bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of clinical characteristics in adult patients under 65 years of age with and without Covid-19 pneumonia
Authors: Sahin Ozdemirel Tugce , Akkurt Esma Sevil , Ertan Ozlem , Gökler Mehmet Enes , Ozyurek Berna Akinci
Published: August 2022

Background:

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can cause asymptomatic, mild upper respiratory tract symptoms and pneumonia in young persons. How the disease will progress in each patient is still unknown. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the prognostic markers of the development of pneumonia and the clinical characteristics of patients under 65 years with COVID-19 confirmed by a positive reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction test.

Methods:

In this retrospective study, a total of 271 patients admitted in our unit were included. The patients were divided into two groups, those who did and those who did not develop pneumonia. Their clinical features, treatment protocols, and laboratory parameters were recorded retrospectively.

Results:

Pneumonia developed in 67.9% (n = 184) of the cases. The age in the pneumonia group was higher than that in the non-pneumonia group (p < 0.001). In the logistic regression analysis, the symptom and co-morbidity status were examined according to the presence of pneumonia; hypertension (HT) (OR: 4525, 95% CL: 1,494–13,708) was the most important risk factor for pneumonia. When age and laboratory values were examined according to the presence of pneumonia, advanced age (OR: 1.042, 95% CL: 1.01–1.073), low albumin (OR: 0.917, 95% CL: 0.854–0.986), and high troponin (OR: 1.291, 95% CL: 1.044–1.596) were identified as risk factors for pneumonia.

Conclusion:

In this article, HT (22.3%, P < 0.001) has been considered as an important risk factor, whereas association of diabetes mellitus (21.2%, P 0.029) and smoking (25.0%, P 0.038) was also significant. The median age of the group was 51 (41.5–58) in the group developing pneumonia and 41 (30–48) in the non-developing group. Young patients with these predictive factors should be more carefully evaluated by further diagnostic procedures, such as thoracic computed tomography.
Obstructive sleep apnea and coronary artery disease
Authors: Mahajan Sanyam K. , Mahajan Kunal , Sharma Sunil
Published: August 2022

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality globally, and hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and smoking are major cardiovascular (CV) risk factors. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and CAD share an exciting relationship, and recently, OSA has emerged as a non-traditional CV risk factor. OSA is characterized by episodic sleep state-dependent collapse of the upper airway, resulting in periodic reductions or cessations in ventilation, with consequent hypoxia, hypercapnia, or arousals from sleep. The oxidative stress and vascular inflammation resulting from the nocturnal hypoxia followed by reoxygenation cycles predispose the patients to the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD). Untreated OSA is associated with long-term health consequences, including CVD, metabolic disorders, cognitive impairment, and depression. Paradoxically, some recent studies have reported that patients with OSA may suffer less severe CAD due to the development of collateral circulation due to repetitive hypoxia experienced due to OSA.
Results of the surgical treatment of pulmonary bleb and bullous disease
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Asli Rastin , Aghajanzadeh Manouchehr , Lahiji Mahtab Raji , Hosseinzadeh Asli Hossein , Foumani Ali Alavi , Pourahmadi Yousha
Published: August 2022

Objective:

Bullous lung disease is characterised by the development of bullae within the lung parenchyma. Smoking is considered as a main risk factor of bullae formation. The clinical manifestation varies from asymptomatic bullae to severe respiratory distress. The exact medical approach is still controversial. Here, we aimed to evaluate the patient clinical characteristics and the indication of surgery in the patients.

Methods:

This study was an analytic cross-sectional study in Razi hospital, Rasht, Iran, in 2016–2020. A total of 110 patients with newly diagnosed lung bullae underwent evaluation based on a checklist, which assessed the variables as clinical characteristics, bullae features, the medical treatment, and its complication. Eventually, statistical analysis was performed by using SPSS v21.0.

Results:

A total of 110 patients were enrolled. All the patients were smokers. In 72.9%, the primary presentation was respiratory distress, which needed surgical resection with no recurrence over 8 months. The clinical manifestation varies from asymptomatic bullae in 4.3% and pneumonia in 34.3% to respiratory distress in 61.4%. There was no statistical correlation between clinical manifestation and all the studied variables excluding respiratory distress (p value: 0.659). Seventy patients underwent surgical treatment, in which 20 cases were complicated by air leak that was managed by the chest tube in 16 patients and the Heimlich valve in four patients. No evidence of recurrence was detected.

Conclusion:

The main risk factor of bulla formation is smoking. Because of various clinical presentations, the appropriate medical approach is of paramount importance.
Detection of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase Genes in Members of the Proteeae Tribe Isolated from a Tertiary Hospital in Southeast, Nigeria
Authors: Akujobi Comfort Nne , Okwesilieze Chinenye Vivian , Aghanya Iloduba Nnaemeka , Ukibe Solomon Nwabueze , Okoro Akachukwu Egwu , Ushie Simon Nkpeh , Maduekwe Nkechi Perpetua
Published: August 2022

Background:

Tribe Proteeae consisting of Proteus, Providencia, and Morganella species are critical opportunistic pathogens causing various health care-associated infections. Widespread extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) activities have been reported among members of these groups of organisms.

Aim:

This study aimed to detect ESBL genes in clinical isolates of these bacteria from Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH).

Materials and Methods:

Two hundred and sixteen Gram-negative bacilli isolated from patients receiving care in NAUTH were identified using the Microbact 12A Gram-negative bacilli identification system. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests were performed on the isolates using antibiotics of various classes. The isolates resistant to any third-generation cephalosporins were screened for ESBL activity using the combination disc test. The presence of cefotaximase (CTX), oxacillinases (OXA), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) genes were determined using polymerase chain reaction.

