bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hoax dan Literasi Media Internet di Era Covid-19
Authors: Dyatmika Teddy , Bakhri Syamsul , Kamal M. Rikzam
Published: February 2023

Tingginya informasi hoax pada saat pendemi covid-19 semakin mengkhawatirkan. Meskipun kampanye sosial terkait hoaxsudah sangat sering dilakukan. Penelitian ini mencari tahu kenapa informasi hoax masih tinggi. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kuantitatif eksplanatif dengan menggunakan teori Science and Human Behaviour Skinner. Sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah 499 mahasiswa. Analisis data menggunakan analisis regresi linier yaitu uji t dan uji f. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan ada pengaruh yang signifikan dari individual competence framework (X1) dan kampanye sosial hoax (X2) terhadap perilaku mahasiswa dalam berinternet (Y); Besarnya pengaruh yang ditimbulkan sebesar 35,3% dan pengaruh bersifat positif. Ini menunjukkan bahwa semakin besar nilai dari dua variabel independent maka semakin baik pula perilaku mahasiswa dalam berinternet; Masih ada 64,7% pengaruh dari variabel independent lain terhadap perilaku mahasiswa dalam berinternet; Sebagian besar mahasiswa setuju bahwa orang yang melaporkan hoax, tidak membuat konten hoax dan tidak menyebarkan konten hoax mendapatkan hadiah materiil; Meskipun sebagian besar mahasiswa setuju terkait reinforcement positif dari aspek materiil, ternyata reinforcement positif dari segi agama berupa mendapatkan pahala ada diurutan pertama;kedua,reinforcement dari segisosial yaitu mendapatkan pengakuan sebagai orang yang kredibel atau jujur; ketiga reinforcement dari segi hukum yaitu tidak mendapatkan pidana dan yang terakhir adalah reinforcement dari segi materiil. Begitu juga reinforcement negatifnya yaitu reinforcement dari segi agama, sosial dan hukum
Synergic effect of exogenous lactate and caffeine on fat oxidation and hepatic glycogen concentration in resting rats
Authors: Yoo Choongsung , Kim Jisu , Kyun Sunghwan , Hashimoto Takeshi , Tomi Hironori , Lim Kiwon
Published: February 2023

[Purpose] Although several physiological roles of lactate have been revealed in the last decades, its effects on energy metabolism and substrate oxidation remain unknown. Therefore, we investigated the effects of lactate on the energy metabolism of resting rats.[Methods] Male rats were divided into control (Con; distilled water), caffeine (Caf; 10 mg/kg), L-lactate (Lac; 2 g/kg), and lactate-plus-caffeine (Lac+Caf; 2 g/ kg + 10 mg) groups. Following oral administration of supplements, resting energy expenditure (study 1), biochemical blood parameters, and mRNA expression involved in energy metabolism in the soleus muscle were measured at different time points within 120 minutes of administration (study 2). Moreover, glycogen level and Pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) activity were measured.[Results] Groups did not differ in total energy expenditure throughout the 6 hour post-treatment evaluation. Within the first 4 hours, the Lac and Lac+Caf groups showed higher fat oxidation rates than the Con group (p<0.05). Lactate treatment decreased blood free fatty acid levels (p<0.05) and increased the mRNA expression of fatty acid translocase (FAT/CD36) (p<0.05) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α) (p<0.05) in the skeletal muscle. Hepatic glycogen level in the Lac+Caf group was significantly increased (p<0.05). Moreover, after 30 and 120 minutes, PDH activity was significantly higher in lactate-supplemented groups compared to Con group (p<0.05).[Conclusion] Our findings showed that Lac+Caf enhanced fat metabolism in the whole body and skeletal muscle while increasing hepatic glycogen concentration and PDH activity. This indicates Lac+Caf can be used as a potential post-workout supplement.
Effects of individualized low-intensity mat Pilates on aerobic capacity and recovery ability in adults
Authors: Moon Na-Ram , Yang Woo-Hwi
Published: February 2023

[Purpose] Although Pilates is one of the most widely performed physical activities in Korea, no physiological evidence is available regarding its energy recovery ability. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of individualized low-intensity mat Pilates on aerobic capacity and recovery ability in adults.[Methods] Ten physically active women participated in this study. Pre- and post-lactate threshold (LT) tests were performed to compare jogging/running speeds (S; km·h−1) and heart rates (HR; beats·min−1) at 1.5, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0 mmol·L−1 lactate concentrations (La−). Subjects performed 1 h of low-intensity mat Pilates twice a week for four weeks. During these sessions, exercise intensity was determined based on the heart rate corresponding to individualized low-inten- sity recovery zone 1, which was estimated using a mathematical model of log-log LT1 (from pre-test; < 2 mmol·L−1). All physiological variables were measured before and after exercise intervention.[Results] Significant differences were found in body mass increase and body mass index increase between the pre- and post-tests (p = 0.016 and p = 0.014, respectively, effect size (ES) = 0.13; ES = −0.11). Levels of La− between 1.0 and 1.4 m·s−1 in the post-LT test tended to decrease, although such decrease was not significantly different. Moderate to high positive correlations between differences (Δ) of S and ΔHR at 1.5, 3.0, and 4.0 mmol·L−1La− were observed.[Conclusion] Positive correlations between ΔS and ΔHR at certain La− levels indicate that low-intensity mat Pilates based on heart rate corresponding to individualized recovery zone 1 might be recommended for physically active adults.
Organocatalytic Nazarov-type cyclization of 3-alkynyl-2-indolylmethanols: construction of axially chiral cyclopenta[b]indole scaffolds
Authors: Wu Ping , Yan Xin-Yu , Jiang Song , Lu Yi-Nan , Tan Wei , Shi Feng
Published: February 2023

