bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of extending expansive open-door laminoplasty to C1 and C2 on cervical sagittal parameters
Authors: Wang Wen-xuan , Zhao Yi-bo , Lu Xiang-dong , Zhao Xiao-feng , Jin Yuan-zhang , Chen Xian-wei , Fan Yan-xin , Wang Xiao-nan , Zhou Run-tian , Zhao Bin
Published: February 2020

Background

For patients with spinal canal stenosis in the upper cervical spine who undergo C3–7 laminoplasty alone, it remains impossible to achieve full decompression due to its limited range. This study explores the extension of expansive open-door laminoplasty (EODL) to C1 and C2 for the treatment of cervical spinal stenosis of the upper cervical spine and its effects on cervical sagittal parameters.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 33 patients presenting with symptoms of cervical spondylosis myelopathy (CSM) and ossification in the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) of the upper cervical spine from February 2013 to December 2015 was performed. Furthermore, the changes in the C0–2 Cobb angle, C1–2 Cobb angle, C2–7 Cobb angle, C2–7 SVA, and T1-Slope in lateral X-rays of the cervical spine were measured before, immediately after, and 1 year after the operation. JOA and NDI scores were used to evaluate spinal cord function.

Results

The C0–2 and C1–2 Cobb angles did not significantly increase (P = 0.190 and P = 0.081), but the C2–7 Cobb angle (P = 0.001), C2–7 SVA (P < 0.001), and T1-Slope (P < 0.001) significantly increased from preoperative to 1 year postoperative. In addition, C2–7 SVA was significantly correlated with the T1-Slope (Pearson = 0.376, P < 0.001) and C0–2 Cobb angle (Pearson = 0.287, P = 0.004), and the C2–7 SVA was negatively correlated with the C2–7 Cobb angle (Pearson = − 0.295, P < 0.001). The average preoperative and postoperative JOA scores were 8.3 ± 1.6 and 14.6 ± 1.4 points, respectively, indicating in a postoperative neurological improvement rate of approximately 91.6%. The average preoperative and final follow-up NDI scores were 12.62 ± 2.34 and 7.61 ± 1.23.

Conclusions

The sagittal parameters of patients who underwent EODL extended to C1 and C2 included loss of cervical curvature, increased cervical anteversion and compensatory posterior extension of the upper cervical spine to maintain visual balance in the field of vision. However, the changes in cervical spine parameters were far less substantial than the alarm thresholds reported in previous studies. We believe that EODL extended to C1 and C2 for the treatment of patients with spinal canal stenosis in the upper cervical spine is a feasible and safe procedure with excellent outcomes.
Contribution of a synchronic teleneurology program to decrease the patient number waiting for a first consultation and their waiting time in Chile
Authors: Constanzo Freddy , Aracena-Sherck Paula , Hidalgo Juan Pablo , Peña Lorena , Marrugo Mery , Gonzalez Jonathan , Vergara Gerardo , Alvarado Cristóbal
Published: February 2020

Backround

There is a shortage of medical specialists in Chile, including neurologists; currently, there are 56,614 patients waiting for a first adult Neurology appointment in the country. The Teleneurology Program at the Hospital Las Higueras de Talcahuano (HHT) was implemented in 2015 to help reduce both the number of patients waiting for a first consultation and their waiting times.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed a cohort of 8269 patients referred to the HHT Neurology clinic between 2013 and 2018, from primary, secondary, and tertiary health centers. Cox regression analyses were performed to determine the factors influencing each outcome (number of patients waiting for a consultation and waiting time), such as age, gender, referral health establishment and the type of consultation (whether in situ at the HHT or by synchronic telepresence through the Teleneurology Program).

Results

Out of the 8269 patients included in the study, 1743 consulted the neurologist through the Teleneurology Program, while 6526 received a consultation in situ at the HHT. Since its implementation (2015) until the end of 2018, the Teleneurology program contributed to decrease the number of patients waiting for their first appointment from 3084 to 298. Waiting time for the first consultation was 60% shorter for patients enrolled in the Teleneurology program than those with consultation in situ at HHT (6.23 ± 6.82 and 10.47 ± 8.70 months, respectively). Similar differences were observed when sorting patient data according to the referral health center. Cox regression analysis showed that patients waiting for a traditional in situ first adult Neurology consultation at the HHT had a higher risk (OR = 6.74) of waiting 90% longer than patients enrolled in the Teleneurology Program, without significant differences due to gender or age.

Conclusions

Data from this study show a significant contribution of the Teleneurology Program at the HHT to decrease the number of patients waiting for a first consultation with a neurologist, as well as shorter waiting times, when derived from primary and secondary health centers.
Maternal, neonatal, and child health systems under rapid urbanization: a qualitative study in a suburban district in Vietnam
Authors: Heo Jongho , Kim Seung Yun , Yi Jinseon , Yu Soo-Young , Jung Da Eun , Lee Sangmi , Jung Ju Youn , Kim Hyunsuk , Do Ngan , Lee Hwa-Young , Nam You-Seon , Hoang Van Minh , Luu Ngoc Hoat , Lee Jong-Koo , Tran Thi Giang Huong , Oh Juhwan
Published: February 2020

Background

Vietnam has been successful in increasing access to maternal, neonatal, and child health (MNCH) services during last decades; however, little is known about whether the primary MNCH service utilization has been properly utilized under the recent rapid urbanization. We aimed to examine current MNCH service utilization patterns at a district level.

