bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ordinal Logistic Regression Analysis of Factors that Affecting the Blood Sugar Levels Diabetes Mellitus Patients
Authors: Mayawi Mayawi , Nurhayati Nurhayati , Talib Taufan , Bustan Ariestha W , Laamena Novita S
Published: April 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh faktor-faktor risiko terhadap kadar gula darah pada penderita diabetes mellitus menggunakan analisis regresi logistik ordinal. Faktor-faktor risiko yang dijadikan variabel bebas adalah usia, jenis kelamin, Indeks Massa Tubuh (IMT), tekanan darah, Tingkat Kolesterol (TC), Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL), High Density Lipoprotein (HDL), Thyrocalcitonin Hormone (TCH) dan Loss Trigliserida(LTG). Data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini diperoleh dari https://hastie.su.domains/Papers/LARS/diabetes.data. Jumlah sampel yang diambil sebanyak 100 responden yang telah terdiagnosis diabetes mellitus. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa faktor-faktor risiko seperti usia, Indeks Massa Tubuh (IMT), Tingkat Kolesterol (TC), Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL), High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) dan jenis serum Thyrocalcitonin Hormone (TCH) berpengaruh signifikan terhadap kadar gula darah pada penderita diabetes mellitus. Model logit terbaik untuk regresi logistic ordinal adalah Logit 1 yaitu g(x_1 )= -2.721-0.079 X_1+2.813〖 X〗_3+〖0.100 X〗_5-0.099 X_6-0.119 X_7-0.989 X_8 dan Logit 2 yaitu g(x_2 )= -8.571-0.079 X_1+2.813〖 X〗_3+〖0.100 X〗_5-0.099 X_6-0.119 X_7-0.989 X_8. Disimpulkan bahwa analisis regresi logistik ordinal dapat digunakan untuk mengidentifikasi faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi kadar gula darah pada penderita diabetes mellitus dan membantu pengembangan strategi pengelolaan dan intervensi yang lebih efektif
“Políticas, emaranhamentos e outras indiscernibilidades criativas”
Authors: RÊGO Francisco Gabriel
Published: April 2023

Paulo Rios Filho, compositor, nascido em Salvador, doutor em música (composição) pela Universidade Federal da Bahia (UFBA), atualmente é professor de música da Universidade Federal do Maranhão (UFMA), Campus São Bernardo, e vive na cidade de Parnaíba, no litoral do Piauí...
Figurações do estado de exceção em Zélia Gattai
Authors: SANTOS Arlinda Santana
Published: April 2023

Neste artigo, pretende-se realizar um estudo acerca das figurações do estado de exceção nas obras memorialísticas de Zélia Gattai bem como, da possibilidade de se vislumbrar a escrita de memórias como um testemunho dos horrores vividos. Para tanto, se tomará como objeto de análise as obras memorialísticas da autora.
[Recebido: 28 agos. 2015 – Aceito: 8 nov. 2015]
Analisis Perbedaan Kadar Hematokrit dalam Sampel yang Dihomogenisasi Sekunder Sebanyak 8 Kali yang Tidak Dihomogenisasi Sekunder
Authors: Hutabarat Mustika
Published: April 2023

Latar Belakang: Pemeriksaan hematologi merupakan salah satu kegiatan di laboratorium  klinik. Pemeriksaan hematologi salah satunya adalah pemeriksaan hematokrit. Pada  pemeriksaan hematokrit salah satu hal yang penting dalam tahap pra analitik adalah  homogenisasi sampel. Penundaan pemeriksaan yang terjadi menyebabkan darah mengendap  oleh karena itu perlu dilakukan homogenisasi sekunder sebelum darah diperiksa  menggunakan alat. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk melihat adanya perbedaan hasil pemeriksaan  kadar hematokrit dalam sampel yang tidak dihomogenisasi sekunder dan dihomogenisasi sekunder sebanyak 8 kali. Metode: Jenis penelitian yang dilakukan adalah pra eksperimen  dengan menggunakan Static Group Comparation. Subjek penelitian ini adalah mahasiswa/i  Fakultas Ilmu Kesehatan Universitas Katolik Musi Charitas yang dipilih secara Acidental  sampling. Pemeriksaan kadar hematokrit dalam sampel menggunakan alat Sysmex XP-100  dengan menggunakan metode Apature Impedance Counters. Sampel diperiksa dengan diberi  perlakuan tanpa homogenisasi sekunder dan dihomogenisasi sekunder sebanyak 8 kali. Data  hasil pengukuran sampel kemudian diuji dengan menggunakan uji Wilcoxon Sign Rank dengan tingkat kepercayaan 95%. Hasil: Sampel yang diperiksa sebanyak 30 sampel memiliki  rata-rata hasil pemeriksaan kadar hematokrit dalam sampel yang diberi perlakuan tidak  dihomogenisasi adalah 65% dan rata-rata hasil pemeriksaan sampel dengan perlakuan  dihomogenisasi sekunder sebanyak 8 kali adalah 39,9%. Hasil pemeriksaan tersebut diuji  secara statistik dan menunjukkan hasil terdapat perbedaan yang bermakna p=0,000<0,05. Simpulan: Terdapat perbedaan hasil pemeriksaan kadar hematokrit sampel yang tidak  dihomogenisasi sekunder dan dihomogenisasi sekunder 8 kali.
Dal precettore a Duolingo: un’interpretazione linguistico-educativa e alcune considerazioni sul suo impiego e la sua efficacia
Il corso di norvegese
Authors: Santipolo Matteo
Published: April 2023

