bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perencanaan Sistem Teknologi Informasi untuk Mendeteksi dan Mencegah Fraud pada Sistem Inventori
Authors: Hidayat Imam
Published: July 2024

Dalam penelitian ini coba dikembangkan dan diterapkan suatu sistem informasi untuk mendeteksi dan mencegah terjadinya fraud pada suatu sistem inventori, yang dalam hal ini terdapat pada suatu industri pengepakan. Dalam pembentukan sistem informasi ini diterapkan langkah-langkah strategi untuk pendeteksian fraud yang terdiri atas pemahaman terhadap sistem atau unit, pengidentifikasian terhadap fraud yang mungkin terjadi, mengumpulkan gejala-gejala dariÂ fraudÂ dalam suatu daftar, pengumpulan data-data yang yang terkait dengan gejalaÂ fraudÂ tersebut, dan pembuatan suatu program komputer yang merupakan hasil akhir, yang dapat menganalisis secara otomatis untuk mendeteksi terjadinya fraud tersebut. Dari penerapan program yang dibuat (secara simulasi) kepada sistem yang ada pada industri yang diuji, maka didapat beberapa gejala fraud yang terdeteksi yang dapat dianggap sebagai fraud yang berupa: (a) Perencanaan pembelian atas material yang jarang digunakan, sehingga nantinya material tersebut akan menjadi deadstock dan dijual dengan harga yang rendah, (b) Penghapusan material yang bernilai dan masih berguna, akibat adanya kesalahan pencatatan material yang sudah rusak (deadstock), (c) kesalahan pengambilan stok material, dan tidak melakukan penyesuaian terhadap arsip dari material tersebut, dan (d) Pemberian insentif yang tidak seharusnya, karena adanya kesalahan perhitunganÂ waste. Sistem ini nantinya dapat digunakan secara periodik yang berfungsi untuk mendeteksi kesalahan-kesalahan yang merupakan gejala sebelum fraud yang dapat menimbulkan kerugian yang besar terjadi.
Karakteristik dan Efektivitas Alat Pengering Gabah dengan Memanfaatkan Bahan Bakar Biomassa Berupa Sekam Padi
Authors: Jamal Jamal
Published: July 2024

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui karakteristik dan tingkat efektifitas dari alat pengering gabah dengan menggunakan bahan bakar biomassa berupa sekam padi. Pada prinsipnya alat pengering ini menggunakan pemanas tidak langsung. Fungsi utama alat ini adalah untuk mengeringkan gabah sehingga dapat disimpan dalam waktu yang lama. Sumber panas yang berasal dari tungku pembakaran terlebih dahulu akan memanasi rak, kemudian panas dari permukaan rak akan memanaskan bahanâ€“bahan yang tertata di atas rak pengering. Pemanasan dibantu oleh udara panas yang mengalir pada dinding samping kanan dan kiri ruang pengering. Gas panas sisa pembakaran dialirkan melalui pipa udara panas dan keluar melalui cerobong asap. Untuk meningkatkan pemanfaatan energi panas sisa pembakaran tersebut, aliran gas disalurkan dengan arah melintang melalui bagian tengah ruang pengering, dengan tujuan agar penyebaran panas akan lebih merata ke seluruh bagian ruang pengering. Dari hasil penelitian diperoleh kesimpulan yakni mutu produksi gabah dapat dipertahankan karena berada pada ruang tertutup; proses pengeringan dapat dilakukan pada malam hari atau cuaca mendung (hujan); dapat menurunkan kadar air gabah sebesar 3,8 % selama 1 hari (5 jam). Efisiensi rataâ€“rata yang diperoleh dalam pengujian ini adalah 7,155 %.
Pengaruh Aspek Rasio Terhadap Perubahan Tekanan Dan Koefisien Kerugian Fluida Pada Diffuser Silinder
Authors: Pagasis Thomas
Published: July 2024

Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mengatasi kerugian tekan atau penurunan tekanan, dengan mengubah aspek rasio dan kerampingan suatu diffuser. Model eksperimen diuji pada sebuah terowongan angin subsonic di Laboratorium Mekanika Fluida Teknik Mesin Universitas Hasanuddin, dengan cara menguji (diffuser) disambung dengan terowongan yang dibuat berdasarkan aspek rasio (AR = 3, AR = 4, AR = 5 dan AR =6), yang diuji dengan variasi pembukaan katup. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa perubahan aspek rasio dan kerampingan dapat mempengaruhi perubahan tekanan dan koefisien kerugian tekan, dimana semakin besar aspek rasio (AR) dan kerampingan (L/D1) suatu diffuser silinder maka perubahan tekanan dan koefisien kerugian tekanan akan semakin besar pada berbagai bilangan Reynolds dan nilai optimum aspek rasio yang dihasilkan pada AR = 3.
Analisis Eksperimental Profil Vortex Bebas Dengan Variasi Lubang Bawah Tabung Silinder
Authors: Suwasti Sri
Published: July 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan mengetahui profil permukaan dari vortex bebas dengan menjelaskan pengaruh diameter lubang bawah pada tabung silinder yaitu, 1,75 cm dan 2,75 cm. Metode pengambilan data dilakukan dua cara yaitu, pertama metode eksperimen dengan menvariasikan tinggi pengukuran permukaan vortex 11 cm, 14 cm,17 cm dan data yang akan diperoleh adalah jarak dari pusat tabung dan kedua metode secara visual berupa gambar dengan menggunakan kamera digital. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa vortex bebas membentuk hyperbolaÂ asymptoticÂ dengan diameter pusaran bertambah besar jika diameter lubang bawah tabung silinder juga bertambah.
Penerapan Teknologi Tungku Pembakaran Hemat Energi pada Perajin Pandai Besi Tenaga Maju Kabupaten Sidrap
Authors: Anzarih Anzarih
Published: July 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan meningkat kualitas produksi perajin pandai besi, efisiensi bahan bakar, dan mempercepat waktu pembakaran perajin pandai besi di desa Massepe sehingga meningkatkan pendapatan dan kesejahteraan Masyarakat dan mengembangkan usaha/Industri pandai besi. Metode yang digunakan perbaikan sistem pembakaran dengan menggunakan tungku hemat energi, pembuatan tungku tersebut dengan memakai isolator batu tahan api sehingga perpindahan panas keluar dapat diantisipasi dengan baik. Melakukan demonstrasi cara penggunaan tungku dengan melakukan pembakaran pada material diameter 8 mm sampai 20 mm. Hasil yang dicapai menunjukkan bahwa penerapan tungku hemat energy dapat menghemat pemakaian bahan bakar dan polusi udara dapat terhindari akibat proses pembakaran. Disimpulkan penerapan tungku hemat energi dapat menghemat bahan bakar mempersingkat waktu pembakaran, meningkatkan produktifitas.
Analisis Kinerja Harian Pendingin Udara Non-Freon yang Memanfaatkan Energi Pencairan Es
Authors: Jamal Jamal
Published: July 2024