In recent years, it has become an urgent task to design new types of indole-based platform molecules for Nazarov-type cyclizations and develop organocatalytic Nazarov-type cyclizations for synthesizing indole derivatives. To fulfill this task, in this work, by changing the alkynyl terminal substituent from t-Bu to an aryl group, the reactivity of 3-alkynyl-2-indolylmethanols is modulated and the new platform molecules serve as competent substrates for Brønsted acid-catalyzed Nazarov-type cyclization. Based on this new reactivity, the first organocatalytic Nazarov-type cyclization of aryl-substituted 3-alkynyl-2-indolylmethanols with 2-naphthols is accomplished, leading to the efficient construction of a new class of axially chiral 3, 4-dihydrocyclopenta[b]indole scaffolds. This preliminary investigation of organocatalytic asymmetric Nazarov-type cyclization provides an optional strategy for the atroposelective construction of this new class of axially chiral cyclopenta[b]indole scaffolds. In addition, the first preparation of axially chiral 3, 4-dihydrocyclopenta[b]indole with optical purity is established through chiral resolution, which could serve as a complementary method to catalytic asymmetric approaches.
A revision of Pentaphragmataceae in Thailand with a new species and a new species record
Authors:   Forest Herbarium, Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand, Poopath Manop , Yooprasert Sawita ,   Forest Herbarium, Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand, Pooma Rachun ,   Forest Herbarium, Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
Published: February 2023

Pentaphragmataceae in Thailand is revised and a total of five species are recognised. A new species from Narathiwat, Penthaphragma narathiwatense, is described and illustrated. Penthaphragma poilanei is a new species record for Thailand. Penthaphragma winitii is synonymised under Penthaphragma sinense. A key to the Thai species, along with descriptions, distribution information, ecology and preliminary conservation assessments, are provided for all species.
EMPIRICAL APPROACH TO GROWTH ANALYSIS – PECULARITIES FOR MODELING STRATEGY IN THE CASES OF BIG EXOGENIOUS SHOCKS
Authors:   Faculty of Economics, Prilep, Trajkova Najdovska Natasha
Published: February 2023

Empirical investigation on growth, especially in the course of big exogenous shocks is still relatively ambiguous. While models of developed economies describe the growth process as a smooth movement along the balanced growth path, this pattern is altered in the cases of big exogenous shocks that hit economies. The later accumulation of evidence, including the big shocks due to pandemic and Russia - Ukraine war led to more realistic specifications of growth models as well, putting the emphasize on the impact of shocks on growth processes. Hence, the main objective of this paper is to provide a review of the papers that investigate empirically growth and its main determinants, with the accent on analysis of the impact of shocks on growth patterns. A distinction is made between studies that investigate developed economies and those that concentrate on developing or transition economies. The former ones usually apply the modelling strategy based on the neoclassical linear framework and, their review offers valuable insight and overview of the variables mostly used in growth studies. On the other side, the studies concerning developing or transition countries are rather focused on finding new ways of empirically modelling growth in specific conditions of shocks. Although still the majority of the analyses are based on the linearity assumption, in this review we shall treat only the ones that introduce non-linearity in the growth studies, assessing the ways they address the non-linearity observed in the data generating processes. Finally, the proposed strategy for modelling big shocks in the growth pattern is adjusted growth accounting formula with Markov Switching Vector Autoregressive modelling. The modest number of variables is due to the intention of the empirical exercise to put a focus on the shifts in growth rather than on the detailed determinants behind the shifts. Additionally, it should be emphasized that the informative purpose of this empirical model is limited by the lack of data for other possible variables and by the modelling procedure.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EXPENDITURE AND LABOR PRODUCTIVITY
Authors:   Tekirdag Namik Kemal University, Tekirdag, Turkey, Yilmaz Rasim
Published: February 2023

Theoretically, the relationship between health expenditures and labour productivity is ambiguous. On the one hand, health expenditures can enhance labour productivity by improving health of workers. Poor health impairs both the working hours and productivities of workers. When workers are healthy, they become physically and mentally more energetic and they have higher incentive to develop new skills and knowledge. On the other hand, increase in health expenditures may deteriorates labour productivity by crowding out physical capital investment. Causality between health expenditures and labour productivity is also ambiguous. This paper investigates the long-run relationship between health expenditures and labor productivity by utilizing a panel data covering the period between 2000 and 2015 and 35 OECD countries. Results of the study displays that there is a positive and statistically significant long-run association between health expenditures and labor productivity. Findings indicate that an increase in per capita health expenditure leads to a rise in labor productivity in terms of GDP per person employed. Results of the study also suggest that there is a mutual (bi-directional) causality relationship between health expenditures and labor productivity indicators.
FINANCING SUSTAINBLE GROWTH
Authors:   Chairman of the Council for education and strategic research, Chamber of commerce, North Macedonia, Bishev Gligor
Published: February 2023

