bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Angiographic and Clinical Follow-up Outcomes of the Wide-Necked and Complex Intracranial Aneurysms Treated With LVIS EVO–Assisted Coiling
Authors: Aydin Kubilay , Puthuran Mani , Onal Yilmaz , Barburoglu Mehmet , Chandran Arun , Berdikhojayev Mynzhylky , Gravino Gilbert , Senturk Yunus Emre , Aygun Serhat , Velioglu Murat , Sencer Serra
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND:

The Low Profile Visible Intraluminal Support EVO (LVIS EVO) is a self-expandable braided stent, which was recently introduced for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. Full visibility of the stent and a relatively high metal coverage ratio are the unique features of the LVIS EVO.

OBJECTIVE:

To assess the safety, efficacy, and midterm durability of LVIS EVO stent-assisted coiling for the treatment of wide-necked intracranial aneurysms.

METHODS:

The endovascular databases were reviewed to identify patients treated with LVIS EVO–assisted coiling. The technical success and immediate clinical/angiographic outcomes were assessed. Periprocedural and delayed complications were evaluated. The follow-up angiographic/clinical outcomes were investigated. The preprocedural/follow-up neurological statuses were assessed with the modified Rankin Scale.

RESULTS:

One hundred three aneurysms in 103 patients (63 females) with a mean age of 54.9 ± 11.3 years were included. The mean maximum sac diameter was 6.2 ± 2.9 mm. The procedural technical success rate was 100%. Immediate postprocedural angiography showed complete occlusion in 77.7%. The mean duration of the angiographic follow-up was 8.8 ± 3.6 months. Follow-up angiography showed complete aneurysm occlusion in 89% of the 82 patients with angiographic follow-up. Recanalization was observed in 7.3% of 82 patients. Two patients (2.4%) required retreatment. In addition, 8.7% of the patients had at least 1 complication, and 2.9% of the patients developed a permanent morbidity. All patients had mRS scores ≤2.

CONCLUSION:

The results of this study demonstrate that SAC with LVIS EVO is a relatively safe, efficient, and durable treatment for wide-necked and complex intracranial aneurysms.
The visible subtitler: Blockchain technology towards right management and minting
Authors: Orero Pilar , Fernandez Torner Anna , Oncins Estel·la
Published: February 2023

Background: Subtitles are produced through different workflows and technologies: from fully automatic to human in open source web editors or in-house platforms, and increasingly through hybrid human-machine interaction. There is little agreement regarding subtitle copyright beyond the understanding that it is a derivative work. While same language verbatim subtitles may have little room for creativity, interlingual subtitling is heavily dependent on the subtitler skills to translate, prioritise, and condense information. These days creative subtitles are increasingly being used as one more aesthetic element in audiovisual narrative. Though they may be in the same language, the visual attributes that contribute to the narrative development make creative subtitles one more element that should be acknowledged and copyright protected.

Methods: The paper will present a short introduction to subtitling copyright. It will then describe centralised and decentralised copyright management — where blockchain technology can be applied to aid subtitler identification. A focus group with expert professional subtitlers was organised, and feedback is reported.

Conclusions: Subtitle copyright is country dependent, still subtitling working practices and media asset distribution have no geographical borders. Blockchain technology -as a concept- could aid subtitle traceability. This can be useful beyond financial and moral right management and work towards media sustainability, allowing for reuse and repurpose of existing media assets.
ALEXITHYMIA AND THE ANXIETY FACTOR IN ADOLESCENTS
Authors: Zaitseva Olga I. , Kolodyazhnaya Tatyana A. , Zaitseva Ghanna G. , Ignatova Irina A.
Published: February 2023

Aim. To study the level of alexithymia and anxiety in adolescents depending on age and gender, to identify relationships.

Materials and methods. A survey of clinically healthy adolescents was carried out using the Toronto alexithymic scale (TAS-26) and the scale of situational and personal anxiety Ch.D. Spielberger – Yu. L. Khanin.

Results. Among practically healthy adolescents, over 60% have signs of alexithymia, and half of them are adolescents with a pronounced level of alexithymia. “Vulnerable” for alexithymia are adolescent girls, and by age - younger adolescents. For practically healthy students, the normal level of situational and personal anxiety is natural. With an increase in the symptoms of alexithymia, the presence of high situational and personal anxiety in adolescents is characteristic. A positive correlation was found between the level of alexithymia and the degree of situational (r=0.40; p<0.001; n=507) and personal (r=0.35; p<0.001; n=507) anxiety.