Indonesia sebagai sebuah negara tropis memiliki iklim dengan suhu cukup tinggi, sehingga kebutuhan mesin pendingin udara (AC) sangat tinggi. Tetapi timbul permasalahan akibat penggunaan mesin pendingin udara yaitu menggunakan energi yang besar, pencemaran lingkungan dari penggunaan freon yang dapat merusak ozon dan harga pengadaannya yang mahal. Dengan meningkatnya kebutuhan mesin pendingin udara maka perlu untuk melakukan analisis kinerja harian dari mesin pendingin udara non-freon yang memanfaatkan energi pencairan es, yang merupakan tujuan jangka pendek dari penelitian ini, sedangkan tujuan jangka panjang penelitian ini adalah mengatasi permasalahan global yaitu penggunaan energi yang sangat besar serta pemanasan global akibat penggunaan mesin pendingin ruangan yang tidak ramah lingkungan. Metode yang digunakan dalam penyelesaian masalah di atas adalah dengan melakukan uji pendingin udara alternatif yang tidak menggunakan freon sebagai fluida kerja tetapi menggunakan es sebagai sumber energi pendingin, uji kinerja dilakukan secara harian dari jam 09.00 wita sampai jam 15.00 wita. Untuk penghematan energi listrik maka penggunaan kompressor pada pendingin udara dalam penelitian ini digantikan dengan penggunaan pompa, sedangkan untuk mencegah pencemaran lingkungan maka penggunaan freon sebagai fluida kerja diganti dengan campuran air dan es. Hasil pengujian yang dilakukan adalah mesin pendingin udara yang mampu mendinginkan ruangan, tidak menggunakan freon sebagai fluida kerja hingga aman bagi lingkungan dan mesin pendingin udara yang memiliki biaya pengadaan dan pemeliharaan serta perbaikan yang lebih rendah dibandingkan AC berfreon tetapi memiliki biaya operasional yang lebih tinggi. Dari gambar 5 di atas terlihat hasil pengujian peralatan uji (AC tanpa freon) mampu menurunkan temperatur ruangan dimana hasil yang diperoleh lebih rendah dari kondisi pengujian temperatur ruangan tanpa menggunakan AC, walaupun masih terlihat bahwa pengujian temperatur ruangan menggunakan AC berfreon masih lebih baik dibandingkan pengujian temperatur ruangan dengan AC menggunakan es sebagai fluida kerja dengan kondisi tersebut terlihat bahwa peralatan uji (AC tanpa freon) memiliki kinerja yang baik tetapi masih lebih rendah dari kinerja AC berfreon.
Analisis Statistik Kekuatan Tarik Bahan Komposit Serat Rami-Epoksi yang Menggunakan Alkalisasi
Authors: Tuasalamony Rahman Daud
Published: July 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan menganalisis pengaruh fraksi volume dan waktu alkalisasi terhadap kekuatan tarik dan tekan bahan komposit serat rami-epoksi yang menggunakan alkalisasi. Data dianalisis dengan statistik yaitu regresi dan anova. Perolehan data awal penelitian melalui proses pengujian tarik dan tekan yang di lakukan pada mesin uji tarik atau tekan tipe universal. Specimen pengujian tarik disesuaikan dengan standar ASTM D 3039-D3039M. Adapun specimen uji tekan disesuaikan dengan standar ASTM D 695. Komposit dibagi dalam 3 fraksi volume 20%, 30% dan 40%, sedangkan waktu alkalisasi dibagi dalam empat bagian yaitu 0 jam atau tanpa alkalisasi, 2 jam, 4 jam dan 6 jam. Hasil penelitian menunjukan nilai kekuatan tarik maksimum tertinggi berada pada komposit dengan fraksi volume 40% dan waktu alkalisasi 2 jam dengan nilai tegangan tarik Ïƒmax = 32,27 N/mm2. Sedangkan nilai tegangan tarik maksimum terendah berada pada posisi komposit dengan fraksi volume 20% tanpa alkalisasi (0 jam) dengan nilai tegangan tarik Ïƒmax = 28,27 N/mm2. Dengan analisis statistik menunjukkan bahwa ada hubungan dan pengaruh yang baik antara variabel input X (waktu alkalisasi dan fraksi volume) terhadap variabel output Y (kekuatan tarik).
Analisa Pengaruh Turbocharger terhadap Kinerja Mesin Diesel Mitsubishi Type Man-8v 52/55 pada PLTD Sektor Tello
Authors: Risal Syah
Published: July 2024

