bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O PURO SANGUE LUSITANO: DE SUAS ORIGENS À ARENA ESPORTIVA
Authors: Poncio Alana Camargo , Ramos Igor Cardoso , Rocha Francisca Érica Viana da , Ricardo Jayane verdam , Rodrigues Graziele dos Santos , furtado Gustavo Nery Soares , Rosa Igor Melo Santa , Almeida Gabriel Carvalho de
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT: This article aimed to research and analyze the origin, domestication, contribution, genetic factor and transition of the Pure Blood Lusitano horse throughout history. A breed with great cultural and historical importance, considered the oldest saddle horse in the Western world, it is known for its elegance, versatility and strength. Widely used by royalty years ago, today it represents a high potential in equestrian sports. His contribution enabled achievements in both the social, economic and leisure sectors. Its genetic selectivity allowed it to stand out in the vital performance of its functions that previously referred to bullfighting and later to other disciplines involving training, harnessing and riding. Its resistant morphology and dócil temperament allow it to develop a high learning capacity and a good relationship with its rider.
ENGLISH AS A MEDIUM OF INSTRUCTION: INDONESIAN TERTIARY STUDENTS’ PERCEPTION ON THE STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES
Authors: Sudana Putu Ayu Prabawati , Ratminingsih Ni Made , Padmadewi Ni Nyoman , Sri Adnyani Ni Luh Putu
Published: September 2024

EMI (English as Medium of Instruction) is an innovative teaching approach where subjects other than English are taught to the students in English, a second or foreign language. This approach has been widely adopted in European and Asian tertiary education institutions, including Indonesia. However, only a limited number of research has been carried out to reveal the student’s perception of the advantages and drawbacks of the implementation in the country. This study, therefore, aimed at investigating the students’ perceptions of the advantages and drawbacks of EMI implementation in one state university in Bali, Indonesia. This study employed mixed-method research, which was carried out with 130 participants enrolled in the international class initiation. The obtained data were collected through questionnaires and interviews. The results of the study showed five significant advantages of EMI class: cognitive advantages, resource availability, rich exposure to English and chances to use it, career opportunity, and improvement of students’ motivation in English. However, EMI students also encountered challenges such as difficulties comprehending lectures/materials, taking tests, and low participation in classroom discussions.
STUDENTS’ FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE IN CREATIVE WRITING: A STUDY ON EFL WRITING IN STATE UNIVERSITY OF GORONTALO
Authors: Saud Jefriyanto , Jayanti Harja Rini
Published: September 2024

Abstract
 
This research investigates the tendency of English Department students to employ figurative language in creative writing. The study also delves into the generic structure of such language, aiming to understand the nuances within the creative writing produced by the students. Recognizing creative writing as a vital tool for comprehending language characteristics and fostering creativity, this research seeks to address students' challenges in composition arising from a lack of understanding and assumptions about its similarity to conventional writing. A preliminary study revealing insufficient creativity among English Department students in producing figurative language (Juliandini, 2013), this research adopts semantic analysis (Jackson, 2000) as the theoretical framework. Employing a qualitative method, the study analyzes creative writing from eight students. Componential analysis is employed to explore the deep structure of words, unraveling semantic interrelations between components to reveal meanings at the surface level. The results indicate a propensity among students to generate figurative language, with metaphor emerging most frequently in participants' creative writing. Simile, personification, and the less frequent hyperbole follow in occurrence. These findings contribute valuable insights into the creative writing abilities of English Department students, informing strategies to enhance their language proficiency and creative expression. The research underscores the significance of mastering creative writing skills as a means to enrich language capabilities and foster creativity among students.
UNDERSTANDING FOSSILIZATION AMONG GEN-Z: ANALYZING CONTRIBUTING FACTORS AND PATTERNS IN SECOND LANGUAGE LEARNING
Authors: Angoluan Krisha Camille , Barretto Nova Angela
Published: September 2024

