bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intravascular laser irradiation of blood in the treatment of fibromylagia: integrative literature review
Authors: Cristina Ferreira de Santana Flaviani , Alencar dos Santos Anna Carolina , Pires da Luz Padinha Caroline , Nayara Lenz Stephanie , Aparecida de Melo Taisy , Korelo Raciele Ivandra Guarda
Published: October 2022

Background: Low-Intensity Laser Therapy (LLLT), applied to trigger points, can be used as adjuvant therapy in the treatment of Fibromyalgia. However, in Brazil, the application of intravascular technique applied transdermally on the radial artery has been widespread as a promising modality of treatment. But as far as we know, its effects are still not fully understood in the treatment of this pathology. Objective: To investigate the scientific evidence for the use of intravascular laser blood irradiation (ILIB) in the treatment of fibromyalgia. Method: this is an integrative literature review (PROSPERO registration CRD42021236744) to identify clinical studies that demonstrate the effect of ILIB on fibromyalgia, without time or language restrictions. Searches were performed and published in 4 databases (PubMed, PeDRO, EMBASE, and Scielo), by 2 independent reviewers, using the descriptors “fibromyalgia” associated with “laser” or “low-level light therapy” or “laser irradiation” ” or “photobiomodulation” or “phototherapy” or “blood irradiation” or “modified ILIB” or “intradermal ILIB”. Results: 3,050 articles were identified. Of these, only 62 met the eligibility criteria, and 32 were duplicates. Thus, 30 studies were rich, but none of them correspond to a clinical study using ILIB in fibromyalgia. However, two secondary sources and four secondary cases were found, with low methodological rigor, but which presented positive positive results, as well as antioxidant and circulatory systemic effects. No substantiated evidence of completion of IB clinical trials in fibromyalgia was identified for their clinical substantiation.
A clinical case of a combined endoscopic treatment: brachial plexus decompression in the thoracic aperture and subacromial spacer implantation
Authors: Belyak Evgeniy A. , Paskhin Dmitry L. , Lazko Fedor L. , Prizov Aleksey P. , Lazko Maxim F. , Zagorodniy Nikolay V. , Asratyan Sarkis A. , Akhpashev Alexander A.
Published: October 2022

Background: Thoracic outlet syndrome compression of the brachial plexus in the area between the clavicle and the first rib is a commonly spread and important pathology. It occurs, as usual, after a trauma or due to an anatomical malformation of this area. Thoracic outlet syndrome can be combined with a shoulder joint pathology. In the case of a conservative treatment's failure, the standard surgical procedure is decompression of the brachial plexus in the thoracic aperture. This procedure is usually done via an open approach. The development of the endoscopic surgical technique of decompression allows reducing the risk of complications and recurrences, improving the cosmetic result and relieving the rehabilitation period. Clinical case description: A 73-year-old female patient with a clinical picture of posttraumatic brachial plexopathy and a massive shoulder rotator cuff tear. The patient underwent a conservative treatment for 6 months after the trauma without a significant improvement. To confirm the diagnosis, ENMG and an ultrasound investigation of the brachial plexus, as well as MRI of the shoulder joint were performed. Simultaneous shoulder joint arthroscopy with subacromial spacer implantation and brachial plexus decompression in the thoracic aperture were performed to the patient. According to the VAS-scale (Visual Analogue Scale), the severity of pain syndrome before the surgery was 10 cm, while 6 months after the surgery, it decreased to 1 cm. According to the DASH scale (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand), the dysfunction of the of shoulder joint before the surgery was 76 points, while 6 months after the surgery, it decreased to 12 points. The range of motion in the shoulder joint before the surgery was as follows: flexion 105, abduction 95, external rotation 15, which increased to 160, 165, and 45, respectively, 6 months after the surgery. Conclusion: The results allow us to characterize the method of simultaneous shoulder joint arthroscopy and endoscopic decompression of the brachial plexus in the thoracic aperture as a low-traumatic and effective technique. The technique provides complete brachial plexus decompression in the thoracic aperture which promotes restoration of the function of the upper extremity and shoulder joint, and elimination of pain syndrome from the upper extremity area.
Creep Rate Models for the 2023 US National Seismic Hazard Model: Physically Constrained Inversions for the Distribution of Creep on California Faults
Authors: Johnson Kaj M. , Murray Jessica R. , Wespestad Crystal
Published: October 2022

Widespread surface creep is observed across a number of active faults included in the United States (US) National Seismic Hazard Model (NSHM). In northern California, creep occurs on the central section of the San Andreas fault, along the Hayward and Calaveras faults through the San Francisco Bay Area, and to the north coast region along the Maacama and Bartlett Springs faults. In southern California, creep is observed across the Coachella segment of the San Andreas fault, through the Brawley Seismic Zone, and along the Imperial and Superstition Hills faults. Seismic hazard assessments for California have accounted for creep using various data and methods, including the most recent Uniform California Earthquake Rupture Forecast, Version 3 (UCERF3) in 2013. The purpose of this study is to expand and update the UCERF3 creep rate data set for the 2023 release of the US NSHM and to invert geodetic data and the surface creep rate data for the spatial distribution of interseismic fault creep on California faults using an elastic model with physical creep constraints. The updated surface creep rate compilation consists of a variety of data types including alignment arrays, offset cultural markers, creepmeters, Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar, and Global Positioning System data. We compile a total of 497 surface creep rate measurements, 400 of which are new and 97 of which appear in the UCERF3 compilation. We compute creep rate distributions for each of the five 2023 NSHM geodetic-based and geologic-based deformation models. Computed creep rates are used to reduce the total fault moment rate available for earthquake sequences in the NSHM model. We find that, despite relatively large variability in model long-term slip rates across all five deformation models, the variability in depth-averaged creep rate across all models is relatively small, typically 5–10 mm/yr along the creeping San Andreas fault section and only 2–4 mm/yr along the Maacama and Rodgers Creek-Hayward faults.
Učinkovitost
suzbijanja stjenica Nezara viridula i
Halyomorpha halys vodenim ekstraktom
ambrozije
Authors: Sarajlić Ankica , Majić Ivana , Raspudić Emilija , Baličević Renata , Ravlić Marija
Published: October 2022