Results:

Out of the 216 Gram-negative isolates, 12 (5.6%) were Proteus spp., 3 (1.4%) were Morganella spp., and 8 (3.7%) were Providencia spp. The prevalence of the Proteeae bacteria was 23/216 (10.6%). Of the 23 Proteeae bacteria, 5 (21.7%) were confirmed phenotypically as ESBL producers, while 3 (13%) expressed the actual ESBL genes. CTX, OXA, and TEM genes were detected in all three isolates. Furthermore, 13% of the isolates exhibited carbapenem resistance.

Conclusion:

The results confirmed that ESBL-producing Proteeae bacteria existed in NAUTH. The incidental detection of carbapenem resistance among the Proteeae isolates whispers terror in waiting because carbapenems are last-resort antibiotics for managing life-threatening ESBL infections. This worrisome development highlights the need to improve infection control practices in Nigerian tertiary hospitals drastically.
Prevalence and Determinants of Herbal Medicine Use among Adults Attending the National Health Insurance Clinic of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, Bauchi, Nigeria
Authors: Maiyegun Afisulahi Abiodun , Mutalub Yahkub Babatunde , Muhammad Attahiru Al-Hajj , Akangoziri Mark Divine
Published: August 2022

Background:

The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is growing worldwide, with herbal medicine often the most common CAM, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. For optimal patient care, the clinician should know what other medications patients use and why. While many studies have been done on herbal medicine use in the general population, studies on this topic among insured patients in Nigeria are scanty, at best. Thus, there is a need for more researches in this area.

Aim:

This study aimed to assess the use of herbal medicine among patients enrolled in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

Patients, Materials and Methods:

The participants were adult patients (at least 18 years old), of both genders, attending the NHIS Clinic of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, Bauchi. This was an analytical, cross-sectional study. Participants were selected by systematic random sampling. Very sick patients and those who refused to grant consent to the study were exempted. Only seven declined, giving a response rate of 98.1% (364/371). An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect information on participants' biodata and the use of herbal medicine. The study was done from October 1, 2020 to December 23, 2020 over 12 weeks.

Results:

The lifetime prevalence of herbal medicine use was 76.65%. The most common herbs used were moringa (47.31%), garlic (46.95%), ginger (38.71%), lemon (36.20%), and black seed (33.69%). Most of the participants (67.4%) used herbs for treatment, and the main reason for use was their effectiveness (61.3%). Over a third of participants combined herbs and orthodox medicine, and 82.44% never told their doctors they used herbs. Marital status of the study participants was the only variable associated with herbal medicine use (P = 0.022 at 95% confidence level).

Conclusion:

Patients in the NHIS use herbal medicine, though the point prevalence is relatively lower than in uninsured patients. Hence, doctors should be careful to enquire about the herbs these patients use and counsel them appropriately.
The Spectrum of Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Findings and Therapeutic Interventions in Patients Presenting with Upper Gastrointestinal Complaints
Authors: Shin Mohammed , George Rohith , Goudar Santosh R. , D′Souza Sydney , Masoodi Ibrahim
Published: August 2022

Background:

Endoscopy has a great role in the diagnosis, surveillance, and management of various gastrointestinal (GI) ailments.

Aims:

This study aimed to evaluate the spectrum of upper GI (UGI) symptoms and correlate them with the findings on UGI endoscopic examination.

Patients and Methods:

This observational cross-sectional study was carried out from August 2019 to December 2020 in the adult patients presenting with UGI complaints. The patients underwent UGI endoscopy at Yenepoya Medical College Hospital, Mangalore, a tertiary care centre in southern Indian state of Karnataka. Endoscopies were performed as per the standard protocol with diagnosis based on accepted criteria.

Results:

A total of 450 subjects (mean age: 49.14 ± 13.9; range, 19–89; 322 [71.5%] men) were included. Among the diagnostic indications, dyspeptic symptom seen in 176 (39.1%) patients was the most frequent indication in this study cohort, followed by reflux in 73 (16.2%) patients, UGI bleeding in 69 (15.34%) patients (portal hypertensive bleeding was found to be more common than nonvariceal bleed (49:20). Antral gastritis was seen in 112 (24.9%) patients. Ninety (20%) patients were found to have esophageal varices and 47 (10.4%) had esophagitis. Biopsy showed 25.3% to be positive for Helicobacter pylori. Forty-seven (10.45%) patients with a mean age 32 ± 6.8 years with dyspeptic symptoms but no alarming symptoms had normal endoscopic examination.

Conclusion:

Antral gastritis was the most common endoscopic finding in patients with dyspeptic symptoms. Portal hypertension was a more common cause of UGI bleeding compared to duodenal ulcers. While the majority of the patients presenting with heartburn had esophagitis, nonerosive esophagitis was observed in 3.2% of patients.
Androgenetic Alopecia
Authors: Enitan Ademola Olusegun , Olasode Olayinka Abimbola , Onayemi Olaniyi Emmanuel , Ajani Atinuke Arinola , Oninla Olumayowa Abimbola , Olanrewaju Fatai Olatunde , Oripelaye Mufutau Muphy
Published: August 2022

Background:

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common hair disorder resulting from a combination of genetic, hormonal, and nutritional factors. It may be associated with psychological, social, and emotional disturbances in the affected individuals and this may lead to a significant reduction in the quality of life (QoL).

Aim:

This study determined the impacts of AGA on the QoL among a Nigerian population.

Patients, Materials and Methods:

This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study involving 110 adults with AGA. Adult patients with AGA attending dermatology clinic were consecutively recruited after obtaining an informed consent. The QoL was assessed with Hairdex questionnaire.

Results:

The mean age of the study participants was 43.45 ± 11.72 years (age range of 23–82 years) with male-to-female ratio of 14.7:1. The AGA duration ranged from 2 to 38 years, with a mean duration of 11.5 ± 4.2 years. Significant impairment in QoL was observed among the subjects in the Hairdex domains of symptoms, functioning, emotion, stigmatization, and self-confidence. Subjects who have previously been treated were more affected compared to those who were new and were yet to receive any treatment.