Despite persistent efforts, many second language learners struggle to achieve native-like proficiency, often due to fossilized errors. This study investigates fossilization in AB-English students at Isabela State University, offering novel insights for educators and researchers. Employing a multi-pronged approach, we examined creative writing outputs, administered grammar tests, and conducted interviews to unveil students' learning strategies and coping mechanisms. This qualitative case study, informed by Selinker's framework, allowed us to delve deeper into the phenomenon, uncovering previously unknown aspects of fossilization specific to this learner group. Our findings not only illuminate the complexities of fossilization but also reveal the intricate interplay between individual learning strategies and persistent errors. This deeper understanding empowers educators to design more targeted interventions and offers valuable research avenues for exploring fossilization across diverse learner groups and contexts.
PERAN DAN TANTANGAN GURU PENDIDIKAN AGAMA ISLAM DALAM MEMBANGUN NILAI-NILAI RELIGIUS PESERTA DIDIK PASCA PANDEMI COVID 19 (STUDI KASUS DI SDN SINDANGGALIH KOTA TASIKMALAYA)
Authors: Ratno Dedi
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study was to determine how the implementation of post-pandemic PAI learning, how the role of PAI teachers in fostering students' religious values, This research uses a qualitative approach using an analytical descriptive method. Data collection techniques used in this research are in-depth interviews, observation and documentation. While the data analysis technique uses the interactive analysis method from Miles and Huberman which consists of three components, namely data reduction, data presentation and verification / conclusion.
The results of this study are: 1) The implementation of PAI learning after the co-19 pandemic at SDN Sindanggalih Tasikmalaya City is using three activities in it, namely: a) Initial activities, namely preparing students physically and psychologically, motivating and asking questions about the previous material by linking it to the material to be discussed, conveying the learning objectives to be achieved. b) Core activities, namely delivering material with methods and media that have been prepared, giving assignments and reinforcements to students. c) Final activities, namely giving conclusions, evaluating students on the material that has been delivered and conveying material that will be discussed at the next meeting. 2) The role of PAI teachers in fostering students' religious values is: a) As an educator, b) As a teacher, c) As a mentor, d) As a motivator, e) As an example, f) As an evaluator. 3) The challenges of Islamic Religious Education Teachers in fostering students' religious values at SDN Sindanggalih Tasikmalaya City after the Covid 19 pandemic are: a) Lack of interaction between teachers and students during face-to-face learning. b) Students' learning motivation is still decreasing due to online self-study at home. c) During the learning process, students do not concentrate so that participation and feedback or responses are not created in the learning process. d) Poor student character. e) The culture of religious habituation instilled by the school has faded a little, students forget about this culture and are ignorant in the school environment.
REKONSTRUKSI DAN REAKTUALISASI HUKUM ISLAM DALAM PRESFEKTIF MUNAWIR SJADZALI
Authors: Dadi Dadi
Published: September 2024

Perhatian utama Munawir Sjadzali terletak pada premis bahwa terdapat sejumlah ayat al-Qur'an khususnya yang berkaitan dengan masalah-masalah sosial, bukan ritual yang tidak sesuai dengan kebutuhan masa kini, seperti hukum waris, perbudakan dan bunga bank. Dalam soal ini Munawir antara lain merujuk pada semangat pengalaman khalifah Umar bin Khattab.Pola ijtihad Umar bin Khattab yang berani dan jujur ini telah memberi inspirasi bagi Munawir untuk berpendapat bahwa hendaknya komunitas muslim jujur dan berani dalam berhubungan dengan hukum Islam. Percaya akan dinamika dan vitalitas syari'ah, ia menganjurkan kalangan Islam untuk melakukan reaktualisasi hukum Islam.
Influência da Cafeína e Estimulantes Naturais no Comportamento de Crianças com TDAH
Authors: Carneiro Rizzatti Maria Eduarda , Verissimo Oliveira Batista Lucas , Soares Cavalcanti Moisés , Morais de Lima Kesia
Published: September 2024

INTRODUÇÃO: O Transtorno de Déficit de Atenção com Hiperatividade (TDAH) é um distúrbio neurobiológico caracterizado por desatenção, impulsividade e hiperatividade, com causas principais relacionadas à genética e alterações nos neurotransmissores. Fatores como o uso precoce de cafeína podem agravar esses sintomas, especialmente em crianças. OBJETIVOS: Investigar como o consumo de cafeína e estimulantes naturais afeta os sintomas de TDAH em crianças, incluindo os impactos genéticos, no sono e os efeitos do consumo pré-natal. METODOLOGIA: Uma revisão sistemática da literatura foi conduzida na base de dados PubMed, resultando na análise de 6 artigos relevantes que abordam a influência da cafeína em crianças com TDAH. RESULTADOS: A cafeína pode agravar sintomas de TDAH, especialmente em crianças com predisposição genética para ansiedade, afetar negativamente o sono e, se consumida durante a gravidez, aumentar o risco de TDAH na infância. Adolescentes com TDAH tornam-se mais impulsivos ao consumirem bebidas energéticas. DISCUSSÃO: Os achados destacam a necessidade de cautela no consumo de cafeína por crianças e gestantes, considerando os fatores de risco apresentados. CONCLUSÃO: A cafeína pode exacerbar sintomas de TDAH, reforçando a importância de monitorar seu consumo em crianças e gestantes. Intervenções educativas e políticas públicas são essenciais para mitigar esses riscos.
Blinded by the Data: When Analytics Overshadows Judgment
Authors: Westover Jonathan
Published: September 2024

This article discusses the potential risks that can emerge when organizations overly on data-driven decision making by focusing excessively on quantitative analysis and metrics to the exclusion of important qualitative human factors. The article explores common pitfalls such as leaders losing sight of broader strategic perspectives and higher-level business drivers when immersed in granular data points, organizational chaos and paralysis resulting from constant A/B testing without clear objectives, over-quantification discounting important but difficult to measure "soft" elements like culture, talent and leadership that profoundly shape performance, and overconfidence in the perceived objectivity of models overlooks inherent biases. The article advocates balancing quantitative and qualitative lenses to gain a more textured understanding of complex dynamics by supplementing metrics with perspectives from ethnography and stakeholder input to provide needed context as numbers alone do not replace prudent application of human judgment and experience, and for data-driven initiatives to achieve tangible impacts, analytics must inform innovation and change management rather than replace continuous improvement processes, such that with moderation and integration of multiple viewpoints, data can empower rather than control strategic decision making.
Measurements of Heart Rate and Accelerometry to Determine the Physical Activity Level in Boys Playing Paintball
Authors: Jarvi Michelle , Brown Gregory A. , Shaw Brandon S. , Shaw Ina
Published: September 2024