Among the most successful language self-teaching apps, Duolingo stands out due to its ease of access and simplicity of use. In this paper, after a general description of the app, an interpretation will be attempted in terms of language learning, with particular reference to the approaches, methodologies and techniques it seems to be based upon, which skills it aims to develop and with what likely results. Its pros and cons will be highlighted, taking into specific examination the Norwegian language course. In conclusion, the use of the app as a support for a structured language course will be outlined.
Modelización estadística para el aprendizaje de la correlación y regresión lineal
Authors: Osorio Amaya Elkin Alejandro , Inzunza Cázares Santiago , Ward Bringas Silvia Evelyn
Published: April 2023

Este trabajo muestra los resultados del uso de Actividades Generadoras de Modelos para el aprendizaje de la correlación y regresión lineal. Los participantes adquirieron, ampliaron y refinaron sus conocimientos y habilidades estadísticas, organizando, analizando y representando datos, estableciendo correlaciones y determinando líneas de regresión y coeficientes de determinación; además, con los modelos planteados, realizaron conclusiones, explicaciones, descripciones y predicciones del comportamiento del modelo. Se avanzó en el entendimiento de la importancia del uso de representaciones gráficas adecuadas y las bondades de la tecnología en el procesamiento de los datos estadísticos bivariados.
Profesores de matemáticas reflexivos: formación y cuestiones de investigación

Authors: Flores Pablo
Published: April 2023

En este artículo caracterizamos el término profesor de matemáticas reflexivo para poder concretar planes de formación profesional y analizar el desarrollo de estos profesores y su relación con el conocimiento profesional. Describimos algunas variables que se utilizan en las investigaciones sobre la caracterización y formación de profesores de matemáticas reflexivos. Para ello adoptamos algunos referentes teóricos y presentamos las investigaciones que estamos llevando en esta línea, en la que se pretende caracterizar el proceso de reflexión de estudiantes de la asignatura Prácticas de Enseñanza de Matemáticas, en la Licenciatura de Matemáticas. Reflective Mathematics Teachers: Training and Research Issues In this paper we characterize the term reflective mathematics teacher in order to elucidate teacher training programs and analyze teachers' development and its relation to their professional knowledge. We describe some of the research variables that are used to characterize and train reflective mathematics teachers. With this purpose, we introduce some theoretical considerations and present some of the research projects we are currently working on concerning the reflection processes of preservice teachers in a methods course of the mathematics degree.Handle: http://hdl.handle.net/10481/4716Nº de citas en WOS (2017): 3 (Citas de 2º orden, 2)Nº de citas en SCOPUS (2017): 3 (Citas de 2º orden, 2)
La enseñanza del álgebra lineal utilizando modelización y calculadora gráfica: un estudio con profesores en formación

Authors: Ortiz José , Rico Luis , Castro Enrique
Published: April 2023

Exploramos el conocimiento didáctico desarrollado por diez futuros profesores de matemáticas de secundaria que participaron en un programa de formación que integra, a través del álgebra lineal, el uso de la calculadora gráfica y la modelización matemática. Utilizamos una aproximación cualitativa. El análisis de las actividades de enseñanza diseñadas por los participantes que involucran la calculadora gráfica y la modelización muestra cambios y progreso en su conocimiento didáctico. Using Modelling and Graphic Calculators in the Teaching of Linear Algebra: A Study in a Teacher Training Program We explored the didactical knowledge developed by ten secondary mathematics teachers who participated in a training program that involved the graphing calculator and modeling on linear algebra topics. We used a qualitative approach. The analysis of the algebra teaching activities designed by the participants involving the graphing calculator and modeling shows changes and progress in their didactical knowledge.Handle: http://hdl.handle.net/10481/4373Nº de citas en WOS (2017): 2 (Citas de 2º orden, 0)Nº de citas en SCOPUS (2017): 1 (Citas de 2º orden, 0)
Approaching the distributive law with young pupils

