bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ISIM Achievements Regarding Friction Stir Welding in Inert Gas Environment
Authors: Botila Lia-Nicoleta , Cojocaru Radu
Published: June 2022

Friction stir welding (FSW) is an important research direction within ISIM Timisoara. Also within ISIM Timisoara, in addition to the classic FSW welding, processes and methods derived from FSW were also approached. Those processes and methods include friction stir processing (FSP), coatings with functional layers by friction, conventional friction riveting and friction riveting with hybrid effect, hybrid welding methods: TIG assisted friction stir welding FSW-TIG and ultrasonic assisted friction stir welding FSW-US. Recent research were focused on a new method of applying the FSW process, namely friction stir welding in inert gas environment (FSW-IG). Results obtained by ISIM in the field of FSW-IG welding are presented: data / information on solutions for applying inert gas in the welding area, as well as experimental results obtained for FSW-IG welding of DD13 steel, Cu99 copper and AZ31B magnesium alloy respectively. The solutions for providing shielding gas in the welding area were analyzed, verified and validated by experiment. The experimental welding programs generated the necessary data for the development of the FSW-IG welding technologies for the approached materials. By applying FSW-IG welding there was an improvement in the aspect of the welded joints and for some of mechanical characteristics (as the case may be) compared to the application of classic FSW welding. The use of shielding gas also had beneficial effects on the service life of FSW tools.
New Results Regarding the Cavitation Destruction Behavior of Heat-Treated CuSn12-C Bronze with Different Parameters
Authors: Salcianu Cornelia Laura , Ghera Cristan , Duma Sebastian Titus , Alexa Daniela , Bordeasu Ilare , Sîrbu Nicuşor Alin , Podoleanu Corneliu Eusebiu , Pîrvulescu Liviu Daniel , Bazavan Dumitru Viorel , Hadar Anton , Mălaimare Gabriel , Micu Lavinia Madalina
Published: June 2022

The present paper analyzes the differences in behavior and resistance to erosion through vibrating cavitation, between the bronze structures CuSn-12C resulting from two volumetric thermal treatments of hardening and tempering. The analysis was performed on the basis of macro and microscopic images, as well as on the basis of the histogram in which the values ​​of the reference parameters used in the laboratory custom and prescribed by the international norms ASTM G32-2016 are compared. This shows the dependence of the degree of erosion as a function of the temperature of tempering heat treatment, after hardening, as a result of microstructural changes and the hardness of the surface attacked by cavitation. The experimental research is performed on the standard vibrating device within the Cavitation Erosion Research Laboratory of the Politehnica University of Timișoara.
Implementing a Standardized Communication Tool in an Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Murphy Margaret , Engel Jill R. , McGugan Lynn , McKenzie Rebecca , Thompson Julie A. , Turner Kathleen M.
Published: June 2022

Background

Effective communication is essential in critical care settings. Use of the SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) tool has been shown to standardize and improve communication among health care providers.

Local Problem

This quality improvement project was designed to improve communication in an intensive care unit that lacked a standardized communication protocol. Communication practices differed greatly between nurses and advanced practice providers. As a result, patient safety was put at risk owing to incomplete, inaccurate, or delayed information when clinical concerns were reported or escalated.

Methods

This project used a pre-post design in which surveys were used to gather information on staff perceptions of communication and collaboration between nurses and advanced practice providers before and after an educational intervention. The 2 groups received identical education on SBAR guidelines adapted for use in the intensive care unit setting and patient safety.

Results

Results showed improvement in all areas of communication. Significant improvements were found on the General Perceptions subscale among advanced practice providers (P = .04) and among nurses (P = .007). In the combined study population, improvements were observed on all subscales, with significant results for the Open Communication (P = .03) and General Perceptions (P = .002) subscales. A significant increase was found in the percentage of nurses using the SBAR tool after the intervention (95%) compared with before the intervention (66%; P < .001).

Conclusion

Implementation of the SBAR communication tool significantly improved general perceptions of communication in this intensive care unit.
Postoperative Nursing Care of a Deceased Donor Tracheal Transplant Recipient
Authors: Illuzzi Ella , Wells Celia , Hackett Anna , Ricco Darlene , Haran Anne , Gittens Christal , Sevillano Maria , Castro Meryl , Develleres Eva , Ramos Mardisa Samson , Zhang Ziya , Oropello John , Kohli-Seth Roopa
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Certain airway disorders, such as tracheal stenosis, can severely affect the ability to breathe, reduce quality of life, and increase morbidity and mortality. Treatment options for long-segment tracheal stenosis include multistage tracheal replacement with biosynthetic material, autotransplantation, and allotransplantation. These interventions have not demonstrated long-term dependable results because of lack of adequate blood supply to the organ and ciliated epithelium. A new transplant program featuring single-stage long-segment tracheal transplant addresses this concern.

Clinical Findings

The patient was a 56-year-old woman with a history of obesity, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, liver sarcoidosis, 105-pack-year smoking history, and asthma. A severe asthma exacerbation in 2014 required prolonged intubation, and she subsequently developed long-segment cricotracheal stenosis. In 2015 she underwent an unsuccessful tracheal resection followed by failed attempts at tracheal stenting and dilation procedures. These attempts at stenting resulted in a permanent extended-length tracheostomy and ultimately ventilator dependency.

