bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automated Video Analysis of Audio-Visual Approaches to Predict and Detect Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia in Older Adults
Authors: Chu Che-Sheng , Wang Di-Yuan , Liang Chih-Kuang , Chou Ming-Yueh , Hsu Ying-Hsin , Wang Yu-Chun , Liao Mei-Chen , Chu Wei-Ta , Lin Yu-Te
Published: February 2023

Background:

Early identification of different stages of cognitive impairment is important to provide available intervention and timely care for the elderly.

Objective:

This study aimed to examine the ability of the artificial intelligence (AI) technology to distinguish participants with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) from those with mild to moderate dementia based on automated video analysis.

Methods:

A total of 95 participants were recruited (MCI, 41; mild to moderate dementia, 54). The videos were captured during the Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire process; the visual and aural features were extracted using these videos. Deep learning models were subsequently constructed for the binary differentiation of MCI and mild to moderate dementia. Correlation analysis of the predicted Mini-Mental State Examination, Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument scores, and ground truth was also performed.

Results:

Deep learning models combining both the visual and aural features discriminated MCI from mild to moderate dementia with an area under the curve (AUC) of 77.0% and accuracy of 76.0%. The AUC and accuracy increased to 93.0% and 88.0%, respectively, when depression and anxiety were excluded. Significant moderate correlations were observed between the predicted cognitive function and ground truth, and the correlation was strong excluding depression and anxiety. Interestingly, female, but not male, exhibited a correlation.

Conclusion:

The study showed that video-based deep learning models can differentiate participants with MCI from those with mild to moderate dementia and can predict cognitive function. This approach may offer a cost-effective and easily applicable method for early detection of cognitive impairment.
The Heritability of Subjective Cognitive Complaints in Older Australian Twins
Authors: Selwood Amanda E. , Catts Vibeke S. , Numbers Katya , Lee Teresa , Thalamuthu Anbupalam , Wright Margaret J. , Sachdev Perminder S.
Published: February 2023

Background:

Subjective cognitive complaints (SCCs) may be a precursor to mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia.

Objective:

This study aimed to examine the heritability of SCCs, correlations between SCCs and memory ability, and the influence of personality and mood on these relationships.

Methods:

Participants were 306 twin pairs. The heritability of SCCs and the genetic correlations between SCCs and memory performance, personality, and mood scores were determined using structural equation modelling.

Results:

SCCs were low to moderately heritable. Memory performance, personality and mood were genetically, environmentally, and phenotypically correlated with SCCs in bivariate analysis. However, in multivariate analysis, only mood and memory performance had significant correlations with SCCs. Mood appeared to be related to SCCs by an environmental correlation, whereas memory performance was related to SCCs by a genetic correlation. The link between personality and SCCs was mediated by mood. SCCs had a significant amount of both genetic and environmental variances not explained by memory performance, personality, or mood.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that SCCs are influenced both by a person’s mood and their memory performance, and that these determinants are not mutually exclusive. While SCCs had genetic overlap with memory performance and environmental association with mood, much of the genetic and environmental components that comprised SCCs were specific to SCCs, though these specific factors are yet to be determined.
Auditory Event-Related Potentials in Older Adults with Subjective Memory Complaints
Authors: Tarawneh Hadeel Y. , Jayakody Dona M.P. , Verma Shipra , Doré Vincent , Xia Ying , Mulders Wilhelmina H.A.M. , Martins Ralph N. , Sohrabi Hamid R.
Published: February 2023

Background:

Auditory event-related potentials (AERPs) have been suggested as possible biomarkers for the early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, no study has investigated AERP measures in individuals with subjective memory complaints (SMCs), who have been suggested to be at a pre-clinical stage of AD.

Objective:

This study investigated whether AERPs in older adults with SMC can be used to objectively identify those at high risk of developing AD.

Methods:

AERPs were measured in older adults. Presence of SMC was determined using the Memory Assessment Clinics Questionnaire (MAC-Q). Hearing thresholds using pure-tone audiometry, neuropsychological data, levels of amyloid-β burden and Apolipoprotein E ( APOE) ɛ genotype were also obtained A classic two-tone discrimination (oddball) paradigm was used to elicit AERPs (i.e., P50, N100, P200, N200, and P300).

Results:

Sixty-two individuals (14 male, mean age 71.9±5.2 years) participated in this study, of which, 43 (11 male, mean age 72.4±5.5 years) were SMC and 19 (3 male, mean age 70.8±4.3 years) were non-SMC (controls). P50 latency was weakly but significantly correlated with MAC-Q scores. In addition, P50 latencies were significantly longer in Aβ+ individuals compared to Aβ– individuals.

Conclusion:

Results suggest that P50 latencies may be a useful tool to identify individuals at higher risk (i.e., participants with high Aβ burden) of developing measurable cognitive decline. Further longitudinal and cross-sectional studies in a larger cohort on SMC individuals are warranted to determine if AERP measures could be of significance for the detection of pre-clinical AD.
Bilateral Hippocampal Volume Mediated the Relationship Between Plasma BACE1 Concentration and Memory Function in the Early Stage of Alzheimer’s Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Yin Wenwen , Wan Ke , Zhu Wenhao , Zhou Xia , Tang Yating , Zheng Wenhui , Cao Jing , Song Yu , Zhao Han , Zhu Xiaoqun , Sun Zhongwu
Published: February 2023

Background:

β-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1) is a key enzyme in the formation of amyloid-β (Aβ) protein. Increasing evidence suggests that BACE1 concentration is a potential biomarker for Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Objective:

To evaluate the correlations between plasma BACE1 concentration, cognition, and hippocampal volume at different stages of the AD continuum.