Conclusion:

Significant proportion of individuals with AGA experience enormous impairment in the QoL, indicating the need for psychosocial support while managing such patients.
The Risk of Subsequent Malignancies in Patients with Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Lu Yu-Cheng , Tsai Yu-Chieh , Chow Po-Ming , Weng Wen-Ching , Huang Wei-Yi , Chueh Shih-Chieh Jeff , Liu Kao-Lang , Huang Kuo-How
Published: August 2022

Purpose:

The purpose was to investigate the risk of subsequent malignancies in patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) using hospital-based cancer registry database and a nationwide health insurance database.

Materials and Methods:

We used the following three databases: Cancer Registry Database of National Taiwan University Hospital (NTUH), National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD), and registry for catastrophic illness patients, a subset from NHIRD. We identified patients with RCC and analyzed the risk of subsequent malignancies in these patients.

Results:

Of the 1188 patients with RCC treated at NTUH, 141 (11.9%) had subsequent malignancies. Cancers in the colon, liver, prostate, lung and stomach were the five most common other primary malignancies. The nationwide analysis showed that 4.68% of the RCC patients had subsequent malignancies. The percentage was significantly higher than that in the general population in Taiwan. The five most common subsequent malignancies in patients with RCC were bladder, liver, colon, lung, and prostate cancer. The risk of developing these subsequent cancers in RCC patients was also significantly higher than that in the general population.

Conclusion:

Subsequent malignancies were noted in a high proportion of patients with RCC in Taiwan. It is a multifactorial process and the mechanism is still uncertain. This important issue warrants further studies to elucidate the mechanism.
Safety and Efficacy of Laparoendoscopic Single-Site Donor Nephrectomy
Authors: Lin Chung-Yu , Li Ching-Chia , Ke Hung-Lung , Wu Wen-Jeng , Chou Yii-Her , Wen Sheng-Chen
Published: August 2022

Purpose:

Laparoscopic living-donor nephrectomy is the main technique at high-volume renal transplant centers. Laparoendoscopic single-site donor nephrectomy (LESS-DN) is s an evolutionary minimally invasive surgery, which could be performed by transperitoneal or retroperitoneal approaches. We present a retrospective analysis of our single-institution donor nephrectomy series comparing the transperitoneal to retroperitoneal LESS-DN regarding operative outcomes.

Materials and Methods:

Seventeen patients who underwent LESS-DN from 2017–2020 were enrolled at our center. The same surgeon performed all cases. The two approaches were compared for the operation time, blood loss, warm ischemia time (WIT), postoperative pain, length of stay (LOS), postoperative wound size, postoperative pain, and the postoperative renal function for twelve months retrospectively.

Results:

Operating time (257 vs. 180 min, P = 0.016) and LOS (6.5 vs. 5 days, P = 0.013) were significantly longer in the transperitoneal group. The postoperative wound size (47.5 vs. 75 mm, P = 0.038) was substantially smaller in the transperitoneal group. There was no significant difference in other parameters, including blood loss, WIT, complication rate, and postoperative pain from day one to day three.

Conclusion:

Retroperitoneal LESS-DN results in similar perioperative outcomes as transperitoneal LESS-DN without compromising donor safety and providing a faster operation time, shorter LOS, and a trend toward a shorter WIT. Both approach methods may be safe and effective procedures for living kidney transplantation.
Current Knowledge and Novel Frontiers in Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction after Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Wada Naoki , Karnup Sergei , Kadekawa Katsumi , Shimizu Nobutaka , Kwon Joonbeom , Shimizu Takahiro , Gotoh Daisuke , Kakizaki Hidehiro , de Groat William C. , Yoshimura Naoki
Published: August 2022

This review article aims to summarize the recent advancement in basic research on lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) following spinal cord injury (SCI) above the sacral level. We particularly focused on the neurophysiologic mechanisms controlling the lower urinary tract (LUT) function and the SCI-induced changes in micturition control in animal models of SCI. The LUT has two main functions, the storage and voiding of urine, that are regulated by a complex neural control system. This neural system coordinates the activity of two functional units in the LUT: the urinary bladder and an outlet including bladder neck, urethra, and striated muscles of the pelvic floor. During the storage phase, the outlet is closed and the bladder is quiescent to maintain a low intravesical pressure and continence, and during the voiding phase, the outlet relaxes and the bladder contracts to promote efficient release of urine. SCI impairs voluntary control of voiding as well as the normal reflex pathways that coordinate bladder and sphincter function. Following SCI, the bladder is initially areflexic but then becomes hyperreflexic due to the emergence of a spinal micturition reflex pathway. However, the bladder does not empty efficiently because coordination between the bladder and urethral sphincter is lost. In animal models of SCI, hyperexcitability of silent C-fiber bladder afferents is a major pathophysiological basis of neurogenic LUTD, especially detrusor overactivity. Reflex plasticity is associated with changes in the properties of neuropeptides, neurotrophic factors, or chemical receptors of afferent neurons. Not only C-fiber but also Aδ-fiber could be involved in the emergence of neurogenic LUTD such as detrusor sphincter dyssynergia following SCI. Animal research using disease models helps us to detect the different contributing factors for LUTD due to SCI and to find potential targets for new treatments.
Предельное совместное распределение статистик критериев «Monobit test», «Frequency Test within a Block» и «Test for the Longest Run of Ones in a Block»
Authors: Savelov M P
Published: August 2022