Zelena stjenica (Nezara viridula L., 1758) i smeđa mramorasta stjenica (Halyomorpha halys Stål, 1855) su dominantne vrste kukaca iz porodice štitastih stjenica (Pentatomidae) na području Republike Hrvatske dok je ambrozija (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) invazivan i agresivan korov prisutan u čitavoj državi. Cilj istraživanja bio je utvrditi učinkovitost suzbijanja odraslih stadija stjenica vodenim ekstraktom ambrozije. Istraživanje je provedeno u laboratorijskim uvjetima u rujnu 2021. godine u tri tretmana: vodeni ekstrakt ambrozije u koncentraciji 10%, azadiraktin (Ozoneem Trishul® -1%) i voda kao kontrola. Tretmani su postavljeni u četiri ponavljanja te je u pokus ukupno uključeno 240 odraslih jedinki stjenica. Svi tretmani pokazali su blagu toksičnost za ispitivane kukce. Vrsta H. halys bila je osjetljivija na tretman vodenog ekstrakta ambrozije u odnosu na vrstu N. viridula. Statistički značajne razlike mortaliteta odraslih stjenica između tretmana utvrđene su kod vrste H. halys 10 dana nakon tretiranja vodenim ekstraktom ambrozije. Budući da nije utvrđena visoka učinkovitost vodenog ekstrakta ambrozije na odraslim stadijima stjenica istraživanja je potrebno nastaviti i na ličinkama koje imaju viši stupanj osjetljivosti te uz vodene primijeniti i druge vrste biljnih ekstrakata.
On the Lepidoptera collection
created by Petar Novak, stored in Natural History Museum in Split
Authors: Koren Toni , Kokan Bože
Published: October 2022

In this work we will present the Lepidopterological collection which is stored in the Natural History Museum in Split created by Petar Novak for the exhibition purposes of the Museum. Aside from Lepidoptera, the collection contains other orders of insects including Coleoptera, Hemiptera, Orthoptera, Odonata, Hymenoptera, and Diptera which await taxonomical revaluation. The material was collected in the first half of the 20th century, mostly around Kaštela near Split. The collection contains 273 specimens belonging to 143 species. The Rhopalocera are presented with five families and 36 species, while Heterocera contains 21 families and 107 species.
Control climático de invernaderos con compensación de perturbaciones medibles
Authors: Berenguel Manuel , Álvarez José Domingo , Cruz Alberto , Rodríguez Francisco , Sánchez-Molina Jorge Antonio , Guzmán José Luis , García-Mañas Francisco
Published: October 2022

Este trabajo presenta el diseño de técnicas de control climático de invernaderos a través de la ventilación natural, explotando las perturbaciones medibles y teniendo en cuenta las restricciones de operación. Un invernadero constituye una planta ideal para el crecimiento de cultivos, ya que es un entorno cerrado donde las variables del clima y la fertirrigación pueden ser controladas mediante actuadores climáticos. Se describe el modelo no lineal utilizado para simular el comportamiento del invernadero usando datos de una instalación real, la calibración del mismo y el desarrollo y comparación de técnicas de control que hacen uso de modelos linealizados en torno a puntos de operación y del modelo no lineal completo (linealización por realimentación).
Modelado y control adaptativo del pH en reactores raceway para la producción de microalgas
Authors: Caparroz Malena , Otálora Pablo , Guzmán José Luis , Berenguel Manuel
Published: October 2022

Este trabajo se centra el desarrollo de modelos de árboles de regresión para predicción de pH y su control en fotobiorreactores raceway. Se han obtenido árboles capaces de estimar los parámetros del modelo a partir de los cuales se puede predecir el valor del pH para fotobiorreactores de aguas limpias. Los modelos emplean datos relativos a las condiciones a las que se encuentra sometido el cultivo, tales como radiación global, temperatura del medio y nivel del cultivo. Los resultados obtenidos validan el uso de estas técnicas para el modelado de procesos biológicos, proporcionando modelos precisos, sencillos y de rápida ejecución. Dichos modelos se han utilizado para diseñar un control PI adaptativo del pH en este tipo de reactores, siendo evaluados en simulación.
Desarrollo de un sistema de dirección automatizada para control compartido
Authors: Rodriguez Mario , Sarabia Joseba , Perez Joshué , Zubizarreta Asier
Published: October 2022

Las técnicas de control compartido para la conducción automatizada requieren equipos de alta calidad para pasar de simulación hardware-in-theloop a aplicaciones reales. Sin embargo, no todos los coches utilizados hoy en día para la investigación de la conducción automatizada cuentan con un sistema de dirección adecuado. En este artículo se desarrollan controladores de bajo nivel, rápidos, fiables y eficientes de par y posición para una dirección asistida. De este modo y, siguiendo esta metodología, el control de par no sólo habilita las técnicas de control compartido, sino que también los vehículos totalmente automatizados pueden beneficiarse gracias al control de posición.
Control neuromórfico de orden fraccionario para un motor de corriente continua
Authors: Serrano Andrés J. , Vinagre Blas M. , Tejado Ines
Published: October 2022