Conclusion. Dentification among adolescents of a group of individuals with a risk of developing alexithymia and the presence of signs of alexithymia, with an altered level of situational and personal anxiety, will allow for early prevention and necessary therapeutic interventions.
DYNAMICS OF ARGALI POPULATION (OVIS AMMON LINNAEUS, 1758) IN KAZAKHSTAN
Authors: Salovarov Viktor O. , Yesmukhanbetov Daniyar N. , Karagoishin Zhaskaiyr M.
Published: February 2023

The research materials are based on the processing and analyzing the official results of the air and ground surveys conducted in 2019, providing departmental materials. The habitats with a high number of mountain sheep include the Karaganda, Turkestan, Dzhambul and Almaty regions of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The paper aims to estimate the changes in argali’s number and reveal the basic influencing factors. The total number of wild mountain sheep in Kazakhstan is 17954 heads. The paper shows that the share of the influence of environmental and anthropogenic factors on the number of argalis is 99.7%. The main influence on the number of snow sheep is exerted by anthropogenic factors such as poaching and economic use of the range of wild mountain sheep by humans. From time to time, severe fires affect the deterioration of the habitat. The authors attribute the creation of specially protected natural territories and the inclusion of subspecies in the Red Book of Kazakhstan to the positive impact of human activity on the argali population. In modern conditions, the natural potential viability and survival of mountain sheep and further naturalization are weak, although there is an increase in the number of argalis. These aspects indicate that the anthropogenic factor affects animals intensely. The analysis of variance shows and testifies to the high influence of the anthropogenic factor on the number of argalis in regions of Kazakhstan. Today, to improve the protection of mountain sheep, it is advisable to organize a network of specially protected natural territories in the mountainous regions of the south and south-east of Kazakhstan.
MODERN DIRECTIONS OF EDUCATIONAL WORK WITH CONSUMERS ON THE PART OF PORK PRODUCERS BASED ON THE ‘TRANSPARENT PIG FARM’ CONCEPT
Authors: Svinarev Ivan Yu.
Published: February 2023

Over the past 10–15 years, there has been a significant change in people’s access to information. The need for food manufacturers to understand consumers and their motivation in choosing a product has increased. This research aims to analyze the relevance and applicability of the transparent production concept in the conditions of the Russian Federation and identify the most significant problems for educational work. The research tasks are as follows: (1) comparing preferences of consumers buying meat in Russia and the USA; (2) studying the differences in the perception of visual information and attitudes towards industrial production depending on the level of competence; (3) analyzing key aspects of pork production that are of the greatest interest to consumers; and (4) analyzing existing tools for communicating with consumers. The following research methods were used to solve the tasks set: (1) theoretical (analysis, synthesis, generalization, and comparison of information on the research problem); (2) empirical (questioning, conversation, and content analysis); and (3) statistical (graphical and tabular interpretations of research data). The paper compares new data on the differences in preferences of consumers buying meat. Within the transparent production concept, the nine most relevant areas for educational work aimed at increasing mutual understanding between consumers and producers of meat products are identified. The analysis has shown that depending on the experience and knowledge of the biological characteristics of pigs, there is a fundamental difference in the assessment of animal welfare in specific production conditions. The following areas are identified as the most relevant for educational work: (1) environmental protection measures; (2) measures to reduce odors; (3) outdoor and indoor production; (4) fixed or free housing of gestating sows; (5) castration, cutting tails, and grinding fangs; (6) practice of using antibiotics; (7) practice of using growth stimulants; (8) nature of rapid growth and reaching slaughter condition; and (9) animal welfare. As the main tools for information communication with consumers, it is proposed to more actively using social networks, company websites on the Internet, television and radio, press publications, and agritourism, as well as agroclasses and agrohours at schools.
POSSIBILITIES FOR THE INTRODUCTION AND BREEDING OF CHIA (SALVIA HISPANICA L.) IN THE SOUTHERN FOREST-STEPPE OF WESTERN SIBERIA
Authors: Kazydub Nina G. , Pinkal Anna V. , Chernov Roman V. , Nadtochii Ljudmila A.
Published: February 2023

Each area of a country, due to its specific soil and climatic conditions, requires the elaboration of a biological grounding for the introduction of useful plants which might be lead to the best practical effect when cultivated both under production conditions and on garden plots. In this respect, the introduction of new species is of crucial importance.

Research regarding chia (Salvia hispanica L.) has been conducted at Omsk State Agrarian University since 2017. This crop has been cultivated in Mexico since ancient times, while in Russia it has not been grown yet. The present article shows the scientific results of the research on chia as a new, versatile crop to be cultivated under the conditions of the southern forest-steppe of Western Siberia. Varietal studies were conducted on samples from different countries, including Mexico, France, Israel and Thailand.

The sample assessment was carried on at the breeding nursery according to the following parameters: duration of the growing period, productivity and sucrose content in their leaves. In order to increase the efficiency of the breeding process when creating new chia varieties, the samples 3/18 and 0/18 can be recommended as sources due to their parameter set.
IMPROVING THE EFFICIENCY OF OAT CULTIVATION TECHNOLOGIES IN THE CENTRAL NON-BLACK EARTH REGION OF RUSSIA
Authors: Vasiliev Aleksandr S. , Farinyuk Yuri T.
Published: February 2023