Interventions

The patient underwent a single-stage long-segment deceased donor tracheal transplant. Important nursing considerations included hemodynamic monitoring, airway management and securement, graft assessment, stoma and wound care, nutrition, medication administration, and patient education.

Conclusion

High-quality nursing care postoperatively in the intensive care unit is critical to safe and effective treatment of the tracheal transplant recipient and success of the graft. To effectively treat these patients, nurses need relevant education and training. This article is the first documentation of postoperative nursing care following single-stage long-segment tracheal transplant.
Association of Variant rs7903146(c/t) Single Nucleotide Polymorphism of Transcription Factor 7-like 2 Gene with Newly Detected Hyperglycemia in Pregnancy
Authors: Ranjan Asha , Agrawal Neeraj Kumar , Budhwar Snehil , Ranjan Varsha
Published: June 2022

Background:

Transcription factor 7-like 2 (TCF7L2) gene has a significant role in hyperglycemia in pregnancy (HIP) risk. The current study was planned with the aim to evaluate the association of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs7903146 in patients of newly detected HIP among Indian population of northern region.

Methods:

This study was an observational case control study done among newly detected HIP (The World Health Organization (WHO) criteria, 2013) and healthy pregnant females without diabetes. Participants from both the group were genotyped for rs7903146 (C/T) variant of TCF7L2 gene using polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP) technique.

Results:

A total of 71 cases of newly detected HIP were included in the study, out of which 25 (35.2%) of them were of first-time detected diabetes mellitus in pregnancy (DIP) and 46 (64.7%) were of gestational diabetes (GDM) and 100 were pregnant females without diabetes in third trimester were enrolled as controls. Average age of participants in the case group was 28.7 ± 4.0 years and the control group were 26.5 ± 3.6 years (P value 0.09). The wild homozygous CC genotype, heterozygous CT genotype and homozygous TT genotype were present in 39.4%, 53.5%, 7.1% of case group vs 53%, 43% and 4% of control group, respectively. No significant association of rs7903146(C/T) SNP of TCF7L2 gene in HIP (CC/CT, CC/TT P value 0.15, 0.38, respectively) in our population was found. There was no significant difference in the distribution of genotypes between DIP and GDM.

Conclusion:

This study shows no evidence of association of rs7903146(C/T) SNP of TCF7L2 gene with newly detected HIP in our population.
Risk factors for gallbladder cancer development in northern India: A gallstones-matched, case–control study
Authors: Mishra Kumudesh , Behari Anu , Shukla Pooja , Tsuchiya Yasuo , Endoh Kazuo , Asai Takao , Ikoma Toshikazu , Nakamura Kazutoshi , Kapoor Vinay Kumar
Published: June 2022

Background & objectives:

A high incidence of gallbladder cancer (GBC) is observed in northern India. This study was aimed to identify the factors involved in developing GBC in this region.

Methods:

A gallstones-matched, case–control study was conducted in northern India. Ninety nine patients with GBC and gallstones (33 men and 66 women, mean age of 51.4 yr) comprised the case group, while 99 patients with cholelithiasis (40 men and 59 women, mean age of 45.7 yr) comprised the control group. All participants were interviewed to complete 183 questionnaire items that included 105 food items. Potential risk factors were identified using a multivariate analysis adjusted for age and sex. Significant risk factors were identified using a stepwise logistic-regression analysis.

Results:

Age (≥50 yr), education (illiterate), socioeconomic status (≤below poverty line), bowel habits (≤once a day), hypertension history, hypotensive drug use, non-vegetarian diet, use of firewood for cooking, tap water drinking, hand pump water drinking and high consumption of coffee and sweets were identified as the potential risk factors. In women, factors included menarche (<13 yr), number of pregnancies (≥3 pregnancies) and parity (≥3 babies). Of these factors, age, education, bowel habits, tap water drinking and multiple pregnancy and/or multiparity were identified as significant risk factors, whereas a high consumption of coffee and sweets or hypotensive drug use and/or hypertension history were protective factors.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Poor bowel habits and drinking unsafe water appear to be the main risk factors for developing GBC. These are, however, modifiable factors which are capable of decreasing the risk of GBC in the north Indian population.
Cancer metabolomics
Authors: Karekar Akshata Kishore , Dandekar Sucheta Prakash
Published: June 2022