El control neuromórfico utiliza estructuras de control inspiradas en el sistema biológico humano. Se basa en el efecto de codificar las señales de control mediante pulsos, de forma similar a como lo realiza una neurona. En el control de orden fraccionario se utilizan operadores derivada e integral de orden no entero, que permiten obtener especificaciones de control distintas a las de orden entero. En este trabajo se estudia el comportamiento de un controlador de estructura neuromórfica para un motor de corriente continua y que es gobernado por un controlador de orden fraccionario, a través de modelos de simulación.
Librería para sistemas de tratamiento de aguas residuales con microalgas y bacterias
Authors: Bausa Irina , Podar Smaranda , Muñoz Raúl , de Prada César , Oliveira-Silva Erika
Published: October 2022

El presente trabajo aborda la creación de una librería de componentes en PROOSIS® para la simulación de plantas de tratamiento de aguas residuales basadas en consorcios microalgas-bacterias. La programación de modelos que describen las interacciones entre microalgas y bacterias puede resultar compleja para estudiantes y personal con poca experiencia en el tema. Por esta razón, en este trabajo se utilizan las ventajas de la programación orientada a objetos para la creación de componentes reutilizables que permitan abordar de manera simple la simulación de este tipo de sistemas. Se presenta la librería ALG_BACT_WWTP y se describen los elementos que conforman la misma.
Evaluación de optimización estocástica aplicada a programación de operaciones de crudos en una refinería
Authors: Garcia Garcia-Verdier Tomas Jorge , Gutierrez Rodriguez Gloria , Mendez Carlos A. , Gómez Palacín Carlos , De Prada Cesar
Published: October 2022

En el presente artículo se aborda el problema de optimización estocástica de la programación de operaciones de crudos en una refinería con terminal marítima. En primer lugar, se pretende evaluar el rendimiento de un modelo de programación estocástica de dos etapas. Para ello calculamos las medidas Valor Esperado de la Información Perfecta (EVPI) y Valor de la Solución Estocástica (VSS), las cuales nos permiten valorar y comparar la solución del modelo estocástico frente a soluciones obtenidas a partir de modelos determinísticos. En segundo lugar, llevamos a cabo un análisis de las soluciones obtenidas al incluir la gestión del riesgo en el modelo estocástico, utilizando la medida Valor en Riesgo Condicional (CVaR).
Redes de Petri aplicadas a la simulación del comportamiento de consumidores en escenarios concurridos
Authors: Latorre-Biel Juan-Ignacio , Jimenez Emilio , Martinez-Cámara Eduardo , Pérez de la Parte Maria Mercedes
Published: October 2022

El modelado y la simulación del comportamiento humano es una cuestión que ha sido abordada por medio de diferentes enfoques, entre los que pueden destacarse algunas metodologías basadas en agentes. En este contexto, el uso del formalismo de modelado de redes de referencia permite disponer de información detallada sobre el estado completo del sistema modelado y de los agentes en cualquier instante de la simulación. En la presente contribución se describe una aplicación de este formalismo al modelado y la simulación del comportamiento de los clientes potenciales en entornos comerciales con elevada concurrencia de público. En el marco de la red de referencia considerada, una red del sistema proporciona el contexto físico en el que los clientes, modelados por medio de las redes de marcas, desarrollan su actividad. La metodología propuesta, basada en el uso del formalismo mencionado, presenta una gran flexibilidad y una aplicabilidad potencial a muy diversos entornos, tales como supermercados, grandes superficies e incluso el comercio electrónico.
Control predictivo basado en modelo como alternativa al modo de operación estándar en morbidostato
Authors: Martínez López Nerea , Pedreira Adrián , R. García Míriam
Published: October 2022

El morbidostato es un dispositivo de control asistido por ordenador diseñado para estudiar, en tiempo real, la dinámica fenotípica y genotípica de la adaptación y resistencia bacterianas. Dicho sistema incorpora un mecanismo encargado de activar o desactivar el flujo de cierta sustancia antimicrobiana hacia una serie de microreactores, dependiendo de mediciones en línea de la densidad óptica de la población, con el fin de mantener una concentración bacteriana estable en los diferentes cultivos. Así, por medio del componente de control, el morbidostato ejerce una presión constante sobre la selección de las bacterias y su resistencia a la sustancia antimicrobiana que se estudia. La ley de control a integrar en el morbidostato que se propone habitualmente en la literatura consiste en un algoritmo muy básico basado en dos reglas condicionales para determinar cuando se hace necesaria la incorporación de antimicrobiano al sistema. En este trabajo, se muestran dos resultados principales en este contexto: (1) desempeño de simulaciones para la extracción de condiciones bajo las cuales el control del morbidostato no logra estabilizar la población de microorganismos en la concentración objetivo y (2) el control, en tiempo real con estabilización rápida al punto de consigna, de la población bacteriana cuando se aplican técnicas de control predictivo basado en modelo.
Desarrollo y validación experimental del modelo dinámico de un electrolizador PEM de 1kW para su integración con generación renovable
Authors: Mora Nieto Manuel , Bordons Alba Carlos
Published: October 2022

