bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O desprazer da narrativa
Authors: Oliveira Marcela
Published: February 2022

Este artigo discute a necessidade e a dificuldade de narrar a experiência da violência totalitária. Ele foi escrito a partir da leitura e do debate, por ocasião do Encontro do GT de Estética da ANPOF em 2021, do texto “Primo Levi, razão, narração, lacunas”, de Jeanne Marie Gagnebin.
Pengaruh Model Pembelajaran Inquiri Terbimbing dan Pemahaman Konsep Terhadap Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah siswa SMP Negeri 6 Kerinci
Authors: Mustika Meri , Asra Revis , Anggereini Evita
Published: February 2022

This study aims to determine (1) the effect of the Guided Inquiry learning model on students' problem-solving abilities; (2) the effect of Concept Understanding level on students' Problem Solving Ability; (3) the interaction between the Guided Inquiry learning model and the level of Concept Understanding on students' Problem Solving Ability. This study uses a Quasi Experimental Design with a pretest-posttest Control Group Design model. The population in this study was class VII SMP Negeri 6 Kerinci. The sample uses probability sampling which includes random sampling. To collect the data used is a test of problem solving skills, tests of understanding the concept and documentation. Data analysis used Two-Way Anova.

 

 

ABSTRAK
Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui (1) pengaruh model pembelajaran Inquiri Terbimbing terhadap Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah siswa; (2) pengaruh tingkat Pemahaman Konsep terhadap Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah siswa; (3) interaksi antara model pembelajaran Inquiri Terbimbing dengan tingkat Pemahaman Konsep terhadap Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah siswa. Penelitian ini menggunakan Quasi Eksperimental Design dengan model pretest-posttest Control Group Design. Populasi pada penelitian ini adalah kelas VII SMP Negeri 6 Kerinci. Sampelnya menggunakan probability Sampling yang meliputi Random Sampling. Untuk mengumpulkan data yang digunakan adalah tes kemampuan pemecahan masalah, tes pemahaman konsep serta dokumentasi. Analisis data yang digunakan Anava Dua Arah.
Berdasarkan hasil penelitian dapat disimpulkan bahwa: 1) Model pembelajaran Inquiri terbimbing berpengaruh terhadap kemampuan pemecahan masalah siswa kelas VII SMP Negeri 6 Kerinci; 2) Pemahaman konsep tidak berpengaruh terhadap kemampuan pemecahan masalah siswa. kelas VII SMP Negeri 6 Kerinci; serta 3) Terdapat interaksi antara model pembelajaran Inquiri terbimbing dengan pemahaman konsep terhadap kemampuan pemecahan masalah siswa kelas VII SMP Negeri 6 Kerinci.
Studi Literatur: Pengaruh Penerapan Model Pembelajaran Kooperatif Tipe Make a Match Terhadap Kompetensi Belajar Peserta Didik
Authors: Taufik Wirda , Helendra Helendra , Syamsurizal Syamsurizal , Alberida Heffi
Published: February 2022

This study aims to examine the effect of the application of the make a match type of cooperative learning model on the learning competence of students. This study uses a systematic review method by reviewing several scientific articles that are relevant to the author's research. The data used in this study were obtained from scientific articles that are relevant to the problems discussed by the author. This data is taken from databases such as SINTA, Google Schoolar, and other relevant journal sites. The variables used in this study were the cooperative learning model of the make a match type (independent variable) and the learning competence of students (dependent variable). The results of this study indicate that the learning competencies (knowledge, attitudes, and skills) of students have increased after the application of the make a match type of cooperative learning model at all school levels starting from elementary, junior high, and high school. Thus, the research results are expected to strengthen and summarize the results of research related to the make a match learning model. The implications of the results of this study can be a consideration for teachers to raise the spirit of learning in students by applying the make a match learning model so that their learning competence will also increase.
Abstrak. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji tentang pengaruh dari penerapan model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe make a match terhadap kompetensi belajar peserta didik. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode systematic review dengan mereview beberapa artikel ilmiah yang relevan dengan penelitian penulis. Data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini diperoleh dari artikel ilmiah yang relevan dengan permasalahan yang dibahas oleh penulis. Data ini diambil dari database seperti SINTA, Google Schoolar, dan situs jurnal lainnya yang relevan. Variabel yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe make a match (variabel bebas) dan kompetensi belajar peserta didik (variabel terikat). Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa kompetensi belajar (pengetahuan, sikap, dan keterampilan) peserta didik mengalami peningkatan setelah penerapan model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe make a match di semua tingkatan sekolah mulai dari SD, SMP, dan SMA. Jadi model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe make a match ini memberikan pengaruh yang positif terhadap kompetensi belajar peserta didik. Dengan demikian, model pembelajaran make a match ini bisa menjadi pertimbangan oleh guru  untuk membangkitkan kembali semangat belajar peserta didik sehingga kompetensi belajarnya juga akan meningkat.
Analisis Minat dan Hasil Belajar Biologi Siswa pada Pembelajaran Daring di SMA Negeri Purwodadi Kabupaten Musi Rawas
Authors: Kurnia Septi , Hidayat Saleh , Wardhani Sri
Published: February 2022