The research aim was to study the peculiarities of the formation of productivity of current varieties of oats of domestic selection (Argamak, Krechet, Yakov) when grown on different backgrounds of mineral nutrition (1-natural fertility (without fertilizers), 2 – N16P16K16 when sown +N45 in the feeding (tillering phase), 3 – N16P16K16 during sowing +N90 in feeding) and foliar treatments in the tillering phase with humic preparation Humate+7; give recommendations to the production based on the results obtained. Comprehensive research was conducted in 2018–2020 on the fields of the Educational Scientific and Innovative Production Center “Agrotechnopark” of the Tver State Agricultural Academy. Field and laboratory researches of photosynthetic activity indicators, crop structure, yield accounting, grain quality, mathematical processing of the results were carried out according to well-tested methods in agriculture. It was found that the greatest responsiveness to the applied fertilizers was distinguished by seed oats of the Yakov variety. The crops of this variety were obtained with foliar treatment at the tillering stage with a 1% working solution of Humate+7 against the background of application of N16P16K16 at sowing and N90 in feeding grain yield. It is equal to 4.77 t/ha with the greatest grain in the experience – 559 g/l (which corresponds to the grain of the 1st class), and the lowest filminess is 23.4%. These features of the fertilizer system had a positive effect on the crops of all the studied varieties of oats. That allows us to recommend their production as the most promising. At the same time, it is worth noting that non-root feeding with Humate+7 is effective both in conditions of reducing doses of mineral fertilizers and in their complete absence, increasing grain yield by an average of 27.0%–31.5%. The increase in crop productivity is associated with an increase in the photosynthetic activity of plants in crops and an improvement in the main parameters of the crop structure (the density of the productive stem, the weight of grain from the panicle).
Antropologiczne źródła pedagogiki i wychowania w ujęciu Edyty Stein
Authors: Strembska-Kozieł Martyna
Published: February 2023

Niniejszy artykuł stanowi wprowadzenie w myśl pedagogiczną Edyty Stein (1891–1942), której intencją było ukazanie związków między nauką o wychowaniu a antropologią. Dlatego też, w celu odnalezienia podstaw antropologii adekwatnej, scharakteryzowane zostaną różne antropologie, wynikające z nich ujęcia człowieka, które oddziałują na współczesną pedagogikę, a także oryginalna koncepcja wychowania w ujęciu Edyty Stein.
Religijne inspiracje do działań wychowawczo-resocjalizacyjnych. Świadectwa uczestników programów terapeutycznych misji Teen Challenge w Polsce
Authors: Patalon Mirosław
Published: February 2023

W artykule ukazano koncepcyjne podobieństwa między eklezjalnym i świeckim rozumieniem rezyliencji i probacji, ich ewangeliczne podłoże oraz powiązania tych pojęć z działalnością pedagogiczno-resocjalizacyjną. Na tym tle przedstawiono zarys historii ruchu Teen Challenge wraz z jego współczesną aktywnością na świecie i w Polsce. Szczególną uwagę poświęcono ośrodkowi ruchu w Broczynie koło Słupska. Następnie zaprezentowano fragmenty świadectw uczestników programów terapeutycznych tego ośrodka wraz z fenomenograficzną mapą wynikową podstawowych powtarzających się w wypowiedziach kategorii. Ustalono, że specyfiką omawianej terapii są wynikająca z założeń negatywnej antropologii (ludzka niemoc) wiara w Boga i poleganie na nim w procesie zdrowienia.
Resection of one slip of the flexor digitorum superficialis resulting finger deformity in pediatric trigger finger: a case report
Authors: Kim DoWon , Yoon JungSoo , Lim SooA , Han YeaSik , Eo SuRak
Published: February 2023

Pediatric trigger finger (PTF) is a rare hand disorder caused by various anatomic abnormalities and systemic illnesses. We report a case of PTF in a 16-month-old boy, revealing a flexion deformity of his right middle finger. We noted an abnormally proximal location of Camper’s chiasm and bulging of the flexor digitorum profundus intraoperatively. We released the A1 pulley completely and resected an ulnar slip of the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS). The short-term outcome was satisfactory; however, the patient experienced a mild flexion deformity and ulnar deviation of the right middle finger at a 4-year follow-up visit. During reexploration, we noted severe scar adhesion along the previously cut end of the ulnar slip of the FDS. Therefore, we performed en-bloc scar tissue release with additional resection of the remaining radial slip of the FDS. To prevent recurrence after PTF release, close monitoring with short-term follow-up and early physiotherapy should be emphasized.
A Case report of Oral Pigmentation - Post-inflammatory or Psoriasiform lesions.
Authors: G.P Sujatha , G.P Kalavathi , Ashok l Ashok l
Published: February 2023

Intraoral pigmentation occurs in various physiologic and pathologic conditions. Many of these are the manifestations of systemic diseases that too dermatologic conditions in specific. Here with reporting a case of intraoral brownish pigmentation in a young adult female who was treated for mild dermal lesions of psoriasis which was reported to be either post inflammatory pigmentation or psoriasiform oral manifestations. The pattern of mucosal pigmentation is nonspecific and there is lack of recent research regarding etiopathogenesis.
NARRATIVAS DE RENDEIRAS E O PROCESSO DE DESLITORALIZAÇÃO NA REGIÃO DE AQUIRAZ: a transmissão intergeracional da produção do bilro
Authors: Maia-vasconcelos Sandra , Bezerra de Carvalho Fernando Antônio , Alves e Silva Siqueira Priscila , Da Costa Oliveira Débora Maria
Published: February 2023