Gynaecological cancers are the major cause of cancer-related deaths in Indian women. The poor prognosis and lack of symptoms in the early stages make early cancer diagnosis difficult. The absence of mandatory screening programmes and the lack of awareness pose to be a real challenge in a developing economy as India. Prompt intervention is required to enhance cancer patient survival statistics and to lessen the social and financial burden. Conventional screening and cytological techniques employed currently have helped to reduce the incidence of cancers considerably. However, these tests offer low sensitivity and specificity and are not widely used for risk assessment, leading to inadequate early-stage cancer diagnosis. The accomplishment of Human Genome Project (HGP) has opened doors to exciting ‘omics’ platforms. Promising research in genomics and proteomics has revolutionized cancer detection and screening methodologies by providing more insights in the gene expression, protein function and how specific mutation in specific genes corresponds to a particular phenotype. However, these are incompetent to translate the information into clinical applicability. Various factors such as low sensitivity, diurnal variation in protein, poor reproducibility and analytical variables are prime hurdles. Thus the focus has been shifted to metabolomics, which is a much younger platform compared to genomics and proteomics. Metabolomics focuses on endpoint metabolites, which are final products sustained in the response to genetic or environmental changes by a living system. As a result, the metabolome indicates the cell’s functional condition, which is directly linked to its phenotype. Metabolic profiling aims to study the changes occurred in metabolic pathways. This metabolite profile is capable of differentiating the healthy individuals from those having cancer. The pathways that a cell takes in turning malignant are exceedingly different, owing to the fact that transformation of healthy cells to abnormal cells is linked with significant metabolic abnormalities. This review is aimed to discuss metabolomics and its potential role in early diagnosis of gynaecological cancers, viz. breast, ovarian and cervical cancer.
Spirometry-based prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease & associated factors among community-dwelling rural elderly
Authors: Kumar Alok , Kaur Ravneet , Hadda Vijay , Mani Kalaivani , Nongkynrih Baridalyne , Gupta Sanjeev Kumar , Kant Shashi
Published: June 2022

Background & objectives:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major public health problem in India. Its magnitude is particularly high among the elderly. Old age and comorbidity may lead to misdiagnosis and under treatment of this condition. COPD is not curable; however, various forms of treatment can help control symptoms and improve the quality of life. Most of the earlier studies lacked uniformity in definitions, designs, methodology and reporting techniques. Studies based on spirometry are only a few. Understanding the current prevalence and associated factors of COPD is important for planning control strategies. Hence, this study was conducted to determine the prevalence of COPD and associated factors among the elderly.

Methods:

In this community-based study among 449 elderly persons in a rural area, information regarding socio-demographic details, selected health conditions and exposure to risk factors was recorded. The assessment of airway obstruction was done by using a portable spirometer (MIR Spirolab). The diagnosis of COPD was based on the GOLD criteria. The association of COPD with sociodemographic and other variables was analysed by the multivariate logistic regression.

Results:

Acceptable spirometry findings were available for 392 (87.3%) participants. The prevalence of COPD was 42.9 per cent (95% confidence interval 37.9-47.7%). The prevalence was 54.5 per cent among men and 33.4 per cent among women. Smoking, higher age group and low body mass index were significantly associated with COPD.

Interpretation & conclusions:

The prevalence of COPD was found to be high among the rural elderly in this study. Interventions aimed at cessation of smoking and preparedness of health systems for diagnosis and management of COPD are hence required.
Clinicopathological study of annexin A5 & apelin in pre-eclamptic placentae with emphasis on foetal outcome
Authors: Dasgupta Senjuti , Maity Priyanka , Banerjee Uma , Mukhopadhyay Partha , Saha Saswata , Das Biplab
Published: June 2022

Background & objectives:

Pre-eclampsia has remained an elusive disease with serious impacts on both maternal and foetal health. Two novel markers, annexin A5 (ANXA5) and apelin are currently of considerable interest. The present study aimed to determine the placental expression of ANXA5 and apelin in pre-eclamptic placentae and also to elucidate if there is any correlation between the expression of these markers and the clinical features of both, mother and neonate. The comparison between gross and histopathological features of pre-eclamptic placentae and controls was another objective.

Methods:

A prospective, observational study was undertaken for one year. Placentae of pre-eclamptic patients and matched controls (matched for age, ethnic and socio-economic background) were collected along with the clinical data. Gross and histopathological analyses were done and immunohistochemical study of placental sections with ANXA5 and apelin was also undertaken.

Results:

79 pre-eclamptic patients and equal numbers of matched controls were included in the study. The difference in weight and dimensions of placentae between the pre-eclampsia group and matched controls was significant. Histopathological features noted in the pre-eclamptic placentae included decidual vasculopathy, infarction, perivillous fibrin deposition, increased syncytial knots and distal villous hypoplasia. There was a significant reduction in the expression of both ANXA5 and apelin in pre-eclamptic placentae compared to controls. Among pre-eclamptic patients, the intensity of ANXA5 and apelin expression showed a significant association with respect to neonatal resuscitation. Furthermore, the intensity of apelin showed expression a significant correlation with the requirement of sick neonatal care unit treatment.

Interpretation & conclusions:

The results of the present study suggest that both ANXA5 and apelin levels are reduced in pre-eclamptic placentae. Hence, it is recommended to further explore the impact of these markers on pregnancy outcomes by undertaking randomized controlled trials.
In vitro evaluation of antibiotic synergy for carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae clinical isolates
Authors: Goel Anku , Gupta Varsha , Singhal Lipika , Palta Sanjeev , Chander Jagdish
Published: June 2022

Background & objectives:

The prevalence of severe infections due to carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) strains has increased worldwide. With rising resistance to polymyxins, the treatment has become challenging. Given the paucity of novel agents and limited data on combination therapy for CRKP, the present study was performed to test antibiotic combinations, for synergy against clinical isolates of CRKP.

