Active Form Research Articles

Sensitive and validated UPLC-MS/MS method for the identification and characterization of forced degradation products for felodipine

AbstractA rapid, stability indicating reverse phase liquid chromatographic method was developed for the determination of purity of Felodipine in active pharmaceutical substance form in the presence of its impurity and its degradation products. To develop the method which is also compatible to liquid chromatographic mass spectroscopic technique. The developed method is also used to determine the assay of Felodipine in bulk drug form. The drug is subjected to various stress conditions like acidic, basic, oxidation, UV light and thermal conditions. Considerable degradation was observed during base hydrolysis. Two degradation products were identified. The Waters Acquity UPLC BEH C18, 2.1 × 100 mm, 1.7 µm Column was used to achieve chromatographic separation. The gradient conditions, diluent and injection volume were optimized to achieve the acceptable resolution between impurities and its degradation products from Felodipine and to get good peak shapes. The masses were determined for main compound and its identified degradation products. Further, the characterization studies for main compound and its degradation products were performed using LCMSMS Q-TOF.

Emotional analysis of multiplayer online battle arena games addiction

IntroductionMultiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) games have garnered widespread popularity as a form of recreational activity. The launch of League of Legends (LoL), a prominent MOBA game, has captivated the enthusiastic pursuit of gamers in the MOBA community. The surge in MOBA game fervor, coupled with the influence of personal emotions, can result in excessive engagement, ultimately leading to addiction.ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the moderating effects of visceral perception, behavior, and reflection on game players’ addiction within the framework of Leisure Theory (LT), Uses and Gratification Theory (UGT), and Emotional Design Theory (EDT).MethodsA hypothesized theoretical model was developed and empirically evaluated based on 236 self-reported validated responses from MOBA gamers. SPSS (version 26) was employed for demographic analysis and game duration analysis. The measurement model and structural model analyses were conducted in two stages using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS 4.1.0 to validate the nine theoretical hypotheses.ResultsIt has been observed that personal emotions significantly contributes to MOBA game addiction during gamers’ leisure time or moments of gratification. Specifically, a noteworthy connection exists between two dimensions, namely gamers’ behavior and reflection, demonstrating a positive correlation with gaming addiction. Without taking entertainment as a motivating factor, there is no significant relationship between gamers’ leisure-time and visceral perception.ConclusionThis study enhances the theoretical model of gamers’ behavioral motives in engaging with MOBA gaming and contributes to the expansion of research on game addiction theory. These findings offer valuable theoretical insights for emotional design in games and the design of mechanisms for preventing game addiction.

The Impact of a 6-Week Nordic Walking Training Cycle and a 14-Hour Intermittent Fasting on Disease Activity Markers and Serum Levels of Wnt Pathway-Associated Proteins in Patients with Multiple Myeloma

Background: Multiple myeloma (MM) accounts for about 10–15% of all diagnosed hematologic malignancies and about 1–2% of all cancer cases. Approximately 80–90% of MM patients develop bone disease and the changes rarely regress. It is only possible to stop or slow their progression. A major role in bone destruction in MM is attributed to the Wnt signaling pathway, and its action can be modified by various types of interventions including training and diet. Therefore, the aim of this project was to evaluate the effects of a Nordic Walking (NW) training cycle and intermittent fasting (IF) on the levels of selected bone turnover markers associated with the Wnt pathway in patients with MM. Materials and methods: Results from 35 patients divided into training (NW and IF NW) and non-training (IF and control) groups were included in the analysis. A 6-week training cycle involving 60 min workouts 3 times a week was conducted. Body mass and composition as well as the levels of vitamin D, calcium and phosphorus, beta2-microglobulin, and albumin were examined before and after the completion of the training cycle. Markers of bone turnover were also determined: sclerostin (SOST), Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK-1), osteoprotegrin (OPG), osteopontin (OPN), and Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP 5b). Results: There was no negative effect of IF or combined training and fasting on the nutritional status of the patients (the level of albumins was unchanged). Both training groups showed an increase in serum concentrations of the active metabolite of vitamin D (IF NW and NW: p = 0.001 and p = 0.022, respectively). The change in the concentration of this vitamin negatively correlated with the concentration of TRACP 5b (r = −0.413, p = 0.014). Evaluating the concentrations of markers related to bone turnover, a reduction in the concentrations of SOST (time: p = 0.026, time vs. group: p = 0.033) and TRACP 5b (time: p < 0.001, time vs. group p < 0.001) was indicated. Conclusions: The obtained results allow one to indicate the training with the poles as a safe and beneficial form of physical activity that should be recommended to patients suffering from MM. However, the results obtained in the present study are not sufficient to show the beneficial effect of IF applied without trainings.