The purpose of the study was to determine the interest and learning outcomes of students' biology in online learning at SMA Negeri Purwodadi, Musi Rawas Regency. This research is a qualitative descriptive study using a case study research strategy. Based on the results of the questionnaire given to students, there were 130 students who answered the questionnaire. There are four indicators of learning interest that are measured, namely feelings of pleasure, interest, attention and involvement. The happy feeling indicator is a high enough indicator for interest in learning because all students feel happy to take part in biology learning during online learning because students can do online learning anywhere. Then from the indicators of student interest in learning, the involvement indicator is the lowest indicator because students in online learning do not have the awareness to study independently at home. The results of students' biology learning in online learning KD 3.14 which is about the immune system there are 22 students with the lowest score of 75 and 37 students getting the highest score of 98.
Abstrak. Tujuan dari penelitian adalah untuk mengetahui minat dan hasil belajar biologi siswa pada pembelajaran daring di SMA Negeri Purwodadi Kabupaten Musi Rawas. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian deskriptif kualitatif dengan menggunakan strategi penelitian studi kasus. Berdasarkan hasil angket yang diberikan kepada siswa terdapat 130 siswa yang menjawab angket. Terdapat empat indikator minat belajar yang diukur yaitu perasaan senang, ketertarikan, perhatian dan keterlibatan. Indikator perasaan senang merupakan indikator yang cukup tinggi untuk minat belajar karena seluruh siswa merasa senang mengikuti pembelajaran biologi selama pembelajaran daring karena siswa dapat melakukan pembelajaran daring dimana saja. Kemudian dari indikator minat belajar siswa indikator keterlibatan merupakan indikator yang paling rendah karena siswa pada pembelajaran daring siswa kurang memiliki kesadaran untuk belajar secara mandiri dirumah. Hasil belajar biologi siswa pada pembelajaran daring KD 3.14 yaitu tentang sistem imun terdapat 22 siswa dengan nilai terendah 75 dan 37 siswa mendapatkan nilai tertinggi yaitu 98.
Pengaruh Model Pembelajaran Kooperatif Think Talk Write Terhadap Aktivitas Belajar Biologi Siswa SMA
Authors: Susanti Try , Simatupang Rita , Gusfarenie Dwi , Hidayat Rahmat
Published: February 2022

Activities are very important principles in learning process. The teaching objectives of course will be achieved if students actively try to achieve them. Student activity in the learning process causes high interaction between teachers and students. The objective of this study is to understand the effect of the think talk write cooperative learning  model  on  students activities in biology  learning  in SMA Negeri 2 Batanghari. This research is a quantitative study using true experimental-posttest only control design. The data collection instruments are observation sheets and documentation. Based on data analysis, it was obtained that the average of students learning activities from 3 meetings in the experiment class was 64.16%, the category active. While the average of student learning activities from 3 meetings in the control class was 37.70%, the category less active. Based on the calculation of the hypothesis test using the t-test, it was found that students learning activities obtained a value of t0 ≥ tt, namely 2.03 <4.31> 2.71, and the effect size of the treatment given was 1.43 with a percentage of 91.9% . It can be concluded that there is a significant influence on the use of the think talk write cooperative learning model on students activities in biology learning in SMA Negeri 2 Batanghari.
Abstrak. Aktivitas merupakan prinsip atau asas yang sangat penting dalam pembelajaran. Aktivitas siswa dalam proses pembelajaran menyebabkan  interaksi yang  tinggi  antara  guru  dan  siswa. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh model pembelajaran kooperatif think talk write terhadap aktivitas belajar biologi siswa SMA Negeri 2 Batanghari. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif dengan menggunakan desain true experimental-posttest only control design. Instrumen pengumpulan data menggunakan lembar observasi dan dokumentasi. Berdasarkan analisis data diperoleh rata-rata aktivitas belajar siswa pada kelas eksperimen dari 3 kali pertemuan adalah 64,16% dengan kategori aktif. Sedangkan rata-rata aktivitas belajar siswa pada kelas kontrol dari 3 kali pertemuan adalah 37,70% dengan kategori kurang aktif. Berdasarkan perhitungan uji hipotesis menggunakan uji t, didapatkan bahwa aktivitas belajar siswa diperoleh nilai t0  ≥ tt  yaitu 2,03 < 4,31 > 2,71, dan besar effect size perlakuan yang diberikan adalah 1,43 dengan persentase 91,9%. Hal tersebut dapat disimpulkan bahwa terdapat pengaruh yang signifikan dalam penggunaan model pembelajaran kooperatif think talk write terhadap aktivitas belajar biologi siswa SMA Negeri 2 Batanghari.
Evaluating Linezolid Dose Based on Renal Function and Body Weight against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) by Monte Carlo Simulations
Authors: Zuo Meiling , Sun Yuxuan , Zhao Xianmei , Xu Gaoqi , Wang Nan , Chen Jingtao , Zhu Liqin , Yang Wenjie , Zhao Mingfeng
Published: February 2022