Methods:

A total of 50 clinical isolates of CRKP were included. Modified carbapenem inactivation method was performed for the detection of carbapenemases. In vitro synergy testing was done for the following combinations: meropenem+colistin, imipenem+tigecycline and polymyxin B+levofloxacin. It was performed with epsilometric test and microdilution checkerboard method. The time kill assay (TKA) was used to confirm the results. The fractional inhibitory concentration was also calculated.

Results:

All CRKP isolates (100%) were ESBL producers and were completely resistant to amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, cefepime, cefotaxime, ceftazidime and piperacillin-tazobactam. Resistance to ciprofloxacin, amikacin and tetracycline was 96, 88 and 54 per cent, respectively. Overall, 78 (39/50) and 88 per cent (44/50) of the 50 CRKP isolates exhibited synergy by TKA for meropenem-colistin and imipenem-tigecycline, respectively. No synergy was detected for levofloxacin-polymyxin B combination. The best combination among the three was that of imipenem and tigecycline followed by meropenem-colistin.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Of the three combinations tested, imipenem and tigecycline followed by meropenem-colistin were found to be best. No synergy was detected for levofloxacin-polymyxin B combination.
A 1-Year Study on the Usage of Psychiatry Helpline Number – 9108919025
Authors: Javed Janisar , Kakunje Anil
Published: June 2022

Background:

To facilitate contact with mental health professionals (MHP), mental health centers are implementing early intervention programs with innovative strategies such as 24 h helpline services. The aim of the present study is to describe the usage of the 24 h psychiatry helpline number – 9108919025.

Materials and Methods:

This is a 1-year retrospective study which was conducted after the Institutional Ethical Committee clearance from May 14, 2019, to May 13, 2020, about the usage and utility of a free psychiatry helpline which is run by the department of psychiatry of a tertiary care teaching hospital. The helpline is available 24 h a day and 7 days a week, with trained MHP receiving the calls. The helpline caters to any emergencies related to emotional, psychological issues, and psychiatric illness.

Results:

The majority of the callers were males (57.2%) compared to female callers (42.8%). The common reason for approaching the helpline was psychosocial issues (46.3%) followed by inquiries related to psychiatric services (37.4%) and drug prescriptions (14.2%). Stress (52.1%) was the most common psychosocial issue faced by the callers followed by depression (11.7%) and interpersonal relationship conflicts (9.5%). Students with stress issues (41%) were the most common age group which approached the helpline followed by adults with work-related stress issues (26%).

Conclusion:

In Indian scenarios, where mental health services are spread unequally, helplines are a faster efficient, cost-effective, easy, stigma free system for helping people with mental illness, educating the public, and for information dissemination about psychiatric disorders.
An event of Evans even in HIV
Authors: Patra Pritish Chandra , Samal Priyanka , Bhola Rajesh Kumar , Pradhan Sarita
Published: June 2022

Autoimmune cytopenias may be the initial presentation in patients with HIV infection or can develop while on treatment with antiretroviral therapy (ART). These cytopenias usually resolve after initiation of ART. We report a rare case of HIV who presented with Evans syndrome on ART, being refractory to steroids and rituximab but with response to splenectomy.
Effect of antiretroviral therapy on cardiac risk markers in people living with HIV/AIDS
Authors: Gupta Pulin Kumar , Tyagi Saurabh , Sheoran Ankita , Jain Princi , Koner Sai Kiran , Sharma Lokesh Kumar , Singh Saurabh Kumar , Khura Jayanti
Published: June 2022

Introduction:

Chronic HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy (ART) are the major causes of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and mortality in HIV patients. This study was conducted to look upon the effect of ART on CVD risk markers in patients on different ART regimens and ART-naïve patients.

Methods:

It was a cross-sectional, observational study done on 120 HIV-infected patients. CV risk markers were assessed and correlated with disease-specific factors within individual subgroups differentiated as Group A (ART naïve), Group B (first-line ART), and Group C (second-line ART). Carotid intimal medial thickness (CIMT) and high-sensitivity C reactive protein (hsCRP) were done to classify cases as having CVD.

Results:

CVD risk parameters were found to be significantly higher in cases on ART, as compared to ART-naïve cases. The mean CIMT among cases in Group C, Group B, and Group A was 0.072 ± 0.01 cm, 0.063 ± 0.01 cm, and 0.055 ± 0.01 cm, respectively (P < 0.01). 95%, 65% and 25% cases in Group C, Group B, and Group A, respectively, had high CIMT (>0.06 cm) and were seen to be directly correlated with disease-related factors, i.e., duration of disease and ART, type of ART, and low CD4 cell counts. hsCRP was significantly increased in 65 out of total 120 cases. The mean hsCRP in Group A, Group B, and Group C was 3.69 ± 3.37, 4.21 ± 3.4, and 5.72 ± 3.54 mg/L, respectively (P < 0.01), which corresponds to the high risk of CVD.