North Macedonia is relying on Market Failure theory for the role of Government in the economy. The Government should take a back seat and simply create condition for private sector to invest and generate growth. Thus, public expenditures are kept at 1/3 of GDP for many years. Private sector investments in fix assets are anchored on average in last two decades at 22.4 percent of GDP. Result has been a moderate growth, that is not sufficient in foreseeable future to close the gap in living standard between the North Macedonia and EU. Innovative ecosystem and de-risking private sector investments is perceived more adequate model for achieving smart, sustainable and green growth. Such policies must put innovation at heart of growth policies. The Government should have a mission to fund innovations, direct economy to green and smart. This will require public expenditures steadily to reach threshold of 40 percent of GDP. Higher private investments: domestic and foreign, should be attracted by de-risking private sector and by strong private public partnership. This should accelerate growth to 5 percent on long-run, make it more inclusive and secure swift living standard convergence towards EU.
ANALYSIS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF THE BANK LOANS AS FINANCING SOURCE OF SMEs IN KOSOVO AND NORTH MACEDONIA
Authors:   University “Isa Boletini” Mitrovicë, Str. Ukshin Kovaqica, NN, Mitrovicë, Kosovo,, Kunoviku Demiri Filloreta , Tmava Qazim , Avdullahi Ajtene ,   University “Isa Boletini” Mitrovicë, Str. Ukshin Kovaqica, NN, Mitrovicë, Kosovo,,   University “Isa Boletini” Mitrovicë, Str. Ukshin Kovaqica, NN, Mitrovicë, Kosovo,
Published: February 2023

SMEs financing is one of the most important factors that influence SMEs growth and development in every country. Among researchers around the world this is always an important topic which needs continual research from different approaches. Knowing the importance of SMEs on the economic development of every developed and developing country and being aware that without financing the SMEs growth and development isn’t possible it is very importance to analyze the financing sources of SMEs in both neighbor countries. Bank loans are considered as the most important external financing source for SMEs around the globe. In this paper we are going to analyze the importance of bank loans as financing sources of SMEs based on comparative analysis between Kosovo and North Macedonia. Research methodology is compound by primary and secondary data, where, primary data was collected through quantitative research conducted on 300 SMEs in the Republic of Kosovo and 300 SMEs in the Republic of North Macedonia, while, the secondary data we have collected from state institutions, EU reports, research reports, etc. The results revealed that in both countries more than 50% of SMEs use bank loans as external sources of financing. The findings suggest at the end for some future lines of research and provides recommendations for the main stakeholders of this field of study.
DIGITALIZATION OF BUSINESS IN THE EUROPEAN UNION - STATE AND PRIORITIES
Authors:   . A. Tsenov Academy of Economics, Svishtov, Bulgaria, Ivanova Zoja , Marinov Ivan ,   . A. Tsenov Academy of Economics, Svishtov, Bulgaria
Published: February 2023

Digitalization is of vital importance for the development of business in the European Union. In today’s dynamic and high-tech environment, digital technologies underlie the development, implementation and improvement of business models related to maximizing the ability of companies to generate added value and achieve positive effects (results). Digitalization is a key differentiating factor for improving the way of organization and timely digital transformation of business in order to achieve economic sustainability and growth. The aim of this paper is to study the level of business digitalization in the European Union and derive specific business solutions and practices for its effective implementation. As a result of the study, this paper identifies the current state, specifics and dynamics in the development of digitalization of business within the European Union. It also traces the main trends, highlights the problem areas and outlines the guidelines and priorities for increasing the implementation of modern digital technologies and innovations.
PAY PERCEPTION AND EMPLOYEES INTENT TO LEAVE, STUDY OF THE MACEDONIAN NON-BANKING FINANCIAL SECTOR
Authors:   ONE Group, North Macedonia, Panova Ivana , Tomovska Misoska Ana , Bundaleska Elena ,   University American College Skopje, North Macedonia, Hristova Snezana ,   University American College Skopje, North Macedonia,   University American College Skopje, North Macedonia
Published: February 2023

The main purpose of this paper is to examine the pay perception among the employees in the non-banking financial institutions in North Macedonia and its correlation with employees’ intent to leave their current positions. The data to be analyzed was gathered through anonymous on line questioner consisting of Likert-scale measures. The results show that familiarity with pay differences does not significantly affect employees’ intent to leave. The findings indicate that majority of employees within the Macedonian non-banking financial institutions claim to understand how their pay and pay raises are determined, usually compare salaries and are aware of the industry pay ranges for their job positions. In addition, the majority of employees are neutral on the questions related to pay differences. Nonetheless, this lack of understanding of the pay system does not significantly influence their intention to leave the company they work for. There is no study on the pay perception and employee intention to leave among nonbanking financial institutions in North Macedonia. On the other hand, there is a need of finding the crucial factors for employees’ intent to leave, in order to be able to retain well-trained and trustworthy team, especially taking into consideration the fact that these institutions are frequently facing challenges where employees are leaving their current jobs to join competitors from the same industry.
Teacher Reflection in Teaching Practices - A Methodological Proposal for Its Operationalization
Authors: Garrido Hector Belmar
Published: February 2023