Esse estudo teve como objetivo analisar nas narrativas de rendeiras do município de Aquiraz no estado do Ceará como o fenômeno da deslitoralização da cidade impacta na transmissão do conhecimento intergeracional e da cultura local. Estudamos o processo de deslitoralização a partir da ótica da expansão da Região Metropolitana de Fortaleza, pensando nas narrativas de vida dessas mulheres a partir dos estudos de Maia-Vasconcelos (2022) e o processo intergeracional construído a partir dos estudos de Lani- Bayle (1999). Utilizamos a pesquisa qualitativa para a metodologia desse estudo, a coleta dessas narrativas foi feita através de conversas narrativas. Durante a análise percebemos que mais da metade das entrevistadas, correspondentes às mulheres de mais de 46 anos, aprenderam com suas mães, avós, tias e irmãs. Isso significa que o conhecimento do bilro se dá frequentemente por transmissão intergeracional fortemente influenciada pela cultura local. Existe claramente uma transmissão de conhecimento entre as gerações, sejam familiares ou não.
Inherited cardiomyopathies: how nurses can facilitate holistic care for patients and their families
Authors: Martin Lucy , Mason Sami , Kirkby Claire , Kearl Fiona , Hargrave Joanne , Partridge Jayne , Taylor Julie , Bueser Tootie , Cowley Bethan
Published: February 2023

This article is the second instalment of the British Journal of Cardiac Nursing's series on genetics, and will focus on inherited cardiomyopathies. Collectively, cardiomyopathies are the most common inherited cardiac condition. They affect the structure of the heart muscle, sometimes leading to heart failure or sudden cardiac death. Advances in genetic testing for cardiomyopathies mean that this can now be offered to more patients, influencing care and treatment options. This article looks at the contributions made by nurses to the care of people who have, or are at risk of, an inherited cardiomyopathy.
Root Yield and Starch Synthase Type IV Gene Activity under Different Micro Nutrient Fertilizer and Harvest Ages on Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz)
Authors:   Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, College of Agriculture University of Lampung, 35145, Indonesia, Setiawan Kukuh , Timotiwu Paul Benyamin ,   Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, College of Agriculture University of Lampung, 35145, Indonesia, Agustiansyah  ,   Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, College of Agriculture University of Lampung, 35145, Indonesia, Hadi Muhammad Syamsoel ,   Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, College of Agriculture University of Lampung, 35145, Indonesia, Kamal Muhammad ,   Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, College of Agriculture University of Lampung, 35145, Indonesia, Ardian  ,   Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, College of Agriculture University of Lampung, 35145, Indonesia, Setiawan Wawan Abdullah ,   Department of Biology, College of Mathematics and Natural Science University of Lampung, 35145, Indonesia.
Published: February 2023

Abstract The important part of cassava root is starch which is probably controlled by starch synthase type IV (SSIV) gene. The information of micro nutrient and harvest age related to the activity starch synthase type IV (SSIV) gene is still very rare. The objectives of this study were to evaluate root fresh weight of cassava, to compare yield of storage root, and to evaluate the activity of starch synthase type IV (SSIV) gene by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) applied by micro nutrient fertilizer. Treatments were arranged by factorial (3 × 3) in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications used as block. The first factor was three different dosages of micro nutrient fertilizer as 0, 20, and 40 kg/ha. The second factor was harvest ages as 7, 8, and 10 months after planting (MAP). The micro nutrient fertilizer mainly contents of 5,888 ppm Fe and 1,368 ppm Zn. Variables were leaf number (LN), leaf fresh weight (LFW), leaf dry weight (LDW), stem fresh weight (SFW), stem dry weight (SDW), root fresh weight (RFW), root dry weight (RDW), skin root fresh weight (SRFW), skin root dry weight (SRDW), starch content, and activity of SSIV gene. The result showed that RDW of cassava applied by 40 kg micro nutrient/ha was significantly increased at 10 MAP. The increase in RDW was due to mainly high SSIV gene activity. Additionally, the SSIV gene activity caused by 20 kg micro nutrient/ha treatment showed almost as twice as those by 40 kg micro nutrient/ha. Keywords: Real-time PCR, Root dry weight, Root yield, Starch, Stem dry weight
The Effect of Topical Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) on Collagen type-I, MMP-1 Expression and Dermal Collagen Count in Photoaging Prevention
Authors:   Doctoral Study Program of Medical Science, Faculty of  Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia, Damayanti  ,   Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia, Prakoeswa Cita Rosita Sigit ,   Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia, Purwanto Djoko Agus ,   Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia, Endaryanto Anang ,   Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia, Listiawan Muhammad Yulianto ,   Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia, Wirohadidjoyo Yohanes Widodo ,   Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Gajah Mada, Indonesia, Soetjipto  ,   Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia, Siswandono  ,   Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia, Utomo Budi ,   Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia, Widjiati  ,   Department of Embriology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia
Published: February 2023