Paintball is a popular recreational sport played by 3.655 million Americans and may be sufficient physical activity to promote health. Paintball has been played as an organized sport since the 1980’s and is essentially a game of tag, except instead of touching an opponent by hand opponents are tagged by shooting them with a paintball that leaves a mark indicating who has been eliminated. A previous evaluation of paintball as physical activity had 13 subjects undergo a VO2max test to develop a heart rate (HR) /oxygen consumption relationship, and it was observed that heart rates during paintball were 68-73% of the measured maximal HR. The present study used accelerometry and HR monitors to evaluate the quantity and intensity of physical activity in boys playing paintball. Eleven boys (12.7 ± 1.0 y, 51.5 ± 11.3 kg, 161.8 ± 10.1 cm) engaged in a VO2max test to develop a HR/oxygen consumption correlation. On a separate day the boys played 7 games of outdoor paintball while wearing a HR monitor and accelerometer. The boys played paintball for 11.5 ± 6.2 minutes/game for a total of 80.6 ± 10.0 minutes of game play. Average HR during paintball play was 129.6 ± 6.6 beats/min, representing 39.9 ± 12.9% VO2max. Based on accelerometry, the boys accumulated 63.2 ± 15.6 minutes of moderate intensity activity and 2.6 ± 2.8 minutes of vigorous activity during paintball. These data suggest that playing paintball may be considered as physical activity that is > 3 METs, and thus health promoting.
Acquisition Delays Affect Lymphocyte Subset Counts but not Markers of Exercise-induced Apoptosis
Authors: Kell Holly B. , Pereira Guilherme Borges , Tibana Ramires Alsamir , Jarret Michael , Schafer Mark A. , Prestes Jonato , Santo Antonio , Navalta James W.
Published: September 2024

With the emergence of shared facilities, the possibility of a processing delay is increased as time on instrumentation becomes less available. The purpose of this investigation was the evaluate the effect of a 24h time delay on lymphocyte subset concentration, as well as for the apoptotic marker annexin V. Fourteen healthy individuals completed an incremental treadmill test to exhaustion, and blood samples were obtained before and after exercise. The samples were labeled in duplicate with mixtures consisting of flow cytometry staining buffer, the biomarker for early-phase cell death (annexin V), and antibodies for specific lymphocyte phenotypes (CD4, CD8, and CD19). Samples were labeled for 30-min, centrifuged, and decanted, before the addition of RBC Lysis Buffer. Upon the completion of processing, the first set of samples were immediately analyzed using flow cytometry and the remaining duplicate samples were acquired 24 h later. Data were analyzed using a paired sample t-test with significance accepted at the p < 0.05 level. For blood draws obtained at rest, no differences between acquisition days were observed with regard to cell volume for any lymphocyte subfraction. However, blood samples obtained following an exhaustive exercise bout had significant decreases in CD4+ (p=0.002) and CD8+ (p= 0.021) concentration between acquisition days. Processing delays did not affect the number of apoptotic cells in any lymphocyte subset either at rest or following exercise. As the number of apoptotic cells was unaffected by processing, the reduction in cell concentration is likely due to mechanisms other than programmed cell death. It is possible that exercise makes lymphocytes more susceptible to necrosis during the post-activity period.
Análise dos casos de transmissão da sífilis gestacional e congênita nos últimos 16 anos em uma cidade de médio porte da zona da mata de Minas Gerais
Authors: Coelho Nayara Cristina da Silva , Dias Alessandro
Published: September 2024

Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo analisar a incidência de sífilis gestacional e congênita em Mariana, Minas Gerais, entre 2008 e 2023, com foco no impacto do rompimento da barragem de Fundão em 2015. Para buscar respostas elegíveis, realizou-se um estudo descritivo quantitativo construído por meio de um levantamento de dados no SINAN-TABNET sobre sífilis gestacional e congênita em Mariana entre 2008 e 2023. O período foi dividido em dois: pré-rompimento (2008-2015) e pós-rompimento (2016-2023). Os resultados obtidos constataram um aumento considerável em relação à média populacional da cidade de Mariana – MG no período pré e pós rompimento da barragem, tendo uma média no período pré-rompimento de 56.328 habitantes e 60.084 no período pós rompimento, o que traz um aumento de 6,67% da população no período analisado. A hipótese é que esse aumento se deve à população flutuante pós-rompimento da barragem, subnotificações, controle de acesso aos serviços de saúde por falta de infraestrutura, aumento da demanda, desarticulação da rede e perda de vínculo com os profissionais. Portanto, evidenciou-se um grande aumento nos casos de sífilis em Mariana – MG, com os casos de sífilis gestacional subindo 82% e a sífilis congênita aumentando 647% em relação aos níveis pré-desastre.
Abstract
This research aimed to analyze the incidence of gestational and congenital syphilis in Mariana, Minas Gerais, between 2008 and 2023, focusing on the impact of the collapse of the Fundão dam in 2015. To seek eligible answers, a quantitative descriptive study was carried out. through a data survey in SINAN-TABNET on gestational and congenital syphilis in Mariana between 2008 and 2023. The period was divided into two: pre-rupture (2008-2015) and post-rupture (2016-2023). The results obtained showed a considerable increase in relation to the average population of the city of Mariana – MG in the pre- and post-dam failure period, with an average of 56,328 inhabitants in the pre-break period and 60,084 in the post-break period, which brings an increase 6.67% of the population in the period analyzed. The hypothesis is that this increase is due to the floating population after the dam collapse, underreporting, control of access to health services due to lack of infrastructure, increased demand, disarticulation of the network and loss of links with professionals. Therefore, there was a large increase in syphilis cases in Mariana – MG, with cases of gestational syphilis rising by 82% and congenital syphilis increasing by 647% in relation to pre-disaster levels.
Key words: Sexually transmitted infection; Gestational syphilis; Congenital syphilis.
Caracterización climática del área de distribución del lirón gris Glis glis (Linnaeus, 1766) en la España peninsular.
Authors: Castro Agustín , Real Raimundo
Published: September 2024