Methods:

Plasma BACE1 concentrations were measured in 32 patients with probable dementia due to AD (ADD), 48 patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) due to AD, and 40 cognitively unimpaired (CU) individuals. Memory function was evaluated using the auditory verbal learning test (AVLT), and voxel-based morphometry was used to analyze bilateral hippocampal volumes. Correlation and mediation analyses were performed to investigate the associations between plasma BACE1 concentration, cognition, and hippocampal atrophy.

Results:

The MCI and ADD groups exhibited elevated BACE1 concentrations compared with the CU group after adjusting for age, sex, and apolipoprotein E ( APOE) genotype. Increased BACE1 concentration was found in AD continuum patients who were APOE ɛ4 carriers ( p < 0.05). BACE1 concentration was negatively associated with the scores of the subitems of the AVLT and hippocampal volume ( p < 0.05, false discovery rate correction) in the MCI group. Moreover, bilateral hippocampal volume mediated the relationship between BACE1 concentration and recognition in the MCI group.

Conclusion:

BACE1 expression increased in the AD continuum, and bilateral hippocampal volume mediated the effect of BACE1 concentration on memory function in patients with MCI. Research has indicated that the plasma BACE1 concentration might be a biomarker at the early stage of AD.
Light-induced changes in the morphology and fluorescence of Arthrospira platensis
Authors: Jung Conrad H.G. , Waldeck Peter , Petrick Ingolf , Akinwunmi Mosunmola F. , Braune Steffen , Jung Friedrich , Küpper Jan-Heiner
Published: February 2023

The cyanobacterium Arthrospira platensis is a well-known source of bioactive substances. Growth and the generation of bioactive ingredients of Arthrospira platensis depend mainly on the quantity of light in a controlled environment. Photoinhibition is a time, nutrient, and light intensity-dependent decrease in photosynthetic efficiency. However, too strong illumination can induce two harmful effects: (1) photoinhibition as a reduction in photosynthetic rate and (2) photooxidation which can have lethal effects on the cells, and which can lead to total loss of the culture. The results of this microscopical study demonstrate, that under the procedures described and very high photon flux den-sities, not only a decrease in the photosynthetic efficiency but beyond, also destruction of Arthrospira platensis can occur.
Policies for life sciences and healthcare in the global health framework
Authors: Huttin Christine C.
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND: At a time when welfare contracts are in crisis, it is timely to discuss different forms of disruptive innovation and responses of medical finance and economic systems, especially adjusting with new instruments for recovery and innovative solutions for health reforms. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this paper is to propose some ways to develop a framework for policy changes affecting life science sectors and healthcare. It aims to analyze the types of relationships between health or medical systems and the economic systems. METHOD: Medical systems used to be generally closed systems, but the new forms of delivery, especially with increase of telehealth and Mobile health (Mhealth) solutions (boosted by the COVID-19 pandemic, such as online consultations), have open traditional boundaries and generate more interactions with economic systems. It also led to new institutional arrangements at federal, national, or local levels, with different power games according to the history of institutions and cultural differences between countries. RESULTS: Which system dynamics prevail will also depend on the political systems in place, for instance very innovative open innovation systems dominated by private players such as the USA empower individuals and favor intuitive and entrepreneurial states. On the other hand, systems historically dominated by socialized insurance or former communist countries, have investigated “attunements” or adaptation mechanisms in system intelligence. However, systemic changes are not only implemented by traditional rulers (government agencies, federal reserve banks) but also face the emergence of systemic platforms dominated by Big Tech players. The new agendas expressed for instance in the United Nation (UN) framework and the set of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for climate change and sustainable growth, also require global adjustment of supply and demand, in a context where the traditional drug/vaccine split is challenged by the new technologies (e.g., mRNA technologies). Investment for drug research led to the development of COVID-19 vaccines, but also potential cancer vaccines. Finally, welfare economics is increasingly criticized among economist circles; it requires new design for global value assessment framework, facing growing inequalities and inter-generational challenges in aging populations. CONCLUSION: This paper contributes to new models of developments and different frameworks for multiple stakeholders with major technological changes.
Dynamic changes and correlation between symptoms and quality of life in patients with breast cancer during chemotherapy
Authors: Wang Yong Feng , He Rui Jing , Yuan Xiao Juan , Wang Xiao Min , Liang Tao , Cui Zhi Qiang , Liu Jian Xia
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND: Standardized chemotherapy for breast cancer can improve the survival of patients, but during the process, it is accompanied by a variety of symptoms. OBJECTIVE: To explore the dynamic changes of symptoms and quality of life in breast cancer patients at different time points during chemotherapy, and to explore the correlation with quality of life. METHOD: A prospective study method was used to collect 120 breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy as the research objects. The general information questionnaire, the Chinese version of the M.D. Anderson Symptom inventory (MDASI-C), and the European Organization for Cancer Research and Treatment (EORTC) Quality of Life questionnaire were used in the first week (T1), first month (T2), three month (T3) and 6 months after chemotherapy (T4) to conduct dynamic investigation. RESULTS: The symptoms of breast cancer patients at four time points during chemotherapy period were: psychological symptoms, pain-related symptoms, perimenopausal symptoms, impaired self-image, and neurological related symptoms etc. At T1, it exhibited 2 symptoms, however as moving along the chemotherapy process, the symptoms are increasing. The severity is (F= 76.32, P< 0.001), life of quality (F= 117.64, P< 0.001) vary. At T3, there were 5 symptoms, and at T4 symptom number increased to 6 with worsening quality of life. It exhibited positive correlation with scores in multiple domains of quality of life (P< 0.05), and the above symptoms showed positive correlation with multiple domains of QLQ-C30 (P< 0.05). CONCLUSION: After T1-T3 of chemotherapy in breast cancer patients, the symptoms become more serious and the quality of life reduced. Therefore, medical staff should pay attention to the occurrence and development of patient’s symptoms, create a reasonable plan from the perspective of symptom management and carry out personalized interventions to improve patient’s quality of life.
Molecular identification of resistance pattern of Salmonella species in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Authors: Salman Ahmad  , Muhammad  Salman  , Muhammad Arshid Malik  , Umair Muhammad
Published: February 2023