Objective: To assess whether dose adjustments of linezolid were needed
based on renal function and body weight against methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections. Methods: Monte Carlo
simulations (MCSs) were conducted to simulate
pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PKPD) model. Area under the
concentration time curve (AUC)/ minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC)
ratio and percentage of time above the MIC (%T>MIC) were
regarded as PKPD targets. The probability of target attainment (PTA) and
cumulative fractions of response (CFR) were calculated to assess the
efficacy. Regarding safety, trough plasma concentration (Cmin)
> 8 mg/L was used to target for toxicity. Results: Using
AUC /MIC > 100 as the parameter, the CFR of linezolid at
the standard dose [600 mg every 12 h (q12h)] were 57.01%, 93.22%
and 99.93% in patients with normal renal function, patients with renal
dysfunction and low body weight patients with renal dysfunction,
respectively. Using 100%T > MIC as the parameter, all the
CFR of three population groups were more than 90% at the standard dose.
The percentages of Cmin > 8 mg/L at the standard dose of
linezolid were 24.16%, 53.24% and 90.10% in three population groups
on day 7. Conclusions: The risk of thrombocytopenia of linezolid was
extremely high in low body weight patients with renal impairment when
receiving standard linezolid dose. 600 mg q12h might be effective and
safe against MRSA infection in patients with normal renal function,
while 450mg q12h and 300mg q12h in patients with renal dysfunction and
low body weight patients with renal dysfunction, respectively.
Refining Geomorphic Heterogeneity as a Framework for Assessing River Corridor Processes and Characteristics
Authors: Scott Daniel , Shahverdian Scott , Flitcroft Rebecca , Wohl Ellen
Published: February 2022

Heterogeneity, or messiness, is a broadly desirable characteristic of
river corridors and an indicator of many of the geomorphic processes
that sustain fluvial ecosystems. However, quantifying geomorphic
heterogeneity is complicated by a lack of consistent metrics, methods of
dividing up the river corridor into the patches that form the basis for
those metrics, and guidance on interpreting metrics. Drawing from both
geomorphic and landscape ecology concepts, we offer ideas and guidance
intended to help investigators, from researchers to restoration
practitioners, more effectively and reliably use heterogeneity to
describe river corridor processes and characteristics. We define
geomorphic heterogeneity as having both a spatial and temporal
dimension. Spatially, heterogeneity can be described by diversity, or
the evenness and richness of geomorphic units, and spatial
configuration, or the arrangement of geomorphic units relative to one
another. Temporally, heterogeneity can be described by turnover rate, or
the rate of change of geomorphic units. Interpretation of heterogeneity
metrics depends integrally on the definition of the geomorphic unit
schema on which metrics are based. Contextual information, such as
measurements of process space, disturbance frequency, and geomorphic
trajectory, can also be key to using effective measurements of
heterogeneity. Geomorphic applications of heterogeneity require
carefully defined geomorphic unit schemas that reflect processes and
characteristics of interest, robust metrics of heterogeneity whose
meaning is appropriate to the question at hand, and interpretation of
those metrics based on the context of expected geomorphic processes and
the frequency of disturbance.
Reports about a highly virulent variant of HIV-1 circulating in the Netherlands is nothing but highly unethical fear-mongering
Authors: Diamandis Dr. Carolina , Tudor Adrian , Ivanova Olga
Published: February 2022

Chris Wymant and an entire armada of scientists published a small paper titled ”A highly virulent variant of HIV-1 circulating in the Netherlands.” The general media have picked up on this and are giving the impression that HIV is now a more dangerous infection. This is not the fault of the Wymant and colleagues, but it is highly problematic. This more than 30 years old knowledge, which is now published with big headlines outside the medical press as lurid news, is likely to provoke misunderstandings in the general population. A renewed ostracism and stigmatization of the usual risk groups is now a real prospect. The findings presented in the aforementioned paper should have been addressed exclusively to health professionals and should have better never ended up in the hands of commercial media.
Adverse Fetal and Neonatal Outcomes following in-utero exposure to Oxcarbazepine: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Authors: Athar Farwa , Ehsan Muhammad , Farooq Minaam , Lo Kevin , Cheema Huzaifa , Ahmad Shahzaib , Naveed Aiman , Umer Muhammad
Published: February 2022

Aim: This systematic review aims to assess the safety profile of
oxcarbazepine during pregnancy. Methods: Observational studies that
included women who took oxcarbazepine anytime during pregnancy were
included in our systematic review. The review did not include
non-English articles, reviews, meta-analyses, case reports, and animal
studies. Different online sources such as MEDLINE, Cochrane library,
Virtual Health library etc. were searched for published and unpublished
literature. Assessment of risk of bias of observational studies was done
using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The meta-analyses were performed using
a random-effect model. GRADE was used for the evaluation of the quality
of evidence for the primary outcomes. Results: We included 19 cohort
studies with a total number of 5,071,137 patients, of which 2,450 were
exposed to oxcarbazepine either as monotherapy or polytherapy. The
summary odds ratio (OR) was 1.69 (95% CI, 0.95-2.98) for congenital
malformations following in-utero exposure to oxcarbazepine as compared
to the control group of unexposed patients [seven studies (n=625)],
and was 1.19 (95% CI, 0.67-2.12) when compared to those following
lamotrigine (LTG) exposure during pregnancy [3 studies (n=591)]. In
total, three studies (n=770) reported the association between in-utero
oxcarbazepine exposure and fetal/perinatal deaths. The meta-analysis
yielded a summary OR of 3.11 (95% CI, 0.57-16.97). Significance: Our
systematic review will help healthcare providers and guideline
developers regarding the treatment of epilepsy and other neurological
disorders during pregnancy. More cohort studies with a higher sample
size concerning oxcarbazepine use in pregnant patients are required to
truly assess the in-utero safety profile of the drug.
Longitudinally Extensive Transverse Myelitis (LETM) secondary to SARS-CoV-2 infection – A recent reality in spinal cord injury rehabilitation
Authors: Fonseca João , Coelho Alexandra , Lourenço Ana , Pires César , Margalho Paulo
Published: February 2022