En el presente trabajo se caracteriza la distribución del lirón gris (Glis glis) en la España peninsular utilizando un conjunto de 20 variables climáticas agrupadas en dos factores que reflejan disponibilidad de energía y agua para la especie. Con la finalidad de reducir la multidimensionalidad de las características climáticas del territorio de estudio, se llevó a cabo un análisis de componentes principales (ACP) sobre cada uno de los factores y las 5.167 cuadrículas UTM 10x10 km de la España peninsular. Finalmente, se utilizó un análisis discriminante (AD) para inferir las variables con mayor capacidad para generar una función que clasificara las cuadrículas UTM según la presencia, o no, de lirón gris. El área de distribución del lirón gris en España, comparada con el resto de territorios no ocupados, está sometida a un clima con temperaturas más frías pero más constantes a lo largo del año, precipitaciones más estables tanto intra como interanuales y, en menor medida, con mayor incidencia de las inundaciones. La función de clasificación obtenida asigna correctamente el estado de presencia / ausencia para el 80,18% de las cuadrículas UTM 10x10 y refleja que la temperatura media de julio, la irregularidad pluviométrica y el número de días de precipitación fueron las variables con mayor peso predictivo en la distribución del lirón gris en España.
Sleep and memory consolidation are linked by RNA processing genes in the Drosophila mushroom body
Authors: Li Yongjun , Chouhan Nitin S , Zhang Shirley , Moore Rebecca S , Noya Sara B , Shon Joy , Yue Zhifeng , Sehgal Amita
Published: September 2024

Memory consolidation in
Drosophila
can be sleep-dependent or sleep-independent, depending on the availability of food. Different regions of the mushroom body (MB) mediate these two mechanisms, with the anterior posterior (ap) alpha′/beta′ (α′/β′) neurons required for sleep-dependent memory consolidation in flies that are fed after training. These neurons are also involved in the increase of sleep after training, suggesting a coupling of sleep and memory. To better understand the mechanisms underlying sleep and memory consolidation initiation, we analyzed the transcriptome of ap α′/β′ neurons one hour after appetitive memory conditioning. A small number of genes were differentially expressed specifically in flies fed after training, but not in trained and starved flies or untrained flies. Knockdown of each of these differentially expressed genes in the ap α′/β′ neurons revealed multiple genes that affect sleep, with notable effects observed for Polr1F and Regnase-1, both of which decrease in expression after conditioning. Knockdown of Polr1F, a regulator of ribosome RNA transcription, in adult flies promotes sleep and increases pre-ribosome RNA expression as well as overall translation, supporting a function for Polr1F downregulation in memory consolidation. Conversely, knockdown of Regnase-1, an mRNA decay protein localized to the ribosome, reduces sleep. Given that Regnase-1 knockdown in ap α′/β′ neurons affects both sleep-dependent and sleep-independent memory, as well as short-term memory, Regnase-1 likely has an early role in the learning process, which may obscure a later function for its downregulation during sleep-dependent memory. These findings indicate that changes in RNA processing play a crucial role in triggering post-training sleep and memory consolidation.
Root cap cell corpse clearance limits microbial colonization in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Charura Nyasha M , Llamas Ernesto , De Quattro Concetta , Vilchez David , Nowack Moritz K , Zuccaro Alga
Published: September 2024

Programmed cell death occurring during plant development (dPCD) is a fundamental process integral for plant growth and reproduction. Here, we investigate the connection between developmentally controlled PCD and fungal accommodation in
Arabidopsis thaliana
roots, focusing on the root cap-specific transcription factor ANAC033/SOMBRERO (SMB) and the senescence-associated nuclease BFN1. Mutations of both dPCD regulators increase colonization by the beneficial fungus
Serendipita indica
, primarily in the differentiation zone.
smb-3
mutants additionally exhibit hypercolonization around the meristematic zone and a delay of
S. indica
-induced root-growth promotion. This demonstrates that root cap dPCD and rapid post-mortem clearance of cellular corpses represent a physical defense mechanism restricting microbial invasion of the root. Additionally, reporter lines and transcriptional analysis revealed that
BFN1
expression is downregulated during
S. indica
colonization in mature root epidermal cells, suggesting a transcriptional control mechanism that facilitates the accommodation of beneficial microbes in the roots.
Silicone Wire Embolization-induced Acute Retinal Artery Ischemia and Reperfusion Model in Mouse: Gene Expression Provides Insight into Pathological Processes
Authors: Wang Yuedan , Li Ying , Feng Jiaqing , Wang Chuansen , Wan Yuwei , Lv Bingyang , Li Yinming , Xie Hao , Chen Ting , Wang Faxi , Li Ziyue , Yang Anhuai , Xiao Xuan
Published: September 2024

