bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bivariate Omega Distribution and its Dependence Properties for Modeling Time of Vision Loss in Diabetic Retinopathy Study
Authors: Seyam Marwa , kilany neveen
Published: January 2024

A three-parameter Omega probability distribution has been used recently
to analyze the failure time data. In a practical situation, the Omega
probability distribution was applied very effectively in modeling
bathtub-shaped hazard curves. In this paper, the bivariate Omega (BOM)
distribution whose marginal are Omega distributions is introduced. This
new bivariate model is a Marshall-Olkin type and has natural
interpretations for illustrated the shock and competing risks models.
Some probabilistic properties of the bivariate Omega distribution are
derived and studied. The dependence properties for bivariate Omega
distribution are proposed using the Marshall-Olkin copula. Parameters
estimators are investigated using the maximum likelihood method. Two
data sets are illustrated to show the usefulness of the new model for
fitting such data.
USE OF NEBULIZED VORICONAZOLE: A SINGLE-CENTER REAL-LIVE STUDY
Authors: Larrosa-Garcia Maria , Campanario Sònia Terradas , Herrero David Campany , Fernández-Polo Aurora , Ramírez Carme Cañete , Parra Alba Pau , Moral Laura Doménech , Domingo María Rosa Gómez , Santulario Lorena , Gorgas Maria Queralt
Published: January 2024

Voriconazole is the primary treatment for invasive pulmonary
aspergillosis (IPA) and it has been used to treat patients colonized by
Aspergillus spp. The pulmonary route could increase drug concentration
in the biophase, reduce drug-drug interactions (DDI) and minimize
adverse events (AE); however, there is scarce evidence about its use and
there are no commercial voriconazole formulations for nebulization. The
goal of this study is to characterize the compounded voriconazole
solution for nebulization and describe its use in our center. This is a
retrospective observational study including all patients treated with
nebulized voriconazole to treat pulmonary fungal infections or
colonizations. Voriconazole solution was prepared from commercial vials
for intravenous administration. The pH and osmolarity of voriconazole
solutions were adequate for nebulization, the dosage was 40 mg in adults
and 10mg in the paediatric patient, administered every 12-24h. The
median duration of treatment was 139 (26-911) days, there were no
reported adverse effects related to voriconazole nebulization and the
drug was not detected in plasma when used through the pulmonary route
only. There were 3 cases of death, one case of voriconazole resistance,
3 cases of microbiological response, 2 cases of colonization without
exacerbation and one case of successful prophylaxis. Voriconazole
nebulization is well-tolerated and the drug is not absorbed into the
systemic circulation. Further research is needed to assess voriconazole
nebulization efficacy in specific clinical situations.
The value of fundic gland polyps in the diagnosis of HP infection：a meta analysis
Authors: Tang JinLiang
Published: January 2024

Objective: To evaluate the value of fundic gland polyps in Helicobacter
pylori infection. Methods: By searching Cochrane Library, PubMed,
EMbase, CNKI and other databases, we collected retrospective analysis
studies on the relationship between fundic gland polyps and HP
infection. The research literature was screened strictly according to
the pre-established inclusion and exclusion criteria. Relevant data were
extracted from the literature, and Meta-DiSc1.4 software was used for
meta-analysis. Results: There were 5 studies met our inclusion,including
6467 patients.The pooled sensitivity and specificity of fundic gland
polyps in Helicobacter pylori infection
were0.31（95%CI：0.29-0.32）and0.95（95%CI：0.93-0.96）,
respectively,positive likelihood ratio were
6.45（95%CI：2.04-20.40），negative likelihood ratio were
0.69（95%CI：0.55-0.86），and the diagnostic odds ratio(DOR) were
9.64（95%CI：2.75-33.81）. Conclusion： Fundic gland polyps are more
reliable for excluding HP infection and have certain value in clinical
application.
Birds and bats enhance yields in Afrotropical cacao agroforests only under high shade
Authors: Ferreira Diogo , Jarrett Crinan , Wandji Alain , Atagana Patrick , Rebelo Hugo , Maas Bea , Powell Luke
Published: January 2024

Sub-Saharan Africa produces most of the Earth’s cacao. Although pests
cause losses of hundreds of millions annually, the role of cacao pest
suppressors remains unknown. We used an exclusion experiment to prevent
access of bats and birds to cacao trees and quantified how their absence
affected arthropod communities, herbivory, and crop yield. Overall,
Mealybugs and other hemipteran pests were more abundant in exclosures.
Under heavy shade (90%), cacao trees with vertebrate exclosures had 3.9
times fewer flowers and 3.2 times fewer large pods than control trees,
corresponding to losses on average of $478 ha-1y-1. Under low shade
cover (10%) however, the opposite pattern was evident: exclosures trees
had 5.2 times more flowers and 3.7 times more large pods than control
trees, corresponding to savings on average of $796 ha-1y-1. Our study
demonstrates that the enormous potential of African bats and birds as
pest suppressors is dependent on shade tree management.
Molecular tracking and prevalence of the red colour morph restricted to a harvested leopard population in South Africa
Authors: Tensen Laura , Camacho Gerrie , Power John , Godinho Raquel , Vuuren Bettine van , Fischer Klaus
Published: January 2024