Authors: Malara Nicolina A. , Navarra Giancarlo
Published: April 2023

This paper contributes to the research strand concerning early algebra and focuses on the distributive law. It reports on a study involving pupils aged 8 to 10, engaging in the solution of purposefully designed problem situations. These situations are organized to favor specifying the students’ solutions and to motivate a collective comparison of the arithmetic expressions that codify the solution processes. The study focuses on ways in which perception leads to different mental images that influence the choice of either the (a + b) x c or (a x c) + (b x c) the representation. It highlights that understanding these dynamics is a fundamental step for a meaningful learning of the property. Aproximación a la propiedad distributiva con estudiantes jóvenes Este artículo contribuye a la rama de investigación relativa al early algebra y se centra en la propiedad distributiva. Describimos un estudio que involucra estudiantes de 8 a 10 años, implicados en la resolución de problemas. Estos problemas se han organizado para favorecer un enunciado explícito de las soluciones propuestas por los alumnos y motivar una comparación colectiva de expresiones aritméticas que codifican los procesos de resolución. El estudio se centra en las formas en las que la percepción da lugar a diferentes imágenes mentales que llevan a elegir la representación (a + b) x c o (a x c) + (b x c). La comprensión de esta dinámica es un paso fundamental para un aprendizaje significativo de la propiedad.Handle: http://hdl.handle.net/10481/4216
Una propuesta de cambio curricular: integración del pensamiento algebraico en educación primaria

Authors: Molina Marta
Published: April 2023

Se describe una propuesta curricular basada en la integración de modos de pensamiento algebraicos en el currículo de la educación primaria, la cual está siendo objeto de numerosas investigaciones en la actualidad. En este contexto, partiendo del constructo pensamiento relacional, se presentan resultados de un experimento de enseñanza, basado en el trabajo con sentencias numéricas, que ejemplifica el potencial de dicha propuesta y permite evidenciar la capacidad de alumnos de tercer curso de educación primaria para trabajar en aritmética de un modo algebraico. Proposal of a Curricular Change: Integration of Algebraic Thinking in Elementary Education We describe a curricular proposal, based on the integration of algebraic ways of thinking in the elementary curriculum, which is currently aim of numerous research studies. In this context and by using the construct relational thinking, we present some results from a teaching experiment based on working with number sentences. It exemplifies the potential of this proposal and allows us to evidence third grade students´ capacity to work algebraically in arithmetic.Handle: http://hdl.handle.net/10481/3475Nº de citas en WOS (2017): 10 (Citas de 2º orden, 28)Nº de citas en SCOPUS (2017): 4 (Citas de 2º orden, 10)
Sobre las nociones de representación y comprensión en la investigación en educación matemática

Authors: Rico Luis
Published: April 2023

En este documento me propongo abordar las siguientes cuestiones generales: (a) qué se entiende por representación y comprensión, análisis conceptual, delimitación de significados de estas nociones y de sus conexiones; (b) analizar la complejidad de la noción de representación: funciones epistémicas, objetividad, diversidad, paradojas; y (c) reflexionar en torno al interés general que tienen estas nociones para la investigación en Educación Matemática. De este modo, y mediante una serie de interrogantes, abro y centro el debate sobre las nociones de representación y comprensión en la investigación en Didáctica de la Matemática. On the Notions of Representation and Understanding in Mathematics Education Research In this document I tackle the following general matters: (a) What do we understand when talking about representation and understanding, conceptual analysis, meanings of these notions and their connections; (b) analysis of the complexity of the representation notion: epistemic functions, objectivity, diversity and paradoxes; and (c) reflection concerning the general interest of the previous notions for Mathematics Education research. In this way and through various questions, I open and focus the debate about the notions of representation and understanding in Mathematics Education research.Handle: http://hdl.handle.net/10481/3501Nº de citas en WOS (2017): 11 (Citas de 2º orden, 5)Nº de citas en SCOPUS (2017): 4 (Citas de 2º orden, 2)
Selective Quantification of Organic and Inorganic Arsenic in Kelp Thalli and Kelp-Based Products
Authors: Shchukin V. M. , Erina A. A. , Shvetsova Yu. N. , Zhigilei E. S. , Kuz’mina N. E.
Published: April 2023

Kelp can accumulate large quantities of arsenic compounds even in the absence of considerable environmental pollution. A substantial difference in toxicity between organic and inorganic arsenic compounds makes the form of arsenic relevant for the risk assessment of consuming kelp thalli and kelp-based products.