Transverse myelitis can be a complication of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We
report the case of transverse myelitis related to SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Beyond the disease itself, neurological involvement affects
functionality. In this situation, Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine
plays a crucial role in managing patient rehabilitation.
Do pregnant women use pharmacological treatment as prescribed?
Authors: Korte Beau de , Smeets Nori , Colbers Angela , Bemt Bart van den , Gelder Marleen van
Published: February 2022

Aim: Pregnant women are hypothesized to have low adherence to prescribed
medication, because of concerns about toxicity and harmful effects on
the unborn child. However, very little is known about the actual
adherence to prescribed medication during pregnancy. We determined to
what extent women follow treatment recommendations regarding prescribed
medication use in mid-pregnancy. Methods: Dutch women participating in
the PRIDE Study completed a six-week diary on medication use.
Additionally, pharmacy records were obtained. For each medication
dispensed, we determined three measures of adherence: 1) whether use was
reported in the diary (actual use), 2) difference between dispensing
date and date of first reported use (initiation time), and 3) proportion
of days with at least the correct number of doses taken (implementation
adherence). Results: During the six-weeks study period, 235 of 816 women
(29%) were prescribed medication. Actual use was highest for
medications used for chronic conditions (88%; 95% confidence interval
[95% CI] 81-93), followed by medication for pregnancy-related
conditions (79%; 95% CI 71-86) and medication for occasional and
short-time use (69%; 95% CI 60-77). We observed a ≥1 day delay in
treatment initiation for 42% of medications dispensed for the first
time in the study period. For medications that were actually used, mean
implementation adherence was 74.2% (95% CI 69.3-79.2). Conclusion:
Although actual use of medications dispensed was high, many pregnant
women did not adhere to treatment recommendations. This non-adherence
may impact maternal and child health and lead to exposure
misclassification in studies in perinatal pharmacoepidemiology relying
on administrative databases.
PUBG ban and issues of online child safety during COVID-19 lockdown in India: A critical review from the Indian information technology act perspectives
Authors: Halder Debarati
Published: February 2022

In June 2020 India opted for banning 59 Chinese Apps. Contrary to the
apprehension of banning gaming apps including PUBG, the government did not
do so when the Chinese apps were banned. But soon PUBG also got banned in
India. Several stakeholders had raised their concerns in this regard as PUBG
may affect the mental health of children who are the major users of this
app. But on the other hand, it had been observed that PUBG had remained the
biggest respite for children who were confined to homes due to COVID- 19.
S.69A of the Information Technology Act 2000 (amended in 2008) had been the
main tool by the government to block access to Chinese apps. PUBG developers
had however tried to outsmart S.69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000
(amended in 2008), which had been used primarily to block the website and by
using Artificial Intelligence for preventing children below 18 from being
engaged for a continuous period, being exposed to nudity, etc. This article
aims to analyse the tussle between the scope and inherent meaning of S.69A
and 79 of the Indian Information technology Act, 2000 (amended in 2008) and
the ever-developing due diligence of the game developers with special
concern for child safety and mental health of the children, which may make
the later a winner or a loser in the legal battleground.
The Essential Role of Pancreatic α-Cells in Maternal Metabolic Adaptation to Pregnancy
Authors: Qiao Liping , Saget Sarah , Lu Cindy , Zang Tianyi , Dzyuba Brianna , Hay William W. , Shao Jianhua
Published: February 2022

Pancreatic α-cells are important in maintaining metabolic homeostasis, but their role in regulating maternal metabolic adaptations to pregnancy has not been studied. The objective of this study was to determine whether pancreatic α-cells respond to pregnancy and their contribution to maternal metabolic adaptation. With use of C57BL/6 mice, the findings of our study showed that pregnancy induced a significant increase of α-cell mass by promoting α-cell proliferation that was associated with a transitory increase of maternal serum glucagon concentration in early pregnancy. Maternal pancreatic GLP-1 content also was significantly increased during pregnancy. Using the inducible Cre/loxp technique, we ablated the α-cells (α-null) before and during pregnancy while maintaining enteroendocrine L-cells and serum GLP-1 in the normal range. In contrast to an improved glucose tolerance test (GTT) before pregnancy, significantly impaired GTT and remarkably higher serum glucose concentrations in the fed state were observed in α-null dams. Glucagon receptor antagonism treatment, however, did not affect measures of maternal glucose metabolism, indicating a dispensable role of glucagon receptor signaling in maternal glucose homeostasis. However, the GLP-1 receptor agonist improved insulin production and glucose metabolism of α-null dams. Furthermore, GLP-1 receptor antagonist Exendin (9-39) attenuated pregnancy-enhanced insulin secretion and GLP-1 restored glucose-induced insulin secretion of cultured islets from α-null dams. Together, these results demonstrate that α-cells play an essential role in controlling maternal metabolic adaptation to pregnancy by enhancing insulin secretion.
Heterogeneity of Type 1 Diabetes at Diagnosis Supports Existence of Age-Related Endotypes
Authors: Parviainen Anna , Härkönen Taina , Ilonen Jorma , But Anna , Knip Mikael ,   the Finnish Pediatric Diabetes Register
Published: February 2022