Найдено предельное совместное распределение статистик $T_1$, $T_2$, $T_3$ следующих трех критериев пакета НИСТ: «Monobit Test», «Frequency Test within a Block» и «Test for the Longest Run of Ones in a Block» в ситуации, когда исследуемая последовательность состоит из независимых случайных величин, имеющих распределение Бернулли с параметром $p = \frac12$. Установлены необходимые и достаточные условия асимптотической некоррелированности, а также необходимые и достаточные условия асимптотической независимости данных статистик. Доказано, что ковариационная матрица $C$ предельного распределения вектора $(T_1, T_2, T_3)$ удовлетворяет соотношениям $C_{12}=C_{21}=C_{13}=C_{31}=0$, $C_{23}=C_{32} \ge 0$. Для широкого класса значений $p \ne \frac12$ описано предельное поведение вектора $(T_1, T_2, T_3)$.
Haematological and hepatho-renal effect of cashew nut oil on male Wistar rats
Authors: Akpotu J.O. , Oniye S. J. , Abdullahi S.A. , Magaji B.T.
Published: August 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate the biosafety of Anacardium occidentale (cashew) nut oil using male Wistar rats as model. Cashew nut oil was extracted from cashew nuts with the aid of a Soxhlet apparatus using n-hexane as solvent. Twelve male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four groups labeled I, II, III and IV (3 rats per group). Group I served as the control group and were administered distilled water. Group II received 1.53 mL/kg of the nut oil; group III received 4 mL/kg of the nut oil while group IV received 8.13 mL/kg of the nut oil. The administrations were via the oral route. Blood samples were collected weekly for haematological examination. At the end of four weeks study period, the rats were anaesthetized and the liver and kidneys were removed for histological examination. The haematological result showed slight deviation from the normal in packed cell volume (52%), total white blood cell count (9.38 x 103/mm3) and lymphocyte count (58.17%) in Wistar rats administered 4 to 8.13 mL/kg of the cashew nut oil, respectively yet no visible compromise of the immune system was observed. Histological analysis; however, revealed some hepatocyte morphological lesions including mild microvesicular steatosis, kupffer cell hyperplasia, shrinkage of glomeruli, glomerular distortion, necrotic renal tubules, severe congestion and atrophy of renal tubules in rats fed 8.13mL/kg of the nut oil. In conclusion, the cashew nut oil was responsible for hepatic parenchymal and matrix alteration in wistar rats administered 8.13 mL/kg of cashew nut oil.
TESLİM ZAMANLARININ DİKKATE ALINDIĞI 1,5 BOYUTLU KESME VE ANA MALZEME SEÇİMİ PROBLEMİ İÇİN BİR MATSEZGİSEL ALGORİTMA
Authors: DUYSAK Emine , DÜLGER İrem , YILDIZ Nihal Saliha , GÜMÜŞ Sıla , SARAÇ Tuğba
Published: August 2022

Kesme ve ana malzeme seçimi problemleri kâğıt, metal, cam ve tekstil gibi endüstriler için oldukça önemli problemlerdir. Kesme işleminin etkin yapılamaması sonucunda oluşacak fireler hem işletmeler için önemli bir maliyete sebep olmakta hem de çevreye zarar verebilmektedir. Bu nedenle literatürde kesme problemini konu alan çalışmaların önemli bir kısmı firelerin enküçüklenmesi ya da kullanılacak ana malzeme miktarının enküçüklenmesi üzerine odaklanmaktadır. Ve kesilecek parçaların ana malzemeye nasıl yerleştirildiğini gösteren kesme planları oluşturulurken parçaların teslim zamanları genellikle ihmal edilmektedir. Oysa gerçek hayatta müşteriye ürünlerin zamanında teslim edilebilmesi en az firenin azaltılması kadar önem taşımaktadır. Bu nedenle çoğu kez büyük firelere neden olsalar bile teslim zamanı yaklaşan parçalara öncelik verilmesi gerekmektedir. Bu çalışmada, kullanılacak ana malzemenin enküçüklenmesi amacının yanı sıra, kesilecek parçaların teslim zamanlarının da dikkate alındığı kesme ve ana malzeme seçimi problemi ele alınmıştır. Problemin motivasyon kaynağı bir oluklu mukavva fabrikasında yaşanan oluklu bobinlerinden dikdörtgen oluklu mukavvaların kesilmesi problemidir. Farklı bobin enlerinin var olması nedeniyle oluklu mukavvaların nasıl kesileceğinin belirlenmesinin yanı sıra ana malzemenin seçimi de söz konusudur. Problemin çözümü için bir matsezgisel algoritma geliştirilmiştir. Geliştirilen algoritma ile elde edilen çözümler uygulamanın yapıldığı işletmenin çizelgesi ile karşılaştırılmış ve daha başarılı bir çizelge elde edilmiştir.
BİSKÜVİ ÜRETİM HATLARINDA HAZIRLIK SÜRELERİNİN AZALTILMASINA YÖNELİK YALIN ÜRETİM VE SMED UYGULAMASI
Authors: SARIKAYA Hüseyin Ali , SOYDEMİR Emine Kübra , SARDAŞ Beyza , ÇAYIR ERVURAL Beyza , ŞEN Durrmuş Tayyar
Published: August 2022

Kalıp değişimi, çeşitli ürünler üreten tesislerde verimliliği etkileyen önemli bir faktördür. Kalıp değişim sürelerinin uzaması ve kalıp değişimi sonrasında istenilen kalitenin elde edilememesi büyük bir zaman kaybına neden olabilmektedir. Aynı zamanda, kalıp değişimi için standart olmayan prosedürler, değişim sürecini daha da zorlaştırmaktadır. Bu çalışmada, bir bisküvi üretim tesisinin üretim hatlarındaki kalıp değiştirme sorunları incelenmiştir. Tesiste üretilen her ürün için hamur açma makinesi ve paketleme makinesinde kalıp değişiklikleri yapılmakta ve her değişimde üretim hattı temizlenmektedir. Bu çalışmada, makine kalıp değişimindeki kayıp zamanları azaltmaya yönelik SMED (Single Minute Exchange of Die: Tekli Dakikalarda Kalıp Değişimi) yaklaşımı ve 5S ile mevcut durum analiz edilmiş ve iyileştirmeler yapılmıştır. Bu çalışma sonucunda dış hazırlık süresinde %26,91, iç hazırlık süresinde %20,74 ve toplam hazırlık süresinde %21,05'lik iyileştirme gerçekleştirilmiş, yıllık üretim miktarı ve kârda ise %3,8 oranında artış sağlanmıştır.