Tujuan penelitian ini ialah untuk menganalisa sejauh mana pengaruh penggunaan Turbocharger terhadap kinerja mesin diesel. Metode penelitian yang dilakukan adalah memilih salah satu dari beberapa konstruksi mesin diesel yang ada di Pembangkit Listrik Tenaga diesel (PLTD) Sektor Tello Makassar sebagai mesin yang akan dipergunakan dalam penganalisaan. Dari hasil penelitian ini dapat disimpulkan bahwa pemakaian turbocharger akan meningkatkan efisiensi dan daya mesin, tetapi pemakaian bahan bakar akan meningkat pula.Â
SmartRide: Intelligent reservation and scheduling for elevators
Authors: Li Hua-Yu , Chu Edward T.-H.
Published: July 2024

With the continuous growth of the global population and the concentration of people in urban areas, the development of high-rise buildings has thrived, making elevator waiting time a significant concern. However, traditional elevators are unable to know passengers’ destination floors and waiting times in advance. Consequently, passengers often experience longer waiting times. With the flourishing advancement of the Internet of Things (IoT) and edge computing, it has become feasible to know the demands of passengers in advance and how long they have been waiting. In this work, we propose SmartRide, an intelligent elevator system that provides reservation, check-in, boarding, and scheduling features. SmartRide allows users to reserve elevators in advance through a mobile app from anywhere. Artificial intelligence (AI) image recognition technology is employed for efficient check-in and boarding confirmation. Additionally, a novel scheduling algorithm is proposed to minimize the average waiting time by leveraging the reservation information. Experimental results demonstrate that SmartRide can accurately manage check-ins and boarding confirmations. SmartRide can also reduce waiting times by at least 30% compared to traditional elevator scheduling using FCFS (First Come First Served), thereby optimizing elevator operational efficiency and improving user experience.
Cuproptosis and physical training: A review
Authors: Kordi Negin , Saydi Ali , Azimi Maliheh , Mazdarani Farivar , Gadruni Keivan , Jung Friedrich , Karami Sajad
Published: July 2024

Copper is an essential element in the human body, involved in many physiological and metabolic functions, including coagulation, oxidative metabolism, and hormone production. The maintenance of copper homeostasis within cells is a complex procedure that is intrinsically controlled by a multitude of intricate mechanisms. Disorders of copper homeostasis encompass a wide range of pathological conditions, including degenerative neurological diseases, metabolic disorders, cardio-cerebrovascular diseases, and tumors. Cuproptosis, a recently identified non-apoptotic mode of cell death mode, is characterized by copper dependence and the regulation of mitochondrial respiration. Cuproptosis represents a novel form of cell death distinct from the previously described modes, including apoptosis, necrosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis. Excess copper has been shown to induce cuproptosis by stimulating protein toxic stress responses via copper-dependent abnormal oligomerization of lipoylation proteins within the tricarboxylic acid cycle and the subsequent reduction of iron-sulfur cluster protein levels. Ferredoxin1 facilitates the lipoacylation of dihydrolipoyl transacetylase, which in turn degrades iron-sulfur cluster proteins by reducing Cu2+ to Cu+, thereby inducing cell death. Furthermore, copper homeostasis is regulated by the copper transporter, and disturbances in this homeostasis result in cuproptosis. Current evidence suggests that cuproptosis plays an important role in the onset and development of several cardiovascular diseases. Copper-chelating agents, including ammonium tetrathiomolybdate (VI) and DL-penicillamine, have been shown to facilitate the alleviation of cardiovascular disease by inhibiting cuproptosis. It is hypothesized that oxidative phosphorylation inhibitors such as physical training may inhibit cuproptosis by inhibiting the protein stress response. In conclusion, the implementation of physical training may be a viable strategy to reducte the incidence of cuproptosis.
Moving Towards a Medicine of Dance: A Scoping Review of Characteristics of Dance Interventions Targeting Older Adults and a Theoretical Framework
Authors: Rice Paige E. , Thumuluri Deepthi , Barnstaple Rebecca , Fanning Jason , Laurita-Spanglet Jessie , Soriano Christina T. , Hugenschmidt Christina E.
Published: July 2024

Background: Dance combines cultural and aesthetic elements with behaviors important for brain health, including physical activity, social engagement, and cognitive challenge. Therefore, dance could positively impact public health given the rapidly aging population, increasing incidence of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, and lack of uptake of exercise in many older adults. Despite a high volume of literature, existing literature does not support evidence-based guidelines for dance to support healthy aging. Objective: To conduct a scoping review of the dance intervention literature in older adults and provide information to facilitate a more consistent approach among scientists in designing dance interventions for older adults that stimulate physical and neurocognitive health adaptations. Methods: Study characteristics (sample size, population, study design, outcomes, intervention details) were ascertained from 112 separate studies of dance reported in 127 papers that reported outcomes important for brain health (cardiorespiratory fitness, balance and mobility, cognition, mood, and quality of life). Results: High heterogeneity across studies was evident. Class frequency ranged from < 1 to 5 classes per week, class length from 30–120 minutes, and intervention duration from 2 weeks to 18 months. Studies often did not randomize participants, had small (< 30) sample sizes, and used varied comparator conditions. Over 50 tests of cognition, 40 dance forms, and 30 tests of mobility were identified. Conclusions: Based on these results, important future directions are establishing common data elements, developing intervention mapping and mechanistic modeling, and testing dosing parameters to strengthen and focus trial design of future studies and generate evidence-based guidelines for dance.
Mutant NOTCH3ECD Triggers Defects in Mitochondrial Function and Mitophagy in CADASIL Cell Models
Authors: Wang Wan , Gong Zhenping , Wang Yadan , Zhao Ying , Lu Yaru , Sun Ruihua , Zhang Haohan , Shang Junkui , Zhang Jiewen
Published: July 2024