Tutoring as a form of work and preventive activity by music school teachers

The article aims to present the use of tutoring in individualised work with music education students and show the benefits of this work style. Initially, the tutoring method and its philosophical and methodological assumptions were introduced. Then, the specificity of music education was discussed, along with the possibilities of using tutoring in working with students and their parents. Finally, the preventive function of this method and its use to build students' mental resilience in accordance with the concept of resilience were discussed. The methodical aspect of tutoring combined with the teacher's competencies creates an opportunity to create a unique master-student relationship, typical of music education.

Pros and cons of E- learning

This is the most important area where majority of the students get confused and have number of doubts. Therefore, it is advised that the student should discuss the topic with the concerned guidesA learning system based on formalised teaching but with the help of electronic resources is known as E-learning. While teaching can be based in or out of the classrooms, the use of A learning system based on formalised teaching but with the help of electronic resources is known as E-learning. While teaching can be based in or out of the classrooms, the use of computers and the Internet forms the major compon INTRODUCTION: E-learning, short for electronic learning, is the process of learning via electronic devices, typically over the internet. It encompasses various forms of educational activities conducted online, including: Online Courses: These are courses delivered entirely over the internet, often through platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or Khan Academy. They can cover a wide range of subjects and are usually self-paced. Virtual Classrooms: These simulate traditional classrooms but take place online. Students and teachers interact in real-time through video conferencing tools like Zoom or Google Meet. Webinars: These are seminars conducted over the web, usually in the form of presentations, workshops, or lectures. Participants can interact with the presenter through chat or Q&A sessions. Mobile Learning: Learning materials are delivered through mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, allowing learners to access content anytime, anywhere. Gamification: Educational content is presented in the form of games to engage learners and enhance retention.

Competitivity Issues Related to Biobank Activity

The recent development of biomedical research and greater attention to the use of human bio-material has led to an increase in the number of studies devoted to biobanks. In considering the question of whether a biobank can be subject to insolvency, the present article discusses multiple points of view related to the legal status of biobanks according to which they are perceived either as an object or subject of law. From an analysis of the various organizational forms of biobank activity, the author argues that biobanks should be considered as subjects of law. Here considerations include accessing financial support from government, municipal, and other sources, the possibility of carrying out income-generating activities, mechanisms for the protection of obtained bio-material, the monitoring requirement related to entities carrying out such activities, and the possibility of recognizing such entities as insolvent. Based on the results of this research (including an analysis of the experience of foreign countries), the permissible organizational-legal forms that biobanks are instantiated, namely, public corporations, public-law companies, institutions, and public benefit funds. Because of the sensitivities involved, it is argued that such organizations should be of a non-profit character. In the light of the research question, special attention is paid to the form of a consortium. Due to the impossibility of liquidating the assets of biobank organizations in order to meet the claims of creditors, it is argued that such organizations cannot be declared insolvent.