Acute retinal ischemia and ischemia-reperfusion injury are the primary causes of retinal neural cell death and vision loss in retinal artery occlusion (RAO). The absence of an accurate mouse model for simulating the retinal ischemic process has hindered progress in developing neuroprotective agents for RAO. We developed a unilateral pterygopalatine ophthalmic artery occlusion (UPOAO) mouse model using silicone wire embolization combined with carotid artery ligation. The survival of retinal ganglion cells and visual function were evaluated to determine the duration of ischemia. Immunofluorescence staining, optical coherence tomography, and haematoxylin and eosin staining were utilized to assess changes in major neural cell classes and retinal structure degeneration at two reperfusion durations. Transcriptomics was employed to investigate alterations in the pathological process of UPOAO following ischemia and reperfusion, highlighting transcriptomic differences between UPOAO and other retinal ischemia-reperfusion models. The UPOAO model successfully replicated the acute interruption of retinal blood supply observed in RAO. 60-minutes of Ischemia led to significant loss of major retinal neural cells and visual function impairment. Notable thinning of the inner retinal layer, especially the ganglion cell layer, was evident post-UPOAO. Temporal transcriptome analysis revealed various pathophysiological processes related to immune cell migration, oxidative stress, and immune inflammation during the non-reperfusion and reperfusion periods. A pronounced increase in microglia within the retina and peripheral leukocytes accessing the retina was observed during reperfusion periods. Comparison of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the UPOAO and high intraocular pressure models revealed specific enrichments in lipid and steroid metabolism-related genes in the UPOAO model. The UPOAO model emerges as a novel tool for screening pathogenic genes and promoting further therapeutic research in RAO.
Ultrastructural sublaminar-specific diversity of excitatory synaptic boutons in layer 1 of the adult human temporal lobe neocortex
Authors: Rollenhagen Astrid , Sadeghi Dastjerdi Akram , Walkenfort Bernd , Hilgetag Claus C , Sätzler Kurt , Lübke Joachim HR
Published: September 2024

Layer (L)1, beside receiving massive cortico-cortical, commissural and associational projections, is the termination zone of tufted dendrites of pyramidal neurons and the area of Ca
2+
spike initiation. However, its synaptic organization in humans is not known. Quantitative 3D-models of synaptic boutons (SBs) in L1 of the human temporal lobe neocortex were generated from non-epileptic neocortical biopsy tissue using transmission electron microscopy, 3D-volume reconstructions and EM tomography. Particularly, the size of active zones (AZs) and the readily releasable, recycling and resting pool of synaptic vesicles (SVs) were quantified.SBs had a single large AZ (∼0.20 µm
2
), a total pool of ∼3500 SVs, a large readily releasable (∼4 SVs), recycling (∼470 SVs) and resting (∼2900 SVs) pool. Astrocytic coverage suggests cross talk at synaptic complexes.Thus, L1 SBs mediate, integrate and synchronize contextual and cross-modal information, enabling flexible and state-dependent processing of feedforward sensory inputs from other layers of the cortical column.
Helsesykepleieres erfaring med tverrprofesjonelt samarbeid for å forebygge frafall i skolen
Authors: Blomberg Bakke Camilla , Sjølie Hege , Nygaard Flølo Tone
Published: September 2024

Gjennomføring av videregående opplæring er avgjørende for tilknytning til og deltakelse i arbeidslivet. Likevel fullfører en av fem elever i Norge ikke videregående skole. I denne studien undersøkte vi hvordan helsesykepleiere kan legge til rette for tverrprofesjonelt arbeid for å motvirke skolefrafall. Basert på tre fokusgruppeintervjuer med 13 helsesykepleiere i videregående skole, ble kvalitative utsagn analysert ved hjelp av en stegvis-deduktiv-induktiv metode. Funnene indikerer at helsesykepleierne tilstreber å se hele eleven for å forstå fraværsårsaker, men har utfordringer med å synliggjøre sin egen kompetanse for samarbeidspartnere. Implisitte maktstrukturer, inkludert skoleledelsen, spiller en betydelig rolle i helsesykepleiernes inkludering i tverrprofesjonelle team. For å fremme tverrprofesjonelt samarbeid og styrke sin egen rolle, bør helsesykepleierne aktivt synliggjøre seg selv og sin kompetanse.
A model integrating attention mechanism and generative adversarial network for image style transfer
Authors: Fu Miaomiao , Liu Yixing , Ma Rongrong , Zhang Binbin , Wu Linli , Zhu Lingli
Published: September 2024