The red leopard (Panthera pardus) colour morph is a colour variant that
occurs only in South Africa, where it is confined to the Central
Bushveld bioregion. Red leopards have been spreading over the past 40
years, which raises the speculation that the prevalence of this
phenotype is related to low dispersal of young individuals owing to high
off-take in the region. Intensive selective hunting tends to remove
large resident males from the breeding population, which gives young
males the chance to mate with resident females that are more likely to
be their relatives, eventually increasing the frequency of rare genetic
variants. To investigate the genetic mechanisms underlying the red coat
colour morph in leopards, and whether its prevalence in South Africa
relates to an increase in genetic relatedness in the population, we
sequenced exons of six colour coat associated genes and 20
microsatellite loci in twenty wild-type and four red leopards. The
results were combined with demographic data available from our study
sites. We found that red leopards own a haplotype in homozygosity
identified by one non-synonymous SNP and a 1 bp deletion that causes a
frameshift in the Tyrosinase Related Protein 1 (TYRP1), a gene known to
be involved in the biosynthesis of melanin. Microsatellite analyses
indicate clear signs of a population bottleneck and a relatedness of
0.11 among all pairwise relationships, eventually supporting our
hypothesis that a rare colour morph in the wild has increased its local
frequency due to low natal dispersal. This was backed by a high
human-induced mortality rate (40%).
Dupilumab in daily practice for the treatment of Pediatric Atopic Dermatitis: 16-week clinical and biomarker results from the BioDay registry
Authors: Kamphuis Esmé , Boesjes Celeste M. , Loman Laura , Bakker Daphne , Poelhekken Mila , Zuithoff Nicolaas , Kamsteeg Marijke , Romeijn Geertruida , Wijk Femke van , Bruin-Weller Marjolein de , Graaf Marlies de , Schuttelaar Marie
Published: January 2024

Background: Dupilumab has proven to be an effective and safe
treatment for atopic dermatitis (AD) in pediatric patients in clinical
trials. However, few daily practice outcomes are available.
Objectives: To evaluate the effect of 16 weeks dupilumab
treatment on effectiveness, safety, and serum biomarkers in pediatric
patients with moderate-to-severe AD in daily practice. Method:
Patients visited the outpatient clinic at baseline, and after 4 and 16
weeks of treatment. Endpoints were proportions of patients achieving
≥50%, ≥75% or ≥90% improvement in Eczema Area and Severity Index
(EASI), (almost) clear on Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) and ≥4
points reduction in Patient-Oriented Eczema Measure (POEM), Numeric
Rating Scale (NRS)-pruritus, and -pain score at 16 weeks. Patients
achieving absolute cutoff scores indicating controlled disease (EASI ≤7,
POEM ≤7, NRS-pruritus ≤4) were analyzed. Nineteen severity-associated
serum biomarkers were measured using Luminex-based multiplex
immunoassays, and predicted-EASI (p-EASI) was calculated.
Results: Forty-seven patients were included. Respectively
76.6%, 40.4%, and 19.1% reached EASI-50, EASI-75 and EASI-90, and
25.5% achieved an IGA-score (almost) clear. Improvement of ≥4 points on
POEM, NRS-pruritus, and NRS-pain score was reached by 65.2%, 50.0%,
and 79.2%, respectively. After 16 weeks, 83.0% achieved ≥1 cutoff
score indicating controlled disease. Most frequently reported side
effects were conjunctivitis (n=3 (6.4%)), hair loss (n=3) and headache
(n=3). Biomarkers TARC, PARC, periostin, sIL-2Ra, and eotaxin-3
significantly decreased during treatment. The p-EASI showed a
significantly high correlation with disease severity.
Conclusion: Dupilumab treatment significantly improved disease
severity and decreased severity-associated serum biomarkers in pediatric
AD patients in daily practice.
Central Nervous System Neurotoxicity Associated with Nelarabine in T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Pehlivan Umur , Gurkan Emel , Acar Ibrahim , Bicakci Yunus
Published: January 2024

Nelarabine, a prodrug of arabinosylguanine has lineage-specific toxicity
for T lymphoblasts and is used to treat refractory or relapsed T-cell
acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (T-ALL) and T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma
patients. The most commonly observed adverse effects associated with
nelarabine are mainly haematological i.e., neutropenia, anaemia, and
thrombocytopenia. Additionally, neurological, and gastrointestinal
toxicities have been reported. Neurotoxicity associated with nelarabine
is rare. Here, we presented a young adult patient diagnosed with T-ALL
who experienced a nucleus caudatus infarction, and toxic
leukoencephalopathy (TL) during treatment with nelarabine. Computed
tomography and magnetic resonance imaging have shown periventricular and
nucleus caudatus abnormalities. Radiological findings suggested TL and
acute infarct of right nucleus caudatus. After high-dose steroids,
intravenous immunoglobulin, and support treatment, his neurologic
symptoms disappeared except for mild peroral numbness. However,
radiological sequelae persisted despite clinical improvement. Physicians
involved in the care of these patients who use nelarabine should be
aware of the fact that cerebral toxicity of the nelarabine may occur
especially in the presence of predisposing factors. It is crucial to
monitor closely those patients receiving nelarabine and also those who
have additional predisposing factors for neurotoxicity.
Effects of previous exposure to different medications on clinical course of COVID-19 patients in Istanbul, Turkey
Authors: Ünal Ülkü Sur , Yananlı Hasan , Ünal Ömer , Kaya Yasemin Doğan , Keskin Merve , Güngören Fikriye , Karaalp Atila
Published: January 2024