Background:

Cerebral autosomal-dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarction and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL) is an inherited small-vessel disease that affects the white matter of the brain. Recent studies have confirmed that the deposition of NOTCH3ECD is the main pathological basis of CADASIL; however, whether different mutations present the same pathological characteristics remains to be further studied. Some studies have found that mitochondrial dysfunction is related to CADASIL; however, the specific effects of NOTCH3ECD on mitochondrial remain to be determined.

Objective:

We aimed to explore the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in CADASIL.

Methods:

We established transgenic human embryonic kidney-293T cell models (involving alterations in cysteine and non-cysteine residues) via lentiviral transfection. Mitochondrial function and structure were assessed using flow cytometry and transmission electron microscopy, respectively. Mitophagy was assessed using western blotting and immunofluorescence.

Results:

We demonstrated that NOTCH3ECD deposition affects mitochondrial morphology and function, and that its protein levels are significantly correlated with mitochondrial quality and can directly bind to mitochondria. Moreover, NOTCH3ECD deposition promoted the induction of autophagy and mitophagy. However, these processes were impaired, leading to abnormal mitochondrial accumulation.

Conclusions:

This study revealed a common pathological feature of NOTCH3ECD deposition caused by different NOTCH3 mutations and provided new insights into the role of NOTCH3ECD in mitochondrial dysfunction and mitophagy.
Amyloid-β Pathology Is the Common Nominator Proteinopathy of the Primate Brain Aging
Authors: Ferrer Isidro
Published: July 2024

Senile plaques, mainly diffuse, and cerebral amyloid-β (Aβ) angiopathy are prevalent in the aging brain of non-human primates, from lemurs to non-human Hominidae. Aβ but not hyper-phosphorylated tau (HPtau) pathology is the common nominator proteinopathy of non-human primate brain aging. The abundance of Aβ in the aging primate brain is well tolerated, and the impact on cognitive functions is usually limited to particular tasks. In contrast, human brain aging is characterized by the early appearance of HPtau pathology, mainly forming neurofibrillary tangles, dystrophic neurites of neuritic plaques, and neuropil threads, preceding Aβ deposits by several decades and by its severity progressing from selected nuclei of the brain stem, entorhinal cortex, and hippocampus to the limbic system, neocortex, and other brain regions. Neurofibrillary tangles correlate with cognitive impairment and dementia in advanced cases. Aβ pathology is linked in humans to altered membrane protein and lipid composition, particularly involving lipid rafts. Although similar membrane alterations are unknown in non-human primates, membrane senescence is postulated to cause the activated β-amyloidogenic pathway, and Aβ pathology is the prevailing signature of non-human and human primate brain aging.
Improved Accuracy of the Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination–Revised in the Diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment, Mild Dementia Due to Alzheimer’s Disease and Behavioral Variant Frontotemporal Dementia Using Mokken Scale Analysis
Authors: Amaral-Carvalho Viviane , Bento Lima-Silva Thais , Inácio Mariano Luciano , Cruz de Souza Leonardo , Cerqueira Guimarães Henrique , Santoro Bahia Valéria , Nitrini Ricardo , Tonidandel Barbosa Maira , Sanches Yassuda Mônica , Caramelli Paulo
Published: July 2024

Background: The Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination-Revised (ACE-R) is an accessible cognitive tool that supports the early detection of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD). Objective: To investigate the diagnostic efficacy of the ACE-R in MCI, AD, and bvFTD through the identification of novel coefficients for differentiation between these diseases. Methods: We assessed 387 individuals: 102 mild AD, 37 mild bvFTD, 87 with amnestic MCI patients, and 161 cognitively unimpaired controls. The Mokken scaling technique facilitated the extraction out of the 26 ACE-R items that exhibited a common latent trait, thereby generating the Mokken scales for the AD group and the MCI group. Subsequently, we performed logistic regression, integrating each Mokken scales with sociodemographic factors, to differentiate between AD and bvFTD, as well as between AD or MCI and control groups. Ultimately, the Receiver Operating Characteristic curve analysis was employed to assess the efficacy of the coefficient’s discrimination. Results: The AD-specific Mokken scale (AD-MokACE-R) versus bvFTD exhibited an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.922 (88% sensitivity and specificity). The AD-MokACE-R versus controls achieved an AUC of 0.968 (93% sensitivity, 94% specificity). The MCI-specific scale (MCI-MokACE-R) versus controls demonstrated an AUC of 0.859 (78% sensitivity, 79% specificity). Conclusions: The ACE-R’s capacity is enhanced through statistical methods and demographic integration, allowing for accurate differentiation between AD and bvFTD, as well as between MCI and controls. This new method not only reinforces its clinical value in early diagnosis but also surpasses traditional approaches noted in prior studies.
Activation of the Neuronal Cell Cycle in Brains in Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment: Early Involvement in the Progression of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Butterfield D. Allan
Published: July 2024