Abstract The increasing of life expectancy in world population, increases the risk of photoaging. Photoaging of the skin is a complex biologic process especially caused by ultraviolet irradiation. Photoaging becomes new concern issue, because of high public awareness of skin health and performance. Many agents had been tried to be an alternative prevention for photoaging, such as green tea. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is the most abundant catechin in green tea, that showed its possibility to be an alternative agent in photoaging prevention. This study was aimed to evaluate the effect of topical EGCG in photoaging prevention by evaluating collagen type-I, MMP-1 expression and dermal collagen count in photoaging animal model. This was an animal in vivo study. Male Wistar rats aged 10-12 weeks were acclimated for 1 week and randomly divided into 6 groups: without intervention; ultraviolet irradiated group; ultraviolet irradiated group with topical EGCG (2.5%, 5%, 10%); and ultraviolet irradiated group with topical based cream (control group). The effect of topical EGCG in collagen type-I, MMP-1 expression and dermal collagen count were evaluated after 5 weeks of treatment. The mean of collagen type-I expression in group treated with topical EGCG were higher than control group, meanwhile the MMP-1 expression was lower than control group. Topical EGCG prevented the reduction of dermal collagen count significantly (P <0.05). It showed that topical EGCG plays role in photoaging prevention. Keywords: Topical EGCG, Photoaging, Collagen type-I, MMP-1, Dermal collagen count, Life expectancy
Refuerzo de conocimientos de Bioquímica aplicando juegos de letras o de palabras sencillos
Authors: Centelles Serra Josep Joan , Moreno Guillen Estefania , De Atauri Carulla Pedro R.
Published: February 2023

Introducción y problema: Los juegos son muy apreciados por la población en general, así que realizamos una búsqueda de diversos juegos con la finalidad de utilizarlos para reforzar los conocimientos en bioquímica de los alumnos del grado de Química de la Universidad de Barcelona. Los juegos de los libros de pasatiempos están basados en dos posibilidades: números y letras. Entre los juegos de letras los más frecuentes son los crucigramas, autodefinidos, palabras cruzadas y sopas de letras. Metodología: Para reforzar los conocimientos de los estudiantes en Bioquímica, realizamos una búsqueda de juegos de palabras usados en el aprendizaje de gramática de idiomas, para luego adaptarlos a la nomenclatura y estructura de biomoléculas en Bioquímica. Siguiendo una aproximación conductista, utilizamos el modelo de Dick y Carey. Resultados y discusión: Los juegos más sencillos sobre palabras se basan en buscar dentro de un conjunto de palabras, aquellas que tengan alguna parte en común. En este sentido, implementamos juegos de rimas, en los que las palabras terminan en –ina (terminación frecuente de los aminoácidos, bases nitrogenadas, nucleósidos y algunas proteínas), en –osa (terminación frecuente de los hidratos de carbono), o en –ico / –ato (terminación frecuente de los ácidos grasos y otros ácidos intermediarios del metabolismo, o de sus sales correspondientes). Así pues, los alumnos pueden observar estas características en la nomenclatura. Por otro lado, también implementamos juegos de palabras incompletas que se basan en completar los nombres de los metabolitos utilizando grupos de letras a escoger. Los juegos se clasificaron en 4 grupos y se presentan algunos ejemplos de estos. Respecto a la dificultad, los juegos tipo dominó son los más difíciles de resolver, pues requieren conocer tanto la nomenclatura como la estructura de las biomoléculas. Conclusiones: Nuestra propuesta incluye diversos juegos de palabras que permiten reforzar conocimientos de Bioquímica.
El Prácticum en el grado de Pedagogía de la UB: avanzando en el nuevo “Modelo de las 4-I: Inclusión, Integración, Innovación e Internacionalización”
Authors: Castells Telo Astrid , Duprat María Fernanda , Méndez Ulrich Jordi , Noguera Pigem Elena , Rajadell Puiggròs Núria , Vilà Baños Ruth
Published: February 2023

En este artículo se hace referencia a la historia del Prácticum de Pedagogía de la UB, visualizada por los intereses e inquietudes manifestadas en las publicaciones del Grupo de innovación PRAXIS. A partir de allí se realizan algunas reflexiones sobre el proceso y la caracterización de la institucionalización del modelo de prácticas de Pedagogía de la UB. En un segundo apartado se presentan y analizan los objetivos y acciones emprendidas desde la presentación y aprobación del Proyecto de Innovación Docente (2019) “El Pràcticum com a eix vertebrador del grau de Pedagogia: vers la internacionalització de les Pràctiques Externes”. Se destacan las 4 áreas de trabajo prioritarias: la Inclusión, la Integración, la Innovación y la Internacionalización. Dadas las transformaciones sociales ocurridas en los últimos años: 4.ª Revolución industrial, capitalismo técnico informático financiero, transformación del mercado laboral, heterogeneidad cultural, rol de la universidad en las sociedades, incorporación y atención de nuevos colectivos en las universidades, las 4-I se constituyen en la perspectiva que la Coordinación del Prácticum asume como prioritarias. Finalmente se hace mención al Proyecto de Investigación REDICE 2022 del grupo de investigación PRAXIS, en donde se pone de manifiesto el interés del grupo de realizar trabajos de investigación metódicos y sistemáticos relativos a la inclusión e integración.
Mode coupling characteristics investigation on a tapered seven-core fiber sensor
Authors: Chen Weijuan , Li Hui , Qiu Yishen , Chen Zhihao , Zhang Hao , Kang Zhenjing
Published: February 2023

In this work, we analytically derive the transmission spectra of the seven-core fiber (SCF) with a phase mismatch between the center core and outer cores based on the mode coupling theory. We also establish the wavelength shift as a function of temperature and ambient refractive index (RI) using approximations and differentiation techniques. Our results reveal the opposite effects of temperature and ambient RI on the wavelength shift of the SCF transmission spectrum. The theoretical conclusions are confirmed by our experiments on the behavior of SCF transmission spectra under various temperature and ambient RI conditions.
Multifunctional smart window based on transparent embedded Ni-mesh electrodes
Authors: Zhao Shiqing , Xu Wenwen , Liu Yanhua
Published: February 2023