Aim: To examine the effects of drug use in the last 6 months before
contracting coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) on the clinical course
of COVID-19. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, which included
525 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 between March and November 2020
from four different family health centers in Istanbul, the records of
the patients were retrospectively analyzed. In addition to demographic
information, all medications used by the patients in the last 6 months
before the diagnosis of COVID-19 were noted. The effects of demographic
data and medications on the three main endpoints of the study, which
were hospitalization, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and
mortality, were analyzed by using logistic regression models. Results:
Of the 525 COVID-19 patients included in the study, 109 (20.8%) were
hospitalized, 18 (3.4%) were treated in ICU, and 11 (2.1%) patients
died. While increasing age is associated with hospitalization, ICU
admission and mortality; also, the presence of COVID-19 thoracic
computed tomography (CT) findings and polypharmacy were associated with
an increased hospitalization; living alone and the presence of COVID-19
thoracic CT findings were associated with an increased ICU admission.
When adjusted for age and comorbidity, logistic regression models
revealed that medications for diabetes mellitus (DM) increased the
probability of hospitalization (OR=3.9, 95% CI 1.2-13.0), and calcium
channel blockers (CCBs) increased the probability of ICU admission
(OR=15.8, 95% CI 2.1-120.2) and mortality (OR=295.1, 95% CI
4.6-18946.6). Conclusion: Previously utilization of DM medications and
CCBs may have negative effects on the clinical course of COVID-19.
Assessment of atrial conduction time and P-wave dispersion in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Kok Zafer , Sincer İsa , Gunes Yilmaz , Ural Ulku Mete
Published: January 2024

Purpose: We aimed to assess atrial conduction time and P wave
dispersion in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) patients.
Methods: 30 patients with GDM and 30 healthy pregnant women
were included to the study. Atrial conduction time times (PA) were
calculated by the time interval from the onset of the P wave on the
electrocardiography (ECG) to the onset of the late diastolic flow (Am
wave) on echocardiography; from the lateral mitral annulus (PA lateral),
septal mitral annulus (PA septum), and right ventricular tricuspid
annulus (PA tricuspid). Results: Mean PWD were higher in GDM
(52.7±5.1 ms vs. 28.9±4.2 ms, p<0.001). PA lateral, PA septal
and PA tricuspid were significantly higher in the GDM patients compared
to the control group (65.7±4.2ms vs. 47.7±4.7 ms, p<0.001;
56.1±3.4 ms vs. 40.8±3.7 ms, p<0.001 and 48.4±3.9 ms vs.
36.0±3.6 ms, p<0.001 respectively). Conclusion: We
suggest that patients with GDM has higher PWD and higher atrial
conduction and EMD times compared to otherwise healthy pregnant control
group.
The Development of the Substance Use Disorder Screening Test (SUDST) according to the DSM-5
Authors: Saengduenchai Sukuma , Nilaban Sumnao , Singtho Tanya , Ranuwattananon Apichart , Kalayasiri Rasmon
Published: January 2024

Rationale, aims, and objectives: An effective screening tool for
substance use disorders is most needed for patient care and referral.
The study aims to develop the Substance Use Disorder Screening Test
(SUDST) to classify the severity of substance use disorders based on the
Fifth Edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental
Disorders (DSM-5). Methods: Eleven items of the SUDST, developed based
on the DSM-5 criteria for substance use disorders, were tested on 207
participants who were receiving treatment for methamphetamine use at the
Thanyarak hospitals in four regions of Thailand from August
2017–December 2018. Participants were interviewed with the SUDST, the
screening test of the Ministry of Public Health Version 2 (V.2), the
Mini International Neuropsychiatric Inventory (M.I.N.I) and were
clinically diagnosed by attending psychiatrists. Internal consistency
was analysed using Cronbach’s alpha. Content validity, concurrent
validity, and construct validity were tested. Results: Cronbach’s alpha
coefficient was 0.79. The SUDST was highly significantly associated with
the M.I.N.I., V.2, and the clinical diagnosis (p < 0.001).
Factor analysis showed three components of the instrument: 1)
preoccupation and loss of control 2) risky/harmful use and 3) impact to
bio-psychosocial aspects. Of the total score of 11, the cut-off point to
identify severe risk was ≥7, moderate risk was 5-6, and mild level of
risk was 3-4 with sensitivity = 72.7% to 96.5% and specificity =
61.9% to 88.7%. Conclusions: The Thai SUDST has been tested for
content, concurrent, and construct validity and had high reliability
that could be used for screening risk of substance use based on DSM-5
diagnosis for substance use disorders.
The distribution and evolution of Blastocystis sp. in mammals and aves
Authors: Ma Lei , Liwen Liu , Hanzhi Sun , Gang Feng , Yongbin Zhang , Mengjuan Cao , Xin Lu , Luping Zhang
Published: January 2024

Blastocystis sp. is a unicellular protozoan and one of the most
common gastrointestinal eukaryotic parasites in humans and animals. It
is distributed worldwide, but its pathogenic role is still
controversial. Blastocystis sp. is subdivided into 33 subtypes,
and existing different subtypes imply host specificity in various
species. The study aimed to investigate in detail the host range of
Blastocystis sp., given the limited studies. A total of 720 fecal
samples from 132 animal species, 140 (19.44%) were PCR positive for
Blastocystis sp., with 43.67% (31/71), 5.89% (7/119), 34.87%
(53/152), 2.56% (1/39), 16.67% (2/12), 22.22% (4/18), 37.50% (3/8)
and 12.96% (39/301) in Nonhuman primates, Carnivora, Artiodactyla,
Perissodactyla, Proboscidea, Diprotodontia, Rodentia and aves,
respectively. Sequence and phylogenetic analysis showed ten known
subtypes (ST1, ST2, ST3, ST4, ST5, ST7, ST8, ST10, ST14, and ST23) of
Blastocystis sp. in the present study, with ST10 as the
predominant subtype in all animals. However, there were differences in
dominant subtypes among the eight groups of animals, and ST2 of
Non-human primates, ST3 of Carnivora, ST10 of Artiodactyla, ST23 of
Proboscidea, ST1 of Diprotodontia, ST1 and ST4 of Rodentia and ST5 of
aves, respectively. This is the first report of Blastocystis sp.
infection in 48 species to the best of our knowledge. These results not
only enriched the host range of Blastocystis sp. and filled the
data of vacant animals but also provided a reference for preventing and
controlling Blastocystis sp. infection between animals and
humans.
A Predictor-Corrector Method for Solving Boundary Layer Equations based on Bézier Curves
Authors: Kalkhorani Vahid Ahmadi , Aghdam Mohammad Mohammadi
Published: January 2024

