness of their potential side effects. This research explores the side effects of the Ziziphus spina-christi (ZSC) aqueous extract on biochemical indicators and histopathological changes of the liver, kidneys of female rats. Methods: Fifteen female rats (five in each group) were orally administrated with the extract of ZSC at dosages of 10, 50 and 100 mg/kg bw/day for 14 days. Five other females were considered a control group, given only water. Clinical observations of toxicity were recorded during fifteen days. The biochemical biomarkers of liver (ALT and ALP enzymes) and kidneys (creatinine, uric acid and blood urea nitrogen) were evaluated in blood serum. Result: In addition, the histopathological alterations in organs were evaluated. The results did not show any clear toxicity on the animal’s weight or body organs. The alkaline phosphatase was elevated in female rats who received 50 mg and 100 mg of ZSC aqueous extract in comparison with the control group. The results did not show any significant changes in the serum glucose, BUN, creatinine, uric acid, alanine aminotransferase levels in female rats who received ZSC extract for 14 days. In conclusion, the results showed indications of side effects of the ZSC extract on liver enzymes after treating female rats with ZSC extract for 14 days.
Green Business Strategy and its effect on Financial Performance: The mediating role of Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Castillo-Esparza Ma. Mónica Gloria Clara , Maldonado-Guzmán Gonzalo , Mejía-Trejo Juan
Published: May 2024

Organizations are increasingly integrating environmental concerns in their strategic plans. This research analyzes how green business strategy (GBS) and corporate social responsibility (CSR) impact financial performance (FP). In addition, we analyze the mediating role of CSR in the relationship between GBS and FP. The empirical application uses structural equation modeling on a sample of 300 manufacturing firms from Mexico. The results show positive and significant relationships between GBS, CSR and FP, while the significantly positive mediating role of CSR was also verified. Thus, the environmental objectives set by the GBS contribute to the FP of Mexican manufacturing firms. CSR also collaborates to this end but only partially by mediating the relationship between GBS and FP. The findings support the importance of incorporating environmental concerns in businesses' strategic planning in order to ensure not only economic but also social benefits through GBS and CSR activities.
Industries, frameworks, and key drivers of lean startup: a systematic literature review
Authors: Gamón-Sanz Alejandro , Alegre Joaquín , Chiva Ricardo
Published: May 2024

Lean Startup provides an iterative, hypothesis-driven approach to business creation and product development, promoting data-driven decision-making by involving potential users and customers during the development cycle. Despite increased academic attention, the debate on the benefits of Lean Startup is open. To contribute to the understanding of how organisations incorporate Lean Startup principles, this study conducts a systematic literature review and identifies the industries in which its application has been analysed, the adaptation models followed by organisations, and the key drivers for its adoption in new and established organisations. The study's findings contribute to advancing knowledge on the adoption of Lean Startup principles, tools, and techniques in organisations. The results also help to the academic debate surrounding the usefulness and application of Lean Startup principles across different organisational contexts.
Long-term treatment with insulin-like growth factor-1 in Phelan-McDermid syndrome: a case report
Authors: Parellada Mara , Burdeus-Olavarrieta Mónica , Fraguas David , San José Cáceres Antonia , Medrano Constancio , Rodríguez María de los Desamparados
Published: May 2024

Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) is a chromosomal microdeletion syndrome generally caused by loss-of-function variants or deletions affecting the SHANK3 gene. We report on a case of a 19-year-old woman with a diagnosis of PMS, autism, and developmental disability. She has been under clinical care since the age of 9 and received treatment with subcutaneous IGF-1 from 11 to 15 years of age. The treatment spanned 2 periods, totaling 35 months, interspersed with a 16-month off-treatment interval. Clinically significant improvement was evident during the treatment periods, particularly in the Social Responsiveness Scale, the Aberrant Behavior Checklist, and clinical assessments, contrasted with a clear deterioration during the off-treatment period. Sleep difficulties worsened during the first period, and EKG repolarization abnormalities emerged during the second period, ultimately leading to definitive treatment discontinuation. In conclusion, an experimental long-term on-off-on treatment with IGF-1 in an adolescent with PMS resulted in mixed results, showcasing positive clinical improvements alongside potentially severe adverse events in the long run.
Asymptotic solution for turbulent variances: application to convergence of averages and particle dispersion
Authors: Degrazia Gervásio Annes , Stefanello Michel , Costa Felipe Denardin , Nogueira Martins Luís Gustavo , Acevedo Otávio Costa
Published: May 2024