The aim of the study was to develop an analytical procedure for the selective quantification of organic and inorganic arsenic in kelp thalli by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and solid-phase extraction without scheduled precursors.

Materials and methods. The authors studied samples of Laminaria saccharina and Laminaria japonica, spiking mixtures of chemical compounds containing arsenic in different oxidation states, and bioactive dietary supplements based on kelp thalli. Solid-phase extraction was performed using Maxi-Clean SAX cartridges. The arsenic content was determined using an Agilent 7900 inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer.

Results. Microwave-assisted extraction with deionised water ensures 91% recovery of arsenic-containing compounds from kelp thalli, and the addition of hydrogen peroxide to the extractant provides complete extraction. Solid-phase extraction with an eluent based on 3% H2O2 can extract the organic fraction from a mixture of organic and inorganic arsenic compounds without washing the inorganic fraction off the cartridge.

Conclusions. The authors offer an effective analytical procedure for the selective quantification of organic and inorganic arsenic in kelp thalli and kelp-based products. This procedure allows for the isolation of arsenic-containing compounds from the organic matrix of kelp with 3% hydrogen peroxide. Solid-phase extraction with this extractant can effectively separate organic and inorganic fractions without prior neutralisation of the test solution.
Sendikaların engelli bireylere yönelik sosyoekonomik politikaları: İngiltere, Kanada, Belçika ve Türkiye örnekleri
Authors: SANDIKCIOĞLU Şeyma , ÇILĞIN Turgut
Published: April 2023

Amaç - Engelli bireyler çalışma hayatında zorluklar yaşamakta ve desteğe ihtiyaç duymaktadır. Bu noktada çalışma hayatının ve endüstri ilişkilerinin önemli aktörlerinden biri olan sendikaların engelli bireylere olan bakış açıları ve engelli bireylere yönelik sosyal politikaları en merak edilen ama yeterli sayıda araştırma yapılmayan bir konu olarak karşımıza çıkmaktadır.
Yöntem - Bu çalışmada, sendikaların engelli bireylere yönelik bakış açıları ve engellilere yönelik sosyoekonomik politikaları literatür taraması ve doküman incelemesi yöntemiyle araştırılmıştır.
Bulgular - Çalışma sonucunda, sendikaların bir takım politikalar yürütmeye çalışsalar da gittikçe etkisizleştikleri görülmüştür. Bununla beraber uluslararası ve ulusal mevzuatlar çerçevesinde devletlerce çalışmaların yapıldığı, sivil toplum kuruluşlarının devreye girdiği görülmüştür.
Sonuç - Mevzuat çalışmalarına, sendikaların ve sivil toplum kuruluşlarının destek çabalarına rağmen engelli çalışanların sorunlarının devam etmesi, sorunun temelinde derin bir toplumsal farkındalık ve bilinç eksikliğinin yattığını göstermektedir. Müfredata, genelde tüm ayrımcılıkları önleyici ve özelde engelliliğe bakış açısının değişmesine yönelik eğitim ve farkındalık dersleri konularak toplumsal bilincin yükseltilmesi ve ilgili mevzuatların uygulanmasının toplum tarafından denetlenmesinin gerekli olduğu görülmektedir.
Characteristics and Prognosis of Ovarian Pure Clear Cell Carcinoma: A Retrospective Experience of 136 Patients
Authors: Gao Yang , Ding Wei , Qu Pengpeng
Published: April 2023