Activation of cell-cycle machinery in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) brain was reported by Mark Smith and colleagues and by other researchers. Among other biochemical processes underlying this activation, the notion that AD brain, under the onslaught of oxidative and nitrosative damage leading to neuronal loss, neurons would attempt to replenish their numbers by entering the cell cycle. However, being post-mitotic, neurons entering the cell cycle would become trapped therein, ultimately leading to death of these neurons. Yang and co-workers and the Butterfield laboratory first reported that similar activation of the cell cycle was present in the brains of individuals with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI), arguably the earliest clinical stage of AD, but who demonstrate normal activities of daily living and no dementia. Activation of the cell cycle in MCI brain is consonant with the concept that this process is an early aspect in the progression of AD. This brief review article discusses these findings and recognizes the contribution of Dr. Mark Smith to the investigation of cell-cycle activation in AD brain and other aspects of AD neuropathology.
Exposure to Glycolysis-Enhancing Drugs and Risk of Parkinson’s Disease: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ribeiro Giovana Barros e Silva , Rodrigues Farley Reis , Pasqualotto Eric , Dantas Julyana Medeiros , Di Luca Daniel G.
Published: July 2024

Background:

Impaired glucose and energy metabolism has been suggested as a pathogenic mechanism underlying Parkinson’s disease (PD). In recent cohorts, phosphoglycerate kinase 1 activators (PGK1a) have been associated with a lower incidence of PD when compared with other antiprostatic agents that do not activate PGK1.

Objective:

We aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing the incidence of PD in patients taking PGK1a versus tamsulosin.

Methods:

We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library for studies comparing PGK1a vs. tamsulosin in adults and elderly. The primary outcome was the incidence of PD. We computed hazard ratios (HR) for binary endpoints, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4 and R (version 4.3.1).

Results:

A total of 678,433 participants from four cohort studies were included, of whom 287,080 (42.3%) received PGK1a. Mean age ranged from 62 to 74.7 years and nearly all patients were male. Patients taking PGK1a had a lower incidence of PD (PGK1a 1.04% vs. tamsulosin 1.31%; HR 0.80; 95% CI 0.71–0.90; p < 0.01). This result remained consistent in a sensitivity analysis excluding patients of age 60 years old or younger (PGK1a 1.21% vs. tamsulosin 1.42%; HR 0.82; 95% CI 0.71–0.95; p < 0.01).

Conclusions:

Glycolysis-enhancing drugs are associated with a lower incidence of PD when compared with tamsulosin in adults and elderly individuals with prostatic disease in use of alpha-blockers. Our findings support the notion of glycolysis as a potential neuroprotective mechanism in PD. Future investigations with randomized controlled trials are needed.
The AAV-α-Synuclein Model of Parkinson’s Disease: An Update
Authors: Björklund Anders , Mattsson Bengt
Published: July 2024

Targeted delivery of α-synuclein using AAV vectors has over the two decades since its introduction developed into a versatile tool for modeling different aspects of synucleinopathy, mimicking those seen in Parkinson’s disease and related Lewy body disorders. The viral vector approach to disease modeling is attractive in that the expression of α-synuclein, wild-type or mutated, can be confined to defined anatomical structures and targeted to selected cell populations using either cell-type specific promoter constructs or different natural or engineered AAV serotypes. AAV-α-synuclein was initially used to model progressive α-synuclein pathology in nigral dopamine neurons, and, like the standard 6-OHDA model, it has most commonly been applied unilaterally, using the non-injected side as a reference and control. In recent years, however, the AAV-α-synuclein model has become more widely used to induce Parkinson-like synuclein pathology in other relevant neuronal systems, such as the brainstem noradrenergic and serotonergic neurons, the vagal motor neurons, as well as in oligodendrocytes, the prime target relevant to the pathology seen in multiple system atrophy. The purpose of this review is to give an overview of the progress made in the use of the AAV-α-synuclein model over the last two decades and summarize the state-of-the art in the use of the AAV-α-synuclein model for disease modeling in rats and mice.
Parkinson’s Disease Drug Therapies in the Clinical Trial Pipeline: 2024 Update
Authors: McFarthing Kevin , Buff Sue , Rafaloff Gary , Pitzer Kenneth , Fiske Brian , Navangul Anaya , Beissert Katelyn , Pilcicka Aleksandra , Fuest Rosie , Wyse Richard K. , Stott Simon R.W.
Published: July 2024

Background:

For the past five years, our annual reports have been tracking the clinical development of new drug-based therapies for the neurodegenerative condition of Parkinson’s disease (PD). These reviews have followed the progress both of “symptomatic treatments” (ST – improves/reduces symptoms of the condition) and “disease-modifying treatments” (DMT – attempts to delay/slow progression by addressing the underlying biology of PD). Efforts have also been made to further categorize these experimental treatments based on their mechanisms of action and class of drug.

Methods:

A dataset of clinical trials for drug therapies in PD using trial data downloaded from the ClinicalTrials.gov online registry was generated. A breakdown analysis of all the studies that were active as of January 31st, 2024, was conducted. This analysis involved categorizing the trials based on both the mechanism of action (MOA) and the drug target.

Results:

There were 136 active Phase 1–3 trials evaluating drug therapies for PD registered on ClinicalTrials.gov, as of January 31, 2024. Of these trials, 76 (56%) were classified as ST trials and 60 (44%) were designated DMT. More than half (58%) of the trials were in Phase 2 testing stage, followed by Phase 1 (30%) and Phase 3 (12%). 35 of the trials were registered since our last report, with the remaining 101 trials appearing in at least one earlier report.