Salmonella infection is among common infections in first world countries. Infection caused by multidrug resistant serotypes causing enteric fever e.g., typhoid and paratyphoid. These become enormous health problems especially in less developed nations particularly for patient of low age like children. The WHO recorded incidence of 16 to 33 million typhoid fever patients all over the world every year, with 3.85 deaths which project 0.5 to 0.6 million deaths. The current study was conducted in Public Health Laboratories Division, National Institute of Health (NIH) Islamabad”. Out of total 210 patients, 89 were found positive for Salmonella. typhi. Out of 89 (42%) positive samples, 47 (52.8%) belong to male and 42 (47.2%) to female. The current study was conducted in different sessions of 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th and showed nalidixic acid was the leading resistant drug. No significance was observed among antibiotics resistance with age and gender (P = 0.302, P≥0.05). The total of 30 samples showing resistant to Quinolones and were molecularly identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). It is concluded that presence of gyrA and gyrB gene is the cause of nalidixic acid resistance in S. typhi and showed leading resistance.
LEPTIN RECEPTORS EXPRESSION IN MAMMARY TUMORS AND MAMMARY FAT PAD OF TRANSGENIC MAMMARY CANCER MOUSE MODEL
Authors: Yilmaz Elif , Thomas Pinar B. , Tuna Bilge Guvenc , Cleary Margot P. , Dogan Soner
Published: February 2023

Background: Leptin is an adipokine encoded by the Ob (obese) gene and predominantly produced by adipocytes. The roles of both leptin and leptin receptor (ObR) in numerous pathophysiological conditions including mammary tumor (MT) development have been reported. Aim: To examine protein expression levels of leptin and its receptors (ObR) including the long form, ObRb, in MT tissue and mammary fat pad of a transgenic mammary cancer mouse model. Further, we investigated whether the effects of leptin on MT development are systemic or local. Materials and Methods: MMTV-TGF-α transgenic female mice were fed ad libitum from week 10 up to week 74. Protein expression levels of leptin, ObR, and ObRb were measured in the mammary tissue samples of 74-week old MMTV-TGF-α mice with and without MT (MT-positive/MT-negative) by Western blot analysis. Serum leptin levels were measured by using the mouse adipokine LINCOplex kit 96-well plate assay. Results: Protein expression levels of ObRb were significantly lower in MT as compared to control tissue of mammary gland. In addition, protein expression levels of leptin were significantly higher in the MT tissue of MT-positive mice compared to control tissue of MT-negative mice. However, ObR protein expression levels in tissues of mice with and without MT were similar. Serum leptin levels at different ages were not significantly different between the two groups. Conclusion: Leptin and ObRb in the mammary tissue may play a critical role in the mammary cancer development, while contribution of short ObR isoform may be less important.
EFFECTIVENESS OF ALPHA-LIPOIC ACID AND IPIDACRINE HYDROCHLORIDE IN PREVENTION OF PACLITAXEL-INDUCED PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY ASSESSED BY ELECTRONEUROMYOGRAPHY OF SUPERFICIAL PERONEAL AND SURAL NERVES
Authors: Holotiuk I.S. , Kryzhanivska A.Ye. , Holotiuk S.I. , Holotiuk V.V. , Maliborska S.V.
Published: February 2023