In this paper, a new numerical method is proposed for solving nonlinear
boundary value problems (BVPs) based on Bézier curves. The well-known
Falkner-Skan equation which is a third-order nonlinear BVP is considered
to examine the efficiency of the presented method in terms of accuracy,
convergence and stability. The presented hybrid technique takes
advantage of the Method of Adjoint together with a novel
predictor-collector multi-step integration procedure based on the
Bernstein Polynomials and Bézier curves. In this method, first the
governing equation is rewritten as a set of first-order differential
equations, and the semi-infinite domain is mapped into a unit interval
using appropriate coordinate transformation. The missing initial value
is then determined by employing an appropriate iterative algorithm using
the Method of Adjoint. Finally, the resulting initial value problem is
solved using the new multi-step predictor-corrector scheme. Results of
the presented method are compared with those appeared in the literature
which show excellent agreement while having higher efficiency. Moreover,
the accuracy and efficiency of the method are further examined by
comparing predictions for the Falkner-Skan equation with five well-known
multistep methods in the literature. Finally, from the stability point
of view, the study also revealed that the new technique is more stable
in comparison with other prominent methods.
Cotton ball diet
Authors: SZOR DANIEL , Duarte Danielle Tamashiro , Leitzke Fernanda Burma , TUSTUMI FRANCISCO , Noronha Marcos , Gotto Márcio Fuginami
Published: January 2024

A bezoar is a packed group of undigestable or partially digested
material that often leads to gastrointestinal obstruction. Eating cotton
balls to fill up the stomach and avoid hungry may seem harmless, but has
serious implications.
Concomitant Tricuspid Annuloplasty in Mitral Valve Surgery for Degenerative and Rheumatic Valve Diseases: Balancing the Benefits.
Authors: Yankah Charles , Falk Volkmar
Published: January 2024

The article published in this edition of Journal of Cardiac
Surgery, Arafat and colleagues discuss the results of their ten year
clinical experience of concomitant tricuspid annuloplasty (TA) for
moderate to severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) during mitral valve
surgery in patients with rheumatic (RMVD - n= 345; 61% had mitral
regurgitation and 39% mitral valve stenosis) and degenerative (DMVD n=
135) mitral valve diseases, The objective of the observational
non-randomized trial was to identify predictors of durability of TA for
moderate to severe TR in patients with RMVD and DMVD undergoing mitral
valve repairs and replacements. Valve repair was feasible in 12% in the
RMVD group as compared to 52% in DMVD group (1). The TA was performed
with flexible, rigid prostheses and the de Vega suture technique.
Multinational study of allergic sensitization to ten fish species indicates patient-dependent tolerance of specific fish
Authors: Kalic Tanja , Kuehn Annette , Aumayr Martina , Bartra Joan , Bindslev-Jensen Carsten , Morel-Codreanu Francoise , Domínguez Olga , Forstenlechner Peter , Hemmer Wolfgang , Kamath Sandip , Leung Agnes Sze Yin , Leung Nicki , Lifanov Yuri , Mortz Charlotte , Pascal Mariona , Ristl Robin , Sørensen Martin , Üzülmez Öykü , Yeghiazaryan Lusine , Wong Gary , Hafner Christine , Breiteneder Heimo
Published: January 2024

Background: Recent studies indicated that fish-allergic
patients may safely consume certain fish species. Multiplex IgE testing
facilitates the identification of species tolerated by individual
patients. Methods: Sera were collected from 263 fish-allergic
patients from Austria, China, Denmark, Luxembourg, Norway and Spain.
Specific (s) IgE to parvalbumins (PVs) from 10 fish species along with
IgE to 7 raw and 6 heated fish extracts was quantified using a research
version of the ALEX assay. IgE-signatures of
individual patients and patient groups were analyzed using SPSS and R.
Results: sIgE to alpha-PV from ray, a cartilaginous fish, was
not detected in 78% of the patients while up to 41% of the patients,
depending on their country of origin, tested negative for at least one
beta-PV. sIgE values were highest for mackerel and tuna PVs
(>10 kUA/L) and significantly lower for cod (4.9 kUA/L) and
sole PVs (2.55 kUA/L). 17% of the patients, although negative for PVs,
tested positive for the respective fish extracts. Based on the absence
of IgE to PVs and extracts, up to 21% of the patients were identified
as potentially tolerating one or more bony fish. Up to 90% of the
patients tested negative for ray. The probability of negativity to one
fish based on negativity to others was calculated. Negativity to tuna
and mackerel emerged as a good marker of negativity to additional bony
fish. Conclusion: Measuring sIgE to PVs and extracts from
evolutionary distant fish species indicates bony and cartilaginous fish
species for tolerance-confirming food challenges.
Neutralization of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus by hyperimmune serum of llama ( Lama glama) .
Authors: Calderon Henri Bailon , Yaniro Verónica , Capristano Silvia , Palomino Miryam , Lévano Juan , Perez Marco Galarza , García David , Rey Omar Cáceres , Rojas Carlos Padilla , Montejo Harrison , García Paquita , Celis Mary , Seraylan Silvia , Garayar Yessica
Published: January 2024