An alternative solution to the asymptotic Taylor statistical diffusion theorem (variance of particle dispersion) and the asymptotic variance quantifying convergence of averages is presented. The solution approach is to identify a representation of the Dirac delta function for large times in the same integral occurring in both variances. This particular function acts as an effective filter and provides a way to obtain an analytical solution. Considering these asymptotic dispersion parameters in a Gaussian diffusion model, analysis of the simulated concentration results shows that the model reproduces well the experimental ground-level concentration data. The variance between the temporal and ensemble averages is evaluated using turbulent observational data collected in a convective boundary layer. The results show that the difference between the temporal and ensemble means is of the order of 5% for an average time window of 1800 s. The present development can be used in a variety of situations involving different types of turbulence.
Genesis of Bauxite Ore in Toba Area Sanggau District, West Kalimantan Province
Authors: Aprillia Ricka , Mukhtar Wahdaniah , Setiawati Septami , Asbanu Govira Christiadora , Munzir Ibnu
Published: May 2024

Indonesia's largest bauxite reserves are in the province of West Kalimantan, which is 703 million tons Bauxite is formed from rocks with a high relative aluminum (Al) content, low iron (Fe) content, and small amount of quartz. The mineralogy and characteristics of lateritic bauxite deposits are closely related to several factors, one of which is the texture and composition of the bedrock such as color, mineral composition, and shape of the ore. This study discusses the genetic type of bauxite deposits based on mineralogy and geochemistry using mineragraphic, XRD, and XRF methods. The primary data from bauxite ore samples were collected from the stockpile of PT. Dinamika Sejahtera located in Toba area. The quantitative result of the geochemical analysis indicates a higher amount of alumina observed using the XRF method. Granodiorite bauxite, which is bauxite coming from granodiorite bedrock, generally has abundant geochemical elements, especially SiO2 and Al2O3. The lateritic bauxite type in the Toba area is a product of granodiorite weathering from the Sepauk Tonalite formation is embedded within a clay matrix which exhibits a brownish to red color with coarse to boulder-size of concretion texture without relict. Some important elements in bauxite laterite deposits are Al, Fe, Si (Silicon), and Ti (Titanium). The comparison between Al and Si values is a benchmark for the economics of bauxite mines. Gibbsite is the major mineral in the bauxite ore, while hematite, goethite, kaolinite, and quartz are the accessory minerals. The deposit is recognized as Low-Fe bauxite due to comparing Al2O3, Fe2O3, and Si2O3 concentrations. The weathering process has altered the primary texture, remaining resistant and secondary minerals. The petrographic analysis shows the replacement of Gibbsite as bauxite ore which presents as kaolinite replacement and fills the mineral cracks. The result of this study is expected to be useful in determining the exploration method for the bauxite deposits.
Subsurface Interpretation of the Panjang Fault Area, Lampung, Based on Geomagnetic Method
Authors: Rasimeng Syamsurijal , Fahruddin Fahruddin , Valentin Ferdio , Aurora Theressia Githa , Nurlaili Jesica
Published: May 2024