Bu çalışmada Kaizen, Poka-yoke ve SMED teknikleriyle 3 aşamalı bir yapı ile bisküvi üretim tesisleri için kalıp değişim süreçlerinde iyileştirmeler yalın üretim teknikleri ve ergonomik değerlendirmeler eşliğinde yapılmıştır.
Using multiple lenses to explore how an undergraduate curriculum supports pharmacy students’ patient-centred competency development
Authors: Aspden Trudi , Butler Rachael , Bye Lynne , Petersen Lynne
Published: August 2022

Background: This study explores how a Bachelor of Pharmacy curriculum supports students’ holistic patient-centred competency development.
Methods: This mixed-method exploratory study identified patient-centred care themes through a literature review. The themes were mapped to a curriculum. They also informed staff and student focus groups, and student, intern, and preceptor surveys. Qualitative data were thematically analysed, descriptive statistics were generated from quantitative data and the findings triangulated.
Results: Six themes and 22 subthemes were identified and mapped.  Attributes synthesised from subthemes, were explored via surveys. Eight staff and 20 students participated in four focus groups. The influence of people, immersive learning experiences and learning variety were identified as key facilitators for competency development. 51 students, 18 interns and 51 preceptors completed the questionnaires. The responses validated the themes and attributes and identified curricular strengths and gaps.
Conclusion: A multi-step study incorporating triangulation generated a comprehensive and confirming overview of curriculum components, which led to pharmacy students’ development of patient-centred competencies.
COVID-19 Pandemic and Bitcoin Returns: Evidence From Time and Frequency Domain Causality Analysis
Authors: Sahoo Pradipta Kumar , Rath Badri Narayan
Published: August 2022

This study explores the causal relationship between COVID-19 pandemic and Bitcoin returns by applying the time and frequency domain Granger causality framework. We find that COVID-19 has a causal effect on Bitcoin returns across time. We further find that the causal effect of COVID-19 on Bitcoin returns, varies across different frequencies from short to medium and long term. From a policy perspective, investors need to be alert while investing in Bitcoin.
The Asymmetric Impact of Fiscal Policy on an Emerging Stock Market
Authors: Lee Chee Loong , Ng Chee Pung , Koh Chin Min , Ahmad Riayati
Published: August 2022

This study investigated the asymmetric impact of fiscal policy on Malaysia’s stock market. It discovered that fiscal policy has no impact on the stock market performance in the long run. However, budget expansion boosted the stock market return, while budget contraction worsened it in the short run. Therefore, fund managers can adjust their portfolios based on fiscal news in the short run to maximize their returns.
Building Capacity for Innovation: Evidence From Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao , Nghiem Phuc Hieu , Vo Thi Thu Hong
Published: August 2022

This study investigates the effect of capacity building for innovation through research and development (R&D) investment and training on innovation performance. The results show that training positively affects product/service and process innovation, while R&D investment positively affects only product/service innovation. Besides, service firms gain more benefits through training than manufacturing firms. Employee training plays an important role in enhancing innovation performance.
Climate Change and Asian Stock Markets: A GARCH-MIDAS Approach
Authors: Oloko Tirimisiyu F. , Adediran Idris A. , Fadiya Olalekan T.
Published: August 2022

This study investigates the effect of climate change on Asian stock markets using Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroskedasticity variant of Mixed Data Sampling (GARCH-MIDAS) model. The results reveal that long-term stock return volatility of about 40% of Asian stock markets are unaffected by climate change. This implies that about 40% of investments in the Asian stock markets are insensitive to climate change financing. More awareness about investment in climate-oriented stocks is recommended.
Climate Risk and Financial Instability in Asia-Pacific
Authors: Akpa Emeka Okoro , Olayiwola Afees Idowu , Abuta Chigozie Mark Anthony , Badmus Sheriff
Published: August 2022

In this study, we estimate the effect of climate risk on financial instability in a panel of four developed Asia-Pacific countries from 2001Q1 to 2020Q4. The empirical results show that climate risk leads to a reduction in financial instability, but not significantly. This effect becomes more significant when mean deviation is used as a measure of financial instability.
The Feldstein-Horioka Puzzle in India: Some Asymmetric Evidence
Authors: Padhan Rakesh , Bhat Javed Ahmad , Prabheesh K.P.
Published: August 2022

This paper examines the Feldstein-Horioka (FH) hypothesis for India using the non-linear autoregressive distributed lag model and the Hatemi-J asymmetric causality test. The empirical findings show: (1) the validity of the FH puzzle for the Indian economy, which implies the presence of imperfect capital mobility; (2) that positive (negative) saving causes positive (negative) investment; and (3) negative (positive) saving does not cause positive (negative) investment.
How Did Financial Markets Respond to COVID-19 and Governmental Policies During the Different Waves of the Pandemic?
Authors: Bouhali Hamza , Dahbani Ahmed , Dinar Brahim
Published: August 2022

This study investigates the impact of COVID-19 and the policies implemented by the authorities on financial markets during the different waves of the pandemic. We found significant correlations between COVID-19 new cases and the volatility of financial markets in most of the studied samples during the three studied waves. We also found that financial markets in developed countries present a significant positive market vision, and those of emerging economies present mixed results.
ANALISIS SENTIMEN BERBASIS ASPEK MARKETING MIX TERHADAP ULASAN APLIKASI DOMPET DIGITAL (STUDI KASUS: APLIKASI LINKAJA PADA TWITTER)
Authors: Turjaman Rifqy Mikoriza , Budi Indra
Published: August 2022