Methods

The study was conducted qualitatively in a rural district named Quốc Oai. Women who gave a birth within a year and medical staff at various levels participated through 43 individual in-depth interviews and 3 focus group interviews.

Results

Primary MNCH services were underutilized due to a failure to meet increased quality needs. Most of the mothers preferred private clinics for antenatal care and the district hospital for delivery due to the better service quality of these facilities compared to that of the commune health stations (CHSs). Mothers had few sociocultural barriers to acquiring service information or utilizing services based on their improved standard of living. A financial burden for some services, including caesarian section, still existed for uninsured mothers, while their insured counterparts had relatively few difficulties.

Conclusions

For the improved macro-efficiency of MNCH systems, the government needs to rearrange human resources and/or merge some CHSs to achieve economies of scale and align with service volume distribution across the different levels.
Relationship between the number of hospital pharmacists and hospital pharmaceutical expenditure: a macro-level panel data model of fixed effects with individual and time
Authors: Wei Ming , Wang Xuemei , Zhang Dandan , Zhang Xinping
Published: February 2020

Background

The rapid increase in pharmaceutical expenditure (PE) has been a main problem of global healthcare reform for decades. Previous studies demonstrated that pharmacists play an indispensable role in controlling PE, but macro-research evidence is scarce. Exploring the role of pharmacists from a macro-perspective is essential for pharmacy source allocation with an advantage of extensive applicability over regions. This study aimed to explore the relationship between the number of hospital pharmacists and hospital PE and to provide a macro-perspective evidence to curb the increasing PE and decline unnecessary medications.

Methods

Data were extracted from China Health Statistics Yearbook from 2011 to 2018. A panel dataset with 31 provinces from 2010 to 2017 was constructed. Amongst them, ‘Number of hospital pharmacists per 1 million of population’ (HLPT) was selected as an independent variable, ‘Per visit of hospital outpatient pharmaceutical expenditure’ (OTPE) and ‘Per capita of hospital inpatient pharmaceutical expenditure’ (ITPE) were selected as dependent variables, and ‘Number of hospital physicians per 1 million of population’ (HLPN) and ‘Drug price index’ (DPI) were applied as control variables. Fixed-effect panel data analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between the number of hospital pharmacists and hospital PE.

Results

HLPT had a significant and negative relationships with OTPE (β1 = − 0.0893, p = 0.0132) and ITPE (β1 = − 4.924, p < 0.001). Considering the control variables, the significant and negative relationships with HLPT and OTPE remained unchanged (β1 = − 0.141, p < 0.001; β1 = − 4.771, p < 0.001, respectively), indicating that an increase in hospital pharmacist per 1 million of population led to a decrease of ¥474 million ($67.4 million) OTPE and ¥902 million ($128 million) ITPE in 2017. Overall, in 2017, an increase of 1 hospital pharmacist led to a decrease of approximately ¥1 million ($142 thousands) hospital PE nationwide.

Conclusion

This study confirmed the negative relationship between hospital pharmacists and hospital PE, indicating that hospital pharmacists might play a significant role in controlling PE. Pharmacists were encouraged to participate in more drug-therapy-related activities, such as medication reconciliation.
Anti-apoptotic proteins in the autophagic world: an update on functions of XIAP, Survivin, and BRUCE
Authors: Cheung Chun Hei Antonio , Chang Yung-Chieh , Lin Tzu-Yu , Cheng Siao Muk , Leung Euphemia
Published: February 2020

X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP), survivin, and BRUCE are members of the inhibitor-of-apoptosis protein (IAP) family known for their inhibitory effects on caspase activity and dysregulation of these molecules has widely been shown to cause embryonic defects and to promote tumorigenesis in human. Besides the anti-apoptotic functions, recent discoveries have revealed that XIAP, survivin, and BRUCE also exhibit regulatory functions for autophagy in cells. As the role of autophagy in human diseases has already been discussed extensively in different reviews; in this review, we will discuss the emerging autophagic role of XIAP, survivin, and BRUCE in cancer cells. We also provide an update on the anti-apoptotic functions and the roles in maintaining DNA integrity of these molecules. Second mitochondria-derived activator of caspases (Smac) is a pro-apoptotic protein and IAPs are the molecular targets of various Smac mimetics currently under clinical trials. Better understanding on the functions of XIAP, survivin, and BRUCE can enable us to predict possible side effects of these drugs and to design a more “patient-specific” clinical trial for Smac mimetics in the future.
Social science research contributions to antimicrobial resistance: protocol for a scoping review
Authors: Vedadhir Abou Ali , Rodrigues Carla , Lambert Helen
Published: February 2020

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an escalating global health issue with complex and dynamic interdependencies, high uncertainty and decision stakes, multiple drivers and stakeholders with diverse values and interests, and various aspects and outcomes. Addressing and combating this critical global challenge requires the formation and establishment of an interdisciplinary research approach that goes beyond the biosciences principally concerned with antimicrobial resistance to include other relevant natural and social sciences. The objective of this study will be to review and map existing social science knowledge and literature relating to antimicrobial resistance.