Moving together - benefits of an online dance program on physical and mental health for older women: an exploratory mixed-method study

BackgroundPrevious studies show that in-person dance training is a beneficial form of physical activity that involves mental, social, and physical dimensions. This exploratory study investigated the benefits of a 12-week online dance training intervention on mental and physical health outcomes for older women.MethodsA convergent parallel mixed-method design was used. Forty-five older adults (74.0 ± 5.3 yrs old, 44 women) were recruited through advertisements at activity and rehabilitation centers in the North Denmark region. The intervention consisted of two weekly 60-min classes of improvisation and salsa delivered online through video call applications. Changes in physical health outcomes (body mass and composition, resting blood pressure, Senior Fitness Test battery) and self-rated health and wellbeing (health-related quality of life (HRQOL), feelings of loneliness) were assessed prior to and after 12 weeks of dancing. Focus group interviews were conducted post-intervention to further explore the benefits as well as the participant’s experience of the intervention. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data was conducted.ResultsThirty-two participants (all women) completed the study. Significant improvements in fitness were found for the number of arm curls performed (baseline: 12.3 ± 3.0; post-intervention: 13.7 ± 3.0, P = 0.005), 2-min step test performance (baseline: 66.5 ± 20.0 reps.; post-intervention: 73.8 ± 22.6 reps., P = 0.016), and chair sit-and-reach (baseline: 0.4 ± 11.3 cm; post-intervention: 5.5 ± 10.1 cm, P < 0.001). There was a significant increase in body mass from baseline to post-intervention (P < 0.015). The themes from the focus groups included (1) Participation, (2) Challenges, (3) Progression, (4) Motivation, (5) Perceived health and wellbeing, and (6) Online dance instruction. No significant changes were reported in HRQOL and loneliness from the quantitative data, although the qualitative data did reveal improved feelings of physical health and wellbeing.ConclusionsThe intervention improved several aspects of fitness in older women and improved the participants’ perceptions of their own physical abilities and wellbeing. While most participants found the online intervention enjoyable, several participants missed the feedback from the instructors that naturally occurs with in-person instruction.

The donation method: A new behavioral measure for white collar crime?

AbstractTo comprehensively grasp, predict, and address the complexity of white collar crime, robust measurement tools are imperative. The burgeoning interdisciplinary interest in this domain has spurred the development of diverse assessment tools aimed at capturing offending behavior and its proxies. In the present paper, we provide an overview of the strengths and weaknesses of several commonly employed measures, including official statistics, victimization surveys, self‐report surveys, and (quasi)experimental measures. Drawing insights from this review, we then introduce a novel behavioral measure: the donation method. Although the task was originally designed to examine behaviors of interest to behavioral economists, we carefully outline strategies to refine and implement the donation method to assess white collar crime, addressing challenges such as task suitability and controlling for respondent behavior. Additionally, we provide a sample task to illustrate how such a tool could be used within this field. We conclude by underlining the appeal of adopting innovative measurement tools like the donation method to advance our collective understanding of white collar crime. By advocating for its widespread adoption and providing guidance for its use, we endeavor to catalyze progress in the field, facilitating unique insights and, potentially, more efficacious strategies for confronting and surmounting the methodological obstacles inherent in studying this elusive form of criminal activity.

Reversal of Soleus Muscle Atrophy in Older Adults: A Non-Volitional Exercise Intervention for a Changing Climate.

The World Health Organization recommends that older adults undertake at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity over the course of each week in order to maintain physical, mental, and social health. This goal turns out to be very difficult for most community dwelling older adults to achieve, due to both actual and perceived barriers. These barriers include personal health limitations, confinement issues, and self-imposed restrictions such as fear of injury. Climate change exacerbates the confinement issues and injury fears among the elderly. To assist older adults in obtaining the benefits of increased physical activity under increasingly challenging climate conditions, we propose a targeted non-volitional intervention which could serve as a complement to volitional physical activity. Exogenous neuro-muscular stimulation of the soleus muscles is a non-invasive intervention capable of significantly increasing cardiac output in sedentary individuals. Long-term daily use has been shown to improve sleep, reduce bone loss, and reverse age-related cognitive decline, all of which are significant health concerns for older adults. These outcomes support the potential benefit of exogenous neuro-muscular stimulation as a complementary form of physical activity which older adults may find convenient to incorporate into their daily life when traditional forms of exercise are difficult to achieve due to barriers to completing traditional physical activities as a result of in-home or in-bed confinement, perceptual risks, or real environmental risks such as those arising from climate change.

