bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surface Heterogeneity, Physical, and Shape Model of Near-Earth Asteroid (52768) 1998 OR2
Authors: Devogèle Maxime , McGilvray Anna , MacLennan Eric , Monchinski Courteney , Marshall Sean E. , Hickson Dylan , Virkki Anne , Giorgini Jon D. , Abe Lyu , Augustin David , Aznar-Macías Amadeo , Baudouin Philippe , Behrend Raoul , Bendjoya Philippe , Benkhaldoun Zouhair , Bosch Josep , Cellino Alberto , Chatelain Joseph , Deldem Marc , Ferrais Marin , Goncalves Rui , Houdin Gerard , Husárik Marek , Jehin Emmanuel , Kareta Teddy , Kim Myung-Jin , Licandro Javier , Lister Tim , Medeiros Hissa , Pravec Petr , Rivet Jean-Pierre , Rousseau Gerald , Roh Dong-Goo , Skiff Brian , Taylor Patrick A. , Venditti Flaviane , Vernet David , Vienney Jean-Michel , Yim Hong-Suh , Zambrano-Marin Luisa
Published: February 2024

On 2020 April 29, the near-Earth object (52768) 1998 OR2 experienced a close approach to Earth at a distance of 16.4 lunar distances (LD). 1998 OR2 is a potentially hazardous asteroid of absolute magnitude H = 16.04 that can currently come as close to Earth as 3.4 LD. We report here observations of this object in polarimetry, photometry, and radar. Our observations show that the physical characteristics of 1998 OR2 are similar to those of both M- and S-type asteroids. Arecibo’s radar observations provide a high radar albedo of

σ

ˆ

OC

=

0.29 ± 0.08, suggesting that metals are present in 1998 OR2 near-surface. We find a circular polarization ratio of μ

c
= 0.291 ± 0.012, and the delay-Doppler images show that the surface of 1998 OR2 is a top-shape asteroid with large-scale structures such as large craters and concavities. The polarimetric observations display a consistent variation of the polarimetric response as a function of the rotational phase, suggesting that the surface of 1998 OR2 is heterogeneous. Color observations suggest an X-complex taxonomy in the Bus–DeMeo classification. Combining optical polarization, radar, and two epochs from the NEOWISE satellite observations, we derived an equivalent diameter of D = 1.80 ± 0.1 km and a visual albedo p
v = 0.21 ± 0.02. Photometric and radar data provide a sidereal rotation period of P = 4.10872 ± 0.00001 hr, a pole orientation of (332.°3 ± 5°, 20.°7 ± 5°), and a shape model with dimensions of

(

2.08

−
0.10

+
0.10

,

1.93

−
0.10

+
0.10

,

1.60

−
0.05

+
0.05

)

km.
A new species of Zhangixalus (Anura, Rhacophoridae) from Yunnan, China
Authors: Pan Yuanqiang , Hou Mian , Yu Guohua , Liu Shuo
Published: February 2024

We described hereinZhangixalus yunnanensissp. nov., a new treefrog species from central and western Yunnan, China, which had previously been confused withZ. nigropunctatus, based on morphological and molecular evidence. Our phylogenetic analyses revealed that the new species is sister to the clade ofZ. nigropunctatusandZ. melanoleucuswith strong support (100% and 73% for BI and ML, respectively). Our morphological analysis suggested thatZ. yunnanensissp. nov.is distinctly different from all known congeners by the combination of the following morphological characters: black blotches on body flank and hind-limb, medium body size (SVL31.3–36.0 mm in males and 47.6–48.6 mm in females), head wider than long, iris yellowish-brown, dorsum uniformly green, vocal sac external, throat black, webbing greyish and fingers webbed one third and toes webbed half. Additionally, we revealed that the specimens ROM 38011 (Sa Pa, Vietnam) and VNMN 4099 (Son La, Vietnam) are neitherZ. dorsoviridisnorZ. nigropunctatus, but probably represent one or two cryptic species ofZhangixaluspending further morphological and molecular data. Including the new species described herein, the genusZhangixaluscurrently comprises 42 species, 30 of which are distributed in China with 11 species known from Yunnan. Amongst different zoogeographic regions in Yunnan, south-eastern Yunnan has the highest diversity ofZhangixalus, followed by western Yunnan and southern Yunnan. More studies are required to clarify the species diversity of this genus based on multiple lines of evidence (e.g. morphological and molecular data).
Cas en logistique et Supply Chain Management
Authors: Beaulieu Martin , Roy Jacques
Published: February 2024