Methods

The review team will undertake the scoping review using the Arksey and O'Malley methodological framework and also the Joanna Briggs Institute methods manual. Publications in English (from 1998 onwards) will be searched using several databases including PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, Anthropological Plus, Sociological Abstracts, International Bibliography of the Social Sciences (IBSS), PsycINFO and EconLit. Grey literature will also be searched (e.g. Google Scholar). Two reviewers will independently screen all citations, full-text articles, and abstract data. Publication types will include original articles, editorials, commentaries, protocols, and books in the social science research literature on AMR. All study designs (quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods) will be included. A PRISMA Flow Diagram of search and study selection will be used to report final figures on included and excluded studies. To provide a descriptive summary of the literature, data will be collated, stored, and charted using Microsoft Excel software. The analysis will also involve identifying themes and gaps in the existing literature and summarizing, describing and displaying all pertinent information using thematic construction approaches including qualitative content analysis methods.

Discussion

This protocol describes a systematic method to identify, map, and synthesize social science research evidence on antimicrobial resistance. By mapping evidence and identifying potential knowledge gaps where further research is warranted, the resulting scoping review will provide useful insights for the design, implementation, and reorientation of future research agendas on AMR at multiple levels.

Systematic review registration: This protocol has been registered with the Open Science Framework (OSF):https://osf.io/hyaem.
CIES: Cloud-based Intelligent Evaluation Service for video homework using CNN-LSTM network
Authors: Song Rui , Xiao Zhiyi , Lin Jinjiao , Liu Ming
Published: February 2020

Video (used as a form of examination or homework) as an efficient approach for examining students’ abilities is drawing increasing attention in the education field. How to assess video assignments effectively and accurately has become a significant topic in academia. This work proposes a method based on a multi-channel CNN-LSTM hybrid architecture to extract and classify image features such as students’ actions and expressions, as well as audio features such as speech rates and pauses in the video assignments, and then conducts a two-category assessment of “qualified” or “unqualified”. Additionally, build this system in a cloud computing environment as a Cloud-based Intelligent Evaluation Service application could provide universal service to meet the needs of multiple teaching units. The proposed method is shown to be feasible and effective through experiments.
The relationship between financial development and income inequality in Turkey
Authors: Destek Mehmet Akif , Sinha Avik , Sarkodie Samuel Asumadu
Published: February 2020

Reducing income inequality and enhancing access to financial institutions play a vital role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goal 10, especially in developing countries. While there are studies on the nexus between financial development and economic growth, literature on financial development–income inequality nexus is limited and lack consensus. This paper examined the different dimensions of financial development on income inequality for the period 1990 to 2015 in Turkey. For this purpose, four financial development indices (i.e., overall financial development index, banking sector development index, stock market development index, and bond market development index) were constructed with principal component analysis (PCA). In addition to financial development indicators, the impact of real income, government expenditures, and inflation on income inequality were investigated using the ARDL bound testing procedure. The results showed that increasing real income and government expenditures reduce income inequality. We found a positive impact of inflation on income inequality in the short run, while the reverse holds in the long run. In the case of financial development, an inverted U-shaped relationship with income inequality for overall financial development and banking sector development was confirmed. A monotonically decreasing relationship between stock market development and income inequality was found in Turkey. The study highlights that the implementation of policies that eradicate discriminatory laws and facilitate equal access to financial privileges will promote equity and decline the outcomes of income inequality.
Correction to: The biomechanics and applications of strongman exercises: a systematic review
Authors: Hindle Benjamin R. , Lorimer Anna , Winwood Paul , Keogh Justin W. L.
Published: February 2020

The original article [1] contained an error whereby the symbol ‘☼’ originally included in and below Tables 2–5 did not display properly.
Palliative Care and the Management of Common Distressing Symptoms in Advanced Cancer: Pain, Breathlessness, Nausea and Vomiting, and Fatigue
Authors: Henson Lesley A. , Maddocks Matthew , Evans Catherine , Davidson Martin , Hicks Stephanie , Higginson Irene J.
Published: February 2020

Good symptom management in oncology is associated with improved patient and family quality of life, greater treatment compliance, and may even offer survival advantages. With population growth and aging, the proportion of patients with multiple symptoms—both related and unrelated to their cancer—is anticipated to increase, supporting calls for a more routine and integrated approach to symptom management. This article presents a summary of the literature for the use of symptom assessment tools and reviews the management of four common and distressing symptoms commonly experienced by people with advanced cancer: pain, breathlessness, nausea and vomiting, and fatigue. We also discuss the role of palliative care in supporting a holistic approach to symptom management throughout the cancer trajectory.
Root mass may affect soil water infiltration more strongly than the incorporated residue
Authors: Oda Masato , Rasyid Burhanuddin , Omae Hide
Published: February 2020