En este artículo se construye un modelo dinámico de un electrolizador tipo PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane o Polymer Electrolyte Membrane). El modelo incluye el dominio electroquímico para conocer la evolución de la tensión en función de la intensidad (o potencia) de entrada al mismo, temperatura de funcionamiento y presiones de hidrógeno y oxígeno, y el domino térmico para conocer la evolución de la temperatura en función de la intensidad (o potencia) de entrada, tensión y temperatura ambiente. El modelo se basa en ecuaciones ampliamente empleadas por la comunidad científica y en el ajuste de parámetros en función de los datos reales de un electrolizador PEM de 1 kW. La implementación de las ecuaciones, simulación del modelo y validación del mismo se lleva a cabo con el software MATLAB/Simulink. Para la toma de datos se recurre a datos experimentales obtenidos en el laboratorio. Este modelo puede ser usado para el diseño de sistemas de gestión de energía en instalaciones de producción de hidrógeno renovable.
Comparación de modelos estadísticos en la estimación de indicadores de calidad de uvas tintas a partir de información espectral
Authors: Noguera Miguel , Millan Borja , Aquino Arturo , Javier Barragán Antonio , Martínez-Bohórquez Miguel Ángel , Andújar José Manuel
Published: October 2022

Los métodos tradicionalmente empleados para la determinación del estado de calidad de frutas tienen una reducida resolución espacial y temporal derivada de sus limitaciones (elevado costo y amplia brecha temporal entre el muestreo y el acceso a la información). En las últimas décadas, se han publicado numerosos trabajos que destacan a los métodos basados en espectroscopia como una alternativa prometedora a estos. Además, recientemente el auge de la industria electrónica ha supuesto un abaratamiento de los componentes, generando interés por el desarrollo de nuevos dispositivos. Incentivado por este contexto, este trabajo presenta un dispositivo multiespectral de bajo costo basado en un sensor comercial (AS7265x, AMS) sensible a 18 bandas entre los 410 y los 940 nm. Marcando como objetivo la evaluación de 3 modelos de estimación no paramétricos (dos lineales (Regresión lineal múltiple y Regresión por mínimos cuadrados parciales) y uno no lineal (Red neuronal artificial)) en el modelado de parámetros indicadores de calidad en uva tinta (sólidos solubles totales y acidez). Entre los modelos explorados, la red neuronal demostró ser el más eficaz para ajustar la relación entre la información espectral adquirida con el sensor propuesto y los indicadores de calidad considerados.
The Investigation of Effects of Pre-Harvest Rainfall on Lint Color Grade and Seed Germination Rate in Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: BALCI Şerife , ÇINAR Volkan , ÜNAY Aydın
Published: October 2022

Unexpected rainfall in harvest season has a detrimental effect on cotton lint color grade and germination rate and cause economic losses for farmers, seed producers and manufacturers. This study was conducted to elucidate the effects of different rainfall amounts on cotton technological characteristics and to evaluate the response of different cultivars in the harvest season of 2014 and 2015. Cotton bolls were exposed to 0 (control), 20, 35, 65, 95 and 125 mm of precipitation. The effects of rainfall were determined in GSN-24, Claudia, Gloria, ST-373, Flash, Carisma and ST-468 cotton cultivars (Gossypium hirsutum L.). The responses of cultivars to different cumulative rainfall were significant for lint color grade and seed germination rate. The linear curve in the decreasing direction according to the highest R2 value was evaluated for germination rate (%), reflectance (Rd), trash count and trash area (%) whereas the polynomial curve was more likely for yellowness (+b). The effects of increased rainfall amounts on all observed characters were unfavorable. The different responses of cultivars indicated that the cultivars with the least loss for lint color grade and germination rate in seed production could be recommended in terms of being highly profitable.
Az epilepsziák genetikus etiológiájára utaló EEG-eltérések
Authors: Clemens Béla , Puskás Szilvia , Dömötör Johanna
Published: October 2022

Minden epilepszia örökletes és szerzett tényezők együttes hatására alakul ki, ezért a gyakorlatban minden beteg esetében törekedni kell a szerzett és genetikus tényezők szerepének minél alaposabb elemzésére. A szerzők e gondolat jegyében felidézik mindazokat a hagyományos EEG-felvételeken megjelenő eltéréseket, amelyek a genetikus eredetre utalnak, és egyben az epilepsziák építőköveit jelentő endofenotípusok. Ezek a következők: spontán vagy hiperventilációra jelentkező generalizált tüske-hullám minta, fotoszenzitivitás, fokális tüskepotenciálok, 4–7 Hz θ-ritmus, occipitalis intermittáló ritmusos δ-aktivitás, φ-rit­mus, generalizált monomorf α típusú háttér­tevé­keny­ség. A szerzők a régebbi ismereteket kiegészítik újabbak­kal, amelyek a minták eredeti leírásától napjainkig a szakmai irodalomban megjelentek. A munka tartalmazza az említett EEG-aktivitások (minták) rövid leírását, ahol is­mert, ott az idegélettani hátteret, az életkorral és az epilepsziákkal mutatott együttállást. A mintáknak patogenetikus, patoplasztikus jelentése van, ami a kórkép várható súlyosságára, kezelhetőségére és prognózisára utal. Ez fontos kiegészítő információ, amit a szindróma megjelölése önmagában nem tartalmaz. A szerzők példát adnak arra, miként lehet a diagnosztikai epilepszia­kategóriákat idegélettani tartalommal és örökletességre vonatkozó adatokkal megtölteni. A minták örökletessége az általuk jelzett agyi állapot örökletességére utal, ami a családtervezésben felhasználható adat.
Effects of rituximab on prognosis in myasthenia gravis: A single-center experience from Turkey
Authors: Göl Mehmet Fatih , Kara Fatma , Boz Merve , Mutlu Abdüssamet , Karakullukçu Serdar , Boz Cavit
Published: October 2022