Aim: To investigate the neurofunctional parameters in breast cancer (BC) patients with paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy (PIPN) and to clarify the feasibility of using alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) in combination with the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor ipidacrine hydrochloride (IPD) for its prevention. Materials and Methods: 100 BC patients (T1-4N0-3M0-1) prescribed for polychemotherapy (PCT) by the AT (paclitaxel, doxorubicin) or ET (paclitaxel, epirubicin) regimens in the neoadjuvant, adjuvant or palliative modes, were enrolled. The patients were randomized into two groups (n = 50 per group): group I treated by PCT only; group II treated with PCT plus the studied PIPN prevention scheme (ALA in combination with IPD). An electroneuromyography (ENMG) of the sensory (superficial peroneal and sural) nerves was performed before PCT, and after the 3 and 6 PCT cycles. Results: According to ENMG data, the electrophysiological disturbances in the sensory nerves were manifested in the form of axonal sensory peripheral neuropathy of a symmetrical nature, which was reflected in a decrease in the amplitude of the action potential (AP) of the studied nerves. The AP reduction in sensory nerves was dominant, in contrast to the nerve conduction velocity, which in most patients remained within the reference values, thus evidencing on axonal degeneration rather than demyelination as an underlying cause of PIPN. The ENMG testing of the sensory nerve in the groups of BC patients treated by PCT with paclitaxel with or without PIPN prevention treatment established that the use of ALA in combination with IPD significantly improved AP amplitude, duration and area of ​​the response to the stimulation of the superficial peroneal and sural nerves after 3 and 6 PCT cycles. Conclusion: The use of ALA in combination with IPD significantly reduced the severity of damage to the superficial peroneal and sural nerves caused by PCT with paclitaxel and could be recommended for PIPN prevention.
BIOMAGNETISM OF DRUG-SENSITIVE AND DRUG-RESISTANT MALIGNANT TUMORS AFTER INJECTION OF FERROMAGNETIC NANOCOMPOSITE
Authors: Todor I.N. , Lukianova N.Yu. , Primin M.A. , Nedayvoda I.V. , Chekhun V.F.
Published: February 2023

Magnetic signals emitted by living organisms, regardless of a biological species, are important biophysical indicators. The study of these indicators is very relevant and promising for the visualization of the tumor process and the development of technologies using artificial intelligence when it comes to malignant neoplasms, particularly resistant to chemotherapy. Aim: To measure magnetic signals from transplantable rat tumors and their counterparts resistant to cytostatics for evaluating the features of the accumulation of iron-containing nanocomposite Ferroplat. Materials and Methods: Doxorubicin (Dox)-sensitive and Dox-resistant Walker-256 carcinosarcoma and cisplatin-sensitive and cisplatin-resistant Guerin’s carcinoma transplanted in female Wistar rats were studied. The magnetism of tumors, liver and heart was determined using Superconductive Quantum Interference Device (SQUID) — magnetometry in a non-contact (13 mm over the tumor) way using specially designed computer programs. In a group of the experimental animals, a ferromagnetic nanocomposite (Ferroplat) was administered as a single intravenous injection and biomagnetism was assessed in 1 h. Results: The magnetic signals coming from Dox-resistant Walker-256 carcinosarcoma in the exponential growth phase were significantly higher in comparison with sensitive tumor. Intravenous administration of Ferroplat increased biomagnetism by at least an order of magnitude, especially in resistant tumors. At the same time, the magnetic signals of the liver and heart were within the magnetic noise. Conclusion: The use of SQUID-magnetometry with ferromagnetic nanoparticles as a contrast agent is a promising approach for visualization of malignant neoplasms with varying sensitivity to chemotherapy.
Students’ improvement in writing skill using column comment on Facebook group
Authors: Novarita Novarita , Afifah Nurul , Awalludin Awalludin , Miranda Miranda
Published: February 2023

The objective of this case study is to investigate the effect of using the comment section on a Facebook group on increasing the writing ability of students at MA Pondok Pesantren Nurul Islam Seri Bandung. The study aims to determine whether utilizing the comment section can improve students' performance in writing and specifically, the material used is recount text. The participants of this study were all pupils in grade 10, with a total of 49 students. A sample of 15 students was selected through purposive sampling for the treatment class. Data was collected through a writing test consisting of 1 item and analyzed using the paired sample t-test in SPSS 22. The average pre-test score was 51.313, and the average post-test score was 85.167. The results of the data analysis showed that using the comment section on a Facebook group was significantly successful in enhancing the writing skills of students at MA Pondok Pesantren Nurul Islam Seri Bandung. Therefore, the writerss accept the alternative hypothesis (Ha) and reject the null hypothesis (Ho) as the sig. (2-tailed) = 0.000 is less than the significance level (=0.05), indicating that the use of the comment column on a Facebook group was significantly beneficial in enhancing students' ability to write recount texts at MA Pondok Pesantren Nurul Islam Seri Bandung.

Keywords: Facebook; writing skill
A exclusão do serviço ativo das praças prestadoras do serviço militar inicial a quem é imputada a prática de transgressões disciplinares e crimes
Authors: Azevedo Sabrina Marie Machado de
Published: February 2023

As Forças Armadas possuem um regramento próprio, conforme estabelecido na Constituição Federal de 1988. De seus membros, denominados militares, a quem são aplicáveis as disposições fixadas pela lei, especialmente o Estatuto dos Militares, é exigido o mais alto padrão ético. Não apenas a vida profissional, mas a conduta pessoal dos militares também deve ser pautada pelo cumprimento das normas e obediência à moral e aos bons costumes. Diante disso, torna-se inconveniente à disciplina a permanência nas fileiras daqueles militares que estejam sendo acusados da prática de transgressões graves ou crimes. Com a velocidade que as mensagens são disseminadas, notícias da prática de condutas inadequadas por militares podem ferir a credibilidade que a instituição possui perante a sociedade, o que exige dos Comandos a devida punição e exclusão do suposto infrator das fileiras. Neste trabalho, serão tratadas as formas de exclusão do serviço ativo das praças prestadoras do serviço militar obrigatório que, supostamente, praticaram transgressões disciplinares ou crimes que as tornaram indignas de permanecer nas fileiras.
Efeitos psíquicos em criança a partir de uma intervenção assistida com equino: estudo de caso
Authors: Ferreira Paula Damiana Marcondes , Cunha Maria Claudia
Published: February 2023