Conclusion:

CVD risk parameters of CIMT and hsCRP are seen to be higher in patients on ART than ART-naive subjects.
Reduction in the weight, gained due to dolutegravir, following switch to bictegravir
Authors: Saple Dattatray , Save Sushrut , Powar Ishita
Published: June 2022

Background:

HIV-infected individuals can live with the virus for decades, and the physicians have to review the long-term health implications of weight gain as they would for any other patient. Although the integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) class of drugs are one of the most popular regimens used for rapid reduction and maintenance in HIV cases, the weight gain resulting from their use is concerning. The use of dolutegravir (DTG) an INSTI is observed to have a weight gain in people living with HIV. Since bictegravir is also an INSTI, it is expected to show a similar weight gain.

Objective:

This retrospective analyses the change in the weight in 22 patients, who showed a trend of increase in weight when on DTG and later when switched to bictegravir therapy showed reduction in the increased weight.

Methods:

This is a retrospective analysis from our clinic (Dr. Saple's Clinic) in Mumbai from the duration of March 2018 to March 2021. Excessive weight gain was observed when the patients were on DTG therapy. The therapy was then switched to an equally potent integrase strand inhibitor bictegravir to get the benefit of efficacy of antiretroviral therapy and avoid the weight gain effect seen with DTG.

Results:

In our case review, we found results contrary to this. After 22 patients were treated on DTG for 9 to 24 months (mean 20.68 months), the baseline weight of 74.04 kg increased significantly to 84.26 kg (P < 0.05). After switching over to bictegravir for a mean period of 8 – 12 months (mean 11.72 months), this weight reduced to mean of 77.08 kg, a drop was clinically observed but was not statistically significant.

Conclusion:

Our finding could be the first instance were weight loss has been reported post switching the patients from DTG therapy to Bictegravir. Considering smaller patient population this outcome may need further confirmed through large group study.
Mono-objective Evolutionary Model for Affective Algorithmic Composition
Authors: Sanches Nere dos Santos Carla , Robert Resende de Freitas Alan
Published: June 2022

The Affective Music Composition study indicates that musical features can be associated to emotions. Thus, Affective Algorithmic Composition systems implements such features in order to generate melodies that can express or induce emotions. These systems can be applied to different fields, like health and entertainment. However, the composition of melodies with unlimited duration time and diversity is still an open question. This work aims to identify strategies to perform multiple affective transformations in melodies. Therefore, emotional models and the most implemented musical features in the literature are presented, as well as a evolutionary mono-objective model to an affective transformative system.
Sanitary quality of reused water for irrigation in agriculture in Brazil
Authors: Handam Natasha Berendonk , Silva Ana Beatriz Loureiro Gonçalves da , Silva Rodrigo Bezerra da , Moura Priscila Gonçalves , Carvajal Elvira , Sotero-Martins Adriana , Santos José Augusto Albuquerque dos
Published: June 2022

Reused water is produced from treated effluents, and can be an alternative source of water for agriculture. However, its quality must be assessed to avoid causing damage to human and environmental health. This study evaluated the sanitary quality (bacteriological and physicochemical) of reused water samples for agricultural irrigation, compared with those described in Brazilian and international regulations. Bacteriological analyses were performed, and the results were compared with the norm of the Brazilian Association of Technical Norms (ABNT) NBR nº 13.969/1997. Physical and chemical analyses of the reused water samples were carried out, and the results were compared with the standards described by regulations: Resolution of the State Council for the Environment of Ceará No. 2 of 2017; Resolution of the Bahia State Water Resources Council No. 75 of 2010; and “Guidelines for Water Reuse” from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - EPA. According to Brazilian regulations, bacteriological analyses showed that the "chlorinated" and "polished" samples were suitable for agriculture. However, the “biological" sample was unsuitable for use, and showed a high level of thermotolerant coliforms (25.800 CFU / mL). According to bacteriological and physical-chemical analyses, the “polished” sample was only proper for agriculture irrigation. Therefore, the work suggests the creation of federal law regarding agricultural reuse to control the sanitary quality of water for human and environmental health.

Keywords: agricultural reuse, agriculture, bacteriological and physicochemical evaluation, norms for reuse in agriculture.
Sinonasal mucosal melanomas: defining profiles for better survival outcomes
Authors: Rojas-Lechuga M.J, , Gras-Cabrerizo J.R. , Aviles-Jurado F.X. , Malvehy J. , Arance A.M. , Castillo P. , Barreiro A. , Podlipnik S. , Lopez-Chacon M. , Alobid I. , Bernal Sprekelsen M. , Puig S. , Langdon C.
Published: June 2022

Background: Sinonasal mucosal melanoma is an aggressive malignancy with a 5-year survival rate ranging from 20% to 39%. Despite the evolving surgical and radiotherapy techniques, and introduction of immune-checkpoint inhibitor therapy, overall survival rates remain poor. Methodology: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at the Hospital Clínic de Barcelona and the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau between 1984 and 2020; primary outcome measures were 3 and 5-year melanoma-specific survival (MSS). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards model were performed to identify predictors of survival. Results: Fifty patients were included, the mean age was 70.4, MSS at 3 and 5 years was 51.2%, and 29.5%, respectively. The median follow-up was 39.6 months during which 46% presented locoregional recurrence and 36%, metastasis. The univariate and multivariate analyses found as survival predictors the N category, the treatment received, the surgical margins and the mitotic index. Conclusions: We found an overall 5-year MSS of 29.5%. Those patients with intention-to-cure (stages III and IVa) treated by surgery that were N0 at diagnosis, with < 10 mitoses per HPF showed a 5-year MSS rate of 74.1%. More studies will be needed to adequately define the patients’ profiles that will benefit from a better survival outcome.
Two-year Decay of Zika Virus Neutralizing Antibodies in People Living in an Endemic Region in Brazil
Authors: Magalhaes Tereza , Morais Clarice N. L. , Azevedo Elisa A. N. , Jacques Iracema J. A. A. , Castanha Priscila M. S. , Cordeiro Marli T. , Braga Cynthia , Jaenisch Thomas , Marques Ernesto T. A. , Foy Brian D.
Published: June 2022