Background: Ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC) is the most common pathological type of ovarian cancer associated with endometriosis. The effect of endometriosis on the prognosis of ovarian clear cell carcinoma remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate the clinical features and prognostic factors of pure OCCC. Methods: This single-center retrospective study analyzed 136 cases of pure OCCC after surgical treatment between 2010 and 2019. Patients were divided into two groups according to whether the pathologically relevant background lesion was ovarian endometriosis. Clinical data were compared between the groups. The Kaplan–Meier test and Cox regression analysis determined prognostic factors for survival. The primary outcome measure of the study was the duration of survival. Results: 83 (61%) participants had ovarian endometriosis of pure OCCC. Patients with ovarian endometriosis were significantly younger (50.55 ± 8.25 vs. 54.57 ± 6.71 years, p = 0.004), with lower deep venous thrombosis incidence and lower mortality and recurrence rates. Univariate analysis showed preoperative serum cancer antigen 125 (CA-125) level, endometriosis, tumor size, ascites, International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage, and chemotherapy resistance were significant prognostic factors. In particular, patients with endometriosis have an improved prognosis (p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that chemotherapy resistance and FIGO stage were significantly associated with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Pure OCCC with endometriosis has unique clinical features. However, endometriosis has no independent prognostic significance. Our findings indicate that FIGO stage and chemotherapy resistance affect prognosis.
Association between Serum hCG Level and Persistent Trophoblasts after Laparoscopic Surgery for Tubal Ectopic Pregnancy: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Honda Michiko , Isono Wataru , Tsuchiya Akira , Okamura Asuka , Saito Ako , Tsuchiya Hiroko , Matsuyama Reiko , Fujimoto Akihisa , Nishii Osamu
Published: April 2023

Background: The use of laparoscopic salpingostomy to treat tubal ectopic pregnancy (TEP) is increasing due to patient preference for subsequent spontaneous pregnancy. However, the incidence of persistent trophoblasts (PT) ranges from 5–29%, although PT rarely occurs after laparoscopic salpingectomy. For this reason, the selection of laparoscopic salpingostomy should be performed carefully. Here, we aimed to identify the risk factors for PT, focusing on serum hCG levels. Methods: We reviewed the medical records of 128 patients who underwent laparoscopic surgeries for TEP, including 62 with laparoscopic salpingostomy and 66 with laparoscopic salpingectomy. Among these cases, we identified 13 with PT detected during the postoperative follow-up period. We performed a multivariate logistic regression analysis to assess the influence of each representative factor, particularly serum hCG levels, on the occurrence of PT. We first performed this analysis for 62 cases with laparoscopic salpingostomy and then for all 128 cases. Additionally, we focused on the reduction rates of serum hCG levels after surgery. Based on the scatter plot of the association between the reduction rates and elapsed time after surgery, we tried to create linear regression lines for estimating the appropriate postoperative follow-up period. Results: In the multivariate analyses of the 62 cases with laparoscopic salpingostomy, “high hCG”, including serum hCG levels of 2000 and 4000 mIU/mL, showed significance. These results were also detected in the analysis of all 128 cases. Next, we obtained the regression lines based on the scatter plots of the association between reduction rates of serum hCG levels and elapsed time after surgery. By referring to the slopes of the regression lines, we could predict 37 and 30 days as the necessary time for serum hCG levels to decrease to one-thousandth in the cases with laparoscopic salpingostomy and salpingectomy. Conclusions: Our evaluation of the association between serum hCG level and PT allows us to provide the selection criteria, namely, serum hCG levels over 2000 and 4000 mIU/mL, for laparoscopic salpingostomy. Additionally, our analysis of the association between the reduction rates of serum hCG levels and the elapsed time after surgery allows us to predict the appropriate length for the postoperative follow-up period.
Exploration of the Shared Genes and Molecular Pathways between Pre-Eclampsia and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus via Co-Expression Networks Analysis
Authors: Ding Zhifang , Cao Lingling , Jin Rui , Li Rui
Published: April 2023

Background: Pre-eclampsia is a serious disorder associated with pregnancy, but its etiology remains poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to explore the shared genes and molecular pathways between pre-eclampsia and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: The record of 2160 pregnant women who had pre-eclampsia risk assessed by placental growth factor (PIGF) levels in Fuyang People’s Hospital, China were retrospectively reviewed. The microarray datasets of pre-eclampsia and T2DM were searched in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and were downloaded for secondary analysis. Results: According to the PIGF stratification, the high-risk group had a significantly higher proportion of T2DM than the low-risk group (51/326, 15.6% vs. 1.4%, p < 0.001). An overlapping geneset containing 30 members between pre-eclampsia and T2DM was identified. The significantly enriched Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways were “Rap1 signaling pathway”, “Aldosterone synthesis and secretion”, “Phosphatidylinositol signaling system”, “Neurotrophin signaling pathway”, “Aldosterone-regulated sodium reabsorption” and “Insulin signaling pathway”. Combined with previous research findings, we infer that impaired PI3K/Akt signaling pathway may be a common pathogenetic factor of T2DM and pre-eclampsia. The gene ontology (GO) analysis confirmed that the shared genes were enriched in several Biological Process (BP) terms directly related to insulin-PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. Conclusions: Impaired PI3K/Akt signaling pathway might be a common pathogenetic factor of T2DM and pre-eclampsia. For activating purposes, self-management behaviors, including self-monitoring of blood glucose, healthy diet, physical activity and medication adherence should be highly recommended during nursing practice for pregnant women with pre-existing T2DM.
Polycythemia Vera in Pregnancy: A Descriptive Review of the Literature
Authors: Xu Nicole , Gonik Bernard
Published: April 2023