Flexible electrochromic devices (ECDs) are a future technology with huge impact on wearable displays, energy saving, and adaptive camouflage. In this work, we used embedded nickel (Ni) mesh transparent electrodes combined with a thin polymer film of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) to build a multifunctional flexible electrochemical device that integrates the functions of electrochromic and supercapacitor devices. The multi-layer architecture improves the device performance in terms of optical contrast and mechanical strength. Ni-mesh electrodes have a high optical transparency (84.8%), good mechanical flexibility, and low resistance (0.5 Ω/sq), which is conducive to efficient electron injection, benefiting to the response time of the constructed device. The thin polymer film of PEDOT:PSS is an electrochromic (EC) material that also uniformly distributes electrons for a uniform coloration. The fabricated device shows fast response to coloring and bleaching (1.2 and 0.8 s, respectively), an absolute transmittance contrast ratio of 40%, and area capacitance of up to 2.48 mF/cm2. Furthermore, the device exhibits excellent flexibility, and the electrochromic and electrochemical properties of the device are only partially diminished upon folding, which is beneficial for the construction of multifunctional flexible electrochromic devices. With its response time, working stability, and bending ability, our multifunctional device paves the way for the next generation of flexible electronics.
A new online toolkit to support implementation research to enhance the use of digital innovations to End TB
Authors: Veronese Vanessa , Miller Cecily , Ogundahunsi Olumide , Den Boon Saskia , Xia Yin Yin , Falzon Dennis , Merle Corinne S.
Published: February 2023

Digital technologies are playing an increasing role in the global response to tuberculosis (TB), however their effectiveness and impact are often shaped in the context in which they are implemented. Implementation research can help facilitate the effective introduction of digital health technologies in TB programmes. In 2020, the Implementation Research for Digital Technologies and TB online toolkit (IR4DTB) was developed and launched by the Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases, and the Global TB Programme at the World Health Organization (WHO), to build local capacity for IR and promote the effective use of digital technologies within TB programmes. This paper describes the development and piloting of the IR4DTB toolkit, a self-learning tool designed for TB programme implementers. The toolkit comprises six modules reflecting key steps of the IR process, practical instructions and guidance on how to complete these steps, and real-word case studies to illustrate key learning points. This paper also describes the launch of the IR4DTB during a five-day training workshop with TB staff from China, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Malaysia. The workshop included facilitated sessions on the IR4DTB modules, and provided an opportunity for participants to work with facilitators to develop a comprehensive IR proposal addressing an identified challenge related to the implementation and/or scale-up of digital health technologies for TB care in their home country. Post-workshop evaluation revealed high level of satisfaction among participants with the workshop content and format. The IR4DTB toolkit is a replicable model which can be used to strengthen the TB staff capacity to innovate within a culture of continuous collection of evidence. Through continued trainings and adaptation of the toolkit alongside the integration of digital technologies within TB prevention and care, this model has the potential to contribute directly to all components of the End TB Strategy.
Prevalence and factors associated with diagnosed diabetes mellitus among Asian Indian adults in the United States
Authors: Misra Ranjita , Madhavan Suresh S. , Dhumal Trupti , Sambamoorthi Usha
Published: February 2023

Higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) has been documented among South Asians living in the United States. However, combining the south Asian subgroups into one category masks the heterogeneity in the diagnosed DM, after controlling for known protective and risk factors. We assessed the association of Asian Indian ethnicity to diagnosed DM using a nationally representative sample of 1,986 Asian Indian adults in the US compared to 109,072 Non-Hispanic Whites (NHWs) using disaggregated data from the National Health Interview Survey (2012–2016) (NHIS). 2010 US census figures were used for age-sex standardization. Age-sex adjusted prevalence of DM was 8.3% in Asian Indians as compared to 5.8% in NHW. In adjusted multivariable logistic regression models, Asian Indians had higher odds ratios of reporting diagnosed DM compared to NHWs (AOR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.12, 1.71). This association remained strong and significant even after controlling for other risk factors in the model (AOR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.16, 1.85). Results suggest a favorable socio-economic profile of Asian Indians was not protective on diagnosed DM. In addition, they were more likely to have diagnosed DM due to higher prevalence of obesity despite healthier behaviors of smoking and exercise.
A non-manufacturer-sponsored, retrospective study to assess 2-year safety outcomes of the BellaGel® SmoothFine as compared with its competitors in the context of the first Korean case of a medical device fraud
Authors: Nam Sang Eun , Lee Sangdal , Cho Younghye , Kim Jae Hong
Published: February 2023

Background

We conducted this study to assess preliminary 2-year safety outcomes of an implant-based augmentation mammaplasty using the BellaGel®SmoothFine in the context of the first Korean case of a medical device fraud.

Methods

Our clinical series of the patients (n = 579; 1,158 breasts) received augmentation using the BellaGel®SmoothFine, Naturgel™, Motiva Ergonomix™, Eurosilicone Round Collection™, Natrelle®INSPIRA™, Natrelle®410, Mentor®MemoryGel Xtra or Microthane®. The patients were evaluated for incidences of postoperative complications and Kaplan-Meier survival and hazards.