Research on the area along the Panjang Fault - Lampung, the area from the Teluk Betung to Tanjung Karang Barat area using the 19-T GSM PPM tool with base rover acquisition on 2 tracks 2 kilometers apart obtained 40 acquisition points with a spacing of 0.3 kilometers. This study aims to determine the type of lithology and subsurface rock structure by utilizing the susceptibility value of rocks from magnetic anomalies. In the process of processing magnetic anomaly data, upward continuation is carried out as high as 350 m which is intended to reduce the total anomaly with the upward anomaly results so that a residual anomaly is obtained. Next, make a 2D subsurface model on the incision A - B in the residual anomaly map. Based on the results of qualitative interpretation, the total magnetic anomaly of the research area illustrates positive to negative anomaly values with a tighter contour pattern that indicates the presence of a fault structure. While based on quantitative interpretation, the 2D modeling in incision A - B shows a susceptibility value of 0.100 cgs which can be identified as breccia tuff rock, a susceptibility value of 0.0391 cgs is thought to be rhyolitic tuff rock, pumice tuff rock, and sandstone tuff, and a susceptibility value of 0.150 cgs is a rock from the intrusion of Mount Betung in the form of andesite-basalt lava. In addition, rocks with a susceptibility value of 0.0024 cgs are metamorphic rocks. The correlation between 2D modeling and regional geology is seen in the research area, which is in the Tarahan Formation (Tpot), which is suspected to be a fault structure in the Bumi Waras area with a strike direction of NW - SE which is the course of geothermal manifestations or minerals.
Stochastic Inversion in Determining the Distribution of Petroleum Carrying Sandstones in the "JS" Field of the South Sumatra Basin
Authors: Situmorang Johannes Kurni Bintang Awan , Tampubolon Gindo , Juventa Juventa , Suhban Muhammad
Published: May 2024

The "JS" field is a field located in the South Sumatra Basin, where the field has good prospects for the distribution of petroleum-bearing sandstone. The target of this research is the Air Benakat formation. This research uses the stochastic seismic inversion method to determine the probability of finding petroleum in sandstone. Stochastic seismic inversion has the advantage that it can overcome thin layers and can reduce existing data misalignments. So stochastic inversion can overcome the shortcomings of other seismic inversions, especially model-based seismic inversion which is the initial model for stochastic seismic inversion. Stochastic seismic inversion produces several realizations by showing uncertainty so as to get results that are close to the actual situation. Probability map of oil-bearing sandstones located in the north and east of the study area. with the slice results obtained for the acoustic impedance range of 8517-9051(m/s)*(g/cc) and oil sand probability with a value range of 0.61-0.78%.
Application of Seismic Refraction Tomography in Determining the Soil Hardness Level in IKN Nusantara Area
Authors: Alamsyah Andi , Lepong Piter , Wahidah Wahidah , Rahmiati Rahmiati
Published: May 2024

Numerous studies supporting infrastructure construction are currently underway in the New Capital Territory of Nusantara (IKN Nusantara). A geophysical method known as Seismic Refraction Tomography (SRT) has been employed within the IKN Nusantara to identify hard and soft layers based on the P-wave velocity (Vp). The data acquisition involved 24 channels of geophone spaced at intervals 3 and 4 meters. Measurements were conducted alongfour trajectories of 69 and 92 meters, reaching penetration depths of 12 – 20 meters. P-wave velocity values ranging between 200 – 3500 m/s were recorded. Additionally, the Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) value was determined using an empirical equation tailored for mudrock-shale lithology, establishing the correlation between Vp and UCS. In the shallow depths of 0 – 3 meters, UCS values indicated levels below 20 MPa, classifying the materials as having  low to medium hardness. However, at depths greater than 3 meters, this layer transitioned to material with high hardness levels, as evidenced by UCS rate exceeding 20 MPa across all trajectories. This suggest that the IKN Nusantara is conducive to infrastructure development.
Geomechanical Simulation of 3D Directional Borehole Circumference in Deep Composite Salt Formation
Authors: Li Shiyuan , Li Chenglong , Chen Zhaowei , Zhai Wenbao , Lei Yajun , Cao Jiawei
Published: May 2024