This research studies teacher reflection as a tool to improve teaching practice, focusing on student learning. The objective is to describe the way in which teachers in the area operationalize reflection in the practice of science teaching in various higher education careers. The theoretical framework takes elements from didactics, and the concepts of reflection in action from various theoretical references, especially Donald Schön. This research proposes a qualitative approach with an interpretative-naturalistic, epistemological, ontological and pragmatic paradigm, using the case study as a research method, with a purposive sample. The methodological techniques for data collection proposed are semi-structured interviews, non-participant observations and stimulated recall interviews. The analysis of the data should be carried out by generating a matrix of meanings containing the description of teaching practices, after reflection on their teaching methods and science teaching strategies.
Machine Learning Classification Of Active
Authors:   Department of Computer Science and Engineering, SMK Fomra Institute and Technology, Tamilnadu.India, Devi Aruna
Published: February 2023

Client turnover in the banking industry has grown according to the report. Churn can be classified into a variety of types. It s common knowledge that the cost of acquiring a new client is significantly greater than that of the expense of keeping an existing one. The objective is to find the most accurate machine learning-based churn prediction systems feasible. The entire dataset will be analysed using the supervised machine learning approach (SMLT) to gather a variety of data points including variable identification missing value treatments data validation data cleaning and data visualisation Identify the confusion matrix and categorise data from the supplied credit card dataset as well as compare and assess multiple machine learning techniques performance with an evaluation classification report from the given credit card dataset.
Lining Technology of Saturated Sand Layer Underground Diversion Tunnel and the Measurement of Concrete Lining Thickness
Authors:   School of Logistics, Chengdu University of Information Technology, Chengdu 610000, China., Liu Qixin
Published: February 2023

In order to improve the construction technology quality of the diversion tunnel lining in saturated sand stratum, the lining technology of underground diversion tunnel in saturated sand stratum is studied in detail in this paper. Steel trolley is used to complete binding production, and HBT-20 concrete pump is used to transport concrete. Concrete construction starts from bottom plate and side arch. After the construction, the quality of the diversion tunnel lining is tested nondestructively by the impact elastic wave, and the thickness and defects of the lining are analyzed by the reflection characteristics and spectral relationship of the impact elastic wave. The strength of lining concrete is measured by the propagation characteristics of R wave and the relationship between wave velocity and strength. The results show that the maximum additional bending strain of tunnel wall is about 300 με. At measuring point B7, the thickness and strength of concrete lining can be accurately measured by nondestructive quality testing technology.
Pericapsular Nerves Group (PENG) Block in Children under Five Years of Age for Analgesia in Surgery for Hip Dysplasia: Case Report
Authors: Domagalska Małgorzata , Wieczorowska-Tobis Katarzyna , Reysner Tomasz , Geisler-Wojciechowska Alicja , Grochowicka Monika , Kowalski Grzegorz
Published: February 2023

Introduction The Pericapsular Nerve Group (PENG) block is a novel technique that allows for analgesia of the anterior hip capsule via the articular branches of the accessory obturator nerve and femoral nerve, which have a significant role in the innervation of the hip capsule. PENG blockade is effective in both adult and pediatric patients. However, there are no studies in the available literature on patients under five years of age. Herein, we describe our experience with two pediatric patients with hip dysplasia. Purpose This study aimed to evaluate the analgesic effect of the pericapsular nerves group (PENG) in small children undergoing hip surgery. Patients and methods This study included two patients, aged 2 and 4 years old, who qualified for hip surgery. General or spinal anesthesia with the addition of a PENG block was performed. During the procedure, the basic hemodynamic parameters were monitored. After the surgery, the patients received 15mg/kg-1 iv paracetamol every 6 hours to prevent rebound pain. The pain was assessed using the FALCC score. The 15mg/kg-1 metamizole was administered if the FLACC score was 3. In the FLACC score 4, the application of 0,2mg/kg-1 Nalpain was ordered. Results The patient's hemodynamic parameters were stable and within normal range. FLACC scores from all patients ranged from 0 and 3 in the first 24 h period. One patient required metamizole 12 hours after surgery. No evidence of block complications was observed. Conclusions This case series showed that PENG block provided adequate postoperative analgesia and assured opioid-free pain management. However, we are convinced that future randomized, controlled trials are needed in this field.
Production of pacific white shrimp in biofloc system with different food management strategies
Authors: Silva Weverson Ailton da , Morais Ana Paula Mariane de , Figueiredo Julianna Paula do Vale , Rafael Ramires Eloise Queiroz , Oliveira Carlos Yure Barbosa de , Vieira Felipe do Nascimento
Published: February 2023