Objectives: Polycythemia vera (PV) is a rare myeloproliferative neoplasm that is associated with a high risk of thrombosis due to an increase in red blood cell mass and hyperviscosity. In the setting of pregnancy, patients with PV appear to be at even higher risk for a variety of pregnancy-related thrombotic and other adverse outcomes. While a diagnosis of PV is relatively uncommon in younger reproductive age women, as mean maternal age at first birth increases, incidence of pregnancies complicated due to PV may also increase in the future. Mechanism: A review of the literature was conducted using the PubMed database and relevant search keywords (MeSH terms) “polycythemia” AND “pregnancy”. Findings in Brief: PV must be differentiated from other primary, secondary, and relative causes of polycythemia. A bone marrow biopsy is typically used to confirm the diagnosis. Most, but not all patients with PV, are identified to have a somatic mutation in the JAK2 gene. In pregnancy, the mainstay interventions are serial phlebotomies to maintain the hematocrit in an appropriate range and daily low dose aspirin therapy. Low molecular weight heparin is added for pregnant patients thought to be at additional risk for thrombosis. For resistant cases, the use of interferon alpha has been advocated for cytoreductive therapy. Conclusions: Based on very limited data, these interventions have been reported to improve pregnancy outcomes. Although hydroxyurea is considered a first-line treatment for PV, it is contraindicated in pregnancy due to concerns for teratogenicity. There are a number of newer agents that have been utilized to treat PV and other myeloproliferative neoplasms in nonpregnant individuals. None of these agents have been adequately studied in pregnancy to allow support for their use except perhaps under extraordinary circumstances and with appropriate informed consent.
Computed Tomography–Galactography Virtual Endoscopy: A Better Imaging Method for the Diagnosis of Pathologic Nipple Discharge
Authors: Ma Nan , Zhu Jiang , Wang Yawen , Zhang Kai , Zhao Song , Liang Yongfeng , Deng Yan , Ma Rong
Published: April 2023

Background: The preoperative diagnosis of pathologic nipple discharge (PND) in clinical settings remains challenging. Computed tomography-galactography virtual endoscopy (CT-G VE) was used for the intracavity imaging of discharging lactiferous ducts in a three-dimensional space, and the diagnostic performance of CT-G VE was compared with that of ultrasonography and galactography. Methods: This study included 41 patients with single-orifice PND who underwent ultrasonography, galactography, and CT-G VE before surgery. The postoperative histopathologic results were regarded as the gold standard for diagnosis. Qualitative data were analyzed using Fisher’s precision probability test. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed for ultrasonography, galactography, and CT-G VE to evaluate their diagnostic performances for the detection of PND diseases. Results: CT-G VE provided clear intracavity images of the discharging lactiferous ducts. The results of CT-G VE could be divided into five categories: negative, polypoid-solitary, polypoid-multiple, combined, and superficial types. The types were related to the histopathologic results. The detection ability of CT-G VE for high-risk and malignant lesions was higher than that of ultrasonography (p = 0.0056) and galactography (p = 0.0008). The detection abilities of CT-G VE alone and CT-G VE combined with ultrasonography were comparable. The cut-off point for CT-G VE was the polypoid-solitary type. The average effective dose for a single patient undergoing both chest CT and CT-G VE at the same time was 1.66 ± 0.78 msV. Conclusions: The diagnostic performance of CT-G VE was better than that of ultrasonography and galactography in detecting high-risk and malignant lesions of PND. This study proposed a grading system to aid decision-making and communication between clinicians in clinical practice.
The Relationship between Intra-Amniotic Sludge and the Amniotic Fluid Proteome in a Cohort of Pregnant Women with Acute Cervical Insufficiency: A Pilot Study
Authors: Govia Rachelle N. M. , Birse Kenzie D. , Burgener Adam D. , Poliquin Vanessa , Menticoglou Savas M. , Pylypjuk Christy L.
Published: April 2023