Management of treatment-resistant patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) remains an important issue. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of rituximab (RTX) treatment on the prognosis of patients with acetylcholine receptor autoantibody-positive (AChR-Ab+), muscle-specific kinase autoantibody-positive (MuSK-Ab+), or seronegative or double seropositive MG. Nineteen patients treated with RTX between 2015 and 2020 were included in this study. Demographic and clinical characteristics, prognosis, and prognostic predictors of MG were evaluated retrospectively. The Myas­thenia Gravis Foundation of America Post-Inter­vention Status (MGFA-PIS) before RTX treatment (pre-RTX) and after RTX treatment (post-RTX) were recorded. A total of 10 patients (52.6%) were AchR Ab+, 6 patients (31.6%) were MuSK Ab+, 1 patient (5.3%) was seronegative, and 2 patients (10.5%) were double seropositive. Steroid dose was pre-RTX 38.9±5.7 (25-45), it was post-RTX 10.5±10.3 (0-30) (p<0.001). Post-RTX steroid treatment was discontinued in 6 of 19 patients (p=0.041). Only three patients received intravenous immunoglobulin at the post-RTX follow-up (p<0.001). In post-RTX 12th month, the MGFA-PIS score was as minimally manifestation or better in 9 patients (47.3%) and improved or was better in 18 patients (94.7%) (p-value 0.004; <0.001, respectively). The improvement in MGFA-PIS scores post-RTX was similar in MuSK-Ab+ and AChR-Ab+ patients. The data are insufficient in seronegative and double seropositive patients and RTX must be considered in the treatment of suitable patients with MuSK-Ab+ and AChR-Ab+ refractory MG.
A Journey Through Guidelines, Consensus, Curriculum of Educators and Clinical Practice on Insulin-Induced Skin Lipohypertrophy: From the Earth to the Moon
Authors: Gentile Sandro , Satta Ersilia , Guarino Giuseppina , Romano Carmine , Maffettone Adalgisa , Heinke Erika , Donnarumma Elvira , Castellano Romina , Izzo Salvatore , Manzo Iolanda , Strollo Felice
Published: October 2022

This minireview wants to draw the readers' attention to a neglected complication of insulin therapy, i.e., lipohypertrophy due to injection errors. The considerable diffusion of lipohypertrophy represents evidence of a lack of education and monitoring. This phenomenon occurs despite international recommendations on correct injection techniques in the latest American Diabetes Association Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes edition. There are no precise indications in the literature for well-organized courses for educators like those promoted by the International Diabetes Federation. The damage caused by LH, such as poor glycemic control, significant blood sugar variability, and unexpected hypoglycemic events, represents a high risk for acute and chronic complications of diabetes and an increase in health and social costs. Unfortunately, as reported by the WHO, health costs tend to increase spontaneously over time and have been increasing recently with the COVID-19 pandemic, which has also enormously contributed to new cases of diabetes. For all this, a call to action is required for errors in insulin injection techniques across the board, involving university programs, specialization programs, joint efforts of all scientific endocrinology-related societies, manufacturers of insulin and injection devices, and Ministries of health.
Neurocognitive Functioning of Pediatric and Young Adult Patients with Gaucher Disease, Type 1
Authors: Alioto Andrea , Packman Seymour , Gomez Rowena , Moses James , Packman Wendy
Published: October 2022

This exploratory study aimed to evaluate the cognitive and executive functioning of sixteen pediatric and fifteen young adult (ages 5 through 30) patients with Gaucher disease, Type 1. The neurocognitive functioning of children with Gaucher disease, Type 1 was based on self- and parent-proxy reports while neurocognitive functioning in young adults was based on self-report only. Results showed that pediatric participants with Gaucher disease, Type 1 on self-report demonstrated a trend toward weaker cognitive functioning than healthy children. Parent proxy-reports did not show significantly different cognitive functioning of children with Gaucher disease, Type 1 compared to healthy peers. Young adults with Gaucher disease, Type 1 self-reported no significant differences in cognitive functioning from healthy young adults. No group differences in executive functioning were observed for child or young adult samples. Parent-reported disease severity was not associated with cognitive outcomes among the pediatric or young adult samples. Results suggest possible mild cognitive weaknesses among children with Gaucher disease, Type 1 while cognition in young adults appears relatively well preserved. This is the first independent examination of cognitive functioning among children and young adults with GD1. Additional studies in younger patients with Gaucher disease, Type 1 are needed to identify possible cognitive dysfunction and elucidate underlying mechanisms.
The role of myocardial global longitudinal strain in etiological stratification of heart failure and left ventricular systolic dysfunction
Authors: Sutil-Vega Mario , Rizzo Marcelo , Taibi-Hajjami Fadwa , Roca-Guerrero Carlos , Asenjo Íngrid , Surribas Meritxell , Vila Núria , Ruiz Gabriel , Flores Paola , Martínez-Rubio Antoni
Published: October 2022