In the present work, different models for adjustments in feeding rates to produce Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) in a biofloc system were analyzed. Shrimps were stocked with an initial weight of 4.21 ± 0.09 g at a density of 250 shrimp m-3 and fed following different methodologies for 60 days. The first method was according to the Van-Wyk table, considering the minimum (MIN) and maximum (MAX) feed rates. The second was according to two estimated values from the feed conversion ratio (FCR; FCR of 1.1 and 1.5), based on the methodology determined by Garzade Yta. A completely randomized experimental design was adopted, consisting of four treatments (MAX, MIN, FCR 1.1, and FCR 1.5) with 4 independent replicates. Zootechnical performance, the physical and chemical water quality parameters, and the production of solids in the system were evaluated. The treatment that used minimum amounts of feed determined by the table showed a better feed conversion, survival, using a lower amount of feed and, thus, generating less waste. Although the feeding strategy using the minimum values in the table has shown better results, it is still necessary to improve these strategies, as the Biofloc system is a system that has variations and their adjustments must be made according to the interactions of the system.
Productivity, quality, and nutrient uptake of intensive forage crop rotations based on corn in sandy soil (northern Morocco)
Authors: Hassane Sidikou Abdel Aziz , Drissi Saad , Bouaziz Ahmed , Dhassi Khalid , Amlal Fouad , Darrhal Nassima , Bamouh Ahmed , El Hajli Hicham , Alouatir Zakia , Ait Houssa Abdelhadi
Published: February 2023

Intensive dairy farming systems in the sandy soil of northwestern Morocco are based on three successive forage crops per year, including corn. The aim was to evaluate the productivity and the quality of different intensive crop successions based on corn in sandy soil. Three forage crops per year (winter, spring, and summer cropping seasons) were tested according to six successions: 1. fallow-corn-corn, 2. oat-corn-corn, 3. berseem-corn-corn, 4. pea/triticale-corn-corn, 5. oat-soybean-corn, and 6. berseem-corn-soybean. Each succession of crops was evaluated in two years field experiment using a randomized complete block design. Results revealed that oat-corn-corn and pea/triticale-corn-corn successions produced the highest dry biomass (46.5 t ha-1 year-1). The crop succession of berseem-corn-soybean resulted in the lowest biomass (30.8 t ha-1 year-1). The highest net energy for lactation was recorded at oat-corn-corn and pea/triticale-corn-corn successions (303 103 MJ ha-1 year-1). The crop successions based on one corn (oat-soybean-corn and berseem-corn-soybean) recorded the lowest net energy for lactation (195.5 103 MJ ha-1 year-1). The oat-corn-corn, pea/triticale-corn-corn, and oat-soybean-corn successions recorded the highest crude protein values (3.9 t ha-1 year-1). Soil organic matter and the content of soil on total N, P, and Mg were similar for the different crop successions at the end of the experimental years.
Minor Consent Laws for Sexually Transmitted Infection and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Services in the United States: A Comprehensive, Longitudinal Survey of US State Laws
Authors: Nelson Kimberly M. , Skinner Alexandra , Stout Claire D. , Raderman Will , Unger Emily , Raifman Julia , Agénor Madina , Ybarra Michele L. , Dunsiger Shira I. , Bryn Austin S. , Underhill Kristen
Published: February 2023

Objectives. To assess changes in minor consent laws for sexually transmitted infection (STI) and HIV testing, treatment, and prevention services in all 50 US states and the District of Columbia from 1900 to 2021.

Methods. We coded laws into minor consent for (1) health care generally; (2) STI testing, treatment, and prevention; (3) HIV testing, treatment, and prevention; and (4) pre- or postexposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention. We also coded confidentiality protections and required conditions (e.g., threshold clinician judgments).

Results. The largest increase in states allowing minors to consent to STI services occurred during the 1960s and 1970s. By 2021, minors could consent independently to STI and HIV testing and treatment in all 50 states plus DC, STI prevention services in 32 jurisdictions, and HIV prevention services in 33 jurisdictions. Confidentiality protections for minors are rare. Prerequisites are common.

Conclusions. Although the number of states allowing minors to consent independently to STI and HIV services has increased considerably, these laws have substantial limitations, including high complexity, prerequisites requiring clinician judgments, and neglect of confidentiality concerns. (Am J Public Health. 2023;113(4):397–407. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2022.307199 )
The Terms “Multivariate” and “Multivariable” Are Used Incorrectly and Interchangeably in Orthopaedic Publications
Authors: Kolin David A. , Landy David C. , Watkins Adam , Fabricant Peter D. , Chalmers Brian P.
Published: February 2023