Selama pandemi COVID-19 yang telah melanda dunia sejak akhir tahun 2019, transaksi dengan metode pembayaran cashless mengalami peningkatan signifikan. LinkAja sebagai salah satu perusahaan dompet digital di Indonesia yang melayani pembayaran cashless, perlu meningkatkan daya saing di tengah ketatnya persaingan bisnis dompet digital. Salah satunya adalah dengan meningkatkan kepuasan konsumen dengan memperhatikan berbagai aspek berdasarkan teori marketing mix 4P. Penelitian ini berfokus untuk melakukan sentimen analisis berbasis aspek untuk mengetahui aspek mana yang mendapat penilaian positif, negatif, atau netral dari data ulasan yang diberikan konsumen. Hasil penelitian dapat digunakan sebagai referensi bagi LinkAja dalam menentukan aspek mana yang perlu diprioritaskan dalam meningkatkan daya saing perusahaan. Data yang digunakan dalam penelitian adalah data Twitter yang berkaitan dengan mention akun @linkaja dengan periode Januari-Mei 2022. Penelitian ini melakukan klasifikasi aspek menggunakan string matching menggunakan library Thefuzz. Kemudian klasifikasi sentimen dilakukan menggunakan algoritma SVM. Metode undersampling digunakan untuk menyeimbangkan kelas dalam dataset. Hasil klasifikasi menunjukkan bahwa aplikasi LinkAja mendapatkan sentimen negatif pada aspek produk dengan 98% dari total ulasan dan aspek tempat dengan 100% dari total ulasan, kemudian sentimen netral pada aspek harga sebesar 89% dari total ulasan, dan aspek promosi mendapatkan sentimen positif sebanyak 98% dari total ulasan.
PENENTUAN LOKASI TEMPAT HENTI ANGKUTAN KHUSUS PEGAWAI KANTOR PEMERINTAHAN DAERAH KOTA PALU
Authors: Fortuna Ellyni Dwi , Malkhamah Siti , Irawan Zudhy
Published: August 2022

Perkantoran pemerintahan daerah Kota Palu merupakan salah satu tujuan perjalanan masyarakat. Perjalanan menuju gedung perkantoran tidak hanya dilakukan oleh pekerja kantoran saja tetapi juga masyarakat umum yang ingin menggunakan jasa perkantoran tersebut. Penggunaan kendaraan pribadi menjadi pilihan moda untuk menuju kawasan ini akibat tidak didukungnya pelayanan angkutan umum. Pemerintah terus berupaya memperbaiki pelayanan angkutan umum tetapi pelayanan angkutan umum untuk masyarakat khususnya pegawai belum dilakukan. Oleh karena itu, penelitian ini dilakukan dengan tujuan menentukan lokasi titik tempat henti angkutan khusus pegawai, untuk meningkatkan keinginan pegawai beralih menggunakan angkutan khusus pegawai dan diharapkan mengurangi kemacetan pada ruas jalan yang dilewatinya. Metode yang digunakan adalah untuk kebutuhan data diperlukan data sekunder yang diperoleh dari instansi berwenang dan berbagai referensi, dan untuk data primer, data primer diperoleh dari observasi dan pembagian kuesioner. Penentuan lokasi titik perhentian berdasarkan kebutuhan pegawai yaitu mendekati pemukiman pegawai dan menggunakan software ArcGIS. Hasil penelitian adalah jarak tempat tinggal pegawai dengan halte eksisting >400 meter, kemampuan berjalan kaki pegawai <300 meter, dan jumlah lokasi titik henti angkutan khusus pegawai yaitu sebanyak 30 titik.
PENGARUH PEMBERIAN PUPUK ANORGANIK DAN URINE KAMBING TERHADAP PERTUMBUHAN DAN PRODUKSI TANAMAN MENTIMUN (Cucumis sativus)
Authors: Gultom Fransiskus , Hernawaty Hernawaty , Sinukaban Perdianta , Karo-karo Selamat
Published: August 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan: 1. Untuk mengetahui pengaruh pemberian pupuk Calcium Amonium Nitrate terhadap pertumbuhan dan produksi tanaman mentimun (Cucumis sativus); 2.           Untuk mengetahui pengaruh pemberian pupuk urine kambing terhadap pertumbuhan dan produksi tanaman mentimun (Cucumis sativus); dan 3. Untuk mengetahui pengaruh interaksi pemberian pupuk Calcium Amonium Nitrate dan pupuk urine kambing terhadap pertumbuhan dan produksi tanaman mentimun (Cucumis sativus). Rancangan percobaan yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah Rancangan Acak Kelompok (RAK) dengan pola faktorial 3x4 dengan 3 ulangan dengan total kombinasi perlakuan sebanyak 12 perlakuan. Faktor yang diteliti adalah pengaruh pemberian pupuk calcium amonium nitrate dan urine kambing terhadap pertumbuhan dan produksi tanaman mentimun (Cucumis sativus).  Faktor dosis pupuk Calcium Amonium Nitrate (C) terdiri atas 3 taraf, yaitu: C1 = 100g per plot, C2 = 150g per plot, dan C3 = 200g per plot, sedangkan Faktor dosis urine kambing (U) terdiri atas 4 taraf, yaitu: U0 =  0ml per plot, U1 = 100ml per plot, U2 = 200ml per plot, dan U3 = 300ml per plot. Dari hasil penelitian dan pembahasan yang dilakukan, diperoleh kesimpulan antara lain: 1) Pemberian pupuk Calcium Amonium Nitrate terhadap pertumbuhan dan produksi tanaman mentimun memberikan pengaruh yang berbeda tidak nyata, 2. Pemberian urine kambing terhadap pertumbuhan dan produksi tanaman mentimun memberikan pengaruh yang berbeda tidak nyata, dan 3. Tidak ada pengaruh interaksi dengan pemberian pupuk Calcium Amonium Nitrate dan urine kambing terhadap pertumbuhan dan produksi tanaman mentimun.
PERSONALITY OF THE MAIN CHARACTER IN CHARLES DICKENS’ GREAT EXPECTATION
Authors: Purba Desmalia , Sarumaha Arindah
Published: August 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menemukan nilai-nilai moral yang terdapat dalam The Best of Me karya Nicholas Spark dan pemanfaatan The Best of Me karya Nicholas Spark sebagai media pendidikan. Penulis menggunakan Etika Dasar Masalah-masalah pokok Fisafat Moral oleh Suseno dan Teori Pengkajian Fiksi oleh Nugriyantoro. Dalam menyelesaikan analisis ini penulis menggunakan penelitian kepustakaan. Dalam analisis data, penulis memilih novel Nicholas Spark berjudul An Analysis of Moral Values ​​as Reflected in The Best of Me karya Nicholas Spark. Penulis juga menggunakan metode kualitatif untuk menulis analisis ini dan menggambarkan bagaimana proses nilai moral pada karakter utama. Hal itu dibuktikan dengan menganalisis proses nilai moral pada karakter utama The Best of Me. Hasil penelitian mengungkapkan nilai moral dalam novel The Best of Me tentang tanggung jawab, kepedulian, cinta dan kasih sayang serta pengorbanan untuk orang lain. Novel juga dapat digunakan sebagai media pendidikan. Penulis menemukan penggunaan novel sebagai media pendidikan, ungkapan kesan, janji dan sapaan.
ANALISIS NILAI TAMBAH DAN TATANIAGA GULA AREN (Arenga pinnata) DI DESA RUMAH GALUH,KECAMATAN SEI BINGAI KABUPATEN LANGKAT, PROVINSI SUMATERA UTARA
Authors: Gultom Lilis S , Saragih Wilmar
Published: August 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk: mengetahui nilai tambah dan besarnya yang diperoleh pada pengolahan gula aren di Desa Rumah Galuh, Kecamatan Sei Bingai, Kabupaten Langkat, mengetahui mata rantai, fungsi, dan margin tataniaga petani gula aren di Desa Rumah Galuh, Kecamatan Sei Bingai, Kabupaten Langkat, mengetahui tataniaga yang efisien pada petani gula aren di Desa Rumah Galuh, Kecamatan Sei Bingai, Kabupaten Langkat dan mengetahui besarnya pendapatan petani gula aren di Desa Rumah Galuh, Kecamatan Sei Bingai, Kabupaten Langkat. Penentuan lokasi penelitian ini ditentukan secara purposive (sengaja) yaitu di Desa Rumah Galuh, Kecamatan Sei Bingai, Kabupaten Langkat. Sampel pada penelitian ini merupakan pengrajin gula aren. Adapun sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah: petani gula aren (12 orang), pedagang pengumpul (3 orang), pedagang besar (1 orang), dan pedagang pengecer (4 orang). Populasi dalam penelitian ini sebayak 12 populasi dan semua digunakan sebagai sampel. Analisis nilai tambah menggunakan metode Hayami, sedangkan analisis tataniga dan pendapatan dilakukan secara deskriptif. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa nilai tambah rata-rata pengolahan nira menjadi gula aren di daerah penelitian Rp.1.335,33/kg1.335,33/kg, dengan rasio nilai tambah sebesar 57,06 % > 50 % artinya nilai tambah tersebut tergolong tinggi. Terdapat tiga saluran tataniaga gula aren di daerah penelitian. Saluran tataniaga I yaitu : produsen ®  pedagang pengumpul ® pedagang pengecer ® konsumen, saluran tataniaga II yaitu : produsen ®  pedagang pengumpul ® pedagang besar ® pedagang pengecer ® konsumen, serta saluran tataniaga III yaitu : produsen ®  pedagang pengecer ® konsumen. Share margin yang diterima oleh produsen (petani gula aren) lebih tinggi jika dibandingkan share margin yang diterima oleh pedagang pada ketiga saluran tataniaga. Efisiensi saluran tataniaga (1) sebesar 6,56 %, efisiensi saluran tataniaga (2) sebesr 7,74 % dan efisiensi saluran tataniaga (3) sebesar 6,41 %. Ketiga saluran pemasaran tergolong efisien dimana saluran tataniaga (3) lebih efisien dari saluran tataniaga (1) dan (2). Pendapatan bersih pengolahan nira menjadi gula aren di daerah penelitian sebesar Rp. 3.145.231,18/bulan.
ANALISIS HUKUM TERHADAP NILAI PEMBUKTIAN KETERANGAN ANAK SEBAGAI SAKSI DALAM PERKARA PIDANA
Authors: Simamora Zefri Pandapotan , Sahari Alpi , Simbolon Nanci Yosepin
Published: August 2022