Results

Overall, there were a total of 101 cases (17.4%) of postoperative complications; these include 31 cases (5.4%) of shape deformity, 21 cases (3.6%) of CC, 18 cases (3.1%) of early seroma, 8 cases (1.4%) of infection, 5 cases (0.9%) of early hematoma, 1 case (0.2%) of delayed hematoma, 1 case (0.2%) of rupture and 1 case (0.2%) of ripping. Moreover, there were also 15 cases (2.6%) of other complications. There were significant differences in incidences of postoperative complications between the breast implants from different manufacturers (P = 0.034). The Natrelle®410 showed the longest survival (333.3±268.2 [141.5–525.1] days). A subgroup analysis showed that there were no significant differences in incidences of postoperative complications between the breast implants (P = 0.831). Moreover, the Natrelle®INSPIRA™ showed the longest survival (223.7±107.1 [-42.3–489.6] days).

Conclusions

Here, we describe preliminary 2-year safety outcomes of an implant-based augmentation mammaplasty using the BellaGel®SmoothFine in the context of the first Korean case of a medical device fraud.
Race, employment, and the pandemic: An exploration of covariate explanations of COVID-19 case fatality rate variance
Authors: Griffin Christopher , Block Ray , Silverman Justin D. , Croad Jason , Lennon Robert P.
Published: February 2023

We derive a simple asymptotic approximation for the long-run case fatality rate of COVID-19 (alpha and delta variants) and show that these estimations are highly correlated to the interaction between US State median age and projected US unemployment rate (Adj.r2= 60%). We contrast this to the high level of correlation between point (instantaneous) estimates of per state case fatality rates and the interaction of median age, population density and current unemployment rates (Adj.r2= 50.2%). To determine whether this is caused by a “race effect,” we then analyze unemployment, race, median age and population density across US states and show that adding the interaction of African American population and unemployment explains 53.5% of the variance in COVID case fatality rates for the alpha and delta variants when considering instantaneous case fatality rate. Interestingly, when the asymptotic case fatality rate is used, the dependence on the African American population disappears, which is consistent with the fact that in the long-run COVID does not discriminate on race, but may discriminate on access to medical care which is highly correlated to employment in the US. The results provide further evidence of the impact inequality can have on case fatality rates in COVID-19 and the impact complex social, health and economic factors can have on patient survival.
Organ-specific learning curves of sonographers performing first-trimester anatomical screening and impact of score-based evaluation on ultrasound image quality
Authors: Bardi Francesca , Bakker Merel , Elvan-Taşpınar Ayten , Kenkhuis Monique J. A. , Fridrichs Jeske , Bakker Marian K. , Birnie Erwin , Bilardo Caterina M.
Published: February 2023

Introduction

First-trimester anatomical screening (FTAS) by ultrasound has been introduced in many countries as screening for aneuploidies, but also as early screening for fetal structural abnormalities. While a lot of emphasis has been put on the detection rates of FTAS, little is known about the performance of quality control programs and the sonographers’ learning curve for FTAS. The aims of the study were to evaluate the performance of a score-based quality control system for the FTAS and to assess the learning curves of sonographers by evaluating the images of the anatomical planes that were part of the FTAS protocol.

Methods

Between 2012–2015, pregnant women opting for the combined test in the North-Netherlands were also invited to participate in a prospective cohort study extending the ultrasound investigation to include a first-trimester ultrasound performed according to a protocol. All anatomical planes included in the protocol were documented by pictures stored for each examination in logbooks. The logbooks of six sonographers were independently assessed by two fetal medicine experts. For each sonographer, logbooks of examination 25-50-75 and 100 plus four additional randomly selected logbooks were scored for correct visualization of 12 organ-system planes. A plane specific score of at least 70% was considered sufficient. The intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC), was used to measure inter-assessor agreement for the cut-off scores. Organ-specific learning curves were defined by single-cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis.

Results

Sixty-four logbooks were assessed. Mean duration of the scan was 22 ± 6 minutes and mean gestational age was 12+6 weeks. In total 57% of the logbooks graded as sufficient. Most sufficient scores were obtained for the fetal skull (88%) and brain (70%), while the lowest scores were for the face (29%) and spine (38%). Five sonographers showed a learning curve for the skull and the stomach, four for the brain and limbs, three for the bladder and kidneys, two for the diaphragm and abdominal wall and one for the heart and spine and none for the face and neck.

Conclusion

Learning curves for FTAS differ per organ system and per sonographer. Although score-based evaluation can validly assess image quality, more dynamic approaches may better reflect clinical performance.
Non-beneficial admission to the intensive care unit: A nationwide survey of practices
Authors: Quenot Jean-Pierre , Jacquier Marine , Fournel Isabelle , Meunier-Beillard Nicolas , Grangé Clotilde , Ecarnot Fiona , Labruyère Marie , Rigaud Jean-Philippe ,   the RESC Study group
Published: February 2023

Introduction

In a nationwide survey of practices, we sought to define the criteria, circumstances and consequences of non-beneficial admissions to the intensive care unit (ICU), with a view to proposing measures to avoid such situations.