This Brief Report includes a single-finding that is reported with descriptions of an unexpected observation. Crop residue incorporation increases stable soil pores and soil water infiltration, consequently, reduces surface water runoff and soil erosion. However, to our knowledge, quantitative studies for the relation between incorporated residue and infiltration rate has not been conducted. We examined the relationship between the quantity of crop residue of the prior crop and the water infiltration rate. We continuously grew corn (cleaning crop), rhodes grass, and okra under greenhouses. The water infiltration rate was measured on the ridge at similar soil moisture conditions, on the day incorporating the prior crop residue. A correlation between the quantity of incorporated residue and the soil water infiltration rate was not constant; because, the infiltration rate per incorporated residue was irregularly low when it had no prior crop. By contrast, aboveground biomass of the prior crop showed a stronger correlation with water infiltration rate ( r = 0.965), without outliers. Furthermore, the correlation was weakened ( r = 0.872) by the treatment affected the soil moisture that affects the root mass. Previous studies have revealed the positive relation between plant root mass and soil erosion resistance. Our data also show a positive relationship between resistance to erosion and root mass when assuming that the aboveground biomass is proportional to the underground biomass. The result also showed that the effect of the prior crop root mass disappears within the next crop period. This suggests that maintaining a large root mass is crucial for reducing soil erosion.
METHODS FOR REGULATING VARIOUS MYCOSIS OF SPRING WHEAT SEEDS OF YOLDYZ VARIETY IN THE ANCESTRY OF THE REPUBLIC OF TATARSTAN
Authors: Serzhanov Igor , Shaykhutdinov Farit , Serzhanova Al'bina , Garaev Razil
Published: February 2020

The article discusses the investigation’s results to study the effect of pre-sowing seed treatment with various reagents in their pure form, as well as in a mixture on the quality of spring wheat seeds of Yoldiz variety, included in the state registry for the 7th region in 2015. Before processing the seeds with various reagents, the species composition was studied, and features of the development of mycosis of spring wheat seeds were proposed ways to protect wheat from the most common diseases. Based on three-year experimental data, the high efficiency of tank mixtures, studied preparations for presowing seed treatment, was established. Field experiments to evaluate the effects of various chemicals were carried out in 2016-2018 on the experimental field of Plant Production Department of Kazan State Agrarian University. The following options were studied: 1) control - without seed treatment; 2) Kinto-Duo disinfectant - 2 liters per 1 ton of seeds; 3) albite - a natural growth stimulator based on polybeta-hydroxyl butyric acid, obtained from microorganisms; 4) ZhUSS-2 - copper-molybdenum containing chelate complex; 5) Tank mixture of the treating agent Kinto Duo + Albit, 30 g/t of seeds; 6) Tank mixture of the protectant Kinto Duo + ZhUSS-2 2 l/t. The flow rate of the working fluid is 10 t/t of seeds. Processing was carried out on a Mobitox super machine.
INFLUENCE OF HUMIC ACID (HEMO BLES) ON PLANTS’ GROWTH OF TOMATO (LYCOPERSICON ESCULENTUM)
Authors: Suliman Ahmad , Abramov Aleksandr , Shalamova Anna
Published: February 2020

This article presents the results of two years of research (2017-2018) on the effects of the growth regulator Hemo bles (humic acid - 85%) on the growth, development and productivity of tomato plants in greenhouses. The object of study is the tomato Big Beef F1. Middle-ripening, indeterminate type. Tomatoes were grown according to generally accepted technology in greenhouse conditions. When studying the effect of humic acid on tomato plants, the treatment was carried out in concentrations (250 mg/l, 500 mg/l, 700 mg/l), 3 times, with an interval of 30 days. This experiment was aimed at studying the effect of spraying with humic acid (Hemo bles) on the vegetative growth, flowering and fruiting of a tomato. Spraying of plants was carried out after 30, 60 and 90 days. Data collection: Ten plants from each repetition (out of 3) were selected to measure the following parameters: plant height (cm), number of leaves per plant, leaf area index LAI (m2/plant), chlorophyll content (chromometer) and fruit weight (g). Biochemical properties were evaluated at the stage of fruit ripening; dry matter was calculated by weighing the fruits before drying and after drying at 105° C; ascorbic acid (AA) was determined by 2,6-dichlorophenolindophenol. As a result of studies, it was found that the use of humic acid increases the productivity of tomato plants.
ESTIMATION OF EFFICIENCY OF SPRING BARLEY FOLIAR NUTRITION BY AGRIS NITROGEN
Authors: Vahitova Leysan , Karimova Liliya , Safin Radik
Published: February 2020