Introdução: as Intervenções Assistidas por Animais (IAA) que utilizam a espécie equina como mediadora representam um campo emergente de pesquisas. Esses animais podem atuar como facilitadores sociais e potenciais catalisadores para o contato entre humanos. Objetivo: investigar os efeitos psíquicos de intervenção assistida por equino em criança. Método: pesquisa de natureza qualitativa, descritiva e exploratória, desenvolvida na modalidade de estudo de caso, sendo obedecidas as normas éticas para estudos com seres vivos. Casuística: criança com 10 anos e 3 meses, do sexo feminino e com motivação para a intervenção assistida por equino. Procedimento: O procedimento foi separado entre a fase pré-IAA e pós-IAA. Fase pré-IAA: Entrevista semi-dirigida com a professora, entrevista com a mãe e aplicação do procedimento Desenho-Estória (D-E) com o sujeito. Fase IAA: atividades individuais em manejo equino: 1) aproximação e escovação; 2) alimentação, limpeza das baias e banho; 3) encilhamento básico; 4) condução do animal; e 5) montaria conduzida. As etapas da fase da intervenção foram filmadas. Fase pós-IAA: reaplicação do procedimento D-E. Resultados: em síntese comparativa do material obtido nos procedimentos D-E pré e pós-IAA, observou-se que a luminosidade e o afeto estiveram presentes em ambas as situações, emblematicamente representados pelo sol e pelos corações. A expansão dos traços dos desenhos nas folhas somente ocorreu após as IAAs, os conteúdos expressos pós-IAA trouxeram elementos das experiências ali vividas, em contraponto com aqueles fantasiosos predominantes no material pré-IAA. Em ambas as situações, os conflitos internos da criança decorrentes da angústia frente ao contato com suas limitações físicas se fizeram presente, contudo, eles foram significativamente potencializados e expressos pós-IAA. Conclusão: há evidências, no caso estudado, de que a interação humano-equino suscitou efeitos psíquicos singulares; revelados especialmente nos resultados do procedimento D-E pós-IAA. Sugere-se, portanto, o aprofundamento de estudos sobre IAA (predominantemente desenvolvidos com cães) realizados com equinos.
HDL DAN ATEROSKLEROSIS
Authors: Erizon Erizon , Karani Yerizal
Published: February 2023

Atherosclerosis is a change that occurs in the arterial wall, which is characterized by the accumulation of extracellular lipids, recruitment and accumulation of leukocytes, foam cell formation, migration and proliferation of myocytes, extracellular matrix deposits (e.g. collagen, calcium), caused by a variety of pathogenesis that is chronic progressive, focal or diffuse and has acute or chronic manifestations that cause thickening and stiffness in arteries. Cardiovascular disease caused by atherosclerosis and thrombosis is a major cause of premature death and causes years of limitations in European countries and is also increasing in developing countries. Among many other independent risk factors for coronary heart disease (CHD) determined based on epidemiological studies, low HDL-C levels are one of the strongest. Based on the results obtained from the literature, HDL is an anti-atherogenic lipoprotein. HDL plays a role in preventing the process of atherosclerosis not only through the pathway of cholesterol transport but also through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in the walls of blood vessels. This literature review focus on how is the role of HDL protection against atherosclerotic processes in the body
Experience in the Production of Bitumen Products from the Residual Products of the Combined Vacuum Residue Hydrocracking Unit of TAIF-NK JSC
Authors:   TAIF JSC, Kazan, Idrisov М. R. , Presnyakov V. V. ,   TAIF JSC, Kazan, Shigabutdinov R. А. ,   TAIF JSC, Kazan, Ahunov R. N. ,   TAIF JSC, Kazan, Novikov М. А. ,   TAIF-NK JSC, Nizhnekamsk, Hramov А. А. ,   TAIF-NK JSC, Nizhnekamsk, Konovnin А. А. ,   TAIF-NK JSC, Nizhnekamsk, Urazaikin А. S. ,   TAIF-NK JSC, Nizhnekamsk, Shigabutdinov А. К. ,   TAIF JSC, Kazan
Published: February 2023

The article is devoted to the use of residual products of combined thermal and hydrocracking of vacuum residue and vacuum gasoil into demanded marketable petroleum products - into bitumen products in accordance with Russianand international quality standards.
Vacuum Residue Ebullated Bed Hydrocracking Application in LUKOIL Neftohim Burgas Refinery
Authors:   LUKOIL Neftohim Burgas, Burgas, Bulgaria, Stratiev D. ,   Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria, Shishkova I. ,   LUKOIL Neftohim Burgas, Burgas, Bulgaria, Nikolaychuk E. ,   LUKOIL Neftohim Burgas, Burgas, Bulgaria
Published: February 2023