EFFICACY, FEASIBILITY AND OPTIMAL TRAINING PARAMETERS FOR RUNNING IN ADULTS WITH CHRONIC LOW BACK PAIN: THE ASTEROID RANDOMISED CONTROLLED TRIAL

INTRODUCTION &amp; AIMS Running is common and one of the most accessible forms of exercise training, yet the suitability for adults with chronic low back pain is unknown. This study assessed the efficacy and feasibility of running in adults with chronic low back pain (LBP) and explored the relationship between training parameters and pain intensity. METHODS This two-arm parallel (1:1) individually randomised controlled trial allocated 40 participants (mean [SD] age: 33 [6] years, female: 50%) with non-specific chronic LBP to a 12-week intervention or waitlist control. The intervention was a progressive run-walk interval program comprising three 30-minute sessions per week, that were digitally delivered and remotely supported by an exercise physiologist. Efficacy outcomes were self-reported average and current pain intensity (100-point visual analogue scale) and disability (100-point Oswestry Disability Index). Training parameters examined were fortnightly adherence, pace and distance. RESULTS At 12-week follow-up, the intervention decreased average pain intensity (mean net difference [95%CI]: -15.30 [-25.33, -5.27] points, P=0.003), current pain intensity (-19.35 [32.01, -6.69] points, P=0.003) and disability (-5.20 [-10.12, -0.24] points, P=0.038), compared to control. There was no attrition and mean (SD) training adherence was 70% (20%; i.e. 2.1 of 3 sessions per week). Nine non-serious adverse events deemed potentially study-related were reported (lower limb injury/pain: n=7, cardiac syncope associated with an underlying condition: n=1, LBP: n=1). Greater fortnightly adherence (-0.04 [-0.33, 0.25] points), pace (0.23 [-0.48, 0.02] points) and distance (-0.03 [-0.13, 0.06] points) tended to be associated with greater reductions in pain intensity, yet did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSION Running was feasible and improved pain intensity and disability in individuals aged 18-45 years with non-specific chronic LBP when compared to control. An individualised and conservative run-walk program should be considered a suitable form of physical activity for adults with chronic LBP.

Communicating male sexual dysfunction: The medicalization and psychologization of sexual experiences in Chinese online medical consultations

Previous research shows that men who experience erectile or sexual dysfunction may feel uncomfortable discussing their sexual experiences in face-to-face clinical encounters. Part of the reason is the stigma and embarrassment associated with discussing private sexual matters. This study examines how e-patients, or more precisely advice-seekers, and doctors communicate about sexual dysfunction in online medical consultations (OMCs). We conducted a Theme-Oriented Discourse Analysis of relevant OMCs on CH Doctor, a Chinese medical consultation website, to understand how individuals with perceived sexual dysfunction articulate their conditions and how doctors on the platform respond and provide recommendations to these individuals. Our analysis reveals that OMCs afford advice-seekers a place to openly discuss their sexual health issues and gain empowerment from doctors who assist in mitigating the associated social stigma. Upon detailed discourse analysis, however, we find that individuals seeking advice often interpret their sexual experiences as symptoms of illness that requires medical intervention. In response, doctors tend to validate these advice-seekers’ preliminary self-diagnoses by treating their conditions as medical issues and characterizing them as psychosocial problems caused by stress and anxiety. Aligning with a critical sociological perspective that views sexual dysfunction as socially constructed problems referenced against dominant norms of sexual functioning, we argue that the medicalization and psychologization of certain sexual behaviors by doctors and advice-seekers discursively reinforce and legitimize essentialist views of hetero-coital sexual interaction. Such views reify penile-vaginal intercourse and ejaculation as the only standard, successful, and desirable form of sexual activity. This may further induce fear and anxiety among adult men whose sexual behaviors do not realistically align with these norms.