Since SARS-CoV-2 emerged in China, it has spread rapidly around the
world. Effective vaccines and therapeutics for SARS-CoV-2−induced
disease (coronavirus disease 2019; COVID19) are urgently needed. In
order to assess the immune response to immunization with SARS-CoV-2 and
the ability of the immune serum to neutralize the virus infection, we
immunized a llama ( Lama glama) with the inactivated SARS-CoV-2 virus,
and tested serum samples with an ELISA assay specific to the SARS-CoV-2,
and viral neutralization by plaque-reduction neutralization test (PRNT).
An increase in seroreactivity was observed for the immunized llama from
week 4 onward, revealing seroconversion induced by the immunization,
with the highest antibody titers on the 8 th boost. On the reactive
serum sample, we performed Western Blot analysis that confirmed the
positive ELISA findings, and antibodies from immune serum recognized
various viral proteins. The gold standard PRNT showed a visible viral
neutralization corresponding with ELISA results. Thus, our findings
suggest this llama hyperimmune serum as a possible source of
therapeutically antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 virus infections to
evaluate in further studies.
Generalized Thermoelastic Waves in a Homogeneous Anisotropic Plate with Voids
Authors: Pathania Vijayata , dhiman pankaj
Published: January 2024

In this contribution, the thermoelastic Lamb waves in the homogeneous,
transversely isotropic, plate containing voids have been investigated in
the context of classical and non-classical theories of thermoelasticity.
To investigate the problem, the fundamental governing equations have
been developed in a unified way. On the solutions of these governing
equations, the thermal and mechanical stress-free boundary conditions,
as well as constraints due to voids, have been imposed. The solutions of
governing equations indicate that there lies a coupled system of wave
motion called thermal waves (T-mode), void wave motion (V-mode), and
elastic waves (E-mode). However, the shear horizontal component of
elastic waves decouples from the system being unaffected by
elasto-poro-thermal coupling. For the symmetric and anti-symmetric
families of vibrations, the secular equation for the wave motion along
with its special cases has been derived. To discover the wave
characteristics, the secular equation has been solved using the
numerical functional iteration method in MATLAB software, and the
findings have been manifested by plotting the graphs. It has been
concluded that the presence of voids affects the magnitudes of phase
velocity, attenuation coefficient, and specific loss. This work may be
helpful for geophysicists and engineers in the field of earthquake
engineering. The developers of modern facilitating things such as
acoustic touch screens, liquid viscosity sensors, etc. which are based
on Lamb-type wave propagation may also get benefitted.
“Replace uncertainty with information”: Shared decision-making and decision quality surrounding catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation
Authors: Turchioe Meghan Reading , Mangal Sabrina , S Jessica Ancker , Gwyn Jaslynn , Varosy Paul , Slotwiner David
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Shared decision-making (SDM) can support patients
with atrial fibrillation (AF) to evaluate treatment options for rhythm
and symptom control, but studies suggest it is not occurring
meaningfully in routine practice. The objective of this study was to
measure decision quality and describe decision-making processes among
patients and clinicians involved in decision-making around catheter
ablation for AF. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional,
mixed-methods study guided by a SDM model outlining decision
antecedents, processes, and outcomes. Patients and clinicians completed
semi-structured interviews about decision-making around ablation,
feelings of decision conflict and regret, and preferences for the
content, delivery, and format of a hypothetical decision aid for
ablation. Patients also completed surveys about demographic
characteristics and literacy levels, AF symptoms using the University of
Toronto AF Severity Scale (AFSS), and aspects of decision quality using
the Controls-Preferences, Decisional Conflict, and Decision Regret
scales. Surveys were analyzed using descriptive statistics and
qualitative data were analyzed using directed content analysis.
Results: Fifteen patients (mean age 71.1 ± 8.6 years; 27%
female; mean 7.0 [SD 7.0] months since ablation) and five clinicians
(three physicians, one NP, and one PA) were recruited. Most patients
preferred to either share or relinquish control in medical
decision-making to clinicians. For most patients, decisional conflict
and regret were low, and symptoms and cardiac health generally improved
after ablation. However, they also reported low levels of information
and agency in the decision-making process. Most clinicians report
routinely providing patients with information and encouraging engagement
during consultations. Patients reported preferences for an interactive,
web-based decision aid that clearly presents evidence regarding outcomes
using data, visualizations, videos, and personalized risk assessments,
and is available in multiple languages. Conclusions:
Disconnects between clinician efforts to provide information and bolster
agency and patient experiences of decision-making suggest decision aids
may be needed to improve decision quality in practice. Reported
experiences with current decision-making practices and preferences for
decision aid content, format, and delivery can support the user-centered
design and development of a decision aid.
Reporte de caso: Prolapso de uretra en canino de raza Bulldog Inglés
Authors: Baquero Morales Viviana Alejandra , Gómez Carrero Luisa Fernanda , Pedraza Castillo Luz Natalia , Roque Rodriguez Anita Isabel
Published: January 2024