Image style transfer is an important way to combine different styles and contents to generate new images, which plays an important role in computer vision tasks such as image reconstruction and image texture synthesis. In style transfer tasks, there are often long-distance dependencies between pixels of different styles and contents, and existing neural network-based work cannot handle this problem well. This paper constructs a generation model for style transfer based on the cycle-consistent network and the attention mechanism. The forward and backward learning process of the cycle-consistent mechanism could make the network complete the mismatch conversion between the input and output of the image. The attention mechanism enhances the model’s ability to perceive the long-distance dependencies between pixels in process of learning feature representation from the target content and the target styles, and at the same time suppresses the style feature information of the non-target area. Finally, a large number of experiments were carried out in the monet2photo dataset, and the results show that the misjudgment rate of Amazon Mechanical Turk (AMT) perceptual studies achieves 45%, which verified that the cycle-consistent network model with attention mechanism has certain advantages in image style transfer.
The relationship between price and nutritional balance for young adults in the menus of Japanese restaurants
Authors: Ogasawara Yu , Asanuma Miyuki , Kasuya Masashi , Soma Yuki
Published: September 2024

Background

Eating habits are a contributing factor to obesity. Higher-priced menu items have better nutritional quality/balance, as the relationship between the price of food per serving and nutritional quality/balance has been reported. However, previous studies on the nutritional content of restaurant menu items did not focus on the relationship between the nutritional balance of menu items and prices. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate this relationship.

Methods

The nutritional balance score (NBS) was defined and calculated according to each nutritional criterion of men and women aged 18–29 years, covering more than 2,000 menu items in 26 Japanese restaurant chains. Furthermore, NBS distribution by gender and restaurant brand, and the relationship between the menu item’s NBS and price were assessed.

Results

The results showed that the average NBS of the analyzed menu items differed between the criteria for men and women, with the menu items assessed based on men’s criterion being more nutritionally balanced on average. The compositions of the top 10 menu items differed between men and women, and most were set menus or rice bowl menus, which were offered by fast-food restaurants. The relationship between price and NBS in most fast-food and casual restaurants was expressed as a concave function. The maximum NBS based on the criteria for men and women were 64.9 and 64.1, with prices of 639.9 and 530.3 yen, respectively.

Discussion

NBS score increased with price to a certain level before decreasing, suggesting that the price at which NBS was the highest differed between men and women. The results of this study could contribute to the development of a methodology for healthy eating out practices, with a focus on price.
Evaluation of TREM1 Gene Expression in Stage II Grade A Periodontitis Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: An Ex-vivo Study
Authors: Syed Vazeeha Afrin , Ramamurthy Jaiganesh
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Periodontitis and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) are two prevalent chronic conditions that are independently associated with dysregulated immune responses. The Triggering Receptor Expressed on Myeloid Cells 1 (TREM1) gene plays a crucial role in modulating immune responses and its dysregulation has been implicated in various inflammatory disorders. Aim: To investigate the expression levels of the TREM1 gene in healthy individuals as well as in those diagnosed with periodontitis, with and without DM, exploring the potential implications of the interplay between these conditions. Materials and Methods: In this ex-vivo study conducted at the Department of Periodontology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, from July 2023 to January 2024, gingival tissue samples were collected from three distinct groups: Group 1 (healthy individuals, n=10), Group 2 (periodontitis patients, n=10) and Group 3 (periodontitis patients with DM, n=10). Total Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) was extracted using a standardised protocol and complementary DNA (cDNA) synthesis was performed with a reverse transcription kit. Quantitative Real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was employed to quantify TREM1 gene expression. An in-silico functional analysis was conducted to explore the possible mechanisms. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 27.0 (IBM Corp.) and GraphPad Prism 7.0 (GraphPad Software). A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The analysis revealed distinct patterns of TREM1 gene expression among the three groups. In periodontitis patients, TREM1 expression was significantly upregulated compared to healthy controls (p<0.001). In periodontitis patients with DM, TREM1 expression was significantly downregulated compared to periodontitis patients (p-value=0.0003) and upregulated compared to healthy individuals, although not significantly (p-value=0.229). Conclusion: The analysis revealed distinct patterns of TREM1 gene expression among the three groups. Notably, there was a decrease in TREM1 gene expression levels in the periodontitis with diabetes group compared to the periodontitis group.
Analysing the Therapeutic Potential of Epsom Salt across Multiple Human Physiological Systems: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Vats Sakshi , . Lakshyashree , Khan Nishat , Jain Mansi , Ali Kamran
Published: September 2024