Énoncé La gestion de la chaîne logistique de la santé fait l’objet périodiquement de nombreuses études à l’échelle de l’Amérique du Nord. Plus spécifiquement, la chaîne de la fourniture médicale est fréquemment étudiée. La fourniture médicale est un ensemble de produits peu complexes comme des aiguilles, seringues, compresses, etc., mais elle comprend aussi des articles plus élaborés comme des défibrillateurs. Ils constituent donc des intrants critiques de la prestation de soins. Malgré la simplicité apparente de ces articles, un établissement de santé peut consommer 10 000 codes de produits différents associés à la grande famille de la fourniture médicale. Cette chaîne est considérée comme l’une des plus coûteuses tout en offrant un faible niveau de service des fournisseurs quand on compare sa performance à celle de secteurs comme le commerce de détail ou la distribution alimentaire (Beaulieu et Roy, 2019 ; Ebel et al. , 2013). La pandémie de la Covid-19 n’a naturellement pas inversé cette situation. Toutefois, la pandémie a été une occasion pour un établissement de mener une expérimentation qui n’avait alors jamais été tentée dans le secteur québécois de la santé : partager des prévisions de consommation de produits avec des fournisseurs afin de trouver des solutions à des ruptures de stock des équipements de protection individuelle anticipées. En collaboration avec un partenaire universitaire, cet établissement de santé explore la possibilité d’étendre cette stratégie collaborative à un nombre plus important de produits et de fournisseurs.
Cas en logistique et Supply Chain Management
Authors: Riabova Marianna , Reaidy Paul
Published: February 2024

Énoncé
Cas en logistique et Supply Chain Management
Authors: Kacioui-Maurin Élodie , Lazzeri Gracia-Campo Jennifer
Published: February 2024

Énoncé
Cas en logistique et Supply Chain Management
Authors: Leclercq Morgane , Drouin Charlotte , Afif Karima , Gaboury-Bonhomme Marie-Ève , Cloutier Jacinthe , Provencher Véronique
Published: February 2024

Énoncé
A fractional dual-phase-lag thermoelastic model for a solid half-space with changing thermophysical properties involving two-temperature and non-singular kernels
Authors: Ahmed Ibrahim-Elkhalil , Abouelregal Ahmed E. , Atta Doaa , Alesemi Meshari
Published: February 2024

The thermal and mechanical properties of materials show differences depending on the temperature change, which necessitates consideration of the dependence of the properties of these materials on this change in the analysis of thermal stress and deformation of the material. As a result, in the present work, a mathematical framework for thermal conductivity was formulated to describe the behavior of non-simple elastic materials whose properties depend on temperature changes. This derived model includes generalized fractional differential operators with non-singular kernels and two-stage delay operators. The fractional derivative operators under consideration include both the Caputo-Fabrizio fractional derivative and the Atangana-Baleanu fractional derivative, in addition to the traditional fractional operator. Not only that, but the system of governing equations includes the concept of two temperatures. Based on the proposed model, the thermodynamic response of an unlimited, constrained thermoelastic medium subjected to laser pulses was considered. It was taken into account that the thermal elastic properties of the medium, such as the conductivity coefficient and specific heat, depend on the temperature. The governing equations of the problem were formulated and then solved using the Laplace transform method, followed by the numerical inverse. By presenting the numerical results in graphical form, a detailed analysis and discussion of the effects of fractional factors and the dependence of properties on temperature are presented. The results indicate that the fractional order coefficient, discrepancy index, and temperature-dependent properties significantly affect the behavior fluctuations of all physical domains under consideration.
Synchronization of generalized fractional complex networks with partial subchannel losses
Authors: Dai Changping , Ma Weiyuan , Guo Ling
Published: February 2024

This article focuses on the synchronization problem for two classes of complex networks with subchannel losses and generalized fractional derivatives. Initially, a new stability theorem for generalized fractional nonlinear system is formulated using the properties of generalized fractional calculus and the generalized Laplace transform. This result is also true for classical fractional cases. Subsequently, synchronization criteria for the generalized fractional complex networks are attained by the proposed stability theorem and the state layered method. Lastly, two numerical examples with some new kernel functions are given to validate the synchronization results.
Approximate solution of a multivariable Cauchy-Jensen functional equation
Authors: Bae Jae-Hyeong , Park Won-Gil
Published: February 2024

Let $ n $ be an integer greater than $ 1 $. In this paper, we obtained the stability of the multivariable Cauchy-Jensen functional equation

   \begin{document}$ nf\bigg(x_1+{\cdots}+x_n, \frac {y_1+{\cdots}+y_n}n\bigg) = \sum\limits_{1\le i, j\le n}f(x_i, y_j) $\end{document}

in Banach spaces, quasi-Banach spaces, and normed $ 2 $-Banach spaces.
Certain geometric properties of the fractional integral of the Bessel function of the first kind
Authors: Oros Georgia Irina , Oros Gheorghe , Bardac-Vlada Daniela Andrada
Published: February 2024

This paper revealed new fractional calculus applications of special functions in the geometric function theory. The aim of the study presented here was to introduce and begin the investigations on a new fractional calculus integral operator defined as the fractional integral of order $ \lambda $ for the Bessel function of the first kind. The focus of this research was on obtaining certain geometric properties that give necessary and sufficient univalence conditions for the new fractional calculus operator using the methods associated to differential subordination theory, also referred to as admissible functions theory, developed by Sanford S. Miller and Petru T. Mocanu. The paper discussed, in the proved theorems and corollaries, conditions that the fractional integral of the Bessel function of the first kind must comply in order to be a part of the sets of starlike functions, positive and negative order starlike functions, convex functions, positive and negative order convex functions, and close-to-convex functions, respectively. The geometric properties proved for the fractional integral of the Bessel function of the first kind recommend this function as a useful tool for future developments, both in geometric function theory in general, as well as in differential subordination and superordination theories in particular.
A clustering-based differential privacy protection algorithm for weighted social networks
Authors: Zhang Lei , Ge Lina
Published: February 2024