El prolapso uretral en perros, es una patología poco frecuente que afecta a perros jóvenes de razas braquicéfalas; el Bulldog ingles joven es el afectado más frecuente. Esta enfermedad se caracteriza por la protrusión de la mucosa uretral en la punta del pene y los propietarios suelen notar un lamido excesivo acompañado de hemorragia. El prolapso uretral no es usual, puede producirse tras una excitación sexual excesiva o masturbación, también puede estar asociada a infecciones genitourinarias o ser de carácter congénito. En este caso, el paciente ingresa al centro clínico veterinario de la Universidad de los Llanos, debido a que presenta sangrado en el pene, se procedió a realizar el examen físico y se detectó el prolapso uretral, el cual era responsable de la crisis hemorrágica peneano, urgencia por la que se decide intervenir quirúrgicamente y aplicar la técnica de Uretropexia, incluyendo la Orquiectomía como parte del tratamiento preventivo. Luego del proceso quirúrgico el paciente se recupera satisfactoriamente y se da de alta.
Comparison of thermal tests before and after the free drop test of a radioactive material transport package
Authors: Meng Dongyuan , Sun Qian , Zhang Yuhang , Sun Shutang
Published: January 2024

The transport safety of radioactive material is of utmost significance, which is mainly based on the safety of packages. In accordance with the IAEA Regulations for the safe transport of radioactive material, radioactive material transport packages undergo rigorous testing under diverse transport conditions including free drop tests and thermal tests. The determination of the appropriate thickness for the insulation layer poses a challenge, as it necessitates the consideration of factors such as the dissipation of internal heat sources and protection against fire accidents. Finite element simulation is usually used for the design and testing of packages. The requirement of the cumulation effect for the drop test and thermal test makes it harder for the finite element method in testing. In this paper, a method for thickness changing of insulation layer thickness in finite element simulation was developed and verified. A radioactive material transport package is taken as an example for the cumulating effect of the drop test and the thermal test.
Double perovskite Nd2FeTiO6 ceramics: Structural and electrical properties
Authors: Kumar Mrityunjay , Roy Sumit , Singh Rahul , Prasad Kamal
Published: January 2024

Because of their high stability, innocuous behaviour, outstanding electric
properties and multi-functionality, lead-free double perovskites have
emerged as a promising alternative to lead-based perovskites. We present
here the structural, microstructural, dielectric and electrical properties
of a newly synthesized double perovskite Nd2FeTiO6 (NFTO). The Rietveld
refinement of its X-ray diffraction pattern revealed a monoclinic structure
with space group P121/c1. The oxide exhibits a temperature-independent
dielectric constant and di-electric loss at low temperatures (below 200 ?C)
making the compound a suitable candidate for fabricating thermally stable
capacitors. The AC conductivity was investigated using the Jonscher?s
universal power law, and it was inferred that the conduction process is
caused by the Correlated BarrierHopping (CBH) mechanism. Furthermore,
frequency dependent AC conductivity also revealed the NTCR nature of the
NFTO compound.
Topsis for multiple objective programming with rough decision set
Authors: Abou-El-Enien Tarek , Abo-Elnaga Y. , Mohammad Kamilia
Published: January 2024

Many optimization problems have competing objectives that require being
optimized at the same time. These problems are called ?multiple objective
programming problems (MOPPs)?. Real-world MOPPs may have some imprecision
(roughness) in the decision set and/or the objective functions. These
problems are known as ?rough MOPPs (RMOPPs)?. There is no unique method able
to solve all RMOPPs. Accordingly, the decision maker (DM) should have more
than one method for solving RMOPPs at his disposal so that he can select the
most appropriate method. To contribute in this regard, we propose a new
method for solving a specific class of RMOPPs in which all the objectives
are precisely defined, but the decision set is roughly defined by its lower
and upper approximations. Our proposed method is a modified version of the
Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS).
TOPSIS was chosen as the foundation for our method because it is one of the
most widely applied methods for solving MOPPs. The basic concept underlying
TOPSIS is that the compromise solution is closer to the ideal solution while
also being farther away from the anti-ideal solution. The conventional
TOPSIS can only solve MOPPs with precise (crisp) definitions of the two main
parts of the problem. We extend TOPSIS to optimize multiple precise
objectives over an imprecise decision set. The proposed approach is depicted
in a flowchart. A numerical example is given to demonstrate the
effectiveness of our proposed method to solve RMOPPs with a rough decision
set at different values of objectives? weights and using different
Lp-metrics.
An Insulin-Chromogranin A Hybrid Peptide activates DR11 restricted T cells in human type 1 diabetes
Authors: Callebaut Aïsha , Guyer Perrin , L. Baker Rocky , B. Gallegos Joylynn , C. Hohenstein Anita , A. Gottlieb Peter , Mathieu Chantal , Overbergh Lut , Haskins Kathryn , A. James Eddie
Published: January 2024

Hybrid insulin peptides (HIPs) formed through covalent cross-linking of proinsulin fragments to secretory granule peptides are detectable within murine and human islets. The 2.5HIP (C-peptide-Chromogranin A (CgA) HIP), recognized by the diabetogenic BDC-2.5 clone, is a major autoantigen in the NOD mouse. However, the relevance of this epitope in human disease is currently unclear. A recent study probed T-cell reactivity toward HIPs in patients with type 1 diabetes, documenting responses in one third of the subjects and isolating several HIP-reactive T-cell clones. In this study, we isolated a novel T cell clone and showed that it responds vigorously to the human equivalent of the 2.5HIP. Although the responding subject carried the risk-associated DRB1*04:01/DQ8 haplotype, the response was restricted by DRB1*11:03 (DR11). HLA class II tetramer staining revealed higher frequencies of HIP9-reactive T cells in individuals with diabetes than in controls. Furthermore, in DR11+ subjects carrying the DRB4 allele, HIP9-reactive T-cell frequencies were higher than observed frequencies for the immunodominant proinsulin 9-28 epitope. Finally, there was a negative correlation between HIP9-reactive T-cell frequency and age at diagnosis. These results provide direct evidence that this C-peptide-CgA HIP is relevant in human type 1 diabetes and suggest a mechanism by which non-risk HLA haplotypes may contribute to the development of β-cell autoimmunity.
Kalabalık Benzetimlerinde Küçük Gruplar için GPU Tabanlı Çarpışmasız Doğrusal Gezinge Oluşturulması
Authors: BARUT Öner
Published: January 2024