Epsom salt, also known as magnesium sulphate, has received a lot of interest in the realms of medicine and cosmetics because of its numerous medicinal and cosmetic uses. This article presents a detailed overview of the use of epsom salt in these sectors, emphasising its efficacy and adaptability. In medicine, epsom salt is known for its muscle-relaxing effects, making it a popular choice for treating discomfort, tension, and stress. Epsom salt’s magnesium content is thought to play an important role in inducing muscular relaxation and lowering inflammation, making it a helpful adjunct therapy for illnesses like muscle cramps and fibromyalgia. Furthermore, its osmotic laxative qualities have been recognised, providing a gentle but effective remedy for constipation relief when taken orally in adequate doses. In cosmetics, epsom salt acts as a natural exfoliator, removing dead skin cells and impurities to reveal smoother, revitalised skin. Its ability to clear pores and enhance skin texture has made it a popular ingredient in skincare products including scrubs, masks, and lotions. Furthermore, epsom salt baths have become a luxurious self-care practice, valued for its capacity to relieve sore feet, soften skin, and promote relaxation.
Analgesic Efficacy of Levobupivacaine versus Levobupivacaine with Nalbuphine in Surgical Site Infiltration Technique for Lower Abdominal Surgeries: A Randomised Controlled Study
Authors: Patel Ankita , Kerketta Carolin Smita , Chhanwal Heena , Chaudhary Vipul , Patel Hiralkumari
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Wound site infiltration with local anaesthetic agents is one of the simplest and safest techniques, improving postoperative analgesia as part of multimodal analgesia following general or regional anaesthesia. Adding an adjuvant to local wound infiltration can provide a longer duration of analgesia with fewer side-effects. Aim: To compare the analgesic efficacy of local wound infiltration with levobupivacaine alone versus a mixture of levobupivacaine and nalbuphine for postoperative pain. Materials and Methods: A double-blind randomised controlled study was conducted on 100 patients in GCS Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. Patients were American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) I-III, aged 18-70 years, and scheduled for abdominal surgeries. A standard general anaesthetic technique was used. Patients received local site wound infiltration during wound closure. A computer-generated random number was used to randomly divide patients into two groups. Group L received 18 mL of 0.25% levobupivacaine plus 2 mL of 0.9% normal saline (total of 20 mL), while Group LN received 18 mL of 0.25% levobupivacaine plus 2 mL of nalbuphine (20 mg), also totaling 20 mL for wound infiltration. Postoperative rescue analgesia was provided with intravenous injection paracetamol (1 g) on demand or whenever the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) indicated a score of ≥5. Haemodynamic parameters such as Heart Rate (HR), Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP), and Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) were observed at intervals in the Post Anaesthesia Care Unit (PACU) and at 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, and 6 hours postoperatively. Side-effects of the adjuvant were also recorded. Chi-square tests and Independent t-tests were used to compare data between the two groups. Results: Demographic data, such as age, weight, height, ASA grade, and gender, were comparable between both groups (p-value>0.05). The total duration of analgesia in group LN was 9.20±0.79 hours, compared to 4.5±0.71 hours in group L (p-value<0.001), with better quality of analgesia in the adjuvant group and no reported side-effects, such as nausea, vomiting, bradycardia, hypotension, or sedation. Haemodynamic parameters showed that the Pulse Rate (PR) was 74.22±6.65 bpm, Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) was 121±7.77 mmHg, and DBP was 74±7.05 mmHg, which were more stable in group LN at the 4-hour and 6-hour intervals of the postoperative period. Conclusion: Nalbuphine was an effective adjuvant for a single short local wound infiltration. Moreover, the combination of levobupivacaine with nalbuphine was found to be superior to levobupivacaine alone in patients undergoing lower abdominal surgery.
A Case of Pernicious Complication of Radiotherapy: Osteoradionecrosis of Mandible with Extensive Bilateral Involvement Following Dental Extraction
Authors: Khandelwal Pulkit , Saluja Harish , Shah Seemit , Dadhich Anuj
Published: September 2024

Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) is a condition of bone necrosis following mucosal breakdown after radiotherapy. It can lead to significant reduction in quality of life. ORN, particularly in the mandible, is a severe long-term complication of radiotherapy for head and neck cancer. ORN causes ulceration of oral mucosa with exposure of necrotic bone, pain, trismus and suppuration leading to chronic infection and non-healing wounds. Radiation-induced fibrosis, chronic infection, fistulae and necrotic tissues make the treatment challenging. We report a case of mandibular ORN in a 50-year-old female following dental extraction. Devitalised alveolar bone of the mandible was exposed intraorally through ulcerated mucosa from body-to-body region with multiple cutaneous fistulae. The necrosed bone was surgically debrided and healing was uneventful at the time of discharge. The patient was referred for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) for further management. Prevention of ORN is important for proper management of patients who undergo radiation therapy to head and neck region.
Causes and Impacts of Various Agricultural Extension Service Strategies in Bangladesh
Authors: Mann Stefan , Afrad Safiul Islam , Sadik Shibly , Habib Muhammad Ashraful , Nayak Swati , Diplo Rashid Asef
Published: September 2024

Purpose: The success factors of agricultural extension are not well known. In addition, extension services are often treated as homogeneous actors in agricultural research. We intend to show the impact of different strategies in agricultural extension.
Methodology: A survey of 396 extension officers asking, for example, about the officer’s strategies and the perceptions of their clients revealed important differences within the sample and explained both the strategies and their perceived success among farmers, according to a structural equation model.
Findings: The analysis showed that extension officers who considered the knowledge of their clients to be good tended to focus on the environmental problems in agriculture and that this was taken up positively by their clients. A higher education of officers led to a stronger observance of farmers’ interests. Both the institutional environment and the sociodemographic factors also influenced the choice of strategies. Younger extension workers, for example, had a stronger environmental focus than older workers.
Practical implications: A focus on environmental issues in agricultural extension seems to benefit farmers which indicates that more attention in extension should be given to ecological questions.
Theoretical implications: These findings call for a thorough exploration of different agricultural extension strategies and their success.
Originality: According to our knowledge, this is the first distinction between the success of different extension strategies.
Determining the Role of Biochemical Markers for Prediction of Preeclampsia
Authors: Iqbal Zarak , Khan Afaf Ayaz , Ayaz Reda
Published: September 2024