Weighted social networks play a crucial role in various fields such as social media analysis, healthcare, and recommendation systems. However, with their widespread application and privacy issues have become increasingly prominent, including concerns related to sensitive information leakage, individual behavior analysis, and privacy attacks. Despite traditional differential privacy protection algorithms being able to protect privacy for edges with sensitive information, directly adding noise to edge weights may result in excessive noise, thereby reducing data utility. To address these challenges, we proposed a privacy protection algorithm for weighted social networks called DCDP. The algorithm combines the density clustering algorithm OPTICS to partition the weighted social network into multiple sub-clusters and adds noise to different sub-clusters at random sampling frequencies. To enhance the balance of privacy protection, we designed a novel privacy parameter calculation method. Through theoretical derivation and experimentation, the DCDP algorithm demonstrated its capability to achieve differential privacy protection for weighted social networks while effectively maintaining data accuracy. Compared to traditional privacy protection algorithms, the DCDP algorithm reduced the average relative error by approximately 20% and increases the proportion of unchanged shortest paths by about 10%. In summary, we aimed to address privacy issues in weighted social networks, providing an effective method to protect user-sensitive information while ensuring the accuracy and utility of data analysis.
Tracking control of wheeled mobile robots via intermittent control
Authors: He Xinyi , Han Xiuping , Wei Tengda , Li Xiaodi
Published: February 2024

This paper was concerned with the trajectory tracking control of wheeled mobile robots using aperiodic intermittent control. By establishing the corresponding motion model of the wheeled mobile robot, a tracking control strategy was proposed based on the intermittent control approach and backstepping method. Compared to the controllers using continuous state feedback, the proposed control strategy was activated only on separate time intervals, which combined the features of closed- and open-loop control. An example was given to illustrate the effectiveness of the obtained result.
Una interpretación alejada de las lecturas desde el canon. Mariano Baquero Goyanes y «Clarín»
Authors: López Ruiz Patricia Teresa
Published: February 2024

La notable labor de Mariano Baquero en la interpretación crítica de la narrativa de autores decimonónicos es indudable. En el caso del acercamiento a las novelas clarinianas, esto adquiere un particular y relevante interés. Sobre todo, si tenemos en cuenta que el origen de dicha tarea se encuentra en un momento de la Historia Literaria en que «Clarín» lejos estaba de ocupar un lugar dentro del canon de los grandes novelistas del siglo XIX. En este trabajo abordaremos lo que supuso esa tarea. En primer lugar, desde el ámbito de la historiografía literaria y, en segundo, desde el panorama de los estudios críticos llevados a cabo en dicho momento sobre la obra de este novelista.
Reescritura del perseguidor cortazariano: Campo de amapolas blancas, de Gonzalo Hidalgo Bayal
Authors: Calvo Revilla Ana
Published: February 2024

Analizamos en este trabajo las concomitancias y paralelismos que mantiene Campo de amapolas blancas de Gonzalo Hidalgo Bayal con la obra de Cortázar a través del estudio pormenorizado del proceso de escritura, del papel del narrador y los elementos estructurales narrativos, de las huellas intertextuales (literarias, cinematográficas, filosóficas, pictóricas, musicales), de los espacios y motivos simbólicos y de los componentes retóricos, entre otros. Todos estos componentes configuran la poética de la evocación y la retórica de la insatisfacción mediante la cual ambos escritores muestran su concepción de la obra literaria.
AI Ethics
Authors: Gao Di Kevin , Haverly Andrew , Mittal Sudip , Wu Jiming , Chen Jingdao
Published: February 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) ethics has emerged as a burgeoning yet pivotal area of scholarly research. This study conducts a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the AI ethics literature over the past two decades. The analysis reveals a discernible tripartite progression, characterized by an incubation phase, followed by a subsequent phase focused on imbuing AI with human-like attributes, culminating in a third phase emphasizing the development of human-centric AI systems. After that, they present seven key AI ethics issues, encompassing the Collingridge dilemma, the AI status debate, challenges associated with AI transparency and explainability, privacy protection complications, considerations of justice and fairness, concerns about algocracy and human enfeeblement, and the issue of superintelligence. Finally, they identify two notable research gaps in AI ethics regarding the large ethics model (LEM) and AI identification and extend an invitation for further scholarly research.
Software Engineering for Developing a Cloud Computing Museum-Guide System
Authors: Al-Obaidy Hadeel , Ebrahim Aysha , Aljufairi Ali , Mero Ahmed , Eid Omar
Published: February 2024

The aim of this article proposes an innovative solution for developing a museum-guide system, which employs a voice-activated assistant paired with 3-D hologram displays, that utilizes Amazon web services (AWS) to enhance the visitor experience at the Bahrain National Museum. The proposed system uses software engineering as a service (SaaS) and involves an agile development process model with microservice architecture that adapts cloud computing capabilities to provide scalability, reliability, and maintainability. The proposed system enhances the existing museum infrastructure and databases through a flexible, API-based architecture. The proposed system is highly adaptable and flexible in different desirable aspects of user experience goals. The implementation results proved that the system is highly reliable, adaptable, and efficient and has the potential to improve the user experience by transforming the way museum visitors explore and interact with user interfaces of the museum-guide system.
The Growth of Contemporary Music Subject and the Reform of Music Teaching in Universities
Authors: Zhao Binbin , Razzouk Rim
Published: February 2024