Bilgisayar ortamında sanal kalabalıklar oluşturmak ve bunların davranışlarını taklit etmek için kullanılan kalabalık benzetimleri, sanal bir sahnenin arka planında bir kalabalık ambiyansı oluşturmak için de kullanılabilmektedir. Arka planda bir kalabalık ambiyansı oluşturmak için de olsa bireylerin tek başlarına hareket etmeleri yerine gruplar halinde bulunması bu ambiyansı destekleyecek önemli bir unsurdur. Bu çalışmada, görülme sıklıkları gerçek insan kalabalıklarından derlenen 1-5 kişilik küçük gruplar halinde, gruptaki birey sayısına göre gerçek hayattakine benzer bir formasyonda yürüyerek birlikte hareket eden gerçek zamanlı sanal insan kalabalıklarının yönlendirmesiz bir benzetim modeli önerilmektedir. Bu yeni yöntemde her bir birey için ayrı ayrı çarpışmasız ve doğrusal gezingeler oluşturmak yerine her bir grup için ortak bir gezinge oluşturularak grup içerisindeki tüm bireylerin belirlenen formasyonda buna göre hareket etmeleri sağlanmaktadır. Önerilen yöntem, farklı birey sayılarına sahip gruplar oluşturmayı, her büyüklükteki grup sayısının kalabalık içinde görülme sıklığına göre ayarlanmasını ve grup içindeki bireylerin formasyonlarının grup büyüklüğüne göre belirlenebilmesini sağlayacak yeniliklere sahiptir.
Status on the Intra-Chromosomal Aberrations with Some Sorts of Hormonal Disturbances in Human
Authors: A Kabir
Published: January 2024

Chromosomal aberration due to wrong number or for some hormonal imbalances, humans show chromosomal anomalies at birth or in adolescence. Those are fatal for entire human life. Many patients cannot survive, and morbidity may happen later. An article helped to write this qualitative review of chromosomal abnormalities. In this aspect, if we know the true causes of various chromosomal and hormonal imbalances, we could get solution. Only motivation and knowledge on this issue could help to eradicate these problems from the society at all.
EL IMPACTO DE UN TRANVÍA URBANO NO PLANIFICADO: ANÁLISIS DE SU IMPLEMENTACIÓN Y LAS TRANSFORMACIONES EN EL ENTORNO URBANO
Authors: Gamarra Stefanie , Cabrera Juan E.
Published: January 2024

Este artículo revisa y reflexiona el impacto urbano de la implementación de un servicio de tranvía en el área metropolitana de Cochabamba. Se centra en las transformaciones urbanas que se generaron durante la puesta en marcha de esta nueva prestación y las infraestructuras conexas. Su contenido es relevante porque exhibe el reducido impacto en la configuración espacial del entorno urbano de los municipios de Colcapirhua y Quillacollo, respecto a la envergadura de las obras y la importancia de un servicio de transporte de estas características denominado “Tren Metropolitano de Cochabamba”. Adquiere importancia porque se trata del proyecto de transporte más importante de la región, cuya concepción no deviene de un plan de movilidad específico, sus obras e implementación no están vinculadas con la planificación urbana de las jurisdicciones indicadas, y la situación urbana actual y de transporte, parecen no haber sido afectadas por esta nueva infraestructura.
LIVROS DIDÁTICOS DE MATEMÁTICA DO 9º ANO DO ENSINO FUNDAMENTAL: UMA ANÁLISE À LUZ DA MATRIZ DE REFERÊNCIA DA PROVA SAEB
Authors: Carvalho Júnior Augusto Lacerda Lopes de , Sá Pedro Franco de
Published: January 2024

Este trabalho apresenta resultados de uma pesquisa que teve por objetivo analisar como as questões apresentadas nos livros didáticos de matemática do 9º ano do ensino fundamental do PNLD20202023 estão relacionadas aos descritores da Prova Saeb. A metodologia da pesquisa teve uma abordagem qualitativa valendo-se de análise documental, sendo estes documentos os livros didáticos de matemática do 9º ano do PNLD20202023. Foi constatado que os livros didáticos analisados, em sua maioria, já têm em seu rol de questões uma quantidade significativa de itens associados aos descritores da matriz de referência da Prova Saeb, no entanto, tais questões não são, em sua maioria, do tipo Prova Saeb, isto é, na forma de múltipla escolha. Quase a totalidade dos livros analisados não atende a todos os descritores da Prova Saeb, fato que certamente pode ser prejudicial a professores e alunos que utilizam esses livros e tenham que ser submetidos a Prova Saeb.
PENINGKATAN LITERASI KEUANGAN KELOMPOK USAHA ASLI DESA MELALUI PELATIHAN PENGELOLAAN KEUANGAN
Authors: Azhar Rialdi , Firdaus Luthfi , Waspodo Lego
Published: January 2024