Introduction: In patients with heart failure, global longitudinal strain (GLS) early detects decreased ventricular contractility, with prognostic value, but there is no evidence that GLS properly differentiates etiologies in patients with left ventricular ejection fraction <50%. Methods and aims: 147 patients with heart failure and left ventricular ejection fraction <50% were included retrospectively. The aims were to compare the GLS in patients with heart failure with reduced (<40%) to those with mildly reduced ejection fraction (40-49%) and, to compare GLS between the different etiologies in each of these two subpopulations. Results: 78 patients presented mildly reduced (53%) and 69 reduced ejection fraction (47%). The mean GLS was -13.4% ± 3.3% (mildly reduced -14.9% ± 2.9%, reduced -11.7% ± 3.0%, p <0.001). In mildly reduced ejection fraction, the etiologies were ischemic (47.4%), idiopathic (25.6%), tachycardiomyopathy (12.8%), valvular (11.6%), and toxic (2.6%), with similar mean GLS (p = ns among all etiologies). In reduced ejection fraction, the etiology of 50.7% patients was ischemic, 24.6% idiopathic, 10.1% valvular, 8.7% tachycardiomyopathy, and 5.8% toxic, with similar mean GLS (p = ns among all etiologies). Conclusions: There were no significant differences in GLS between the etiologies of heart failure in any subpopulation. The reduced ejection fraction patients presented worse GLS.
Effect of Age, Cognitive Impairment Severity, and Duration of Disease on Efficacy of Masupirdine in Moderate Alzheimer's Disease Patients: A Post Hoc Analysis of a Phase-2 Randomized Placebo Controlled Study Results
Authors: Nirogi Ramakrishna , Benade Vijay , Ramkumar Ramkumar , Subramanian Subramanian , Jetta Satish , Shinde Anil , Goyal Vinod , Pandey Santosh , Jayarajan Pradeep , Jasti Venkat
Published: October 2022

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age-related progressive neurodegenerative brain disorder with cognitive symptoms as a hallmark phenotype of the disease. Masupirdine, a pure serotonin 6 (5-HT6) receptor antagonist is being developed for the treatment of cognitive deficits in AD. The objective of the current study is the post hoc analysis of a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel group, 26-week, placebo-controlled phase-2 study (NCT02580305) that evaluated the effects of masupirdine on cognition in patients with moderate AD. Methods: Masupirdine phase 2 study included AD patients of 50 to 85 years age, mini-mental state examination (MMSE) score of 12 to 20 and diagnosis of probable AD at least 1 year prior to the screening visit. The impact of age, cognitive impairment severity, and duration of disease since diagnosis on efficacy of masupirdine as assessed by 11-item version of the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale–Cognitive subscale (ADAS-Cog 11) was evaluated. Treatment effects were assessed by Cohen’s d effect size. Results: Cohen’s d effect size for change in ADAS-Cog 11 scores from baseline to week 26 ranged between ~0.2 and 0.4 for the subgroup of population with age ≤ 70 years, MMSE range of 18 to 20, and duration of disease over 4 years (since diagnosis). Conclusions: Considering the linear relationship between age and cognitive decline, masupirdine effects across the subgroups could be attributed to “slowing of cognitive decline”. The study provides important findings for design of future clinical trials. Further research is warranted to confirm the potential beneficial effects of masupirdine on cognition in AD patients.
Extraganglionary Localization of Tuberculosis in Otorhinolaryngology: Rare Presentations About 29 Cases
Authors: Benhoummad Othmane , Rochd Sara , Yafi Mohammed , Rochdi Youssef , Raji Abdelaziz
Published: October 2022

The extra nodal tuberculosis is a rare disease in Ear, Nose and Throat. The aim of this work is to study the epidemiological, clinical, therapeutic profiles of rare locations of ENT extra nodal tuberculosis. This is a retrospective study between June 2003 and June 2019, including 29 cases of ENT extra nodal tuberculosis. There were 6 cases of laryngeal tuberculosis, 5 cases of nasopharyngeal tuberculosis, 5 cases of salivary gland tuberculosis, 3 cases of tonsillar tuberculosis, 1 case of tuberculous retropharyngeal abscess, 3 cases of nasal tuberculosis, 3 cases of tuberculosis of the middle ear, 1 case of thyroid tuberculosis, 1 case of tuberculosis of the bony palate, and 1 case of mandibular tuberculosis. All ages were affected with a predominance of young adults. The clinical signs, as well as radiological or endoscopic examinations, were not specific. The diagnosis was based on histology and/or bacteriology. Antibacillary therapy was instaured in all cases. Extra nodal tuberculosis in ENT is rare. It is dominated by the laryngeal location. It must be considered as a differential diagnosis in front of any atypical symptoms, particularly in endemic countries.
Correlation of Ischemic Stroke with Echocardiographic Findings in Young Patients
Authors: Pedipina Satheesh , Singhal Anuj , Guleria Vivek , Sarvani Baby
Published: October 2022

Background: In the management of patients with ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack, determining the source of the embolic event is critical. In 15–30 percent of all strokes, cardiogenic embolism is suspected to be the cause. In these patients, echocardiography is a frequently utilized and adaptable method that can provide full information on thromboembolic risk. The relevance of transthoracic-echocardiography(TTE) and transesophageal-cardiography(TEE) in clinical practice is discussed in this article, which analyses probable cardiac origins of stroke. Aim of this study is to determine the clinicoradiological association between ischemic stroke in young and find out the relevance of Transthoracic and Transesophageal Echocardiography in evaluation of cardiac source in ischemic stroke. Methods: This cross- sectional observational study was done between July 2020 and April 2022. A total of 31 patients of ischemic stroke were included. The mean Glasgow coma scale(GCS) and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale(NIHSS) score of these patients They underwent transthoracic-echocardiography followed by transesophageal-cardiography, their clinical profile has been recorded and analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), V21 software. Results: The mean age of the subjects was 34.74± 6.38 years, the group was consisting of 28 males and 3 females. The most common complaint was one sided weakness and speech difficulty. transesophageal-cardiography detected bicuspid aortic valve in one patient, right atrial thrombus in one patient and patent foramen ovale in one patient over and above transthoracic-echocardiography findings in this study. Conclusion: This study reinforces the importance of transesophageal-cardiography in stroke in young patients. transesophageal-cardiography is not only an effective tool in picking up the clots inside the cardiac chambers but also it was found to be significantly effective in detecting valvular lesions and small septal defects like patent foramen ovale. It is recommended that all strokes in young patients need to undergo transthoracic-echocardiography as well as transesophageal-cardiography to find the source and etiology of cardio embolic stroke.
Ablation of Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha Receptor 1 Signaling Blunts Steatohepatitis in Peroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptor α-Deficient Mice
Authors: Hines Ian , Milton Jamie , Kremmer Michael , Wheeler Michael
Published: October 2022