In order to promote the growth of contemporary music and the reform of music, this article designs an improved collaborative filtering (CF) algorithm to solve the problem of sparse matrix in traditional recommendation algorithms. The data matrix is dimensionally reduced to find the nearest neighbor, so as to realize personalized recommendation of music teaching resources in colleges and universities. The test results show that the accuracy of the proposed teaching resource recommendation algorithm is improved by 22.56% compared with the traditional CF algorithm. The improved CF algorithm can provide more accurate prediction, and the recommendation effect of the improved algorithm is better than the original algorithm, which can effectively avoid the sparse matrix problem faced by the CF algorithm, and provide technical support for the development of contemporary music discipline and the reform of music discipline.
The Use of Limestone Blocks in a New Masonry Technology
Authors: Albu Doina Cezara , Albu Ion
Published: February 2024

The present study aims to contribute to the knowledge of the mechanical properties of limestone blocks extracted from mines in the Republic of Moldova and used in a new masonry technology. The initial shear strength is examined based on laboratory work carried out on 5 samples from each of the 3 mines in different areas of Moldova. The strength calculation of the proposed masonry technology is carried out based on the standards for load-bearing walls and corresponds to the requirements. The results showed that Moldovan limestone blocks have high mechanical properties. The proposed masonry technology is based on the use of local materials and to increase the strength, instead of steel mesh, fibreglass mesh and epoxy resin will be used, which can be implemented in the Republic of Moldova. This research based on the use of local materials is significant for the development of the construction technology branch in Moldova.
Statical Numerical Analysis and Material Optimization of Arthropod-Inspired Hexapod Robots for Disaster Rescue Applications
Authors: Cruz-López Salvador , Urriolagoitia-Calderón Guillermo Manuel , Romero-Ángeles Beatriz , Urriolagoitia-Sosa Guillermo , Marquet-Rivera Rodrigo Arturo , Hernández-Vázquez Rosa Alicia , Mastache-Miranda Octavio Alejandro
Published: February 2024

The development of arthropod-inspired robotic architecture, modeled after the limbs of insects and other animals, has enabled robots to behave more flexibly and adaptively in different environments. Among these designs, hexapod robots have gained significant attention due to their potential use in disaster rescue scenarios, providing vital support for lifesaving and damage control in emergency situations. This study addresses the numerical analysis of a hexapod robot specifically tailored for use in disaster areas, with a particular focus on the crucial aspect of material optimization. Hexapod robots, equipped with articulated legs that mimic insect-like movements, have shown remarkable success in exploration tasks, especially in navigating hard-to-reach places. The main body of the robot was designed using durable yet lightweight materials to optimize load-bearing capacity for the required equipment and rescue tools. A thorough static numerical analysis was performed to ensure the structural integrity and efficiency of the robot. Finite element simulation programs were used for the static numerical analysis, allowing evaluation of the stresses and deformations to which the robot would be subjected under various loading conditions. The selection of materials played a critical role in improving the robot's performance and survivability during disaster operations. Various materials, including composites and advanced alloys, were tested, and analyzed for their mechanical properties and suitability for harsh conditions. In particular, the resistance of the robot to the impact of a falling cubic reinforced concrete element was investigated by simulating a stone collapse. The results of this study shed light on the influence of materials on the robot's ability to cope with unpredictable and challenging scenarios, ultimately contributing to the development of more robust and reliable Hexapod robots for disaster operations. The results of this research contribute significantly to ongoing advances in robotics technology for disaster operations. By leveraging the unique characteristics of arthropod-inspired Hexapod robots and optimizing their material composition, this study highlights the potential of these mobile devices to revolutionize rescue operations in challenging and hazardous environments, ultimately saving lives and minimizing the impact of disasters.
The Effect of Turbine Blades Number in the Turbine Performance
Authors: Herawan Safarudin Gazali , Maulana Mohammad Fiqri , Yulio Noviando , Oktarina Rienna , Setyandito Oki , Tokit Ernie Binti Mat , Saat Fatimah Al-Zaharah Binti Mohd , Rosli Mohamad Afzanizam Bin Mohd
Published: February 2024

Water energy can be utilized as a power plant. A water turbine is a machine that uses water to rotate blades and a turbine generator to produce electricity. This research was carried out using a microhydro type water turbine experimental rig using gravitational of water with 2 meter high. The measurements were taken from the turbine such as turbine rotation speed, water flow rate, torque, and voltage from the generator that coupled with the turbine, which had the variable number of blades. The research method used is the experimental method, direct observation, design and testing of the turbines. At the design stage the turbine is designed based on three variables, namely the turbine blades with 10, 12, and 14 blades. It was found that the performance of the turbine is up to 34% of energy efficiency.
Simulations on Heat Exchangers in Thermoelectric Generators for Automotive Application
Authors: Tien Tan Nguyen , Dong Hieu Minh , Minh Dien Vu , Vu Quang Khong , Phu Nguyen Huu , Duy Vinh Nguyen
Published: February 2024