Orthopaedic surgery research increasingly utilizes statistical models to adjust for confounding, provide additional precision, and describe complex relationships. Traditionally, a statistical model is termed “multivariable” if it examines the relationship between multiple independent variables (e.g., covariables). The term “multivariate” is used to describe statistical models with multiple dependent variables (e.g., outcomes). The precise use of statistical terminology is important for study appraisal and reproducibility. The term “multivariate” is frequently used incorrectly in the orthopaedic literature to describe statistical models with a single dependent variable. In our analysis, we found that the term “multivariate” was used frequently, and in >90% of cases, the term was used to describe models that contain only a single dependent variable. Consistent with our perception, the terms “multivariable” and “multivariate” are not used with optimal precision. Below, we discuss the impact of the misuse of statistical terminology and present suggestions for improving statistical reporting.
Effect of Fibular Allograft Augmentation in Medial Column Comminuted Proximal Humeral Fractures
Authors: Wang Qiuke , Sheng Ning , Huang Jen-Tai , Zhu Hongyi , Tuerxun Maimaitiaili , Ruan Zesong , Shi Tingwang , Zhu Yu , Zhang Yunlong , Rui Biyu , Wang Lei , Chen Yunfeng
Published: February 2023

Background:

Previous observational studies and meta-analyses have recommended augmentation with a fibular allograft (FA) during the treatment of proximal humeral fractures with locking plates (LPs). However, to our knowledge, randomized controlled trials comparing open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with and without FA have not been performed to date.

Methods:

This was a randomized controlled trial in which adults with a medial column comminuted proximal humeral fracture were randomly allocated to undergo ORIF with an LP (the LP group) or with an LP augmented with an FA (the FA group). Patients were followed for 24 months. The primary outcome was the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score at 12 months after the surgical procedure. The secondary outcomes included the DASH score at other time points, shoulder function, pain score, satisfaction, complications, and changes in neck-shaft angle and humeral head height.

Results:

From October 20, 2016, to December 24, 2019, 80 patients were randomized. There were 52 women (65%), and the mean patient age (and standard deviation) was 65 ± 14 years. Of the 80 patients, 39 were allocated to the FA group and 41 were allocated to the LP group. At the primary time point (12 months), the unadjusted mean between-group difference in DASH score was −1.2 (95% confidence interval [CI], −7.3 to 5.0; p = 0.71) favoring the FA group, and, with adjustment for smoking, alcohol drinking, and diabetes, the between-group difference was −1.4 (95% CI, −7.7 to 5.0; p = 0.67) favoring FA. No significant differences between the 2 groups were found among the secondary outcomes.

Conclusions:

No additional benefit was found for FA augmentation in treating medial column comminuted proximal humeral fractures.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Plants, animals, and fisheries waste mediated bioremediation of contaminants of environmental and emerging concern (CEECs) – A circular bioresource utilization approach
Authors: Krishnani Kishore Kumar , Boddu Veera Mallu , Singh Rajkumar Debarjeet , Chakraborty Puja , Verma Ajit Kumar , Brooks Lance , Pathak Himanshu
Published: February 2023

The release of contaminants of environmental concern including heavy metals and metalloids, and contaminants of emerging concern including organic micropollutants from processing industries, pharmaceuticals, personal care, and anthropogenic sources is a growing threat worldwide due to their toxicity, persistence, and bioaccumulative nature and adversely affect the aquatic environment, crops, animals, fisheries, and human health. There is a big challenge to mitigate inorganic and organic contaminants, which together can be coined as contaminants of environmental and emerging concern (CEECs). The physicochemical properties of several CEECs, reveal that they cannot be easily removed by traditional physicochemical processes and are not economically viable for managing mixed contaminants of low concentrations. As a result, low-cost materials must be designed to provide high CEEC removal efficiency. One of the environmentally viable and energy-efficient approaches is biosorption, which involves using either biomass or biopolymers isolated from plants or animals for decontaminating heavy metals in contaminated environments using inherent biological mechanisms. Among chemical constituents in plant biomass, cellulose, lignin, hemicellulose, proteins, polysaccharides, phenolic compounds, and animal biomass include polysaccharides and other compounds to bind heavy metals covalently and non-covalently. These functional groups include - carboxyl, hydroxyl, carbonyl, amide, amine, sulfhydryl, and other groups. Cation-exchange capacities of these bioadsorbents can be improved by applying the chemical modifications. The relevance of chemical constituents and bioactives in animal, as well as plant-derived biosorbents, is highlighted in this comprehensive review for sequestering and bioremediation of CEECs including as many as ten different heavy metals and metalloids co-contaminated with other organic micropollutants.
Simultaneous subset tracing and miRNA profiling of tumor-derived exosomes via dual-surface-protein orthogonal barcoding
Authors: Lei Yanmei , Fei Xiaochen , Ding Yue , Zhang Guihua , Song Jia , Zhuo Ying , Xue Wei , Zhang Peng , Yang Chaoyong
Published: February 2023