Background: We aim to determine the relationship between intra-amniotic sludge and the amniotic fluid proteome in cases of acute cervical insufficiency. Methods: This was a secondary analysis of data from an existing prospective cohort of women with acute cervical insufficiency. Amniotic fluid had previously been analyzed by Gram stain, culture and proteomics perioperatively. Post-processing review of stored ultrasound images to evaluate for the presence of intra-amniotic sludge (IAS) was performed by two blinded and independent observers. Results, lab, clinical, proteomic and outcome data were compared between groups with and without sludge. Results: Ten participants with acute cervical insufficiency from the initial cohort were included [IAS group (n = 4) and non-IAS group (n = 6)]. 75% of participants with sludge had negative Gram stain and culture compared to 17% amongst cases without sludge. 18 proteins (3.3%) were differentially abundant between the 2 groups (p < 0.07): the non-IAS group demonstrated increased immune, stress and inflammatory signatures with decreased signatures of keratinization relative to the IAS group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: These preliminary findings suggest that proteomic profiles of amniotic fluid with and without sludge tend to differ. Sludge is associated with an abundance of keratinizing proteins while inflammatory proteins predominate in the absence of sludge. The exploratory nature of this study illustrates the need for future large-scale prospective studies to determine the utility of intra-amniotic sludge and proteomics as markers of intra-amniotic infection in the management of acute cervical insufficiency.
Mitochondrial-Localized Protein Transcript Abundance can Predict the Prognosis of Endometrial Carcinoma: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Liang Weifei , Lin Hong , Sun Donglin , Tang Minghui
Published: April 2023

Background: Uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma (UCEC) is among the most common malignant tumors affecting women’s reproductive systems. Patients’ postoperative survival results differ greatly because of the significant heterogeneity of UCEC. The activity of mitochondria in UCEC and normal endometrium was shown to be substantially different. The objective of this research was the creation of better tools for predicting UCEC patient survival to provide more accurate and effective treatment strategies. Methods: The UCEC RNA sequencing data was accessed at the Cancer Genome Atlas project, containing 539 UCEC samples and 35 tumor-adjacent tissue. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified through the R package ‘limma’. The mitochondrial protein genes were subjected to a Cox regression analysis using the absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO). The differences (variations) in the biological processes between the patient groups were examined through gene set variation analysis (GSVA). Results: Results of gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) analysis revealed that mitochondria-related pathways were more active in endometrial cancer than in tumor-adjacent tissue. Through the screening of LASSO-cox and multi-cox analysis, we obtained 14 mitochondrial protein genes (CKMT1B, CYP27A1, GPX1, GPX4, GRPEL2, HPDL, MALSU1, MRPS5, NDUFC1, OPA3, OXSM, POLRMT, SAMM50, TOMM40L) related to patient prognosis. Based on the expression levels of these 14 genes in each patient, we developed a new scoring algorithm. Compared with the traditional TNM classification system, the algorithm has better accuracy in predicting patient prognosis. Moreover, a nomogram was constructed through the combination of the scoring algorithm and the patient’s clinical features. Conclusions: The scoring algorithm based on mitochondrial gene expression can assist clinicians in predicting the postoperative survival rate of patients, allowing them to devise more precise treatment programs.
Fitness Assessments of Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Prospective Process Feasibility Study
Authors: Wright Pamela J. , Corbett Cynthia F. , Dawson Robin M. , Wirth Michael D. , Pinto Bernardine M.
Published: April 2023