Many engineering applications include the heat exchange process between two fluids with distinct temperature gradients separated by solid walls. The machinery used in this operation is known as a heat exchanger. The interaction between exhaust gas and water was modeled in this study using a variety of heat exchanger types. The boundary conditions parameters of the input exhaust gas for the simulation model were established based on the test diesel engine. When the engine is operating at 1200 rpm and 100% load, modeling results show that the heat recovery efficiency of the exhaust gas reaches the maximum value of 65% thanks to the 9-compartment structure and one heat sink in each compartment.
Design of a Rainwater-Based Power Plant Turbine
Authors: Yulio Noviando , Herawan Safarudin Gazali , Oktarina Rienna , Setyandito Oki , Tokit Ernie Binti Mat , Saat Fatimah Al-Zaharah Binti Mohd , Rosli Mohamad Afzanizam Bin Mohd
Published: February 2024

The increase in the use of electricity in Indonesia is also due to the industrial sectors which have enlarged their area and the use of electricity to develop their business. Indonesia is a developing country which is still in the stage of development and development so that it can become a developed country. This research is main to develop rainwater based power plant turbine and anaysis the stress analysis and test the rig. Simulation of stress analysis in the design of a water turbine, there is 1 force that is applied, namely the force in the area where the gallon water container with a volume of 15 liters is placed. The force exerted is 147.1 N which is obtained from calculating the mass of a gallon filled with 15-liters of water multiplied by the acting gravitational force. The results of the stress analysis simulation show a visualization image consisting of von mises stress, displacement, and the safety factor displays blue for all parts of the water turbine frame design which states that the amount of force exerted is still relatively safe. Water discharge is taken using a digital water sensor that can detect the water flow rate accurately. Water power of this system is 1.14 Watt. The water pressure generated by the fluid mechanical energy working in the water turbine is directly proportional to the resulting blade of turbine rotation. The voltage comparison resulting from the number of blade design states that the most optimal design is in the number of 8 blades, which has the greatest voltage value of 910.1 V at the 181 rpm. Hence, the number of 8 blades is the most effective turbine design for rotating the generator.
Evaluation of PDL-1 expression in thyroid carcinoma and its correlation with clinicopathological parameters in a North Indian population
Authors: Anand N. , Husain N. , Pradhan R.
Published: February 2024

NA
Microsurgical varicocelectomy efficacy in treatment of men with primary and secondary infertility (retrospective study)
Authors: Azizbek Shomarufov
Published: February 2024

Introduction and objectives: Varicocele is the most common treatable cause of male infertility. The study aimed to compare varicocelectomy efficacy in men with primary (PI) and secondary infertility (SI). Patients and Methods: Medical records of 100 men suffering from PI and SI and having varicocelectomy at the Republican Specialized Scientific-Practical Medical Center of Urology were retrospectively selected and analyzed. Patients were divided into 2 groups. Group I included 58 men with PI and Group II 42 men with SI. Preoperative clinical characteristics and semen parameters before and after varicocelectomy were analyzed and compared between groups. Results: Analysis revealed that the mean age of patients of group I was significantly lower (p<0.001) and the duration of infertility was accurately shorter (p<0.01) than those of group II. Main semen parameters increased significantly in group I (e.g., sperm concentration increased by 50%, from 62.2 ± 8.7 to 93.5 ± 10.0 M/ml, and total motile sperm count increased by 113%, from 76.7±17.1 to 163.4±27.8 M p<0.05), while in group II only rate of progressive motile sperm increased significantly (by 107%, from 13.5± .6 to 28.0±5.2% p<0.05). We identified a significant difference in varicocelectomy efficacy between group I and group II in change of total motile sperm count (by 113% vs 74% respectively, p<0.01). We also revealed a discrepancy between groups in correlation ratio (r) between initial and post-surgical percent of progressive motile sperm. Conclusions: Patients with SI were older and had longer infertility period. Varicocelectomy resulted in significant semen parameters improvement in patients with PI. In patients with SI, only a percent of progressively motile sperm improved significantly. It indicates that advanced male age and long infertility duration may have a negative impact on varicocelectomy success.
Effect of SARS-CoV-2 viral infection on male sexual hormones levels post COVID-19 exposure: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Puspaningrat Anak Agung Patriana , Hakim Lukman , Renaldo Johan
Published: February 2024