The training followed by financial management mentoring aims to provide insights and skills, focusing on enhancing financial management capacity through continuous mentoring and guidance. The training and mentoring activities in financial management will be conducted through a series of sessions covering basic financial management understanding, budget planning and control, as well as resource and information management techniques. Following the training sessions, participants will be guided and mentored in applying the acquired knowledge to their respective organizations. The expected outcome of this activity is to assist financial managers in improving performance and reducing financial risks within their organizations. This financial management training and mentoring activity can help native entrepreneurs in rural areas improve performance and ensure the sustainability of organizational financial management.
Implementation of the Drill Method in Learning Arabic with a Communicative Approach
Authors: Muhammad Zikran Adam  , Laily Fitriani
Published: January 2024

This paper will discuss implementing the drill/practice method for learning Arabic with a communicative approach. This study uses a descriptive qualitative. The subjects of this research were all 7G class students at MTs Negeri Kota Batu. The data collected is in the form of the latest learning information data, the number of students, and data on the implementation of learning methods. Data collection using interview techniques, observation, and documentation. Data analysis was carried out according to the theory of Miles and Huberman, with the stages of data collection, data reduction, data presentation, and conclusions. The result indicates that the drill method with a communicative approach is implemented through three steps. Firstly, the planning stage involves preparing a learning program plan. Secondly, the implementation stage applies the drill method based on the characteristics of the communicative approach. Lastly, the evaluation phase employs formative evaluation techniques. The study identifies four supporting factors for the method's application: student participation, cognitive abilities, clarity of instruction, and availability of learning facilities. This study provides valuable insights and knowledge to improve Arabic language teaching for teachers and researchers to develop additional learning on more functional skills.
ANALISIS SISTEM PENGENDALIAN INTERNAL PADA SISTEM AKUNTANSI PEMERINTAH
Authors: Sari Okta Melinda , Zanaria Yulita , Editya Dimas Bagus
Published: January 2024

This study aims to find out how the Internal Control System in the Government Accounting System at the Department of Communication and Information, East Lampung Regency. The type of research used is qualitative with descriptive analysis method. Data collection techniques were carried out by means of observations and interviews conducted at government agencies, especially at the Communication and Information Office. Technical analysis using the PIECES analysis method to determine the effectiveness of the government accounting system is to use a compliance test. The results showed that the Government Internal Control System (SPIP) at the Department of Communication and Informatics of East Lampung Regency was running well, because its implementation was in accordance with the elements in the SPIP that had been determined based on PP no. 60 of 2008. The systems and procedures at the Communications and Informatics Service of East Lampung Regency are also quite adequate, supported by competent employees in their fields so that the error rate on control can be overcome. This results in the implementation of tasks not being fully efficient.
EFEKTIVITAS LAYANAN SAMSAT KELILING DALAM UPAYA MENINGKATKAN PENDAPATAN PAJAK KENDARAAN BERMOTOR
Authors: Pebriani Adela , Sulaeman Sulaeman
Published: January 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui efektivitas layanan SAMSAT keliling dalam upaya meningkatkan pendapatan pajak kendaraan bermotor di SAMSAT Wilayah Kabupaten Sukabumi 1 Cibadak. Seperti yang diketahui sebelumnya bahwa proses pembayaran pajak memerlukan waktu yang sangat lama. Untuk mengantisipasi agar mengurangi masalah tersebut maka dibentuklah unit pembantu berupa SAMSAT keliling yang terdiri seperti bus yang beroperasi di beberapa titik untuk melakukan pembayaran pajak. Sehingga penelitian ini dibuat agar dapat meninjau dan melihat keefektivan pada SAMSAT keliling dalam meningkatkan pendapatan pajak kendaraan bermotor,

Hasil dari penelitian ini menunjukkan layanan SAMSAT Keliling telah sesuai dengan Keputusan Menteri Pendayagunaan Aparatur Negara No. 63/KEP/M-PAN/7/2003 tentang Pedoman Umum Penyelenggaraan Pelayanan Publik serta pelayanannya cukup berkualitas,Dengan adanya SAMSAT keliling ini masyarakat wajib pajak dapat dengan mudah membayar pajak tanpa harus menunggu waktu yang lama tidak harus melewati beberapa loket .Pelayanan menggunakan SAMSAT keliling ini juga dapat mengurangi antrian masyarakat wajib pajak yang datang langsung ke SAMSAT induk, Untuk penggunaan SAMSAT keliling ini sudah efektif . Dengan perolehan rata- rata efektivitas sebesar 97,2% maka tingkat efektifitas antara target dan realisasi penerimaan dengan kata lain sudah efektif.
Calculation of the decomposition coefficients for plane contact problem kernel in the orthonormal basis
Authors:   Ishlinsky Institute for Problems in Mechanics RAS, Vernadskogo ave. 101-1, 119526 Moscow, Russia, Kazakov Kirill E.
Published: January 2024

Analytical solutions of some contact problems are infinite functional series according to the system of basic functions. When constructing such solutions, it becomes necessary to represent the kernels of integral equations describing the process of interaction in the form of two-dimensional series on a given basis. Often the kernels have a rather complex appearance, therefore, the process of finding the decomposition coefficients is a rather complex and labor-intensive process, on which the accuracy and speed of obtaining final results depend. The paper proposes a calculation method that allows calculating the coefficients of decomposition of the kernels of plane contact problems according to a special orthonormal basis that takes into account the features of contacting bodies. Other approximate formulas are also derived for the special case when coating characteristics are constant. Based on the received presentation, conclusions and recommendations are formulated.