Model media learning for disaster risk reduction in the Batur UNESCO global Geopark

The development of tourism activities in the Batur UNESCO Global Geopark has brought many tourists to visit the area. Along with increasing tourism activities, the risk of disasters in the geopark area has also increased. One thing that can be done to reduce disaster risk in the Batur UGGp area is to utilize geoheritage as a learning medium for disaster risk reduction. In this study, we described quantitatively geoheritage by looking at its relationship with the priority actions of the Sendai framework. The results of the assessment of geological heritage values that have been carried out in 21 geosites of the geopark area show an interrelated relationship.Scientific, educational, tourism and degradation values of geoheritage sites have an important role in conveying information and messages related to disaster mitigation, which is in line with the objectives of Sendai's priority actions. Geological heritage sites can later be developed as an educational medium because it has accessibility capital, supporting facilities, good geological conditions, geological diversity it also contains geological informationthat can be used for education and research. Developing geological disaster information within geoheritage sites in geopark areas, may be in the form of geotrails and geotourism activities with the theme of disaster mitigation and earth heritage, Picture books for children based on site geoheritage information, especially those related to the introduction of geological disasters is also ideal to develop. A geological information center at the Batur Volcano Museum and are other educational acivities that can be made within the geopark area.

An Exploration of Some Predictors of Quality of Life-Related to the Innate Immune System, Inflammation, and Disease Activity in Patients with Behcet's Syndrome: An Analytical Cross-sectional Study.

Behçet's disease (BD) has a growing prevalence in Silk Road countries. The aim of our cross-sectional study was to explore the clinical and molecular predictors of quality of life in BD patients. One hundred and fifty consecutive Iranian BD patients with an age range between 20-50 years were included. The Leeds Behçet's disease quality of life (BDQoL) in Persian form was fulfilled to evaluate the quality of life. Anthropometric measurements were carried out using the calibrated scales. Iranian Behcet's Disease Dynamic Activity Measure (IBDDAM), Behcet's disease current activity form (BDCAF), and Total Inflammatory Activity Index (TIAI) were used to assess BD activity. mRNA expression of toll-like receptors 2 and 4 (TLR2 and TLR4) and tumor-necrosis-factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels in serum were measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and ELISA, respectively. Multiple linear backward regression at P = 0.1 was used to study the potential predictors of quality of life. TLR2 and BDCAF were shown to be the most important predictors of quality of life in BD patients by 22%. There were positive associations between them (β = 0.326, p = 0.013 for BDCAF; β = 0.366, p = 0.006 for TLR2) and BDQoL value. Higher TLR2 expression as a key protein in recognizing pathogens by innate immunity and BDCAF value as a comprehensive BD assessing scale contribute to poor quality of life among BD patients. Emphasizing therapeutically, approaches associated with lower TLR2 expression and BDCAF value can be considered in future studies.

PERSEPI MANFAAT MICRO TEACHING TERHADAP PENINGKATAN KOMPETENSI GURU SEKOLAH DASAR DALAM ASPEK PEDAGOGIK DAN KEPRIBADIAN

This research aims to analyze the perceived benefits of microteaching in increasing the competence of elementary school teachers in pedagogical and personality aspects (Study of Unmus-UNY PPG Students). This is a quantitative descriptive research. The subjects of this research were active students who took part in Micro Teaching lessons at PPG Unmus-UNY, students who had completed the Microteaching course and elementary school principals as well as elementary school teachers who were certified as Teachers in the city of Merauke, with a total of approximately 30 respondents. The sampling technique uses purposive random sampling. Primary data is processed using simple statistics. Data collection was carried out in the form of FGD activities and the data was collected using a questionnaire which distributed via Google Form. The instrument used to obtain research data was by filling out a questionnaire. The data analysis technique used in this research is quantitative analysis. The type of scale used to measure data is the Likert scale. The results of this research found that the benefits of Microteaching for PPG–Unmus students provide great benefits in increasing competence in pedagogical and personality aspects. Most students, 75%, stated that they agreed with the benefits they received, while 0% said they disagreed.