Introduction: The COVID-19 can affect human testicles, thus will interfere the production of important male sexual hormone such as testosterone. Our study provides scientific evidence through systematic reviews and meta-analyses that focus on the effects of SARS-CoV-2 virus infection on male sexual hormonal disorders in patients post-exposure to COVID-19. Methods: This meta-analysis was made in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. The outcomes of this study were the level of total testosterone, free testosterone, LH and FSH. Chi-square and I2 tests were used to evaluate heterogeneity between studies. The standardized mean deviation (SMD) with 95% CI were used and analysis was performed using the Review Manager 5.4 software.Results: The four included studies reported a total of 256 patients with COVID-19 with time of follow-up time post COVID-19 varying from one month to 7 months. The mean age distribution in the study was 34-57 years old. Total testosterone level (SMD = -158.71; 95% CI= -205.30 – -112.12; p<0.00001) was significantly higher at follow-up post COVID-19, while LH (SMD = 0.40; 95% CI = 0.15-0.65; p=0.002) was lower. The free testosterone level and FSH level showed no significant difference between baseline and after following up post COVID-19. Conclusions: At follow up, the total testosterone level in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection appeared to be elevated while LH was lower compared to the baseline.
Quality of bladder cancer treatment information on YouTube: May the user’s profile affect the quality of results?
Authors: Prontera Pier Paolo , Prusciano Francesca Romana , Lattarulo Marco , Utano Emanuele , Schiralli Francesco , Sciorio Carmine , Romano Lorenzo , Grossi Francesco Saverio
Published: February 2024

Background: Social media are widely used information tools, including the medical/health field. Unfortunately, the levels of misinformation on these platforms seem to be high, with a medium-low quality of the proposed content, as evidenced by previous studies. You Tube is one of the most important platforms for audio/video content. It shows content to users through a recommendation algorithm system. Materials and methods: We have classified in two cohorts the first results obtained by researching "bladder tumor treatment" on You Tube through two different user profiles: "Cohort A" with a not logged-in session in incognito mode (46 videos enrolled) and "Cohort B" with a logged-in session with a physician profile (50 videos enrolled). The videos were evaluated using validated instruments such as DISCERN and PEMAT-AV Furthermore, we used a Likert’s scale for the evaluation of levels of misinformation. Results: Overall quality of information was moderate to poor (DISCERN 3) in 54% of Cohort A and 24% of Cohort B. Moreover, a high degree of misinformation (Likert score 3) was found in 52% of Cohort A cases and 32% of Cohort B. Conclusions: Levels of misinformation in both cohorts are positively correlated to the number of views per month. Globally, the levels of information quality, understandability and actionability are lower for the results obtained from searches performed with anonymous user profile (Cohort A).
Cost-effectiveness analysis of different anesthesia strategies for transperineal MRI/US fusion prostate biopsy
Authors: Jin Di , Kong Xiao-Qi , Zhu Ya-Juan , Chen Zong-Xin , Wang Xi-Ming , Xu Cai-Hua , Pu Jin-Xian , Hou Jian-Quan , Huang Yu-Hua , Ji Fu-Hai , Huang Chen
Published: February 2024

This study aims to conduct a cost-effectiveness analysis of three different anesthesia strategies, namely chatting while under local anesthesia (Chat-LA), total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA), and general anesthesia with laryngeal mask airway (GA-LMA), employed in transperineal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)/ultrasound (US) fusion prostate biopsy (TP-MUF-PB). A retrospective study was conducted involving 1202 patients who underwent TP-MUF-PB from June 2016 to April 2023 at The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University (Suzhou, China). Clinical data and outcomes, including total costs, complications, and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), were compared. Probability sensitivity and subgroup analyses were also performed. Chat-LA was found to be the most cost-effective option, outperforming both TIVA and GA-LMA. However, subgroup analyses revealed that in younger patients (under 65 years old) and those with smaller prostate volumes (<40 ml), TIVA emerged as a more cost-effective strategy. While Chat-LA may generally be the most cost-effective and safer anesthesia method for TP-MUF-PB, personalization of anesthesia strategies is crucial, considering specific patient demographics such as age and prostate volume.
Better among the two for Burn Mortality Prediction in Developing Nations: Revised Baux or Modified Abbreviated Burn Severity Index?
Authors: Shah Sheerin , Verma Renu , Mittal Rajinder K. , Garg Ramneesh
Published: February 2024

Background:

Burns is one of the leading causes of mortality in developing countries like India. Most of the major burns requiring hospital care are not triaged adequately for the use of medical resources. An efficient mortality predicting scale would not only help in better care to those who will benefit the most but also make it easy to explain to patient’s attendants. Among the various tools, revised Baux (rBaux) and modified Abbreviated Burn Severity Index (ABSI) are two most commonly used scales in developed nations. We proposed this study to analyze the reliability of these two scoring scales in our burn population.

Aim:

This study aimed to retrospectively study the two scoring systems and analyze them for their reliability in predicting mortality compared to actual observed mortality in each case.

Materials and Methods:

This study was conducted on all burn patients admitted to the intensive care unit of our hospital. Data on their demographic profile, total burn surface area, thickness of burns, inhalational injury, and other comorbidities were collected from files. rBaux and modified ABSI (mABSI) were calculated. The end result in the form of survival or nonsurvival was also recorded. Appropriate statistical analysis using Mann–WhitneyU-test, Chi-square test, and receiver operator characteristic curve was done to look for a better scoring system out of the two.

Results:

A total of 504 patients were included in the study, out of which 337 were survivors. Female gender was not a risk factor for mortality in our study. The median rBaux score in the survivor group was 100 (80–110) and in nonsurvivor group was 111 (103–123). The median mABSI score in the survivor group was 8 (7–9) and in nonsurvivor group was 10 (9–11). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve shows mABSI having better specificity for predicting mortality. rBAUX, though more sensitive, overestimates mortality than actual observed mortality.