It is currently not clear whether humoral immunity to Zika virus (ZIKV) elicited upon natural ZIKV infection is long-lasting. In addition, cross-reactivity of anti-ZIKV antibodies with antigenically related dengue viruses (DENV) may have biological implications in nonnaive individuals who subsequently acquire a heterotypic infection. Cross-reactive humoral immunity between ZIKV and DENV also complicates the interpretation of serological tests to evaluate previous exposure to either virus. Here, we have measured the 2-year decay of ZIKV neutralizing antibodies in people living in a ZIKV/DENV endemic area in Brazil who were identified as having an acute infection (group 1) or past (but recent) infection (group 2) with ZIKV in 2015–16. The titers of neutralizing antibodies to ZIKV decreased 9.1 and 2.3 times in groups 1 and 2, respectively. We also show that the plaque reduction neutralization assay (PRNT) is a reliable method to measure past exposure to ZIKV in coendemic areas.
Identification of Knockdown Resistance Mutations in the Cimex hemipterus (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) in Iran
Authors: Tiotour Mehdi , Shaddel Minoo , Aminianfar Mohammad , Mirahmadi Hadi , Barzegar Gholamreza , Solgi Rahmat , Darvishi Mohammad
Published: June 2022

The worldwide resurgence of tropical bed bug Cimex hemipterus beginning in the late 1990s has led to growing concern. Molecular data on pyrethroid resistance, which is essential for the control strategies, is unknown for C. hemipterus in Iran. The current study evaluated the deltamethrin resistance status of C. hemipterus by bioassay and molecular tests. Live bed bugs were collected from sleeping quarters (dormitories) in the city of Tehran and used for insecticide bioassay tests. For bioassay evaluation, mixed-sex pools of adult bugs were exposed to deltamethrin (0.025%)-treated paper. Polymerase chain reaction assay evaluated resistance-related mutations in the voltage-gated sodium channel gene (VGSC) gene of studied populations. On the basis of the bioassay test within the 48-h exposure to deltamethrin, C. hemipterus were determined to be resistant. Knockdown time ratios (KR50) in the studied populations of C. hemipterus was 5.5-fold compared with those of the C. lectularius Teh strain. DNA sequencing of the VGSC gene revealed the presence of mutations at M918I and L1014 in C. hemipterus. According to the bioassay and molecular results of current study, C. hemipterus showed a high degree of pyrethroid resistance. The application of multiple approaches including physical, biological, and chemical tests should be regarded in future bed bug control strategies.
Tańczące łodzie Kryszny: O rzecznej kulturze świątynnej środkowej Kerali
Authors: Galewicz Cezary
Published: June 2022

Niniejszy esej wyrasta z przekonania o potrzebie przeprowadzenia regularnego studium źródeł oraz praktyk społecznych związanych z kulturą świątynną środkowej Kerali. Czerpie zarówno z historycznych źródeł pisanych, jak i autorskiej obserwacji etnograficznej. Jego szerszym kontekstem pozostaje zagadnienie metody, perspektywy i skali w odniesieniu do problematyki rozumienia hinduizmu jako religii i fenomenu cywilizacyjnego złożonego z wielu odrębnych kultur. Poprzecinana rzekami, kanałami, jeziorami i „back-waters” środkowa Kerala wykształciła oryginalną formę kultury świątynnej, opartą na cykliczności kalendarza świątynnego z powtarzalnymi ceremoniami, liturgiami i świętami oraz na powiązanych z nimi elementach ekonomii i praktyk społecznych. W obydwu centralną rolę odgrywa rzeka i działania przeprowadzane na rzece bądź w jej sąsiedztwie, zwłaszcza spektakularne pokazy łodzi świątynnych. Esej śledzi trajektorię historycznej zmiany w społecznym konstruowaniu symbolicznej przestrzeni kultury świątynnej Kerali na przykładzie świątyni Kryszny w Āṟanmuḷa nad rzeką Pampā.