Conclusions:

The drug development pipeline for PD remains in a robust state with a wide variety of approaches being developed and evaluated in Phase 1 and 2. Yet again, however, only a limited number of DMTs are transitioning to Phase 3.
On the optimal multi-objective design of fractional order PID controller with antlion optimization
Authors: Singh Mangal , Singh Mahesh , Ralhan Shimpy , Shastri Apoorva
Published: July 2024

This study introduces an optimal multi-objective design approach for a robust multimachine Fractional Order PID Controller (FOPID) using the Antlion algorithm. The research focuses on the need for effective stabilizers in multimachine power systems by employing traditional speed-based lead-lag FOPID controllers. The study formulates a multi-objective problem, optimizing the damping factor and damping ratio of lightly damped electromechanical modes to maximize a composite set of objective functions, tackled through the Antlion algorithm. Stability analysis of Single-Machine Infinite-Bus (SMIB) and multimachine power systems is conducted based on rotor speed and power deviation minimization in the time domain response, along with damping ratio and eigenvalue analysis. The proposed approach is implemented and tested on three IEEE test cases, showcasing significant improvements in stability through the reduction of maximum overshoot (Mp) and settling time (ts) of speed deviation. Comparative analysis with other optimization-based FOPID controllers underscores the superiority of the proposed approach in enhancing stability in multimachine power systems. The main impact of this research lies in its contribution to the advancement of stability enhancement techniques in multimachine power systems, offering a systematic framework for optimal FOPID controller design and empowering decision-making processes in power engineering.
Antibacterial activity of copper-coated carbon nanotubes synthesized by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Sepehr Pouya , Borghei Seyed Majid , Ebrahimkhas Morad , Nobari Nasim
Published: July 2024

The increase of antibiotic-resistant strains has necessitated the generation of antibacterial agents that do not induce microbial resistance. The present study was conducted to evaluate the antibacterial effect of copper-coated carbon nanotubes (Cu/CNTs) synthesized by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) on two strains of gram positive ( Staphylococcus aureus) and gram negative ( Escherichia coli) bacteria. First, the PECVD method was used to deposit carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on high-resistivity silicon wafers previously decorated with nickel catalyst by an electron beam gun. These nanotubes were then coated with copper thin films (Cu, 0– 60 nm) in a vacuum evaporator using the Direct Current (DC) Magnetron Sputtering method. The morphology of PECVD-grown Cu/CNTs was investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The antibacterial properties of as-synthesized Cu/CNTs against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) were determined using Standard Plate Count (SPC). The results showed that increasing the coating thickness of Cu/CNTs had intensified their antibacterial activity. The SEM and TEM images confirmed the morphological modification of the samples after coating with copper.
Healthcare system variability and inpatient maternal mortality in the United States
Authors: Mohamed M.A. , Venkatesh K. , Abdelatif D. , Nandakumar V. , Hoffman H.
Published: July 2024

OBJECTIVE:

To examine the association of inpatient maternal mortality with variability in healthcare services delivery such as hospital size, urban/rural designation, teaching/non-teaching status, regional location, and insurance coverage.

METHODS:

This is a pooled, cross-sectional analysis of the National Inpatient Sample (2012–2014). Information on maternal demographics, clinical conditions, and birth outcomes were identified using respective ICD9-CM codes. Bivariate and multivariate analysis using logistic regression models were used to describe maternal characteristics and to calculate the risk of mortality with each independent variable

RESULTS:

The weighted sample included 12,409,939 hospital records (82.6% are 18–34-year-old and 49.5% are Caucasians). Maternal death during hospitalization occurred in 1310 cases (12/100,000 live birth). Women with cardiovascular disorders, hemorrhage or sepsis were 33.6, 4.7, and 5.4 times more likely to suffer inpatient maternal mortality. Compared to small-sized hospitals, delivery at medium or large size hospitals is associated with higher mortality, adjusted odds ratios (aOR) 1.8 (1.4–2.3), and 2.2 (1.8–2.8), respectively. Adjusted OR for inpatient maternal mortality in urban non-teaching or urban teaching compared to rural hospitals were 2.2 (1.7–3.0) and 2.9 (2.2–3.9), respectively. Women in the South have higher maternal mortality compared to Northeast, aOR 1.7 (1.5–2.1). Women coved with public insurance experience higher inpatient maternal mortality compared to those with private insurance, aOR: 2.6 (2.1–3.2) and 1.9 (1.6–2.1), respectively.

CONCLUSION:

Factors related to variability in healthcare delivery may play a role in inpatient maternal mortality. Some could be explained by the case mix and the clinical conditions affecting birthing outcomes. A qualitative analysis is needed to explore how these factors relate to increased maternal mortality in certain hospital settings.
Asthmatic patients with vitamin D deficiency: Can vitamin D supplementation make a difference
Authors: Niu Haiying , He Huijie , Zhao Zilong , Lu Xuemei , Zhao Gang
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: Asthma is a major public health concern due to its persistent inflammation of the airways. The intricate and widely variable epidemiology of asthma among nations and populations is a result of the interplay between genetic, environmental, and socioeconomic factors. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate whether VitD supplementation can reduce the frequency of exacerbations (including the frequency of exacerbations requiring systemic corticosteroids and the frequency of exacerbations necessitating trips to the hospital or emergency room, or both) and improve pulmonary function (clinical indicators such as the FEV1% predicted value). METHODS: Computers were used to search Pubmed, Medline, ISI Web of Science, Embase, Cachrane Library, CNKI, CBM, VIP, and the Wanfang Database. Asthma/asthma, VitD/VitD, lung function/lung function, retrieval time is from database setup to October 8, 2021, to search all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effect of VitD on human asthma and to retroactively incorporate references to literature were all included in the search criteria. After rigorous screening, quality evaluation, and data extraction of the included literature by two reviewers independently, heterogeneity tests and sensitivity analyses were performed. RESULTS: The findings show that a total of 12 relevant studies meeting the inclusion criteria were finally included, including 649 cases in the experimental group and 646 cases in the control group. VitD intervention reduced the number of asthma exacerbations, including the rate of exacerbations requiring systemic corticosteroid therapy and the rate of acute exacerbations requiring emergency department or hospital visits or both. CONCLUSIONS: In the outcome of lung function (FEV1% predicted value), it was shown that VitD supplementation improved lung function; in the outcome of serum 25-hydroxyVitD levels, it was shown that VitD supplementation increased serum 25-hydroxyVitD levels.
Comparison of dynamic hip screw with anti-rotation screw and femoral neck system internal fixation for the treatment of garden II–IV type femoral neck fractures
Authors: Hong Haisen , Sha Mo , Chen Zhangxin , Li Yanwei , Kang Liangqi
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: Femoral neck fractures, which are fractures occurring from the femoral head to the base of the femoral neck, are prevalent in the elderly population. With the progression of societal aging, the incidence of femoral neck fractures has been steadily increasing, making it a significant global issue that urgently needs to be addressed. OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy and safety of dynamic hip screw (DHS) with anti-rotation screw and femoral neck system (FNS) internal fixation for the treatment of Garden II–IV type femoral neck fractures. METHODS: A total of 90 patients with Garden II–IV type femoral neck fractures were randomly assigned to either the control group (n= 45) treated with DHS and anti-rotation screw or the experimental group (n= 45) treated with FNS. Surgical outcomes, including incision size, blood loss, operation time, fluoroscopy frequency, and fracture healing time, were compared. Postoperative complication rates, reoperation rates, Harris scores, and visual analogue scale (VAS) scores were also assessed. RESULTS: The experimental group demonstrated significantly reduced incision length, blood loss, operation time, and fluoroscopy frequency compared to the control group (P< 0.01). No significant differences were observed in fracture healing time, Garden classification, or fracture reduction outcomes between the two groups (P> 0.05). At 6 months post-treatment, both groups showed significant improvements in Harris scores and VAS scores compared to pre-treatment (P< 0.05), with no significant differences between the groups (P> 0.05). The rates of internal fixation failure, nonunion, and avascular necrosis of the femoral head, as well as overall incidence of postoperative complications and reoperation rates, showed no significant differences between the two groups (P> 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Both DHS with anti-rotation screw and FNS internal fixation demonstrated comparable efficacy and safety profiles in the treatment of Garden II–IV type femoral neck fractures. The experimental group showed advantages in terms of reduced incision length, blood loss, operation time, and fluoroscopy frequency, while maintaining similar clinical outcomes and complication rates.
Drug utilization reviews to reduce inappropriate drug use and pharmaceutical costs in inpatients based on diagnosis-related group data
Authors: Tian Wei , Zhang Sheng , Gao Yuan , Wang Yan , Cui Qianqian
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: Irrational pharmacotherapy and increasing pharmacy costs remain major concerns in healthcare systems. Pharmacists are expected to employ diagnosis-related group (DRG) data to analyse inpatient pharmacy utilization. OBJECTIVE: This project aimed to pilot an efficient pharmacist-led programme to analyse factors related to pharmacy expenses, evaluate the rational use of drugs in batch processing, and make further interventions based on DRG data. METHODS: Patients from the OB25 (caesarean section without comorbidities or complications) DRG were selected in 2018, and the most relevant factors were identified through statistical analysis. Interventions were implemented by sending monthly reports on prescribing data and drug review results for the same DRGs to the department starting in 2019. Pre–post comparisons were conducted to demonstrate changes in pharmacy costs and appropriateness at a tertiary teaching hospital with 2,300 beds in China. RESULTS: A total of 1,110 patients were identified from the OB25 DRG data in 2018. Multivariate linear analysis indicated that the number of items prescribed and wards substantially influenced pharmacy expenditure. Drugs labelled as vital, essential, and non-essential revealed that 46.6% of total pharmacy costs were spent on non-essential drugs, whereas 38.7% were spent on vital drugs. The use of inappropriate pharmaceuticals and drug items was substantially reduced, and the average pharmacy cost after intervention was 336.7 RMB in 2020. The benefit–cost ratio of the programme was 9.86. CONCLUSION: Interventions based on DRG data are highly efficient and feasible for reducing inpatient pharmacy costs and non-essential drug use.
Reference data for the hand grip and palmar pinch force sense errors and the relationship between school-entry-age in young adults
Authors: Türkmen Ceyhun , Kayabınar Erdi
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: Hands execute intricate tasks vital for everyday life and professions such as cooking, tailoring, and craftsmanship. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to establish reference data for hand grip and palmar pinch force sense in young adults, accounting for gender differences, and to determine the correlation between these data and school-entry ages. METHODS: The cross-sectional observational study comprised 284 participants (156 females and 128 males). Demographic details, including age, gender, weight, and height, were recorded. Participant ages ranged from 18 to 29, representing the youth workforce population as defined by the International Labour Organization. Factors like hand dominance and school-entry age were ascertained based on participants’ self-reports. Hand grip and palmar pinch force senses were separately assessed in the dominant and non-dominant hands of 130 randomly chosen participants to evaluate test-retest reliability. RESULTS: Hand grip (dominant: p < 0.001, non-dominant: p = 0.002) and palmar pinch force sense errors were significantly lower in male participants compared to females. Palmar pinch force sense error for the dominant hand was reduced in males (p = 0.002), but no significant disparity existed between genders for the non-dominant hand (p = 0.222). Healthy adults who began school at age five or earlier exhibited a decreased force sense error rate (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Force sense error reference values vary based on gender and school-entry age. This reference data will aid rehabilitation specialists working with young adults in physiotherapy and occupational therapy fields in identifying potential impairments.
Development of an evidence-based swimming representative military task to assess swimming competency in the British Army
Authors: Needham-Beck Sarah C. , Maroni Tessa D. , Walker Faye S. , Vine Chris A.J. , Moore Daniel , Draper Julie , Alexander Barry , Myers Stephen D. , Blacker Sam D.
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: There is a requirement for British Army personnel to operate in/around water. Assessing role-related swimming/water competence will support personnel to conduct their job-roles safely and effectively. OBJECTIVE: To undertake a Job-Task Analysis (JTA) of British Army personnel when working in/around water and use this information to develop a Swimming Representative Military Task (RMT) to assess swimming/water competence. METHODS: Workshops, surveys, and observations were used to conduct a JTA, which identified and described job-tasks conducted by British Army personnel in/around water. Ergonomic analysis of these job-tasks identified seven water-based physical actions, which were considered fundamental for all personnel to be competent in performing. These seven actions guided design of a Swimming RMT, which was subsequently conducted twice by 103 serving personnel (89 men, 11 women) and once by 65 recruits (49 men, 16 women). RESULTS: The RMT comprised of entering the water in combat fatigues and webbing, removing webbing, swimming 50 m, and staying afloat for up to 10 minutes. During RMT trials, in trial 1, 85% of serving personnel and 74% of recruits successfully completed the RMT, which increased to 93% in serving personnel for trial 2. Across trials 1 and 2, all three timed RMT elements showed moderate-high correlational reliability (ICC range: 0.462–0.791). On average, serving personnel were quicker to complete the 50 m swim phase compared to recruits (91±24 s vs. 100±26 s; U = 2575.0, rb = –0.192, p = 0.039). CONCLUSIONS: The JTA-informed Swimming RMT provides an assessment of the minimum role-related swimming/water competence standard for British Army personnel.
Work-related musculoskeletal complaints of physiotherapists working in intensive care units: Frequency analysis, risk factors, management and prevention strategies
Authors: Castro Leticia S.R. , Nogueira Débora S.S. , Fu Carolina , Casarotto Raquel A.
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: Intensive care physiotherapists are exposed to situations that may cause physical and mental overload, which can lead to the onset of work-related musculoskeletal complaints. OBJECTIVE: The objective was to analyze these complaints and to identify activities causing greater overload, factors associated with complaints, and management and prevention strategies. METHODS: Cross-sectional study. Data were collected from 125 physiotherapists in the Intensive Care units (ICU) of a tertiary hospital. The questionnaire used was formulated from questionnaires validated in the literature such as Nordic Questionnaire and Bork Questionnaire. Chi-square test was performed to compare the groups with and without complaints. Logistic regression was used to assess the association effects of the variables on the presence of complaints. RESULTS: Of those interviewed, 76% had a work-related complaint in the last year, with the “lower back” being the most affected region. Eighty percent had complaints for more than one site. “Transfer” was considered the activity causing the greatest overload. Female sex (p = 0.023), lack of physical activity (p = 0.028), inadequate ventilation (p = 0.001) and inadequate furniture (p = 0.006) showed a statistically significant association effect with the presence of complaints. Inadequate ventilation (p = 0.003) and female sex (p = 0.004) influenced the number of affected areas. Physical activity was considered the main strategy for prevention. CONCLUSION: Musculoskeletal complaints accounted for a high percentage of the analyzed sample, mainly in the lower back. The extent of complaints suggests that strategies should be developed and changes in work dynamics should be carried out.
Pengaruh Pelayanan Informasi Obat (PIO) Metode Leaflet Kombinasi Pill Count Dalam Meningkatkan Kepatuhan Minum Obat Pada Pasien Tuberkulosis Di Puskesmas Pattingalloang Kota Makassar
Authors: Rusdiaman Rusdiaman , Rusli Rusli , Yuniati Yuniati
Published: July 2024