Tumor necrosis factor -alpha (TNFa) is strongly associated with fatty liver disease (i.e, hepatosteatosis). Cytokine production has been thought of as a consequence of hepatic lipid accumulation which becomes a critical factor in the development of chronic liver pathologies as well as insulin resistance. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that TNFa directly regulates lipid metabolism in liver in the mutant peroxisome-proliferator activated receptor-alpha (PPARa-/-) mouse model with robust hepatic lipid accumulation. At 10 weeks of age, TNFa and TNF receptor 1 expression are increased in livers of PPARa-/- mice compared to wild type. PPARa-/- mice were then crossed with mice lacking the receptor for TNFa receptor 1 (TNFR1-/-). Wild type, PPARa-/-, TNFR1-/-, PPARa-/- x TNFR1-/- mice were housed on ad-libitum standard chow diet for up to 40 weeks. Increases in hepatic lipid and liver injury and metabolic disruption associated with PPARa ablation were largely blunted when PPARa-/- mice were crossed with TNFR1-/- mice. These data support the hypothesis that TNFR1 signaling is critical for accumulation of lipid in liver. Therapies that reduce pro-inflammatory responses, namely TNFa, could have important clinical implications to reduce hepatosteatosis and progression of severe liver disease.
Emergency Groin Hernia Repair. Should We Always Search the Other Side?
Authors: Piltcher-da-Silva Rodrigo , Sasaki Vivian , Bettini Luiz , Soares Pedro , Cavazzola Leandro
Published: October 2022

Groin hernia is a common condition with lifetime occurrence up to 27% in men and 3% in women, over 20 million surgeries made annually 1,2 . The lifetime risk of contralateral hernia development is up to 30% 1 . Beyond the discussion about watchful waiting approach and its risk/benefits, the gold-standard treatment for symptomatic and asymptomatic patients is tension free elective surgery repair.
Frequency of ADIPOQ 276 and ADIPOQ 45 Polymorphisms in Obese and Eutrophic Adolescents with and without Asthma and their Relationship with Serum Adiponectin Levels
Authors: Gonzalez-Uribe Victor , Martinez-Tenopala Ricardo , Baro-Alvarez Paola , Mojica-Gonzalez Zaira
Published: October 2022

Background: Asthma is a chronic allergic disease characterized by variable airflow limitation; Obesity is a chronic disease that has reached epidemic proportions globally. Both are diseases with a significant inflammatory component, and their relationship suggests being weight dependent. Adiponectin (ADIPOQ) is the main adipokine secreted by white adipose tissue, it is an insulin synthesizer and regulator of energy homeostasis, and its plasma levels are inversely correlated with obesity and asthma. The effect of genetic factors in both diseases has been investigated, and haplotypes of the ADIPOQ 45 T/G (rs2241766) and ADIPOQ 276 G/T (rs1501299) polymorphisms have been related. Aims: To know de polymorphisms frequency of ADIPOQ 45 and ADIPO 276 in obese and eutrophic adolescents with and without asthma, likewise, link the adiponectin levels with the presence of such polymorphisms. Methods: An observational, analytical, and cross-sectional study in which 169 Mexican adolescents were recruited. Thirty mL of blood was taken from each individual; genomic DNA was extracted using the saline expulsion technique and quantified by spectrophotometry; two polymorphisms located in the promoter region were studied: ADIPOQ 45 and ADIPOQ 276; the determination of the different polymorphisms was carried out using TaqMan probes using real-time PCR (qPCR) using the commercial kit TaqMan One Step RT-PCR mastermix, the RNA extraction was carried out with Trizol Ls (Invitrogen), and the fluorescence was quantified employing the 7900HT ABI PRISM real-time computer SDS software. Results: There were no statistically significant differences between ADIPOQ 276 and ADIPOQ 45 polymorphisms in asthmatic and obese patients. Compared to the control group, a negative correlation was observed between adiponectin plasmatic levels in obese and asthmatic individuals. Conclusion: The ADIPOQ 276 and ADIPOQ 45 polymorphisms do not seem to be associated with asthma and obesity in the Mexican population. It is necessary to continue studying these polymorphisms and consider larger populations.
Evidence of Rising Neurological Mortality and Examining Multiple-Interactive Environmental Causes in the 21stCentury
Authors: Pritchard Colin , Silk Anne , Hansen Lars
Published: October 2022