The Dancing Boats of Kr̥ṣṇa: On the River Temple Culture of Central Kerala. The present essay draws from historical sources as well as ethnographies on the contemporary riverine culture of Central Kerala. It wider context connects to the problem of method and scale in representing Hinduism as a conglomerate of a multitude of regional religious cultures. It touches among else on the regional concept of Kṛṣṇa hidden within the body of one of the boatmen or oarsmen involved in spectacular events making part of the life of the river temple of Pārthasarathi in Āṟanmuḷa. The long snake boats (called paḷḷiyōṭaṃ or temple vessels) used for the big shows on the water in front of the temple appear to enjoy the status of sacred objects. Their performance on the river Pampā makes a part of a bigger ritual structure of the temple festivals but, nonetheless, it remains a remarkable spectacle in its own. It remains inscribed within an original cultural formation with its specific economy and social relations. The essay attempts to track and map historical change in the social construction of the symbolic representation of space focused on the Kr̥ṣṇa temple of Āṟanmuḷa by the river Pampā.
Effectiveness of Using Digital Technologies and Digital Labour in Farm Management towards Shaping Precision Farming to Achieve Food Security: A Malawian Perspective
Authors: Munthali Eddons , Munthali Kondwani , Mikeka Chomora , Kunyenje Gregory
Published: June 2022

The use of Information and Communication Technology and digital technologies in farm management plays a vital role in achieving strategic development goals of countries. Digital labour has helped enormously to boost access to large amounts of information, connecting people from remote communities, particularly young people whose innovative potential combined with the power of technology proves to be a force to achieve sustainable development goals. This research aims at determining the effectiveness of digital technology in agriculture through providing site-specific information and employing digital labour to implement precision farming in Malawi. The research objective focused on using rapid 4-in-1 soil tester, testing moisture, acidity, or alkalinity through power of Hydrogen (pH) measure, temperature, and fertility as well as Extension Helper Application, a portal used by extension coordinators to share farm information. The is desk research with qualitative study and slight quantitative figures from digital 4-in-1 rapid soil tester with students utilising study farm plots at Natural Resources College. Analysis derived valuable capabilities such as quick determination of farm specific information. Research found that with digital tools and digital labour, it was easy to see and manage field data, oversee worker productivity, manage resources, view farmer data trends and support decision making. Further, mobile digital tools were found to amplify extension massaging to reach more farmers and enable management to improve coordination of diverse service providers with the right type of data aggregation. Digital tools reduced the use of had written reports during field visits. Quality of collected data improved and frequency of field visits for the extension coordinator as well increased. This research was mainly drawn from action research as well as systematic review of both internal and external desk research. Action research and internal review was based on student plots at Malawi’s Natural Resources college and external desk review was based on SANE project with Extension Helper Application. Generally, the findings showed that the use of information and communication technology and digital technology with digital labour support decision making to form policies towards realising Malawi vision 2063.
Semen quality in sheep
Authors: Arbodela Marin Yurani , Cardona Cadavid Henry , Cardona Maya Walter D. , Mejia Andrés Felipe , Lalinde Acevedo Paula Andrea , Lopera Mesa Leidy Katerine , Gonzalez Gaviria Daniela Alejandra
Published: June 2022

Reproductive evaluation, the selection of individual breeders, and reproductive biotechnologies are important tools in developing productive and reproductive rates. When choosing a male as a breeding future, determining its general health status and genotypic and phenotypic superiority are necessary. This study evaluated the conventional and functional seminal quality in ovine males. The semen of eleven ovines of different pure races was collected by electroejaculation. The following average values were observed for each conventional parameter: scrotal circumference (CE, 34.3 cm), seminal volume (vol, 1.63 mL), concentration (C, 768.4 x 106/mL), individual motility (MI, 80%), masal motility (MM, 4) and vigor (Vi, 3.7). On the other hand, functional analysis showed plasma membrane integrity (PMI) of 45.7%, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) of 38.5%, DNA fragmentation index (DFI) of 17.0%, lipoperoxidation of the membrane (LPO) of 32.7%, and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) of 28.56%. Additionally, a high and positive correlation was found for variables concerning seminal quality: Vi and MM, Vi and MI, MMP and MM, MMP and MI, PMI and MMP, as well as ROS and MMP. In contrast, two strongly negative correlations were obtained (C vs. Vol and LPO vs. CE). These are the first estimates of functional seminal quality evaluation of sheep in Colombia. In addition, this study provides a baseline for conventional and functional seminal parameters in the region.
Studija helminta u ovaca u Laghouat regiji u južnom Alžiru
Authors: Rahmani Mokhtar Mohamed , Saidi Radahwane , Kaidi Rachid , Khalef Djamel , Saci Noufel , Mettache Zakaria , Benayada Ahmed , Mimoune Nora
Published: June 2022

The objective of this study was to detect helminths in sheep on farms in three different zones of the Laghouat region, and to examine relationships between the prevalence of these parasites and the factors of age, sex, and area. The study was carried out over a period of four months (March to June 2019) on 77 faecal samples taken from 77 sheep. For this purpose, we used both a qualitative technique (flotation) and a quantitative technique (Mac Master). These two techniques allowed us to isolate helminths and determine the degree of infestation of sheep in the steppe region, specifically the Laghouat region. The results showed that the sheep flock studied overall was negative, with the exception of eight subjects infected with Nematodirus or Strongyloides at a rate of 7.49% each. The helminth parasite prevalence was 10.40%. Statistical analysis of the influence of specific factors revealed no significant effect (P˃0.05) for sex, though the effects of age and area were significant (P<0.05). This parasite prevalence must be taken seriously to avoid its detrimental effect on animal health and the zootechnical performance of sheep flocks.
Zootechnical, bacteriological, and histometrical effects of a combination mycotoxin binder-acidifier in broiler chickens
Authors: Mimoune Nora , Houari Chelali , Ammari Chama , Hammouni Rabah , Ait Issad Nassima , Khelef Djamel
Published: June 2022