Composite salt formation is a high-quality caprock for oil and gas resources. The accident encountered in composite salt formation drilling is a big problem to be solved in the drilling process. According to statistics, nearly 50% of drilling accidents occur in composite salt formations. The composite salt formation is mainly composed of salt, gypsum, and interbed mud, and the lithology is complex and changeable. Therefore, it is very important to study the deformation mechanism and leading influencing factors of composite salt formation in view of the problem of frequent accidents in the drilling process. In this article, the creep parameters based on the constitutive equation of creep of salt rock are obtained by combining theoretical with experimental research. A three-dimensional directional wellbore mechanical model is established to analyze the influence of inclination on borehole shrinkage.
Unexpected Formation of Elemental Sulphur in Critical Sour Plant
Authors: Al Mandhari Ahmed , Al Maskari Mubarak , Al Hadhrami Abdullah , Mihajlov Rodoljub , Al Omairi Nasser , Al Kindi Zeyana , Bawdekar Mangesh Ashok , Al Mandhari Salim , Al Kiyumi Nawaf
Published: May 2024

Nowadays, high critical sour facilities face tremendous challenges in acid gas injection processes. In facilities in which a Sulphur recovery unit is unavailable and high levels of CO2 and H2S are handled, such is the case in this critical sour plant, acid gas injection requires several stages of compression. Moreover, this acid gas must be injected at extremely high pressures. The main source of acid gas is from the Gas Sweetening units are used in sour gas facilities. In one of the highest sour gas facilities, the acid gas from the Gas Sweetening Units is compressed in LP compressors followed by HP compressor trains before feeding to the injection compressor. In the second year of plant operation, high differential pressure was observed across the compressor after cooler normally operating at 70 barg pressure and 50-60 deg C temperature. This differential pressure across the after cooler continued to rise day by day and led to a Compressor trip on high-high discharge pressure. After investigation, it was found that elemental Sulphur formation was the cause for high differential pressure across the compressor after cooler. Major sulfur deposition was witnessed predominantly in one of the HP compressor trains and specifically at the 3rd and 4th passes of the second stage air cooler where the tubes are almost completely blocked and minor layer of sulphur deposition on the discharge piping is found. Minor sulphur depositions were witnessed in the Anti Surge control valve (ASCV), line from downstream of the second stage cooler to the ASCV and inlet KO drum liquid outlet piping. No sign of deposition observed within the compressor package and even the first & second passes of the cooler were clean from any depositions. Signs of Sulphur appearance continued to be seen in downstream TEG dehydration unit equipment such as frequent choking of rich TEG filters, knockout drum internals started to get chocked, frequent scaling of TEG reboilers observed, and finally fouling of lean-rich TEG heat exchangers. All symptoms of Sulphur formation were confirmed as it was later revealed that approximately 4 to 5 tons of elemental Sulphur formed within the system in three to four months which represented a significant threat to plant asset, availability, and production. The removal of solid Sulphur from the equipment required extensive cleaning activities, maintenance cost, and significant time for unit shutdowns. Troubleshooting process began with reviewing available literature and identifying a clear mechanism of unexpected formation of Sulphur.
Discordance for defects in monochorionic twins: prevalence and impact on perinatal outcomes
Authors: Litwińska Ewelina , Walasik Izabela , Szpotańska Monika , Stanirowski Paweł , Góra Tomasz , Szajner Tomasz , Janowicz-Grelewska Anna , Księżopolska Aleksandra , Ludwin Artur , Litwińska Magdalena
Published: May 2024