The effectiveness of foliar fertilizing of Agris nitrogen on gray forest soils of Kama region of the Republic of Tatarstan was studied for three years. The studies were carried out with single and double treatment of plants with a water flow rate of 200 liter per hectare. With a single application, spraying with fertilizer was carried out in the tillering phase or in the earing phase of barley. When applied twice, the plants were treated in the tillering phase and in the heading phase. Agris nitrogen was used in different standards - 1, 2 and 3 liter per hectare. Twice treatment with Agris nitrogen of different consumption rates, in comparison with a single application, increases the number of grains in the ear. The use of Agris nitrogen did not have a positive effect on reducing the development of dark brown leaf spot, and during treatment in the heading phase, some stimulation of plant damage was noted. Agris nitrogen provided a significant increase in productivity under the influence of application. Twice treatment with Agris nitrogen with norms of 2 and 3 liter per hectare increased productivity by about 25%. At the same time, an increase in the accumulation of nitrogen in plants is noted, the economic removal of macronutrients increases, and the protein’s content in the grain increases. The maximum net income from 1 hectare was obtained by applying Agris nitrogen twice as top dressing with a norm of 2.0 liter per hectare, but by the level of profitability, options with spraying in the tillering phase with norms of 2-3 liter per hectare were distinguished. Given the increase in yield and an increase in the protein content of grain, the optimal option for feeding Agris nitrogen on spring feed barley was double feeding with a norm of 2.0 liter per hectare.
HOMEOSTATICITY AND ADAPTIVITY OF PEA VARIETIES OF DIFFERENT MORPHOTYPES
Authors: Davletov Firzinat , Ahmadullina Il'siyar , Safin Fidan , Gaynullina Karina
Published: February 2020

The main source of vegetable protein in world production is legumes, including peas (Pisum sativum L.). The creation of new highly productive pea varieties, adapted to local conditions, will solve the problem of food and feed protein. Modern varieties also should be characterized by high homeostaticity and stable productivity in a changing climate. The aim of the study was to study the homeostaticity of pea varieties on the basis of grain yield in the southern forest-steppe of the Republic of Bashkortostan. The studies were conducted on the experimental field of Soil Science, Botany and Plant Breeding Department at the Educational and Scientific Center of Bashkir State Agrarian University in 2009-2018. The soil of the experimental plot is leached chernozem of heavy loam granulometric composition. During the research years weather conditions were contrasting. The object of the study was the following pea varieties: Chishminsky 95, Chishminsky 229, Aksaysky usatuy 55 and in memory of Khangildin. Grain yield was recorded. The overall homeostaticity of the varieties (Hom) was determined. In our studies, the grain productivity of the studied pea varieties varied greatly from year to year. On average, over 10 years, the varieties Chishminsky 229 and a variety in memory of Khangildin were the most productive, and the least productive was Aksaysky usatuy 55 variety. Data analysis showed that the variety has a limiting effect on crop yield resistance to environmental stress factors. Varieties Chishminsky 229 (Hom = 36.6), in memory of Khangildin (Hom = 36.5) were characterized by the highest index of homeostaticity, and the variety Aksaysky usatuy 55 (Hom = 26.5) was the least. The varieties of Chishminsky 229 (Sc = 3.44), in memory of Khangildin (Sc = 3.35) and Chishminsky 95 (Sc = 3.38) possessed the highest breeding value.
Do online quizzes enhance performance in a summative assessment? An experience in the area of Accounting
Authors: Fuertes Fuertes Iluminada , Gill de Albornoz Noguer Belén , Viciano Romero Juan José
Published: February 2020

Son muchas las ventajas de los cuestionarios online como herramienta de evaluación. Pero, como todas las actividades desarrolladas a través de plataformas virtuales, escapan al control del docente, lo que podría reducir su eficacia si no se diseñan adecuadamente (Humphrey y Beard, 2014: 250). El objetivo de este trabajo es describir la experiencia en una asignatura de contabilidad con un sistema de evaluación que combina la evaluación continua mediante cuestionarios online y exámenes parciales con el tradicional examen final, y analizar si los cuestionarios online tienen un efecto en el rendimiento académico incremental al de los exámenes parciales. Se implementa el procedimiento de Heckman para analizar la relación entre el rendimiento en las distintas actividades de evaluación continua y el rendimiento en el examen final, utilizando datos de tres años académicos. Los resultados sugieren que el rendimiento en los cuestionarios online está positiva y significativamente relacionado con el rendimiento en el examen final, aunque su efecto marginal es menor que el de los exámenes parciales. La relación solo se observa para los estudiantes que aprueban el examen y en las partes que contienen preguntas del mismo tipo que los cuestionarios. Curiosamente, una encuesta revela que los estudiantes perciben los cuestionarios online como el elemento de la asignatura que más contribuye a su aprendizaje
Personal narratives of nurses who care for patients at the end of life
Authors: Pérez-Vega María Elena , Cibanal-Juan Luis
Published: February 2020

Background:

Little attention has been paid to the ways in which nurses personally experience, understand and assign meaning to providing palliative care.

Aim:

A qualitative study of four nurses working with patients in the terminal phase in a hospital in Mexico was conducted to understand their lived professional experiences and relationships with death.

Methods:

Four interviews were analysed using the Greimasian actantial-semiotic model. Actants were categorised by narrative role and their actions were analysed. The grammatical features of the narration were also examined.