Analysis of library resources and services in developing confidence for language use

Reading is a form of social activity that connects the readers to transformational learning. Library resources offer an opportunity to build competence in language use. In essence, the library resources can impact how students perceived reading as a channel to academic success, which in turn—develops a lifelong learner. This study was an exploratory study that analyzed how library resources and services develop confidence in language use. Eight (8) college students were purposively selected for one-on-one interview. The data gathered were narrative from college students on how they utilized resources from their local library. The findings suggested that college students considered their local library as a reliable site to search for information. In-depth analysis showed that students were confident in language use because their resources were reliable and accurate. Language use covered mostly phonological and morphological aspects of language, including lexicons, writing styles, and writing formats. Librarians had the role of encouraging the students to read contents from the library and assisting them in utilizing in-print and online contents. Library assistance enabled the students to build their ideas into meaningful developmental contents. This study provided an angle for language confidence, language success, and language competence. These components of language learning were essential in predicting the linguistic capacity of students.

Implementation of Blue Economy Policy in Tourism Sector in Aceh Province

Blue economy is a concept about economic activities in or through sea and fresh water. This includes all forms of marine tourism, coastal tourism and freshwater tourism activities, which significantly contribute to sustainable economic practices in the region. The qualitative method has a case study approach with Aceh Province as the research location. The research results show that the blue economy concept is one of the government's solutions to economic and environmental problems. In the process of implementing tourism policies that have a blue economy feel, the Aceh Provincial Government has great authority, which is contained in the Aceh Government's nine authorities, namely establishing a development master plan, coordinating tourism implementation, carrying out registration, recording and data collection on business registration, determining tourism destinations, facilitating promotion of tourism destinations and tourism products, maintaining assets, allocating budgets, forming unique teams to assist agencies. This study concludes that the tourism sector has made a significant contribution to the development of the blue economy concept, so the tourism sector must ensure that tourism-related activities are included in the planning and development of blue economy policies in the tourism sector in Aceh Province, such as minimizing waste, multiplier effect, social inclusion, and innovation and adaptive. This study suggests that the blue economy should be utilized as a conceptual resource so that academics and industry can better connect with the results of neighbouring blue sectors, understand and respond to transformations in blue spaces, and advocate for sustainable tourism in the aquatic world.

ANALYSIS OF THE PSYCHOLOGICAL FOUNDATION OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF LEARNING THE FOUR ARABIC LANGUAGE SKILLS

_______Abstract: This analysis is a form of research activity that aims to re-examine a data or actual situation in the hope of increasing understanding and encouraging educators' decision making to understand several areas of psychological foundation before carrying out the learning process. The focus this time is the relationship between the psychological foundation as well as its principles in learning and the relationship between the four Arabic language skills. This research seeks to understand and present from the most specific points to the most specific in the existing theme. The approach used this time is a descriptive-qualitative-based approach using the Document studies and content analysis methods. The results of this study will later provide an overview of the material and content related to how the relationship between the principles of a theory and the psychological foundation of each person with four Arabic language skills in the present and the future.

Dinamika Dagang dan Tasawuf Ekonomi Warga Keturunan Banjar di Tulunggagung

Dinamika Dagang dan Tasawuf Ekonomi Warga Keturunan Banjar di Tulunggagung

Unveiling Growth: Do Master's Degrees Propel Professional Development for English Teachers at All Experience Levels?

Unveiling Growth: Do Master's Degrees Propel Professional Development for English Teachers at All Experience Levels?

What is important and why? Students’ experience of educational activities including technologies

Digital technology is now a central part of higher education and has led to high expectations of increased student activity, engagement, and learning. Drawing on two research projects about Norwegian bachelor’s students, this article explores how they experience educational activities, including the use of technologies in on-campus courses. It is vital to understand this from the students’ point of view. Data have been gathered from qualitative group interviews and an online survey. The analysis draws on socio-cultural perspectives on learning, focusing on what forms of activities and technologies the students experienced as important and useful, or challenging, in various contexts. The results suggest that, despite extensive access to digital technologies, the students experience that activities that support physical encounters on campus, such as lectures and group work, are more important and beneficial than flexible digital solutions. Technologies are basically experienced as a supplement for handling academic demands. The possible implications this has for students’ experiences of educational activities and technology use, and teachers’ facilitation, are discussed. The overall intention is to highlight the significance of the students’ experiences, as well as contribute to more realistic institutional expectations for the pedagogical use of technology.