Methods

ICU physicians from a French research in ethics network participated in an online survey. The first part recorded age, sex, and years’ experience of the participants. In the second part, there were 8 to 12 proposals on each of 4 main domains: (1) What criteria could be used to qualify an ICU stay as non-beneficial? (2) What circumstances result in the admission of a patient whose ICU stay may later be deemed non-beneficial? (3) What are the consequences of a non-beneficial stay in the ICU? (4) What measures could be implemented to avoid admissions that later come to be considered as non-beneficial? Responses were on a 5-point Likert scale ranging from “Strongly disagree” to “Strongly agree”.

Results

Among 164 physicians contacted, 154 (94%) responded. The majority cited several criteria used to qualify a stay as non-beneficial. Similarly, >80% cited several possible circumstances that could result in non-beneficial admissions, including lack of knowledge of the case and the patient’s history, and failure to anticipate acute deterioration. Possible consequences of non-beneficial stays included stress and anxiety for the patient/family, misunderstandings and conflict. Discussing the utility of possible ICU admission in the framework of the patient’s overall healthcare goals was hailed as a means to prevent non-beneficial admissions.

Conclusion

The results of this survey suggest that joint discussions should take place during the patient’s healthcare trajectory, before the acute need for ICU arises, with a view to limiting or avoiding ICU stays that may later come to be deemed “non-beneficial”.
Robust performance of a live bacterial therapeutic chassis lacking the colibactin gene cluster
Authors: Kalantari Aida , James Michael J. , Renaud Lauren A. , Perreault Mylene , Monahan Catherine E. , McDonald Mary N. , Hava David L. , Isabella Vincent M.
Published: February 2023

E. coli Nissle (EcN) is a non-pathogenic probiotic bacterium of the Enterobacteriaceae family that has been used for over a century to promote general gut health. Despite the history of safe usage of EcN, concerns have been raised regarding the presence of the pks gene cluster, encoding the genotoxin colibactin, due to its association with colorectal cancer. Here, we sought to determine the effect of pks island removal on the in vitro and in vivo robustness and activity of EcN and EcN-derived strains. A deletion of the pks island (Δpks) was constructed in wild type and engineered strains of EcN using lambda red recombineering. Mass spectrometric measurement of N-myristoyl-D-asparagine, released during colibactin maturation, confirmed that the pks deletion abrogated colibactin production. Growth curves were comparable between Δpks strains and their isogenic parents, and wild type EcN displayed no competitive advantage to the Δpks strain in mixed culture. Deletion of pks also had no effect on the activity of strains engineered to degrade phenylalanine (SYNB1618 and SYNB1934) or oxalate (SYNB8802). Furthermore, 1:1 mixed dosing of wild type and Δpks EcN in preclinical mouse and nonhuman primate models demonstrated no competitive disadvantage for the Δpks strain with regards to transit time or colonization. Importantly, there was no significant difference on in vivo strain performance between the clinical-stage strain SYNB1934 and its isogenic Δpks variant with regards to recovery of the quantitative strain-specific biomarkers d5- trans-cinnamic acid, and d5-hippuric acid. Taken together, these data support that the pks island is dispensable for Synthetic Biotic fitness and activity in vivo and that its removal from engineered strains of EcN will not have a deleterious effect on strain efficacy.
Absorbed dose calculation for a realistic CT-derived mouse phantom irradiated with a standard Cs-137 cell irradiator using a Monte Carlo method
Authors: Entezam Amir , Fielding Andrew , Bradley David , Fontanarosa Davide
Published: February 2023

Computed tomography (CT) derived Monte Carlo (MC) phantoms allow dose determination within small animal models that is not feasible with in-vivo dosimetry. The aim of this study was to develop a CT-derived MC phantom generated from a mouse with a xenograft tumour that could then be used to calculate both the dose heterogeneity in the tumour volume and out of field scattered dose for pre-clinical small animal irradiation experiments. A BEAMnrc Monte-Carlo model has been built of our irradiation system that comprises a lead collimator with a 1 cm diameter aperture fitted to a Cs-137 gamma irradiator. The MC model of the irradiation system was validated by comparing the calculated dose results with dosimetric film measurement in a polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) phantom using a 1D gamma-index analysis. Dose distributions in the MC mouse phantom were calculated and visualized on the CT-image data. Dose volume histograms (DVHs) were generated for the tumour and organs at risk (OARs). The effect of the xenographic tumour volume on the scattered out of field dose was also investigated. The defined gamma index analysis criteria were met, indicating that our MC simulation is a valid model for MC mouse phantom dose calculations. MC dose calculations showed a maximum out of field dose to the mouse of 7% of Dmax. Absorbed dose to the tumour varies in the range 60%-100% of Dmax. DVH analysis demonstrated that tumour received an inhomogeneous dose of 12 Gy-20 Gy (for 20 Gy prescribed dose) while out of field doses to all OARs were minimized (1.29 Gy-1.38 Gy). Variation of the xenographic tumour volume exhibited no significant effect on the out of field scattered dose to OARs. The CT derived MC mouse model presented here is a useful tool for tumour dose verifications as well as investigating the doses to normal tissue (in out of field) for preclinical radiobiological research.