This paper summarises the experience gained over seven years of operating the H-Oil hydrocracking technology with an ebullated vacuum residue bed. Four factors have been identified as major contributors to improved H-Oil performance: feedstock quality; catalyst condition; hydrocracking unconverted vacuum residue loading and utilisation. The optimum combination of all these factors made it possible to achieve a vacuum residue conversion rate of about 90%. It remains a challenge to find the correct use of the unconverted vacuum residue produced at higher conversion rates.
Counseling Research as Caring
Authors: Bellin Zvi , Sappio Erin , Castillo Yuleinys , Flinn Ryan , Srisuppak Dalad , Miller Kari , Ross Anthony
Published: February 2023

This study models counseling research as a social action process highlighting multicultural counselor identity. Seven co-researcher/participants engaged in a community-based reflexive contemplative practice group which aimed at dismantling the power imbalance that normally exists between researchers and participants, and to remain cognizant of the insidious nature of white supremacy.  The data collected represents the content and process reflections on participating in this group which invited contemplation about identity on many different levels. Several themes emerged from data as implications for counseling research. Considering research as caring on clinical practice and future research is also discussed.
Assessing total quality management and its impact on product quality: A cross-sectional study on textile industries in Bandung, Indonesia
Authors: Manik Ester , Sidharta Iwan , Coenraad Dhea Perdana , Komara Anton Tirta , Satria Rd Okky , Riadi Farid
Published: February 2023

This study aims to predict the total quality management in medium to low-income companies in the textile industry in Bandung, Indonesia. The implementation of total quality management is one of the company's essential requirements. Previous studies indicate that the practice of quality management can improve the organizational performance in textile industry. We conducted a cross sectional survey study. The data is taken from the employees of textile industry. We made predictions using a non-parametric approach where the results of this study indicate several essential factors in implementing total quality management. This research is based on previous research studies that show the role of TQM in the textile industry and how it plays an essential role in the organization's success, especially in producing quality products. Moreover, the results of the study indicate that it is necessary to pay attention on the active role of management in quality improvement planning as it will improve the quality of products which is good for textile organization. Furthermore, this study examines the total quality management of low-income companies that fills the research gap.
Formas de (in)movilidad de las personas sin hogar en situación de calle. Uso del espacio, negociación y margen de gestión de su vida
Authors: Uribe Vilarrodona Joan
Published: February 2023

Mitjançant l’estudi dels processos de (im)mobilitat de les persones en situació de carrer en tant que part inherent a la seva mobilitat, i entesa aquesta com a part fonamental de la seva vida quotidiana, s’han observat i analitzat 186 (30,9%) dels 602 punts de localització d’aquestes persones en un moment donat, a Barcelona ciutat. Es conclou que el tipus d’ús de l’espai, que s’organitza en tres categories: absència, presència, existència, així com les formes en que es configura, més enllà de condicionar els elements de la seva mobilitat, responen de forma clara a la lògica de les tàctiques possibles en relació a la privació de capacitat de gestió de l’ús de l’espai en la negociació a la que es troben sotmeses per part de la resta d’agents socials, ja siguin aquestes formals o informals. Així, es construeixen els mecanismes pels quals es desactiva la capacitat d’agència d’aquestes persones, que queden limitades en el seu marge d’acció a la mera supervivència.
COMPARING THE EFFECTS OF PHYSICAL, VIRTUAL, AND HYBRID LABS ON PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS’ CONCEPTUAL LEARNING OF HEAT AND TEMPERATURE
Authors: Tseng Yi-Kuan , Lin Fan-Sheng , Tarng Wernhuar , Lu Yu-Ling , Wang Tzu-Ling
Published: February 2023