Mycotoxins are present in food and cannot be eliminated even by using modern technological processes in food manufacture; they can cause pathologies and economic losses in the poultry industry. To combat their effects, this study aimed to test the incorporation of a mycotoxin binder (MICOTEC 0.1%) associated with an acidifier (TECAVIAR 0.1%), both marketed in Algeria, in the feed distributed to broilers. During this study, a beneficial effect was found in subjects consuming the supplemented food compared to the control subjects. In addition to the significant decrease in mortality (51.47%), test subjects showed an average weight of 3308.1 g, which was significantly higher than control subjects (2876.25 g). The data revealed a significant reduction in the number of total and faecal coliforms, with prevalence ranging from 3.1 to 36.5% vs 63.2 to 96.9% for the control group. An increase in the length of the small intestine (24.13 cm), increase in the weight of the Fabricius bursa (FB; 1.25 g), weight of the gizzard (10.25 g) and finally an increase in the weight of the wishbone (153.87 g) were recorded in the test subjects. The results indicate that the association of mycotoxin binder-acidifier in broiler chickens can improve growth performance. Further experiments are required to confirm more effects (with different doses, different strains, and other organs).
Artıfıcıal Intellıgence Methods in Oncology
Authors: ALP Furkan , Akalın Betül
Published: June 2022

Artificial intelligence has contributed significantly to solving various medical problems, including cancer, over the past decade. Artificial intelligence is being applied more and more in various fields of cancer research. Today, artificial intelligence methods provide physicians with important privileges in making decisions, providing more effective service to managers and minimizing costs, reducing the workload of healthcare professionals, and receiving the treatment with the highest accuracy rate for the patient and the least error rate. This review can be evaluated in two categories. First of all, common diseases in the field of oncology and the use of artificial intelligence in the field of oncology are supported with examples. In the second category, 23 recent studies in the field of oncology in the literature summary table; artificial intelligence methods are divided into categories and accuracy rates are presented. It is thought that the rapidly developing artificial intelligence technology will continue to have a great impact in the field of cancer in the near future. As a result, it is thought that physicians and researchers should include artificial intelligence training courses in their multidisciplinary study and training curricula, keeping pace with the digitalizing new age in healthcare, with the widespread use of artificial intelligence-based clinical decision support systems, personalized medicine, time in diagnosis and treatment, reducing the error rate and it will provide an important advantage in terms of patient and employee satisfaction and both cost-effective and quality service delivery.
The Role of Breast Mılk in The Cırcadıan Rhythm In Newborns
Authors: TAR Edanur , Küçükoğlu Sibel
Published: June 2022

The circadian rhythm regulates various physiological and psychological events such as sleep/wake rhythms, body temperature, blood pressure, hormone synthesis and release in living organisms in a period of approximately 24 hours. In the postnatal period, the immature circadian rhythm of the baby develops rapidly under the influence of environmental factors such as nutrition, light, and mother-infant interaction. Breastfeeding is universally the most appropriate method for infant feeding in the first year after birth. In addition to being a nutrient for babies, breast milk plays an active role in the formation of the baby's circadian rhythm by transmitting information about the time of day to babies through components such as hormones and immune elements. In this context, while cortisol and amino acids that promote activity are high in breast milk during the day, high levels of melatonin and tryptophan in night milk, on the contrary, promote sleep in infants, relieve digestion and support growth and development. The circadian rhythm, which develops rapidly in the first three months of life, is essential for the health and development of the baby, as well as for the temporal harmony within the family and especially for the coordination between the mother and the baby. Babies in case of disruption of circadian rhythm or delayed formation; may face health problems related to sleep, metabolism and neurocognitive development. In this study, the role of breast milk in infancy, which is an important stage in the formation of circadian rhythm, was investigated.
A New Age in Health: Metaverse
Authors: Uysal Burhanettin , Semiz Tarık
Published: June 2022

With the ever-growing technology, people's needs and expectations in both the real and virtual worlds are changing rapidly over time. Metaverse, which has recently entered our lives, is predicted to be a central concept in the health sector, as it is in many other sectors. Many tools, such as virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and digital applications, are already being used in the health sector. By ensuring synchronization with Metaverse in the coming years, it will be possible to create an adaptable platform in all health services using this framework. The aim of this study is to share information in the form of a compilation about the benefits of Metaverse applications in the field of health by referring to Metaverse’ conceptual information.
Book Review: Wechsler, H. S., & Diner, S. J. (2022). Unwelcome Guests: A History of Access to American Higher Education. United States: Johns Hopkins University Press.
Authors: Manolescu Dan
Published: June 2022

Intricately woven into the tapestry of “diversity” in higher education institutions comes this profoundly important book written by Harold S. Wechsler and Steven J. Diner. Organized in five chapters, with a Preface, a section of Acknowledgements, Introduction, Conclusion, and extensive Notes, Unwelcome Guests is a plea for a re-evaluation of college admissions policies and goals from the Civil Rights era of the late 1960’s and early 1970s to the twenty-first century.