The “Type of Article” of this paper is “Letter to the Editor”. This paper discuses about: “Determining the Role of Biochemical Markers for Prediction of Preeclampsia”. No formal abstract is available. Readers are requested to read the full article.
Comparative Study of Nasofacial Angular Parameters of Hausa and Igbo Subjects Resident in Nigeria
Authors: Michael O. , Hakeem F.B , Loveday O.E
Published: September 2024

This study aims to compare the Nasofacial angular parameters for Hausa and Igbo ethnic groups in Nigeria. The study design was a cross-sectional design which catalogued values of the anthropometric features of adult Nigerian males using anthropometric standards for the reconstruction of a three – dimensional negroid gross anatomical modelling. The methodology used was adult males between the ages of 18 and 40 years of Igbo and Hausa Tribes residing in Imo and Kano states of Nigeria. The results are, the mean parameters of the descriptive statistics for Hausa Nasofacial parameters are as follows; NasoLabial angle (NLA) =79.44, Nasomental angle (NMA) = 139.51, NasoFacial angle (NFcA) = 20.63, MentoCervical angle (MCA) = 131.61, NasoFrontal angle (NFA) = 83.47. The mean parameters of the descriptive statistics for Igbo Nasofacial parameters are as follows; NasoLabial angle (NLA) =49.40, Nasomental angle (NMA) = 81.32, NasoFacial angle (NFcA) = 32.07, MentoCervical angle (MCA) = 7.89, NasoFrontal angle (NFA) = 103.16. In conclusion, the study's findings contribute valuable data to the understanding of ethnic variability in facial parameters, emphasizing the need for population-specific reference data in both medical and technological fields. These results are especially relevant in the context of Nigeria, a nation characterized by its ethnic diversity, where such anthropometric data can play a pivotal role in various applied sciences.
Trajectory and Risk Factors of Acute Spontaneous Subdural Hematoma Complicating Course of Hospitalization in Critically Ill Patients: A Five-Year Case Series Study
Authors: Datye Amruta , Patwardhan Ketki , Rewatkar Sudhanshu
Published: September 2024

Background: Acute spontaneous subdural hematoma SDH is an uncommon but critical condition in critically ill patients. While chronic SDH is more frequent, the trajectory and risk factors of acute spontaneous SDH in such patients have been underreported.
Aim: This study aims to analyze the trajectory and identify the risk factors for acute spontaneous SDH among critically ill patients.
Objective: The objectives are to assess the risk factors associated with acute spontaneous SDH, understand its progression during hospital stays, and evaluate the impact of timely diagnosis and management on patient outcomes.
Materials and Methods: Over a five-year period from April 2019 to April 2024, we conducted a retrospective analysis of 9 critically ill patients who developed acute spontaneous SDH during their course in the hospital. Data on demographics, co-morbidities, risk factors, hospital course, and outcomes, including a 90-day follow-up, were collected and analyzed.
Results: The study identified several key risk factors prevalent among the patients with acute spontaneous SDH of which age, use of antiplatelet, previous cardiac intervention were major contributors, while hypertension, chronic alcohol use, renal insufficiency were also noted. The trajectory showed poor prognosis with a significant increase in length of stay in the ICU 11.3days, co-relating with a high APACHE IV 71.4. Risk of HAI is seen increased with 1 case of VAP and 1 reported CAUTI.
The outcome showed 66.6%% 180-day mortality and severe morbidity or 44.4% mortality during hospital stay. Conclusion: This study provides insight into the significant risk factors and clinical trajectory of acute spontaneous SDH in complicating course of hospitalization in critically ill patients. The findings underscore the importance of active surveillance in highrisk individuals, monitoring for new sensory or motor deficits, early detection and protocoled treatment among such patients. The severe outcome results stress the need for extra vigilance in critically ill patients complicated by acute SDH during the course of admission. Future studies should aim to include larger sample sizes and multicenter data to validate these findings and improve the generalizability of the results.
Transfusion of Blood Products in Children Receiving Chemotherapy for Childhood Cancers in a Nigerian Tertiary Healthcare Centre
Authors: EU Bassey, , IS Akpan , C Nnoli , O. Oghenedoro
Published: September 2024

Background: Transfusion of blood remains an integral component in the supportive care of children with cancers. It is generally safe, and should be used liberally when necessary and available. In resource-poor settings however, the availability and use of blood and its products is generally limited. This study is aimed at reviewing the use of the various blood components amongst children receiving care in a paediatric cancer unit of a tertiary hospital, in Southern Nigeria.
Methods: A retrospective study on blood and blood product usage, in hospitalized paediatric cancer patients younger than 18 years old,  over a two-year period, spanning from January 2022 to December 2023. Data were retrieved, entered into an excel sheet and analyzed. Results are presented using tables and figures.
Results: Of the 32 children treated for various cancers, 29 (90.63%), received at least one unit of blood transfusion before, during or in-between cycles of treatment. Nephroblastoma was the most frequent cancer treated. Patients less than 5 years of age were the most transfused group. Fresh whole blood was the most transfused component. Leucopenia, was the commonest indication for transfusion in these patients.  
Conclusion: Most of the children admitted for cancers received blood transfusion at least once before, or in-between cycles of chemotherapy and/or surgery. The most common indications for transfusion of blood in order of decreasing frequency were leucopenia, anaemia and thromocytopenia respectively.