Background
In monozygotic twin pregnancies the prevalence of congenital abnormalities is two times higher than in singletons. In 20% cases both fetuses are affected (concordance) but in 80% cases only on is affected (discordance). This study examines the prevalence of discordance for structural defects in monochorionic (MC) twins, report the types of detected abnormalities and their possible impact on perinatal outcomes including the rate of single and double fetal loss before 24 weeks’ gestation and the rate of preterm birth before 32 weeks’ gestation.
Methods
Retrospective study for discordant structural fetal anomalies in monochorionic twins by the first trimester scan in three fetal medicine centers in Poland.
Results
In the study population of 381 monochorionic twins examined at 11–13 weeks’ gestation, there were 21 (5.5%) pregnancies with discordant structural defects and normal array comparative genomic hybridisation (aCGH) result. The most common were cardiac defects (n = 8), subsequently central nervous system (n = 6), facial (n = 3), abdominal wall (n = 3) and genitourinary system (n = 1) defects. Single fetal loss and double fetal loss before 28 weeks occurred in 4 (19%) and 2 (9%) cases respectively and was associated with intertwin discordance in crown-rump length (CRL) of more than 20% (p = 0.046). Preterm birth before 32 weeks’ gestation occurred in 9 cases (47%) and was strongly associated with polyhydramnios (p = 0.001) which occurred mainly in CNS and facial defects.
Conclusions
Monochorionic twins are at increased risk for structural abnormalities. In cases of discordant defects, the most common are cardiac defects. Intertwin discordance of more than 20%, rather than type of a defect, increases the risk single or double fetal demise.
PBM Combined with hUCMSCs Modulates the Polarization of Microglia
Authors: Chen Hongli , Zhu Hongyu , Cai Yuanhao , Guo Jun , Liu Pai , Han Zhibo , Wei Xunbin , Liu Yi
Published: May 2024

Background
Neuroinflammation occurs and develops in neurodegenerative diseases, and the severity of neuroinflammation is closely linked to microglial polarization. Different phenotypes release inflammatory cytokines and perform distinct functions. Modulating microglial polarization to alter neuroinflammation is a potential therapeutic strategy. Currently, human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) possess multiple properties of stem cells and can be used in inflammation modulation therapy. Various methods of pre-treatment stem cells have been shown enhance efficacy in disease treatment. Photobiomodulation (PBM), as a non-invasive intervention, has the ability to reduce inflammation.
Methods
Firstly, we constructed a cellular inflammation model to investigate the effect of PBM pre-treatment of hUCMSCs on inflammation and polarization of BV2 cells. We also investigated the effect of the Notch signaling pathway on cells. Secondly, an animal inflammation model was constructed to verify that PBM pre-treatment of hUCMSCs modulated microglia polarization and neuroinflammation.
Results
In our in vitro experiments, PBM pre-treatment of hUCMSCs reduced the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines while promoting the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokine in microglia. The treatment significantly reduced the expression of Notch pathway-related genes in an inflammatory model, facilitated the reduction of M1 phenotype polarization and increased M2 phenotype polarization in microglia. In vivo studies demonstrated that 808 nm light combined with hUCMSCs improved memory behavior in male C57BL/6J mice and significantly reduced the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in serum and brain tissue while promoting the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokine and the M2 phenotype polarization of microglia.
Conclusions
Overall, our results reveal that photobiomodulation with 808 nm light plays a crucial role in modulating microglial function through its interaction with hUCMSCs, providing novel insights into the molecular mechanism underlying microglial polarization.
7p22.3 microdeletion: a case study of a patient with congenital heart defect, neurodevelopmental delay and epilepsy
Authors: Skvortsova Liliya , Perfilyeva Anastassiya , Bespalova Kira , Kuzovleva Yelena , Kabysheva Nailya , Khamdiyeva Ozada
Published: May 2024

Background
Chromosome 7 has regions enriched with low copy repeats (LCRs), which increase the likelihood of chromosomal microdeletion disorders. Documented microdeletion disorders on chromosome 7 include both well-known Williams syndrome and more rare cases. It is noteworthy that most cases of various microdeletions are characterized by phenotypic signs of neuropsychological developmental disorders, which, however, have a different genetic origin. The localization of the microdeletions, the genes included in the region, as well as the structural features of the sequences of these genes have a cumulative influence on the phenotypic characteristics of the individuals for each specific case and the severity of the manifestations of disorders. The consideration of these features and their detailed analysis is important for a correct and comprehensive assessment of the disease.
Results
The article describes a clinical case of 7p22.3 microdeletion in a patient with congenital heart defect and neurological abnormalities - epilepsy, combined with moderate mental and motor developmental delay.
Conclusions
Through detailed genetic analyses, we are improving the clinical description of the rare 7p22.3 microdeletion and thus creating a basis for future genetic counseling and research into targeted therapies.