Conclusion:

mABSI predicts mortality better than rBaux. A multicentric prospective study is recommended for mABSI to be used as a standard mortality predictor in burns in India.
The Standardization of Daruharidradi Ghanavati
Authors: Chawre Sushil Vilas , Waykar P. A. , Shinde V. S. , Gulhane J. D.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Many effective formulations are available in Ayurveda for various diseases. These formulations are lagging in standardization due to the absence of reference standards, whereas maintaining quality standards of given medicines is the need of an hour. Daruharidradi Ghanvati is one such combination of six herbal drugs containing Daruharidra, Meshshrungi, Vijaysar, Mamajjak, Jambubija, and Methikabij. Each drug is described in various Ayurvedic antidiabetic formulations.

Aim:

The present study was aimed at setting a standard pharmacognostical and pharmaceutical profile of Daruharidradi Ghanavati.

Materials and Methods:

The study included the preparation of Daruharidradi Ghanavati using raw drugs. Later, Daruharidradi Ghanavati was subjected to pharmacognostical, physiochemical, and thin-layer chromatography analysis as per standard protocols.

Results:

The final observations were recorded. Pharmacognostical findings matched with that of individual raw drugs with no major change in the microscopic structure of the raw drugs during the preparation of Ghanavati.

Conclusion:

The quality of Daruharidradi Ghanavati tablet can be tested by pharmacognostical, physiochemical screening for the observations of the present study.
Pulmonary Dysfunction in Patients with Cirrhosis of the Liver: A Study of Pulmonary Function Tests and Arterial Blood Gases
Authors: Vaishnav Bhumika , Barla Dasaradha Ramu , Ruchitha Pailla , Wadivkar Aniruddh N. , Tonde Tushar , Mondkar Saish
Published: February 2024

Background and Aim:

Respiratory complications in liver cirrhosis can occur due to various mechanisms, such as ascites causing restricted lung expansion and opening of intrapulmonary vascular shunts due to high portal pressures. We aimed to study the effects of the liver dysfunction on the lungs by evaluating arterial blood gas (ABG) and pulmonary function test (PFT) of all study subjects.

Subjects and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was done between August 2020 and September 2022. Diagnosed cases of the liver cirrhosis were enrolled in the study after informed consent and were subjected to the following investigations: chest X-ray, oximetry, spirometry, diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO), two-dimensional echocardiography, and ABG analysis (ABGA). The cases were divided into three groups based on their Child–Pugh staging, and statistical analysis was done on the collected data.

Results:

A total of 64 (53 males and 11 females) patients with an average age of 49.82 ± 9.89 years were studied. Alcoholism was the most common cause of cirrhosis in males. Breathlessness (65.6%) and pleural effusion (26.6%) were the most common respiratory symptoms and signs, respectively. Seventeen patients had hepatic hydrothorax, eight patients had hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS), and six patients had portopulmonary hypertension. Low pH (17.2%) and oxygen partial pressure (PaO2) (20.3%) were the most common ABGA findings. The pH, PaO2, forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1)/forced vital capacity (FVC), and DLCO were significantly low in Child Pugh Stage C (P < 0.05). The pH, pO2, HCO3, FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC, and DLCO were significantly lower in patients with HPS (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Metabolic acidosis and low FEV1/FVC and DLCO were the common findings in study subjects. Pulmonary dysfunction was common in advanced liver cirrhosis. Patients with HPS had worse ABG and PFT parameters than those without HPS.
Hybrid Pulmonary Sequestration, Cystic Pulmonary Adenomatoid Malformation, and Dextrocardia: A Triple Whammy
Authors: Bajpai Jyoti , Verma Shreya , Kant Surya , Verma Ajay Kumar , Bajaj Darshan , Pradhan Akshyaya , Bhalla Shalini
Published: February 2024

Pulmonary sequestration and cystic pulmonary adenomatoid malformation are rare congenital cystic disorders of the lungs. The presence of both the diseases in the same individual is therefore very uncommon. Pulmonary sequestration is a nonfunctional pulmonary tissue mass that derives its blood supply from systemic blood supply other than pulmonary circulation. Congenital cystic pulmonary adenomatoid malformation represents a mass consisting of abnormal bronchiolar air spaces and a deficiency of functional alveoli. This is the case report of a 9-year-old girl with intermittent fever, left-sided chest pain, and cough for the past 15 days along with recurrent coughs since childhood suggestive of hybrid pulmonary sequestration, congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation, and dextrocardia.
Assessment of Neuropathy by Temperature Threshold Testing in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Gaur Archana , Varatharajan Sakthivadivel , Katta Roja , Taranikanti Madhuri , John Nitin Ashok , Umesh Madhusudhan , Ganji Vidya , Medala Kalpana
Published: February 2024

Introduction:

Diagnosing diabetic neuropathy is a challenge at times as it is asymptomatic. Diagnosing diabetic neuropathy involves the use of quantitative sensory testing, nerve conduction study, and autonomic testing. Tempearture threshold testing (TTT) can aid in diagnosing small fiber neuropathy at early stages. This study aimed to assess the small fiber neuropathy using TTT in diabetes mellitus (DM) and correlate with age, duration of diabetes, and lipid profile.