Physical and virtual labs have unique capabilities that can influence how students learn from them. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of physical and virtual manipulatives on students’ learning of heat and temperature and to examine the influence of various combinations of physical and virtual manipulatives. A total of 205 participants were divided into four groups: only physical manipulatives, only virtual manipulatives, physical-virtual manipulatives, and virtual-physical manipulatives. Students’ knowledge acquisition was tested using Pre-test–Post-test design. The results showed that physical and virtual manipulatives are as effective in facilitating students’ learning of state changes, but virtual manipulatives are more beneficial to students’ learning of thermal expansion and contraction than physical manipulatives are. Physical-virtual manipulatives are more effective than virtual-physical manipulatives or physical manipulatives alone are to promote students’ learning of heat and temperature, but this effect is similar to that of virtual manipulatives alone. The results suggest that virtual laboratories can effectively model abstract concepts. The better effect of the physical-virtual operation sequence on learning does not depend on whether the two types of experiments are combined or on the sequence of operations but on the type of experiment when its advantages actually contribute to learning.
Keywords: experimental design, heat and temperature, physical manipulative, virtual manipulative
Incidence and Clinical Course of Acute Endophthalmitis after Idiopathic Epiretinal Membrane Surgery with Microincision Vitrectomy
Authors: Park Bo Hyun , Kim Jaehyun , Park Su Hwan , Kang Min Seung , Lee Jae Jung , Lee Seung Min , Park Sung Who , Byon Ik Soo , Park Hyun Jun , Lee Ji Eun , Kwon Han Jo
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To investigate the incidence and clinical course of acute endophthalmitis after idiopathic epiretinal membrane (iERM) surgery employing microincision vitrectomy (MIVS).Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of eyes with acute endophthalmitis developing after iERM surgery via 23- or 25-gauge MIVS from 2011 to 2021. The incidence, culture-positive rate (and responsible bacteria), final visual acuity (VA), and factors affecting poor visual outcomes were assessed.Results: Acute endophthalmitis developed in 20 of the 12,921 eyes (0.15%) after MIVS. Of these, 14 of 3,180 eyes treated via iERM (0.44%, one per 227 procedures) developed endophthalmitis; the incidence ratio (iERM versus non-iERM) was 7.1 (p < 0.001, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.6-22.7). At least one sclerotomy remained unsutured in all eyes after iERM surgery. Thirteen eyes (92.9%) were given intravitreal antibiotic injections after emergency vitrectomy, and one eye was treated with intravitreal antibiotic injection alone. Staphylococcus epidermidis was cultured from four eyes (28.6%); three strains were methicillin-resistant. All final VAs were not better than the initial VAs; the average VA decreased from 20/42 to 20/259 (p < 0.001). Six eyes (42.9%) attained legal blindness status (final VA < 20/200); Macular invasion was a unique risk factor for such blindness (p = 0.020, odds ratio = 35.0, 95% CI = 1.7-703.0).Conclusions: Acute endophthalmitis developing after iERM surgery with MIVS was more common than such endophthalmitis after other retinal surgery. Approximately 40% of the former patients became legally blind, and the risk was higher in eyes with macular involvement of endophthalmitis.
A Case of Orbital Eccrine Hidrocystoma
Authors: Park So Young , Lee Yu Jin , La Tae Yoon
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To report the first domestic case of orbital eccrine hidrocystoma.Case summary: A 40-year-old man visited our clinic after an orbital mass was discovered in the left eye. Orbital magnetic resonance imaging showed a well-defined 1 cm mass on the superomedial side of the orbit, slightly posterior to the globe. The mass was excised completely without rupture through an incision to the upper eyelid skin. The mass appeared more like a cyst than a hemangioma. The diagnosis of eccrine hidrocystoma was confirmed histopathologically. The patient recovered and there was no recurrence at the 6-month follow-up.Conclusions: Although orbital eccrine hidrocystoma is very rare, it should be included in the differential diagnosis of orbital tumors.
Relationship between the Prevalence of Dry Eye Syndrome and the Parity of Women Using KNHANES-V
Authors: Hwang Gyu Deok , Chang Se-Hyun , Chang Dong Jin , Hwang Ho Sik
Published: February 2023

Purpose: We explored the relationship between dry eye syndrome (DES) and parity in women over 20 years of age.Methods: We retrieved data from the Fifth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Of women over 20 years of age, 7,573 diagnosed with DES by ophthalmologists and 7,347 who self-diagnosed DES were included. We used logistic regression to explore the relationship between DES prevalence and parity, and the chi-squared test to compare differences in DES prevalence by some/no children.Results: On univariate logistic regression, the DES incidence was significantly affected by residential status, educational level, hours of sleep, and hyperlipidemia, osteoarthritis, thyroid disorder, and menopause status. We subjected these parameters (and age) to multivariate logistic regression. We found no significant relationship between the doctor-diagnosed DES rate and the number of children. Subjectively, the number of children significantly reduced the prevalence of self-diagnosed DES but not that diagnosed by ophthalmologists. The self-diagnosed DES prevalence was significantly lower in women with than without children.Conclusions: The KNHANES-V data showed that the prevalence of self-diagnosed DES decreased with the number of children in women aged over 20 years. The prevalence of self-diagnosed DES in women with children was significantly less than that in women without children. However, we found no significant correlation between the number of children and DES status, because DES does not simply reflect poor tear secretion, being rather multifactorial.
Micro-scale spatial preference and temporal cyclicity linked to foraging in harbour porpoises
Authors: Stedt J , Wahlberg M , Carlström J , Nilsson PA , Amundin M , Oskolkov N , Carlsson P
Published: February 2023

Habitat heterogeneity is a crucial driver for species distribution across scales. Harbour porpoise Phocoena phocoena basin-wide distribution is linked to prey availability, and small-scale (kilometres to tens of kilometres) differences in distribution are prevalent. However, information on porpoise distribution and foraging-behaviour variations on a micro-scale (~100 m to kilometres) is limited. To monitor harbour porpoise distribution and foraging activity on a micro-scale, we deployed passive acoustic dataloggers, logging porpoise acoustic activity at 6 sites in a small, high porpoise-density area in southern Sweden. Data were collected for almost a year, giving detailed time series on porpoise activity. The time series were analysed using dynamic time warping to compare activity patterns between sites. Large differences were found between sites separated by only a few hundred meters, indicating micro-scale spatial preference. Spectral analysis for temporal cyclicity in activity revealed a dominant peak for 24 h cycles with higher activity at night for all sites. All sites also had a second peak for 29.5 d, linked to the lunar cycle with higher activity during full moon. Activity was overall highest during autumn and winter (September-December). Spatial and temporal patterns were linked to foraging, showing a positive correlation between porpoise presence and the percent of time present with detected foraging. The study demonstrates that harbour porpoise spatial distribution on a micro-scale should be considered in e.g. behavioural, management and conservation studies and actions. In addition, we show that time series statistical methodology is informative and appropriate for analysis of acoustic temporal data.
Bioresorbable Scaffolds for Cardiovascular Tissue Engineering
Authors: Generali Melanie , Dijkman Petra , Hoerstrup Simon P.
Published: February 2023

Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of morbidity and mortality, especially in developed countries. Currently, when suitable autologous tissue is lacking, mostly non-degradable synthetic material or fixated xenogeneic grafts (e.g. heart valves) are used to restore, repair, or replace the injured cardiovascular tissues. However, these materials are associated with several disadvantages, such as the significant risk of thromboembolism and calcification. Bioresorbable scaffolds for tissue-engineered solutions are proposed to overcome the limitations of the current replacement materials as they provide temporary scaffolding for the in vitro, in situ, or in vivo formation of autologous tissue. Thereby, it is pursued that the engineered tissue mimics the composition and structure of the original tissue and has the capacity of regeneration and growth. The initial scaffold should possess strong material properties as the cardiovascular system requires an enormous strength, flexibility, and durability of the engineered structures, while on the other hand complete resorption of the scaffold material is aimed for. This review discusses the diversity of natural and synthetic bioresorbable materials that are currently investigated for their suitability as a scaffold for cardiovascular tissue engineering.
Field Response of Brassica Germplasm against Alternaria Leaf Spot Disease and its Management
Authors: Kamran Muhammad , Abbas Huma , Shahbaz Muhammad Umar , Ehetisham-Ul-Haq Muhammad , Aslam Zaheer , Khan Qamer Anser Tufail , Abbas Hira , Iqbal Muhammad Azhar , Amin Muhammad Amir
Published: February 2023

Brassica is an edible oilseed crop and world’s third most important oilseed source. Alternaria leaf spot disease of Brassica, caused by Alternaria brassicae (Berk) is major limiting factor for its yield loss. In current study forty-two Brassica germplasm (B. napus = 17, B. juncea = 25) were evaluated against Alternaria leaf spot disease at research area of Plant Pathology Research Institute (PPRI), Ayub Agricultural Research Institute (AARI), Faisalabad, Pakistan. These germplasms were sown in augmented design with 10 cm plant x plant and 60 cm row x row distance in single replication. A susceptible check KJ-159 was sown after every two entries. Data were recorded on 0-9 disease severity rating scale. Out of 17 germplasm of B. napus no germplasm was found to be immune. Two germplasm exhibited highly resistant while eight germplasm showed resistance response against the disease. Six germplasm were moderately resistant and only one showed moderately susceptible response. Similarly, out of 25 germplasm of B. junceas even were found moderately resistant and ten showed moderately susceptible response. Seven were susceptible while only one germplasm was highly susceptible. Then in-vitro efficacy of different fungicides was evaluated against A. brassicae. For evaluation of fungicides Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) amended with five different fungicides at different concentrations (10, 50, 100 and 200 ppm) was used. Experiment was conducted in completely randomized design with ten replications. Data were recorded on mycelial growth (mm) of fungus. Mancozeb (Ethylene bisdithiocarbamate) and Nativo (Tebuconazole) significantly inhibited the growth at all concentrations while Antracol (Propineb) was significantly least effective against A. brassicae. The current research provided the new resistance source of Brassica germplasm to the breeders against Alternaria leaf spot disease and its management.
Sensory Acceptance of Malted and Un-Malted Barley Pretzels in South Punjab Sector of Pakistan
Authors: Aziz Umair , Naz Ambreen , Ahmad Shabbir , Shehzad Muhammad A. , Hussain Riaz , Tariq Hira , Irfan Muhammad , Naz Nosheen
Published: February 2023

Barley (Hordeum vulgare) is a cereal crop, that belongs to the grass family. It is used as a food source in some cultures as well. The current research was planned to check the sensory acceptance of malted barley confection “pretzels”, which are not native to Pakistan. Purposely, the barley was procured from the local market of Multan, Pakistan by considering quality traits account i.e., colour, length, width, and thousand kernel weight. The cleaned barley was subjected to malting till seed germination for up to 4 days. After the process of germination, the seed was fried in the drier at 65 ℃ for 16 hours followed by flour development. The colour value of un-malted barley for l, a, and b were 54.23, 1.91, and 11.21 whilst malted barley presented 53.52, 0.86, and 11.03, respectively for the same traits. Afterwards, the pretzels were prepared by following the standard recipe by planning various treatments i.e., T0 (100% wheat flour), T1 (80% wheat flour, 20% malted flour), T2 (60% wheat flour, 40% malted flour), T3 (40% wheat flour, 60% malted flour), T4 (80% wheat flour, 20% un-malted flour), T5 (60% wheat flour, 40% un-malted flour) and T6 (40% wheat flour, 60% un-malted flour). The prepared products were subjected to sensory evaluation by a trained judges panel at different intervals during storage (0, 7th, and 14th day) by following a 9-point hedonic scale for aroma, texture, and overall acceptability. The malted barley-based pretzels 5.64±0.19 (T3) showed maximum value for aroma whereas, T5 presented 5.87±0.11 (T5) for the un-malted treatment plan on the 14th day. In the case of texture, T1 was appreciated at 0day of storage by securing 6.49±0.16. As far as overall acceptability was concerned, T6 presented 7.57±0.36 on the 0th day with a slight decline of 5.42±0.29 for the same treatment.