Findings:

Nurses sought a good death for the patient, which they typically achieved, and spiritual peace for themselves, which they often did not. Nurses placed a high value on personal, social and professional recognition for their work. The philosophical themes affecting nursing as a vocation that emerged included life and death, truth and honesty and the role of God and the family. These professional values were often contradictory, and these dilemmas should be addressed in professional training and support.
The practicalities of blood pressure measurement in children
Authors: Brennan Eileen
Published: February 2020

The accurate measurement of children's blood pressure is essential to guide the diagnosis and management of hypertension and other blood pressure-related risks. However, the traditional methods of measurement using a sphygmomanometer and stethoscope have largely been superseded by the use of electronic monitor; however, their use in the diagnosis of hypertension in children is not recommended for children
Working together to improve kidney care: an update on KQuIP activity
Authors: Gair Rachel
Published: February 2020

The Kidney Quality Improvement Partnership (KQuIP) aims to develop quality improvement and leadership in the UK Kidney community. The BRS is one of the partner organisations of KQuIP. In this article, Rachel Gair, the KQuIP programme lead updates on recent activity and achievements
Understanding vitamin B12 and folate deficiency
Authors: Perry Margaret
Published: February 2020

Vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies are common and have a big impact on sufferers' lives. Margaret Perry provides an overview of the causes of, and treatments for, these conditions

Vitamin B12 and folate are essential for a number of physiological functions in the body. Deficiency of vitamin B12 is relatively common and prevalence increases with age. Folate deficiency is less common, but still clinically significant. Diagnosis can often be problematic as many of the symptoms patients present with are shared with other conditions and can easily be attributed to other causes. Mild deficiency of B12 may cause no symptoms until it has progressed to be more severe. Interpretation of B12 levels is extremely difficult as there is no clinically normal level. Diagnosis can be easily overlooked, but correct treatment has the ability to transform sufferer's lives in terms of improving energy levels and preventing further complications.
Research Roundup
Authors: Winter George
Published: February 2020