OBJECTIVE

Previous findings suggest that there are age-related endotypes of type 1 diabetes with different underlying etiopathological mechanisms in those diagnosed at age <7 years compared with those diagnosed at age ≥13 years. We set out to explore whether variation in demographic, clinical, autoimmune, and genetic characteristics of children and adolescents with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes support the existence of these proposed endotypes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used data from the Finnish Pediatric Diabetes Register to analyze characteristics of 6,015 children and adolescents diagnosed with type 1 diabetes between 2003 and 2019. We described and compared demographic data, clinical characteristics at diagnosis, autoantibody profiles, and HLA class II–associated disease risk between three groups formed based on age at diagnosis: <7, 7–12, and ≥13 years.

RESULTS

We found significant age-related differences in most of the characteristics analyzed. Children diagnosed at age <7 years were characterized by a higher prevalence of affected first-degree relatives, stronger HLA-conferred disease susceptibility, and higher number of autoantibodies at diagnosis, in particular a higher frequency of insulin autoantibodies, when compared with older children. Those diagnosed at age ≥13 years had a considerably higher male preponderance, higher frequency of glutamic acid decarboxylase autoantibodies, longer duration of symptoms before diagnosis, and more severe metabolic decompensation, reflected, for example, by a higher frequency of diabetic ketoacidosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that the heterogeneity of type 1 diabetes is associated with the underlying disease process and support the existence of distinct endotypes of type 1 diabetes related to age at diagnosis.
Identifying Suicide Risk in Adolescents and Young Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: Are Depression Screeners Sufficient?
Authors: Moss Ashley C. , Roberts Alissa J. , Yi-Frazier Joyce P. , Read Kendra L. , Taplin Craig E. , Weaver Kathryn W. , Pihoker Catherine , Hirsch Irl B. , Malik Faisal S.
Published: February 2022

OBJECTIVE

Examine the utility of suicide-risk items embedded within depression screeners for identifying the presence of suicide risk in adolescents and young adults (AYA) with type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value of self-report of suicide risk on the Patient Health Questionniaire-9 (PHQ-9) were compared with the pediatric psychologist–administered Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) as the reference standard for AYA with type 1 diabetes seen in a multidisciplinary AYA Diabetes Program clinic.

RESULTS

Of 133 participants, 9.8% and 11.3% reported suicide risk on the PHQ-9 and C-SSRS, respectively. Sensitivity of the PHQ-9 risk item was 53.3% (95% CI 27.4%–77.7%), specificity was 95.7% (95% CI 89.9%–98.4%), positive predictive value was 61.5% (95% CI 32.3%–84.9%), and negative predictive value was 94.2% (95% CI 87.9–97.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

Depression screeners appear to under-identify AYA with type 1 diabetes who may otherwise be at risk for suicide.
Comparative Safety of Sodium–Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors Versus Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitors and Sulfonylureas on the Risk of Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Authors: Dawwas Ghadeer K. , Flory James H. , Hennessy Sean , Leonard Charles E. , Lewis James D.
Published: February 2022

Objective:
To assess the association
of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors with diabetic
ketoacidosis compared to dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) inhibitors and
sulfonylureas in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Research
Design and Methods

We conducted a new-user active comparator
cohort study design. We examined
two pairwise comparisons: 1) SGLT2 inhibitors vs. DPP4 inhibitors and 2) SGLT2
inhibitors vs. sulfonylureas. The
main outcome was diabetic
ketoacidosis present on hospital admission. We adjusted for confounders via
propensity score matching. We used Cox proportional-hazards regression with a
robust variance estimator to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and corresponding 95%
confidence intervals (CIs) while adjusting for calendar time.

Results: In cohort 1 (n= 85,125 for SGLT2 inhibitors and
n= 85,125 for DPP-4 inhibitors), the incidence rates of diabetic ketoacidosis per
1000 person-years were 6.0 and 4.3 for SGLT2 inhibitors and DPP4 inhibitors,
respectively. In cohort 2 (n= 72,436 for SGLT2 inhibitors and n= 72,436 for sulfonylureas),
the incidence rates of diabetic ketoacidosis per 1000 person-years were 6.3 and
4.5 for SGLT2 inhibitors and sulfonylureas, respectively. In Cox
proportional-hazards models, the use of SGLT2 inhibitors was associated with a
higher rate of diabetic ketoacidosis compared to DPP4 inhibitors (adjusted HR
(aHR), 1.63; 95% CI 1.36–1.96) and sulfonylureas (aHR, 1.56; 95% CI 1.30–1.87).