Materials and Methods:

The study was commenced after obtaining ethics approval from the institute ethics committee. The study participants included 100 patients with type 2 DM of both genders between the ages of 40 and 65 years. The glycemic status and lipid profile were noted along with physical examination. Neuropathy assessment was done using Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument (MNSI) and TTT.

Results:

The prevalence of small fiber neuropathy based on TTT was 63%. The lipid profile was similar in both the groups. The MNSI B scale had significantly higher scores in the neuropathy group. In the neuropathy group, the thresholds for hot were significantly greater in all four limbs and cold were significantly lower. Age and years of DM were positively correlated with the neuropathy. Hot threshold in the lower limb had shown a strong positive correlation.

Conclusion:

The age and duration of diabetes are independent risk factors for diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Small fiber neuropathy is a prequel to the motor neuropathy. Hot threshold testing in the lower limb is more sensitive than cold threshold testing for diagnosing small fiber neuropathy.
Blastoid Variant of Mantle Cell Lymphoma with Extranodal Presentation and Aberrant CD10 Expression
Authors: Raman Arthy , Jinkala Sree Rekha , Murugan Roobashri , Manivannan Prabhu
Published: February 2024

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) constitutes 3%–10% of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and is characterized by t (11:14)(q13;q32). The common presentation is generalized lymphadenopathy with weight loss, infrequently night sweats, and fever. Among histological subtypes of MCL, the blastoid variant of MCL constitutes 10%–15% of all the cases. It is challenging to diagnose the blastoid variant of MCL based on its morphology alone as it mimics large B-cell lymphoma. Hence, the immunophenotyping and molecular studies aid in its correct diagnosis. We report an elderly man diagnosed with blastoid variant MCL. He presented with disseminated soft-tissue and subcutaneous nodules, and showed aberrant CD10 expression. Presentation of the extranodal site and aberrant CD10 expressions carries an overall poor prognosis. CD10-positive MCL can be mistaken for large B-cell lymphoma.
Development of Agile Scrum Perception Tool to Evaluate Students’ Opinions on Agile Methodology in Nursing Education
Authors: Thiyagarajan Suseela , Saldanha Prakash R M , Govindan Radhakrishnan , Leena K C , Prathyusha P. V
Published: February 2024

Background and Aim:

Agile methodology (AM) is an innovative, active, team-based learning method that enhances higher-order thinking (metacognitive ability), collaboration, hands-on training, and student engagement in the classroom and clinical environment. Exploring the student’s opinions of AM in teaching helps understand how agile can be utilized in higher education to positively improve learning ability, leadership, and teamwork. Hence, the study aimed to develop the agile scrum perception tool (ASPT) to evaluate the opinions on AM among nursing students.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional design was carried out to develop ASPT in different phases. The tool was initially derived from focus group discussion and literature review. The preliminary draft was revised and modified based on expert review and suggestions by content and construct validity. Reliability was calculated in terms of internal consistency. The developed tool was evaluated using data from 200 4th-year nursing students.

Results:

A total of 23 items of ASPT have adequate psychometric properties in terms of reliability and validity. Internal consistency was checked by coefficient alpha, which was 0.87. Construct validity was analyzed by factor analysis; all items were loaded in 6 factors, accounting for 54% of the variance in the total ASPT score.

Conclusion:

ASPT has good validity, reliability, and broader scope in medical and allied education related to project management, clinical teaching, and classroom teaching.
Ultrasound-guided Stellate Ganglion Block for Upper Extremity Phantom Limb Pain - A Case Series
Authors: Goyal Sonal , Kumar Ajit , Kantha Manasa , Sharma Ravi Shankar , Agrawal Sanjay , Singh Girish Kumar
Published: February 2024

Background:

Stellate ganglion block (SGB) is effectively utilized in various sympathetically mediated pain conditions of head and neck, upper limb such as complex regional pain syndrome, postherpetic neuralgias, but there has been a paucity of evidence of SGB for the management of phantom limb pain (PLP).

Methods:

Ten upper extremity PLP patients underwent ultrasound-guided SGB block. Under real-time needle tip visualization and after ensuring negative aspiration, 5 mL of 1% lignocaine and 4 mg of dexamethasone were injected. Postprocedure pain score (numerical rating scale [NRS]) and patient satisfaction score (Likert scale) were noted, and patients were followed-up for the next 60 days.

Results:

The baseline NRS score (Mean [standard deviation]) of 7.8 (0.748) showed significant reduction (P < 0.001) to 2.8 (0.748) at immediate postinjection, to 2.6 (0.663) at day 7, at day 30 (2.9 [0.7]), and at day 60 (30.775). Most of the patients (80%–90%) were somewhat to very much satisfied with the treatment response (score 4–5 on Likert scale) at all the follow-up intervals. Only mild and transient adverse events were demonstrated in two patients who developed hoarseness of voice.

Conclusion:

Ultrasound-guided SGB effectively reduces pain and improves patient satisfaction in postamputee patients who developed PLP, over 2 months of the follow-up period. Further prospective randomized controlled trials over a larger duration with more sample size are needed to provide more concrete evidence.