George Winter provides an overview of recently published articles of interest to practice nurses. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided.
Short Communication: Mosses from Laiwangi-Wanggameti National Park, Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Authors: Windadri Florentina Indah , Rosalina Dewi
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Windadri F I, Rosalina D. 2020. Short Communication: Mosses from Laiwangi-Wanggameti National Park, Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 21: 538-545. Sumba Island is an island within the Lesser Sunda Islands. Despite the high diversity and the uniqueness of the area, research to explore the biodiversity in the national park have been rarely conducted. This study was aimed to do inventory of mosses diversity in Laiwangi-Wanggameti National Park, Sumba Island, East Nusa Tenggara Province to enrich the limited information regarding biodiversity in the region. The inventory was done using explorative methods at two research sites (i.e. Laiwangi and Wanggameti), mainly around lake, along river banks, stream banks, site of mount tracking trail and forests. All the mosses found in the study site were collected and then identified based on existing literature and herbarium records. We found 33 species of mosses belonging to 24 genera and 16 families. There were 22 species that shared similarity between Sumba Island and the Lesser Sunda Islands. We proposed that there were 11species of mosses as new records of their distribution in the Lesser Sunda Islands. The ecology and taxonomical status of mosses in the study sites were also described in this paper.
Characterization and host range assessment of Dickeya zeae associated with pineapple soft rot disease in East Lampung, Indonesia
Authors: Aeny Titik Nur , Suharjo Radix , Ginting Cipta , Hapsoro Dwi , Niswati Ainin
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Aeny TN, Suharjo R, Ginting C, Hapsoro D, Niswati A. 2020. Characterization and host range assessment of Dickey zeae associated with pineapple soft rot disease in East Lampung, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 21: 587-595. The study aims to characterize the Dickeya zeae associated with pineapple soft rot in East Lampung, Indonesia and to assess the bacterial host range. From the blister-like lesion-symptom, bacteria were isolated with the morphological characteristics: circular, convex, cream white milk-colored, with diameter colonies ranging from 1-2 mm in diameter. Two strains (N-Unila 5 and N-Unila 10) were selected for further investigation including pathogenicity test on pineapple seedling, species identification by phenotypic characteristics and molecular techniques using sequence analysis of 16SrDNA, recA, and dnaX as well as host range test on 25 different plant species. The result of the pathogenicity test showed similar symptoms to those observed in the field. Physiological and biochemical characterization revealed that the two isolates were Gram-negative bacteria, fermentative, lecithinase positive, non-fluorescent on King’s B medium, able to grow on YDC medium at 41oC, did not produce H2S and did not grow in the presence of 5% NaCl. The isolates capable of using Myo-inositol, M-tartrate, mannitol, L-tartrate, lactose, glycerol, D-melibiose, D-arabinose, citrate, and cis-aconitic acid but did not utilize starch, S-ketoglucanate, L-ascorbic acid, inulin, folic acid, D-raffinose and tartrate as a sole carbon source. Phenotypic characteristics indicated that the strains were in the group of Dickeya spp. bv. 3 (phenon 1). Sequence analysis of 16S rDNA, recA, and dnaX revealed that the strains were placed in the same cluster with the reference strain of D. zeae. Host range assessment showed positive soft rot symptoms in Aloe vera, chinese cabbage, dragon-fruit, eggplant, lettuce, and welsh onion that have never been reported before.
Short Communication: Prolactin and x-collagen genes polymorphism in Central Javanese local ducks, Indonesia
Authors: Susanti R , Ari Yuniastuti
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Susanti R, Yuniastuti A. 2020. Short Communication: Prolactin and x-collagen genes polymorphism in Central Javanese local ducks, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 21: 605-610. Genetic conservation is an effective approach to preserve unique and protected species in Indonesia, including indigenous duck (Anas platyrhynchos Linnaeus, 1758). One of the most important things is an identification effort by studying genetic characteristics to support genetic resource conservation programs. This study aim was to analyze the genetic polymorphisms of Central Javanese local duck based on prolactin (PRL) and collagen-x (COLX) genes. A total of 35 local ducks in Central Java was collected as samples, the duck’s calamus feathers were taken for tissue DNA isolation. Polymorphism analysis of PRL and COLX genes were performed using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers and PCR-RFLP method. The amplicons were then digested with DraI restriction enzyme (AhaIII) (5'TTT/ AAA) for PRL gene, and HaeIII (BsuRI) enzyme (5'GG/ CC-3 ') for COLX gene. The genotype was determined based on RFLP PCR amplicon band results from each target gene. For each gene, data on genotype frequencies, allele frequencies, expected heterozygosities (HE), and Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium were analyzed using PopGene32 software. Based on the PRL gene, there were 25 ducks (71.43%) with BB genotype and 10 ducks (28.57%) with AB genotype. While based on the COLX gene, as many as 25 ducks (71.43%) had TT genotypes, 9 ducks (25.71%) had TC types and 1 duck (1.86%) had CC types. Both PRL and COLX genotypes were clustered the Central Javanese local ducks into 5 haplotypes (A-E). The high allele frequency has belonged to B allele (85.71%) of the PRL gene and T allele (84.25%) of the COLX gene that showed high egg production and quality. Allele B (PRL gene) and T allele (COLX gene) could be predicted as weight eggs’ alleles marker.
Modelling potential current distribution and future dispersal of an invasive species Calliandra calothyrsus in Bali Island, Indonesia
Authors: Yudaputra Angga
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Yudaputra A. 2020. Modelling potential current distribution and future dispersal of an invasive species Calliandra calothyrsus in Bali Island, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 21: 674-682.  Calliandra calothyrsus Meisn. is relatively well-adapted in abandoned areas, degraded lands, and poor nutrient soils. It tends to reproduce rapidly and be invasive in certain landscapes as it often dominates the vegetation. This study aimed to understand the potential current distribution and the population dispersal of C. calothyrsus across Bali Island using Random Forest (RF) and Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) models. Thirteen environmental variables, including several climatic variables, topography, soil characteristics were used as predictors. The occurrence records of C. calothyrsus were obtained from direct field survey in which square plots 10 x 10 m were used to collect the population structure data. The Rangeshifter software was used to understand the population dynamic and dispersal pattern. The results showed that the two models (RF and MaxEnt) have the AUC>0.9 which means those models are excellent in predicting the potential current distribution of C. calothyrsus. Furthermore, the RF model has the TSS and Kappa value of >0.90 which means it has almost perfect agreement between the prediction and the real observation. On the other hand, the TSS and Kappa value of MaxEnt were >0.70 indicating it has a substantial agreement. The population structure in the field showed that the number of juvenile individuals dominated all plots compared to seedlings and mature individuals. The simulation analysis showed that the population tends to have bigger population in the next 50 years by dispersing throughout neighbor cells or areas in which the origin occurrence points were recorded.
Short Communication: Duration and volume of crowing of Pelung chickens of West Java, Indonesia
Authors: INDRAWATI Y. ASMARA  , DANI GARNIDA  , Partasasmita Ruhyat