Indonesia adalah negara dengan tendensi tuberkulosis paru tertinggi urutan kedua di dunia. Insidensi kejadian tuberkulosis setiap tahunnya mengalami kemajuan dari 331.703 kasus pada tahun 2015 menjadi 562.049 kejadian dengan presentasi yang lebih dari 69% di tahun 2019. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh penanganan pelayanan informasi obat menggunakan  metode leaflet ditambah metode pill count pada pengurutan menggunakan obat pada penderita Tuberkulosis di Puskesmas Pattingalloang Kodya Makassar. Model penelitian ini adalah eksperimental yang dilakukan secara prospektif terhadap pasien tuberkulosis di Puskesmas Pattingalloang dengan pelayanan informasi obat metode leaflet kombinasi pill count. Model atau bentuk pengambilan contoh dengan sistem purposive sampling menggunakan kriteria yang ditetapkan, 25 responden kelompok kontrol dan 25 responden kelompok treatment. Penelitian menerapkan uji chi square memperlihatkan bahwa tidak terdapat perbedaan ketaatan atau penurutan yang bermakna pada pasien tuberkulosis di Puskesmas Pattingalloang Kota Makassar melalui pemberian leaflet.
Kata Kunci : Kepatuhan, Tuberkulosis, Leaflet, Pill Count