Conclusions: In this comparative safety study using
real-world data, patients with type 2 diabetes who were newly prescribed SGLT2
inhibitors had a higher rate of diabetic ketoacidosis compared to DPP4
inhibitors and sulfonylureas. Clinicians should be vigilant about this association.
Heterogeneity of Type 1 Diabetes at Diagnosis Supports Existence of Age-Related Endotypes
Authors: Parviainen Anna , Härkönen Taina , Ilonen Jorma , But Anna , Knip Mikael , Register the Finnish Pediatric Diabetes
Published: February 2022

OBJECTIVE

Previous
findings suggest that there are age-related endotypes of type 1 diabetes with
different underlying etiopathological mechanisms in those diagnosed < 7
years compared with those diagnosed ≥ 13 years. We set out to explore whether variation
in demographic, clinical, autoimmune and genetic characteristics of children and
adolescents with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes support the existence of these
proposed endotypes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We
used data from the Finnish Pediatric Diabetes Register to analyze
characteristics of 6015 children and adolescents diagnosed with type 1 diabetes
between 2003 and 2019. We described and compared demographic data, clinical
characteristics at diagnosis, autoantibody profile and HLA class II associated
disease risk between three groups formed based on age at diagnosis; <7, 7–12
and ≥13 years.

RESULTS

We
found significant age-related differences in most of the characteristics
analyzed. Children diagnosed < 7 years were characterized by a higher prevalence
of affected first-degree relatives, stronger HLA-conferred disease susceptibility,
and higher number of autoantibodies at diagnosis, in particular a higher
frequency of insulin autoantibodies, when compared to older children. Those
diagnosed ≥ 13 years had a considerably higher male preponderance, a higher
frequency of glutamic acid decarboxylase autoantibodies, longer duration of
symptoms before diagnosis and more severe metabolic decompensation, reflected
e.g. by a higher frequency of diabetic ketoacidosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our
findings suggest that the heterogeneity of type 1 diabetes is associated with the
underlying disease process, and support the existence of distinct endotypes of
type 1 diabetes related to age at diagnosis.
The Essential Role of Pancreatic α-cells in Maternal Metabolic Adaptation to Pregnancy
Authors: Qiao Liping , Saget Sarah , Lu Cindy , Zang Tianyi , Dzyuba Brianna , Jr. William W. Hay, , Shao Jianhua
Published: February 2022

Pancreatic α-cells are important in maintaining metabolic
homeostasis, but their role in regulating maternal metabolic adaptations to
pregnancy has not been studied. The objective of this study was to determine whether
pancreatic α-cells respond to pregnancy and their contribution to maternal
metabolic adaptation. Using C57BL/6 mice, our study showed that pregnancy induced
a significant increase of α-cell mass by promoting α-cell proliferation that
was associated with a transitory increase of maternal serum glucagon
concentration in early pregnancy. Maternal pancreatic GLP-1 content also was significantly
increased during pregnancy. Using the inducible Cre/loxp technique, we ablated the
α-cells (α-null) before and during
pregnancy while maintaining enteroendocrine L-cells and serum GLP-1 in the normal
range. In contrast to an improved glucose tolerance test (GTT) before pregnancy,
significantly impaired GTT and remarkably higher serum glucose concentrations
in the fed state were observed in α-null
dams. Glucagon receptor antagonism treatment, however, did not affect measures
of maternal glucose metabolism, indicating a dispensable role of glucagon
receptor signaling in maternal glucose homeostasis. However, the GLP-1 receptor
agonist improved insulin production and glucose metabolism of α-null dams. Furthermore, GLP-1 receptor
antagonist Exendin (9-39) attenuated pregnancy-enhanced insulin secretion and GLP-1
restored glucose-induced insulin secretion of cultured islets from α-null dams. Together, these results
demonstrate that α-cells play an essential role in controlling maternal metabolic
adaptation to pregnancy by enhancing insulin secretion.
Ankle fractures in Finland: 118,929 operatively treated between 1987 and 2019
Authors: Happonen Ville , Kröger Heikki , Kuismin Markku , Sund Reijo
Published: February 2022

Background and purpose:  Ankle fractures are one of the most common fractures requiring operative treatment. They occur most commonly in postmenopausal women and younger men and recent studies suggest that the incidence of ankle fractures is increasing. In this registry study, we analyze inpatient data of operatively treated ankle fractures during a period of 33 years from our comprehensive nationwide register data.
Patients and methods: The data on operatively treated ankle fracture patients between January 1, 1987 and December 31, 2019 was collected from the Finnish National Hospital Discharge Register and analyzed.
Results: 118,929 ankle fractures were treated operatively. These included lateral malleolar fractures (33%), bior trimalleolar fractures (51%), medial malleolar fractures (7%), and other fractures (9%). Mean age was 53 (SD 17) years for women and 43 (16) for men. The average annual incidence rate was 69 per 100,000 person-years. Over the past 3 decades incidence has leveled off for women and hasstarted to decline for men. However, the incidence is increasing in the elderly women group (over 70 years of age). In the over 50 age group, comorbidities have increased over the years, being more common in men than in women. The incidence of ankle fractures was higher during the winter months (November–March).
Interpretation: The number of operatively treated ankle fractures has leveled off during the last 33 years. However, nowadays we operate on more difficult fractures in elderly patients with comorbidities.
Requirements and Design Consistency: A Bi-directional Traceability and Natural Language Processing Assisted Approach
Authors: Dawood Omer Omer Salih , Sahraoui Abd-El-Kader , Mahmoud Mukhtar M. E. , Babiker Abd-El-Aziz
Published: February 2022