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been extensively studied as non-invasive biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis, while the clinical application was constrained by the heterogeneous miRNA sources in plasma and the tedious assay processes. Here we developed a one-pot assay called dual-Surface-protein-guided Orthogonal Recognition of Tumor-derived Exosomes and in-situ profiling of microRNAs (SORTER) for rapid and precise diagnosis of prostate cancer. The SORTER utilizes the orthogonal barcoding of two allosteric aptamers against exosomal marker CD63 and tumor marker EpCAM to recognize and sort tumor-derived exosome subtypes. Furthermore, the labeled barcode on tumor-derived exosomes guided the targeted fusion with liposome miRNA detection probes, enabling in-situ profiling of tumor-derived exosomal miRNAs. With a signature of six miRNAs, SORTER differentiated prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia with a sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 100% in the training and validation cohorts. The SORTER provides a promising tool to advance the clinical adaptability of miRNA-based liquid biopsy.
Enhanced adsorption and co-adsorption of heavy metals using highly hydrophilicity amine-functionalized magnetic hydrochar supported MIL-53(Fe)-NH2: performance, kinetics and mechanism studies
Authors: Luo Xin , Du Haiying , Zhang Xiaochao , Tang Bo , Zhang Meichen , Kang Hen , Ma Yanqi
Published: February 2023

It is a "kill two birds with one stone" method to convert invasive plants into hydrochar via hydrothermal carbonization as well as coinciding with 3R rules (reduction, recycling and reuse). In this work, a series of hydrochars (pristine, modified and composite) derived from invasive plants Alternanthera Philoxeroides(AP) were prepared and applied to the adsorption and co-adsorption of heavy metals (HMs) such as Pb(II), Cr(VI), Cu(II), Cd(II), Zn(II) and Ni(II). The results show MIL-53(Fe)-NH2- magnetic hydrochar composite (M-HBAP) displayed a strong affinity for HMs, which the maximum adsorption capacity for HMs were 261.74 (Pb(II)), 252.50 (Cr(VI)), 180.92 (Cd(II)), 163.76 (Cu(II)) and 77.84 (Zn(II)) mg/g calculated by Langmuir model. This may be because the doping of MIL-53(Fe)-NH2 enhanced the surface hydrophilicity of hydrochar, which allows hydrochar to disperse in the water within 0.12 s and possessed excellent dispersibility compared with pristine hydrochar (BAP) and amine-functionalized magnetic modified hydrochar (HBAP). Furthermore, the BET surface area of BAP was improved from 5.63 to 64.10 m2/g after doing MIL-53(Fe)-NH2. M-HBAP shows a strong adsorption effect on the single HMs system (52-153 mg/g), while it decreased significantly (17-62 mg/g) in the mixed HMs system due to the competitive adsorption. Cr(VI) can produce strong electrostatic interaction with M-HBAP, Pb(II) can react with CaC2O4 on the surface of M-HBAP for chemical precipitation, and other HMs can react with functional groups on the surface of M-HBAP for complexation and ion exchange. In addition, five adsorption-desorption cycle experiments and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) curves also proved the feasibility of the M-HBAP application.
Identification of Serum, Placental and Fetal Serum Metabolite Biomarkers for Preeclampsia Based on LC-MS
Authors: Pan Yixia , Liu Rui , Wei Chan , Li Chunfang , Tian Gaiyan , Wang Wenjuan , Ma Qiang , Wang Weimin
Published: February 2023

Background
Preeclampsia is a common complication of pregnancy seriously affecting the health of mothers and babies. There is no independent methods for diagnosing and monitoring preeclampsia with sufficient accuracy, specificity and sensitivity. Changes in body metabolism usually occur before the appearance of clinical symptoms of the disease. Therefore, predicting the occurrence and development of preeclampsia by detecting changes in metabolites has become a research trend in this field.
Methods
In this study, a nontargeted metabolomics approach based on liquid chromatography (LC)-mass spectrometry (MS) was used to analyze the metabolites in the serum, placenta and fetal serum samples of 6 cases of late preeclampsia patients and 6 cases of normal pregnant women. Combine multivariate and univariate statistical methods to screen the endogenous differential metabolites in each sample, and use MetaboAnalyst software to perform enrichment analysis on the metabolic pathways involved in these differential metabolites. In addition, based on a binary logistic regression model to screen biomarkers that may be used to predict preeclampsia.
Results
Compared with normal pregnant women, there were significant differences in serum, placental and fetal serum metabolic profiles of late preeclampsia patients. We found that the late preeclampsia patients mainly had metabolic abnormalities in the metabolic pathways of ALA, taurine, glycine, serine and threonine; in addition, placenta samples showed abnormalities in the metabolic pathways of linolenic acid, taurine, α-linoleic acid and other unsaturated fatty acids, which in turn caused abnormalities in the metabolic pathways of glutamine and glutamate, ALA, alanine, aspartic acid and glutamate, and other polyunsaturated fatty acids in the fetuses of these patients. Moreover, we generated the ROC curves of differential metabolites using a binary logistic regression model and selected four serum metabolites with an AUC value greater than 0.9, most of which were polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Conclusions
There are significant differences in serum, placental, and fetal serum metabolic profiles between late preeclampsia patients and normal third trimester pregnant women in this study and influence the metabolic phenotypes of offspring. This result not only provides a meaningful biomarker for the diagnosis of preeclampsia, but also provides a basis for understanding the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.
Comparison of the effects of use, protection, improper renovation and removal of asbestos products on the example of typical old office buildings
Authors: Obmiński Andrzej
Published: February 2023