Aims: To examine whether increased neurological deaths during 21st Century are predominately due to elderly demographics, or major influences of interactive-multiple environmental contributory factors? We examine WHO Early-Adult-Deaths (55-74yearolds), which is below Western life-expectancy, and total Age-Standardised-Death-Rates (ASDR) controlled by age, sex, and population, to challenge the demographic assumption. Method. Based upon WHO latest global neurological mortality categories, Nervous-Disease-Deaths and Alzheimer’s & Other Dementias, which provides the Combined Neurological Death, rates per million (pm), for the twenty-one West-Developed-Nations (WDN) over the period. Early-Adult-Death rates based upon numbers of deaths, divided by 55-74 population and WHO total ASDR during the 21st Century. Increases between Over 75’s population and Over 75’s neurological mortality is compared using Odds Ratios. Numbers of deaths are indicative of family and services pressures. Results: Every country’s 55-74yearolds Nervous-Disease-Deaths rates were higher than Alzheimer’s & Dementia Deaths, ten countries Nervous-Disease-Deaths rose higher than Alzheimer’s & Dementias during Century. Highest Combined Deaths and increases were Finland 1006 per million (pm) up 44%, USA 710pm, rose 39% and UK 653pm a rise of 32%, countries average of 25%, though Belgium, Canada and France rates fell. Highest ASDR were Finland 973pm, up 104%, USA 592pm, rose 76%, UK 553pm, increase 170%. Lowest were Japan 112pm, yet up 90%, Greece 184pm, rose 64% and Austria 214pm increased 102%, average nation’s 62%. Belgium at 387pm up 34%, Canada 401pm, increased 13% and France ASDR 336pm up 11%. Population compared with total neurological amongst Early-Adult-Deaths and Over 75’s, ratios of change, were respectively 1:1.34 and 1:2.21, yielding an Odds ratios of 1:1.65 French total neurological numbers were 40,594 rose to 71,543, up 76%, UK 24,601 to 103,550 increased 321% and the USA 174,708 to 436,438 rising 150%. Discussion: We reject the hypothesis that neurological increases were mainly dues to demographics. Our results support by new studies across the continents, with their findings of significant causal multiple-interactive-environmental pollutants, including, endocrine disruptive chemicals, air pollution, organophosphates, plastics, petrochemicals, impact of low ubiquitous prolonged electro-magnetism, etc, associated with neuro-degenerative disease, especially Early-Onset-Dementia, below Western life-expectancy. Conclusions: Governments should seek urgent research to explain this new epidemic.
The Analysis of Entrepreneurial Intention at Undergraduate Students of Universitas Syiah Kuala during the COVID–19 Pandemic: Entrepreneurial Capital Building
Authors: Suryani Ade Irma , Megawati Megawati
Published: October 2022

Research aims: This study aims to measure the effect of social capital and entrepreneurial attitude orientation towards entrepreneurial intention mediated by psychological capital.Design/Methodology/Approach: A total of 250 out of 25,899 students of Universitas Syiah Kuala were involved in this study. The sample was selected using proportionate stratified sampling. The data were collected through questionnaires. This study employed structural equation modeling to analyze the influence of the variables involved.Research findings: The study uncovered that psychological capital did not play any essential role in the relationship between social capital and entrepreneurial attitude orientation towards the entrepreneurial intention of Universitas Syiah Kuala students.Theoretical contribution/Originality: This study examined the influence of social capital and entrepreneurial attitude orientation towards entrepreneurial intentions mediated by psychological capital during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, there was not much literature devoted to the topic.Practitioner/Policy implication: This study provides managerial insight and knowledge about social capital and entrepreneurial attitudes orientation towards entrepreneurial intention mediated by psychological capital on Universitas Syiah Kuala students during the COVID-19 pandemic.Research limitation/Implication: Since this study only focused on the entrepreneurial intention of Universitas Syiah Kuala students, the results could not be generalized to the broader phenomenon. In addition, this study only used endogenous variables (social capital and entrepreneurial attitude orientation) and one mediating variable (psychological capital) to analyze the impact of the entrepreneurial intention of Universitas Syiah Kuala students during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Estimando a demanda potencial de energia para veículos elétricos: um estudo de caso para o Sul do Brasil e seus possíveis desdobramentos
Authors: Echeverría Carlos , Weiss Mariana , Borges Talita , Castillo Harold del , Biosca Oriol , Carvalho Metanias Hallack Michelle
Published: October 2022

O presente estudo propõe uma estrutura analítica para estimar a demanda potencial de energia para veículos elétricos (VE), e traz os principais resultados da sua aplicação para um estudo de caso para região sul do Brasil – composta pelos estados de Paraná, Rio Grande do Sul e Santa Catarina. Os resultados do estudo de caso estimam que os VE podem alcançar até 10,9% da frota da região Sul do país em 2040, o que corresponde a uma frota até 1,7 milhões de VE em 2040 e um acréscimo de até 5,10% no consumo de energia da região. Desta forma, é possível esperar que este acréscimo na demanda pode ser acomodado pelo sistema de geração e pela rede de transmissão sem grandes dificuldades, porém exigindo alguns investimentos e reforços na rede de distribuição média tensão (MT) e de baixa tensão (BT) para atender a esse aumento de demanda provocado pelos VE. Por fim, foi discutida a possibilidade de conexão do Sul do Brasil com países vizinhos próximos, como a Argentina, Paraguai e o Uruguai – através de um corredor elétrico.
Fijian Indian students' perceptions towards group work in New Zealand classrooms
Authors: Chand Alvin
Published: October 2022

A wide research base in general Pacific education literature supports active learning activities that encourage students to work collaboratively. Many schools engage Pacific students in group-based learning together with other pedagogies to increase their achievement. Despite this, the education of Pacific origin students in Aotearoa New Zealand is not delivering equitable results and requires revision. Fijian Indian students are a relatively unexplored population within the Pacific education umbrella, and attention to their learning is not well represented in literature. This research used talanoa, a Pacific research method, to explore the perception of Fijian Indian students regarding group work. The findings revealed that students perceived both benefits and limitations related to engagement in collaborative learning. This discussion of group work plays a part in addressing New Zealand’s education system’s inequities for Pacific students, and it encourages teachers to consider what effective group work means for Fijian Indian students from the lived experiences of the students themselves.