phase in the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC). The design phase follows it. Traceability is one of the core concepts in software engineering; it is used to follow updates to make consistent items. This paper aimed to cover consistency through bi-directional traceability between requirements and design phase in a semi-automatic way. The Natural Language Processing (NLP) was used to analyze the requirements text and generate a class diagram; then, the generated items can be traced back to requirements. We developed a novel process to support consistency and bi-directional traceability. To ensure our proposed process's practical applicability, we implemented a tool named as Requirements and Design Bi-directional Traceability (RDBT). RDTB receives textual format requirements, performs NLP tasks (Tokenization, Part-of-Speech Tagging, etc.), generates UML class diagram, and finally performs traceability management to ensure consistency of requirements and UML class diagram. The work evaluation reveals good results, which indicates it can be used efficiently as a guide to generate the UML class diagram semi-automatically and manage traceability.
The Zero-Point Oscillations in the Planck Vacuum State and Its Coordinate Uncertainty
Authors: Daywitt William C.
Published: February 2022

This short paper argues that the charged quantum oscillators in the quasi-continuum Planck vacuum (PV) state are responsible for the zero-point oscillations in that state. The Planck particle (PP) quantum energy levels for the oscillators are derived from first principles. The PV coordinate uncertainty concerning the PV structure easily follows from these results.
Nested Hierarchical Design Application in Production of Ceramic Glazed Floor Tiles
Authors: Akinbobola O. O. , Achebo J. I. , Adeleke T. B. , Obahiagbon K. O.
Published: February 2022

The challenges of using locally available materials in Nigeria to meet the tiles demand that will be affordable and compete favourably with imported products will no doubt not only contribute to our Gross Domestic Product but also meet the yearning of the Federal Government on her local content policy. This necessitated this study to aim at the production of ceramic floor tiles with clays modified with naturally occurring materials. An experimental method was adopted to carry out this research work. Different clay samples were purposively gotten from Mbaukwu town, Anambra State, Nigeria. Rice husk, silt, feldspar, quartz was obtained to serve as modifiers. An elaborate nested experimental design, structured as an analytical hierarchy process, and festooned with three base materials, 4-modifiers, and with replications, facilitated the achievement of the production. The nested design was developed to guide in the optimum combination of materials that will give the best yield of tiles. The base materials were used in combination with the four modifiers at different percentage levels. The tiles produced were subjected to same test in order to ascertain their behavior in terms of weather, resistance to abrasion, compatibility with mortar, water absorption, dilute acid, Sodium Hydroxide and detergent. The experimental tiles produced compete favorably with any foreign product as it was seen to match up with “Vetrified tiles” and “Gomex tile” from Italy and satisfies NIS 427: 2000. Glazed ceramic floor tiles have been successfully manufactured locally using clay and other naturally occurring materials and it has given excellent performance characteristics.
Oil Sorption Performance of Sorbent Materials Examined Under Static and Dynamic Conditions
Authors: Anwana Emmanuel E. , Ewemoje Oluseyi E.
Published: February 2022

Oil spill cleanup and subsequent restoration of the environment is majorly a function of spill cleanup methods applied. Some of these methods, though efficient, are, however, very expensive and require more personnel for their application and relative deployment in the field. The study was aimed at examining the efficiency of a locally and readily available, eco-friendly and low cost agricultural waste (coconut husk coir) as sorbent materials for spilled engine oil cleanup under static and dynamic marine water conditions. The sorbent material was prepared and used in three forms: raw coconut husk coir (CHC), modified coconut husk coir (MCHC), and reused coconut husk coir (RCHC). Under static and dynamic marine water conditions, oil sorption batch equilibrium experiments were used to study the engine oil sorption capacity and efficiency of the sorbent. Effects of sorbent dosage and sorption times on the oil sorption and efficiency of CHC, MCHC, and RCHC were studied and determined. At a constant sorption time of 60 minutes and varying sorbent dosages of 2-8 /320 ml of engine oil-marine water concentration, MCHC exhibited the highest oil sorption efficiency of 61.18% and 44.33% for dynamic and static conditions, CHC had 55.61% and 38.50% for dynamic and static conditions, whereas RCHC had 41.66% and 26.04% for dynamic and static conditions, respectively. It is statistically deduced from the results that sorption times and sorbent dosages have significant effects on the sorption efficiency of experimental coir for spilled engine oil removal. Though there is a need for proper blending or modifications of the sorbent material to enhance its affinity to oil and hydrophobicity, there are enough potentials in the materials for mild marine water current spilled engine oil cleanup.
Development of a Multi-criteria Decision Model for Nigerian Refinery Bottlenecks
Authors: Adeleke T. B. , Edokpia R. O. , Onifade M. K. , Chime N. B.
Published: February 2022