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Asmara IY, Garnida D, Partasasmita R. 2020. Short Communication: Duration and volume of crowing of Pelung chickens of West Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 21: 748-752. Pelung are long crowing chickens originally from West Java Province, Indonesia. The chickens are raised as singing birds due to their beautiful crowing capability. Nowadays, the chickens are distributed not only in West Java, Indonesia but also in other provinces in Indonesia because of the existence of Pelung contests. The contests evaluate singing ability of Pelung chickens and are important promotion media for the birds. In contests, crowing characteristics such as duration and intensity are important factors to determine the quality of chickens. Some factors such as age, body weight, and body morphometrics are assumed to influence crowing characteristics. The study was aimed to determine crowing duration and volume in Pelung roosters, as well as correlations of age, body weight and body morphometrics with crowing characteristics. A survey was performed to collect data involving 73 birds in two areas in West Java Province. The research locations are Cianjur and Sukabumi Districts. The results showed that roosters in all areas have similar crowing durations, while their crowing intensities are varied. The study also found that age and body weight, as well as some body-morphometries, have strong correlations with crowing characteristics. The research provides empirical evidence of factors determining vocal performance of Pelung chickens. However, more samples from different areas are required to support these findings. In addition, research on management systems, health status and participation of chickens in rehearsal is needed in the future.
Isolation and selection of maize plants rhizobacteria with the potential of entomopathogens against Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Nelly Novri , Khairul Ujang , Yulia Lestari Ade , Hamid Hasmiandy , Syahrawati My
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Nelly N, Khairul U, Putri AY, Hamid H, Syahrawati MY. 2020. Isolation and selection of maize plants rhizobacteria with the potential of entomopathogens against Spodoptera litura F (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Biodiversitas 21: 753-758.  Spodoptera litura is a polyphagous pest that can be controlled with entomopathogen. Furthermore, Rhizobacteria derived from the rhizosphere of corn plants are expected to control this pest. This research, therefore, was conducted to obtain the entomopathogenic rhizobacteria to control S. litura derived from the rhizosphere of corn plants. Data sampling was carried out at corn plantations in West Pasaman Regency, while Isolation, selection, and testing of S. litura were conducted at the Biological Control Laboratory of the Plant Protection Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Andalas University. The method uses serial glowing techniques cultured on Nutrient Agar (NA) media, with the selected isolates tested for their ability as an entomopathogen against S. litura. The feed dip method given to S. litura larvae was used to test for rhizobacteria virulence determination with entomopathogen, used to observe the larvae mortality rate, percentage of pupae, and adult formed. Furthermore, observation of morphological and physiological characters was conducted on entomopathogenic rhizobacteria, with hypersensitive testing conducted on Mirabilis jalapa plants. The results of rhizobacterial isolation from corn rhizosphere obtained 12 entomopathogenic isolates. Deadly larvae of S. litura 51-91.11%, 0.00-8.89% pupae, and 0.00- 6.67% adult were formed. The gram test results obtained approximately 8;4 positive (+) and four negative isolates (-), respectively. Hypersensitivity test results found that one of 12 isolates caused necrotic reactions in Mirabilis jalapa. Therefore, a total of 11 rhizobacteria isolates are entomopathogenic and safe to be used as S. litura biological control agents.
Short Communication: Preliminary characterization of groundcherry (Physalis angulata) from East Java Province, Indonesia based on morpho-agronomic traits
Authors: Sadiyah Halimatus , Soegianto Andy , Waluyo Budi , Ashari Sumeru
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Sadiyah H, Soegianto A, Waluyo B, Ashari S. 2020. Short Communication: Preliminary characterization of groundcherry (Physalis angulata) from East Java Province, Indonesia based on morpho-agronomic traits. Biodiversitas 21: 759-769. Accurate knowledge of the genetic relationships between different germplasms is important for successful crop improvement programs through breeding. This work aimed to i) characterize the groundcherry germplasm collected from the field of eastern Java and Madura Island based on their morpho-agronomic performance, ii) investigate the relationships among the different germplasms, and iii) verify whether simultaneous analysis of quantitative-qualitative data (joint analysis) can reveal new clustering patterns. A total of 26 quantitative and 31 qualitative traits were measured and evaluated for 28 accessions. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to select variables that had significant loading, based on a t-test, for inclusion in cluster analysis. The first clustering method was the Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic Mean (UPGMA), which only involved quantitative variables using the Manhattan distance. This method was followed by a joint analysis using Gower dissimilarity. Nonparametric multivariate analysis of variance test showed that four clusters were the optimum number for both methods, but the clusters for each method had different members. The coefficient of variation ranged from 3.9 (fruit pH) to 45.5 (productivity per plant), indicating that improvement in the productivity in groundcherry was promising. The mean values of the morpho-agronomic traits for accessions from eastern Java and Madura Island were not significantly different, except for fruit firmness and the mean length of two internodes. In general, geographic isolation did not have much influence on the characteristics of an accession, since there were accessions from these two regions that were members of the same group, identified by the clustering analysis.
Spatial distribution and habitat characteristics of Macadamia hildebrandii in the Sintuwu Maroso Protection Forest, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Akhbar  , SITI NURYANTI  , NAHARUDDIN
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Akhbar, Nuryanti S, Naharuddin. 2020. Spatial distrubution and habitat characteristics of Macadamia hildebrandii in the Sintuwu Maroso Protection Forest, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 21: 770-779. Research on the spatial distribution of Macadamia hildebrandii Steen (haleka) tree species is one of the important stages in the preservation of Sulawesi's endemic plants. The purpose of this research was to obtain information regarding the spatial distribution of M. hildebrandii in the area of Sintuwu Maroso Forest Management Unit, Central Sulawesi and the relationship between its occurrence with habitat characteristics in term of land and climate variables. Data was collected by establishing sampling plots using stratified systematic sampling based on land cover, namely primary and secondary dryland forests. Index of dispersion was used to calculate the distance between population while the chi-square test was used to investigate the relationship between M. hildebrandii population and variables of land and climate. The results showed that the M. hildebrandii trees mostly grew in the mountain rain zone ecosystem, clumped in groups according to the characteristics of the dominant natural habitat. The important characteristics of its habitat were it had red-yellow podzolic-lithosol soil type, altitude of ≥ 1,500 m asl, slope class of ≥ 25%, middle slope aspect, tineba volcano rock formation (which is volcanic sedimentary rocks), metamorphic parent material, secondary dryland forests, and rainfall of 1,600-2,000 mm/year. The results of study can be used as baseline information for the conservation and sustainable utilization, including cultivation, of M. hildebrandii especially in the montane zone of rain forest ecosystem in Sulawesi.