The study focused on old building types “LIPSK” and “BERLIN”, used since the 1960s in East Europe. The different operations of buildings were analysed: protection and maintenance of asbestos products, asbestos removal and inadvertent accidental damage to asbestos as a result of building renovation. Measurements of respirable asbestos fibres were carried out using the PCOM + PLM method and SEM-EDS. In the case of the accidental destruction of products, initial contamination was ≈ 7,000 f/m3. After some weeks of extreme ventilation, contamination decreased to about 500 f/m3. At the same time, in normally used that rooms, the pollution was above 4,000 f/m3. The average increase in pollution in a dozen or so similar buildings after asbestos removal in places beyond the work zones ranged from ≈ 1,700–2,700 f/m3 and lasted for one or two years. Old buildings, not renovated and in good condition, similar as protected by ACM products, maintained contamination at < 300 f/m3 for more than 10–20 last years. Due to the easy release of asbestos that occurs with any mechanical ACM destruction, there is an increased risk of occupant exposure in all areas of the building immediately following any renovation. Their implementation may be controversial.
Auxiliary-lag Dependent Gaussian Process Model for Forecasting Rainfall Data Using Proposed Kernels and Multi-start Optimization Method
Authors: Shehzad Muhammad Ahmed , Khurram Haris , Khan Aamna , Iqbal Muhammad Mutahir
Published: February 2023

Pakistan is currently facing the biggest flood of history due to monsoon rains. The rainfall forecasting is very important for policy making. In this paper, we have presented an auxiliary-lag dependent Gaussian process, a Bayesian non-parametric machine learning model, for modeling the rainfall data using auxiliary lags. We have also introduced some new multifeatured kernel functions that are versatile in dealing with seasonal data. A simplex cluster-based multi-start technique using the Nelder-Mead optimizer has also been proposed for optimizing the hyperparameters of the kernel functions, which can be used for any available or proposed kernel function(s). For comparison of the proposed model, we have used the autoregressive random forest model, autoregressive artificial neural network model, seasonal autoregressive moving average models, and exponential smoothing models. Results confirmed the superiority of the proposed model over conventional models. The proposed methodology will be helpful for other researchers and local experts in making more reliable forecasting which will be helpful in policymaking relevant to agriculture systems, water management systems, climate change, and natural disasters such as droughts and floods.
Functional social support and cognitive function in middle- and older-aged adults: A systematic review of cross-sectional and cohort studies
Authors: Mogic Lana , Rutter Emily C , Tyas Suzanne L , Maxwell Colleen J , O’Connell Megan E , Oremus Mark
Published: February 2023

Background

Intact cognitive function is crucial for healthy aging. Functional social support is thought to protect against cognitive decline. We conducted a systematic review to investigate the association between functional social support and cognitive function in middle- and older-aged adults.

Methods

Articles were obtained from PubMed, PsycINFO, Sociological Abstracts, CINAHL and Scopus. Eligible articles considered any form of functional social support and cognitive outcome. We narratively synthesized extracted data by following the Synthesis Without Meta-Analysis (SWiM) guidelines and assessed risk of bias using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS).

Results

Eighty-five articles with mostly low risk-of-bias were included in the review. In general, functional social support—particularly overall and emotional support—was positively associated with cognitive function in middle- and older-aged adults. However, these associations were not all statistically significant. Substantial heterogeneity existed in the types of exposures and outcomes evaluated in the articles, as well as in the specific tools used to measure exposures and outcomes.

Conclusions

Our review highlights the role of functional social support in the preservation of healthy cognition in aging populations. This finding underscores the importance of maintaining substantive social connections in middle and later life.

Systematic review registration

Rutter EC, Tyas SL, Maxwell CJ, Law J, O'Connell ME, Konnert CA, Oremus M. Association between functional social support and cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults: a protocol for a systematic review. BMJ Open;10(4):e037301. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-037301
Ab Initio Study of the Complexes of Aspartic Acid and n Molecules of Water, n = 1 and 2, Formed by Hydrogen Bonds
Authors: DE LIMA AMANDA MARQUES , FRAZÃO NILTON FERREIRA , VELARDEZ GUSTAVO FABIAN
Published: February 2023

Hydrogen bonds (HB) influence the conformational preferences of biomolecules and their optical and electronic properties. The objective of this work is to study some structures and the S1← S0 electronic transitions of aspartic acid (ASP) and complexes formed by HB between ASP-(H2O)1,2 in the gas phase. To do this, the DFT and TD-DFT methods were used, using the B3LYP functional with six different basis sets. Interactions between the carboxylic groups of ASP with water molecules, forming cyclic structures with two HB, resulted in more stable and less polar complexes, than other conformers with formed HB between water and the NH2 group. It was observed that there is a relationship between the deviation in the UV-Vis absorption band of the ASP and the stabilization/destabilization of the S1 state to the S0 of the complexes. The electrostatic destabilization of the S1 state and interactions of water with the HOMO orbital caused a blueshift in the ASP absorption band, while the electrostatic stabilization of the S1 state and interactions with the LUMO caused a redshift. But in some cases, as it was observed on 1:1 complex ASP-W2, this analysis may not be precise due to the small change in ΔE.