Production systems are continually surrounded by bottleneck problems that limit their overall performances. The petroleum industry today faces a lot of challenges which border on production bottlenecks that tend to limit production throughput and hence output. The purpose of this study is to provide a decision support strategy for refinery operators and mangers as well as other stakeholders. The multi-criteria models used were the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the Test of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). A 9-point saaty scale and 10-point linguistic scale questionnaires were used to elicit responses from experts in the refinery. The statistical computations with the Multi-criteria Decision Model were carried out with the aid of (AHP -OS) BPMSG software on nine criteria which are bottleneck variables which impact on refinery operations and the comparison was made by nine decision makers who are refinery experts while TOPSIS was used for alternatives selection. The result of the AHP showed the contributing weights of individual criterion with “Government Interference” ranking first, exerting a weight of 19.84%. The result also generated a normalized total matrix which is approximately one (1), consistency index of 0.09694 and a consistency ratio of 0.06685 which is within acceptable limit and finally from TOPSIS modeling, “Denationalization” with the highest value of 0.7598 was found to be closest to the ideal solution for the optimal refinery performance. This study has developed a multi-criteria decision model for selecting the best alternative for optimal performance based on inputs from experts and this provides a veritable framework that serves as a decision support strategy for policy makers and stakeholders in the operations of the refinery.
Optimal Frequency Control Management of Grid Integration PV/Wind/FC/Storage Battery Based Smart Grid Using Multi Objective Particle Swarm Optimization MOPSO and Model Predictive Control (MPC)
Authors: Elgammal Adel , Ramlal Tagore
Published: February 2022

This article forecasts the performance of smart-grid electrical transmission systems and integrated battery/FC/Wind/PV storage system renewable power sources in the context of unpredictable solar and wind power supplies. The research provided a hybrid renewable energy sources smart grid power system electrical frequency control solution using adaptive control techniques and model predictive control (MPC) based on the Multi-Objective Practical Swarm Optimization Algorithm MOPSO. To solve the problems of parameter tuning in Load Frequency Control, the suggested adaptive control approach is utilized to accomplish on-line adjustment of the Load Frequency Control parameters. During the electrical grid's integration, the system under investigation is a hybrid Wind/PV/FC/Battery smart grid with variable demand load. To achieve optimal outcomes, all of the controller settings for various units in power grids are determined by means of a customized objective function and a particle swarm optimization method rather than a regular objective function with fluctuating restrictions. To suppress the consumption and generation balance, MPCs were designed for each of the Storage Battery, Wind Turbine Generation, and the model Photovoltaic Generation. In addition, demand response (real-time pricing) was used in this scheme to reduce the load frequency by adjusting the controlled loads. The suggested control strategy is evaluated in the Simulink /MATLAB environment in order to analyse the suggested approach's working in the power system, as well as its effectiveness, reliability, robustness, and stability. The simulation findings show that the proposed control method generally converges to an optimal operating point that minimises total user disutility, restores normal frequency and planned tie-line power flows, and maintains transmission line thermal restrictions. The simulation results further indicate that the convergence holds even when the control algorithm uses inaccurate system parameters. Finally, numerical simulations are used to illustrate the proposed algorithm's robustness, optimality, and effectiveness. In compared to previous methodologies, the system frequency recovers effectively and efficiently in the event of a power demand disturbance, as demonstrated. A sensitivity test is also performed to assess the suggested technique's effectiveness.
Analysis of 5 Floors Brick Masonry Building Type 77/5
Authors: Koka Petraq , Vesho Nikolla , Shehu Fabion
Published: February 2022

The study below presents the main results of numerical analyzes, performed to assess the seismic response of an existing building, with brick masonry, type 77/5. This building is part of the group of 4-5 residential buildings, built in the years 1975-1990, considered as a “TYPE”, each of which was used many times for identical buildings.

This project is the result of a collective work of the Design Institute, approved by the Ministry of Construction of that time, and of course, manifests the time limitations and shortcomings.

While these 5-story buildings cover a significant percentage of residential buildings, the fundamental question is: “Are these buildings safe under seismic action, while so many families are accommodated on them?”

This question stems from the following limitation:

- The 77/5 plan derives from regular forms, based on the recommendations of Eurocode 8 [4.2.3.2], p.48, and KTP.N.2-89 (Technical Design Conditions), published by the Academy of Sciences of Albania.

- The technical literature provides recommendations and restrictions for masonry buildings with a height of not more than 3 floors. When they exceed this height, they are not included in these recommendations.
The Neutrino Decay of the Free Neutron and the Neutrino Structure According to the Planck Vacuum Theory
Authors: Daywitt William C.
Published: February 2022

The Planck vacuum (PV) theory derives equations for the neutrino and antineutrino, and relates them to the unstable free neutron and antineutron. Remarkably, these neu- trons and neutrinos share the same wavefunction solutions that describe the proton and electron and their antiparticle cores.

The neutrino and antineutrino are chargeless and massless; so their propagation through matter goes unnoticed, making these neutrinos invisible. The equations to follow that describe these pseudo-particles are the theoretical embodiment of the circa 1930 Pauli neutrino hypothesis.

Finally, depending on one’s perspective, the neutrons can be viewed as decaying meta-particles or as stable nuclear particles.
A Review of Multi-Channel Medium Access Control Protocols for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Alahmadi Hanan , Boabdullah Fatma
Published: February 2022

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) are witnessing a momentum spread especially with the growth of the Internet of Things (IoT) paradigm. Indeed, WSNs are considered as the main enabling infrastructure for IoT networks. Nowadays, the emerging WSNs applications require not only long network lifespan but also considerably high data rate. Consequently, conceiving Multichannel MAC protocols that save the scarceenergy budget of sensor nodes while providing high network throughput is crucial for the emerging WSNs applications. In this paper, a thorough review of recent multichannel MAC protocols is provided along with a classification framework to deeply understand the design aspects for each protocol.