Ganjaran ialah salah satu perlengkapan fakta yang legal bagi hukum sebab dipakai buat menguak suatu kenyataan. Penjelasan saksi digali buat mencari cara bukti atas perbuatan kejahatan yang lagi dalam pengecekan pada langkah investigasi sampai langkah cara pengecekan masalah di Majelis hukum. Penjelasan saksi yang diserahkan oleh orang yang sudah penuhi ketentuan tidak hendak jadi sesuatu permasalahan ataupun perbincangan., kaan namun bila sesuatu penjelasan saksi diserahkan oleh anak selaku saksi. Penjelasan dari anak selaku saksi bisa mempunyai angka pembuktian serta dapatkah dijadikan perlengkapan fakta yang legal ataupun tidak di majelis hukum, mengenang anak selaku saksi tidak disumpah serta anak selaku saksi dikira belum berusia. Proteksi hukum kepada anaks ebagai saksi dalam masalah kejahatan Tetapan Majelis hukum Negara Lubuk akam Nomor. 1482 atau Pid. B atau 2015? pn. Lbp, proteksi anak selaku saksi berkuasa atas usaha rehabilotasi kedokteran serta rehabilitasi sosial, bagus di dalam badan ataupun di luar badan; agunan keamanan bagus raga, psikologis, ataupun sosial; keringanan dalam mendaatkan data hal kemajuan masalah. Anak yang berdekatan dengan hukum harus disidangkan di majelis hukum spesial anak yang terletak sedang pada area peradilan biasa. Sistem cara penanganan erkara kejahatan anak yang berdekatan dengan hukum wajib bersumber pada kegiatan peradilan kejahatan anak. Angka pembuktian penjelasan anak selaku saksi dalam masalah kejahatan Tetapan Majelis hukum Negara Lubuk Pakam Nomor. 1482 atau Pid. B atau 2015 atau PN. Lbp, penjelasan anak emmpunyai daya angka pembuktian selaku fakta bonus serta selaku petunjuk untuk juri, penjelasan saksi anak yang tidak disumpah bila penjelasan itu cocok dengan penjelasan dari saksi yang disumpah bisa dipakai selaku bonus perlengkapan fakta yang legal serta dijadikan selaku estimasi juri. Kendala- kendala yang menimbulkan sulitnya buat memperoleh penjelasan saksi anak yang dibeberkan dalam pesidangan merupakan saksi anak yang sedang berumur dibawah baya, akibat dari peristiwa perbuatan kejahatan kekerasan kepada anak pengaruhi kondisi intelektual serta psikologis alhasil memunculkan perasaan guncangan tajut anak.
Sport ecosystem and territorial development: essay to elaborate a theoretical model of youth social inclusion through sport in Morocco
Authors: Said Balhadj , Amine Benreghai Mohamed
Published: August 2022

The overall objective of this paper is the conceptualization of sport as a territorial ecosystem, clearly defining the roles and participation modalities of the different actors and stakeholders. The intention is to guarantee a consolidated social inclusion and a socio-professional integration creating sustainable territorial development through sport. In this perspective, the sport ecosystem represents a precious asset for research. Sport can represent a good factor for the inclusion of socially disadvantaged groups, especially young people, and can be a truly powerful educational tool in promoting social inclusion and professional integration. In this logic, this paper aims to find a new, innovative way to explain different elements of sport and social inclusion and improve youth proactivity. The topic is important, because of the problem of increasing number of young people that have problem of social exclusion, less physical activity and unhealthy lifestyle. Therefore trough the conception of a territorial sport ecosystem it is possible to act preventively on a "disease" that after installed can become incurable. This paper ﬁrst presents the theory and concepts related to territorial sport ecosystem and social inclusion before providing case studies that demonstrate the theories in sports contexts. The purpose is to offering insights to propose - thanks to a rigorous theoretical and empirical study - a model of territorial development through the creation of a sports ecosystem, and understand how well the sports logic can coexist with the social inclusive logic.
Responsabilidad social en los emprendimientos del sector microempresarial, provincia de el oro
Authors: Agila Rosana de Jesús Eras , Balcázar Margot Isabel Lalangui , Mosquera Julissa Shayri Flores , Orozco Dayanara Mishelle Lavanda , Aguilar Gabriela Estefanía Méndez , Campuzano John Jairo Erráis
Published: August 2022

La responsabilidad social en emprendimientos es considerada como herramienta de gestión empresarial, que propone cambios de paradigma en sus actividades, llevando a los negocios a un progreso sostenible con buenas prácticas responsables para el bienestar de sus trabajadores, sociedad y sector. El objetivo será describir la práctica de responsabilidad social en microempresas de la provincia de El Oro, desde el enfoque cuantitativo, de tipo descriptivo, mediante revisión bibliográfica de investigaciones previas como basamento teórico  y aplicación de  encuesta a través de un cuestionario de preguntas semiestructurado a negocios de varios cantones de la provincia, que mantienen sus actividades económicas de 2 a 9 años. Los resultados indican que los emprendimientos tienen desconocimiento de la gestión administrativa, no obstante sus prácticas de responsabilidad social involucran aspectos del medio ambiente, al comportamiento ético, el derecho de las personas y atención al cliente, en relación a los mecanismos de RS al alrededor de un 46,55% de estas microempresas no aplican, derivado a que se sujeta a decisiones voluntarias y por ende su prioridad es aplicar certificaciones en su producción, comercialización en aras de la competitividad y calidad como respuesta a las exigencias de los mercados.
La gestión integral de proyectos de construcción, basada en la sostenibilidad y la innovación
Authors: Franco José Oswaldo , Vera Carlos Elvis Cusme
Published: August 2022

El presente articulo busca una reflexión sobre la necesidad de un enfoque integral en la gestión de proyectos de construcción, con una visión vinculada a la sostenibilidad e innovación empresarial, imprescindible para mejorar la competitividad de las organizaciones de construcción, proyectándola al futuro, que les permita no tan solo la capacidad de realizar sus actividades de forma eficiente, eficaz, sustentable y sostenible durante el tiempo, también teniendo en cuenta criterios sociales, económicos y ambientales que aseguren la continuidad del negocio. haciendo de su gestión, una acción responsable de buenas prácticas de trabajo para el bienestar de los colaboradores, con el uso responsable de los recursos naturales y la comunidad. Sin duda toda empresa, incluyendo el de la construcción, su objetivo es generar rentabilidad suficiente para seguir en funcionamiento. De lo contrario, no podrá sostenerse en el tiempo. En los últimos años han surgido muchos factores que han impactado a las empresas constructoras, factores de riesgos y amenazas, como la pandemia provocada por el virus del COVID 19, que nos sigue dejando lecciones dolorosas, sumando los conflictos externos geopolíticos, los aspectos políticos-financieros de cada país, recesión de las economías, la corrupción, que representa un desafío para las empresas en reducir su vulnerabilidad, de allí la innovación es clave para la resiliencia empresarial que le permita tener la capacidad para recuperarse de los constantes cambios que sufre, poder identificar y medir las condiciones usualmente inestables de un sistema, poder mitigarlas y responder a estos impactos y transformarlas en oportunidades. El mundo cambia constantemente, por ello las empresas constructoras deben estar preparadas para renovarse, para ello requiere de innovación y construir empresas flexibles con una sólida cultura organizacional que le permita adaptarse a momentos disruptivos. El reto actual de las empresas de construcción es ser altamente perdurables en sus espacios sectoriales, cada vez más competidos, de la mano de las dimensiones de sostenibilidad: medio ambiente, economía y calidad de vida de la comunidad.