Background: Fitness is a marker of physiological and mental health. The purpose of this pilot study was to assess the feasibility of processes to recruit women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) during the Covid pandemic and collect their health and fitness data. Additionally, the data was used to explore possible associations between anthropometrics, PCOS biomarkers, health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL), and depressive symptoms with that of fitness and self-reported physical activity levels among women with PCOS. Methods: A convenience sample of women with PCOS (n = 15) were recruited via flyers and the snowball method. Participants completed surveys, anthropometrics, a dual energy x-ray absorptiometry scan, blood work, and a fitness assessment. Data were statistically analyzed using Spearman correlations. Results: Feasibility measures of recruitment and retention rates were 83% and 100%, respectively. Fidelity measurement for process averaged 97%. Participants (age 25.9 (± 6.2), mostly White (80%), single (60%), and employed full-time (67%)) were categorized as obese (body mass index (BMI) 32.2 kg/m2 ± 8.3, percent bodyfat 41.1% ± 8.1) with ≤1 comorbidity. Most participants were not regularly physically active and had high free testosterone levels (7.6 pg/mL ± 4.3), elevated high-density lipoprotein (63.2 mg/dL ± 12.9), fair cardiovascular capacity, and below average muscular strength/endurance. The following statistically significant and strong associations were found: (1) VO2 max with percent bodyfat (–0.59; p = 0.02), sex hormone binding globulin (0.73; p = 0.00), HRQoL (0.72; p = 0.00), and depressive symptoms (–0.67; p = 0.00), (2) abdominal strength with BMI (–0.66; p = 0.01) and high density lipoprotein (HDL) (0.59; p = 0.02), (3) physical activity level with percent bodyfat (–0.72; p = 0.00), and (4) resistance training with low density lipoprotein (LDL) (–0.52; p = 0.05). Conclusions: Collecting health and fitness data from women with PCOS is a feasible research approach. Randomized controlled trials in which health and fitness data are collected from women with PCOS are needed to confirm possible associations between fitness and PCOS clinical features and is in the planning process.
Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Use Pattern in the First Trimester is Associated with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Ker Chin-Ru , Hsu Wei-Yun , Chuang Hui-Yu , Lee Chien-Hung , Wang Shih-Han , Chan Te-Fu
Published: April 2023

Background: Sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) is known to increase risks for many health problems in the general population, but its association with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is rarely discussed. Consumption amount of SSB could be subjected to recall biases and estimation errors, whereas psychological dependence using a standardized assessment tool would provide more persistent and objective measurements. Therefore, we hypothesize that desire of SSB may play a role in developing GDM. Methods: This prospective cohort study recruited 183 pregnant women, who answered self-describing questionnaires designed to depict SSB use behaviors. The desire to drink SSBs was assessed using the modified Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria for substance use disorder (SUD), with questions specific for SSB use. All participants received a 75-gram oral glucose tolerance test during 24th–28th weeks of gestation to screen for GDM. Results: Age, body mass index, and SSB-related SUD DSM-5 items were significant predictive factors of GDM, with odds ratios of 1.112 (95% confidence interval 1.018–1.214), 1.208 (95% confidence interval 1.079–1.353), and 1.338 (95% confidence interval 1.077–1.664), respectively. SUD DSM-5 scores positively correlate with education level (p = 0.046), frequency of dining out (p = 0.028), sedentary lifestyle (p = 0.001), and negatively with water intake amount (p = 0.033). Conclusions: The current study is the first to find a positive association between SSB intake pattern and GDM risk. Specifically, every SSB-related DSM point scored increases GDM risk by 33%, which did not necessarily reflect on the reported SSB consumption amount. To offer useful and specific behavioral advices, decreasing frequencies of dining out, increasing exercises and encouraging plain water intake might be helpful.
Alterations of Fecal Metabolome Associated with BBIBP-CorV Vaccines against the SARS-CoV-2 Virus
Authors: Dong Ying , Shen Yang , Wang Pan , Jiao Jie , Chen Mulei , Li Jing
Published: April 2023

Background: The SARS-CoV-2 vaccine has been implemented in response to the 2019 Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic worldwide. Dysregulation of gut metabolite is associated with COVID-19 patients. However, the effect of vaccination on the gut metabolite remains unknown, and it is critical to investigate the shifts in metabolic profiles following vaccine treatment. Methods: In the present study, we conducted a case-control study to assess the fecal metabolic profiles between individuals who received two doses of intramuscular injection of an inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine candidate (BBIBP-CorV) (n = 20), and matched unvaccinated controls (n = 20) using untargeted gas chromatography and time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC-TOF/MS). Results: Significant different metabolic profiles were observed between subjects receiving SARS-CoV-2 virus vaccines and the unvaccinated. Among a total of 243 metabolites from 27 ontology classes identified in the study cohort, 64 metabolic markers and 15 ontology classes were dramatically distinct between vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. There were 52 enhanced (such as Desaminotyrosine, Phenylalanine) and 12 deficient metabolites (such as Octadecanol, 1-Hexadecanol) in vaccinated individuals. Along with altered metabolic compositions, multiple functional pathways in Small MoleculePathway Database (SMPDB) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) varied between groups. Our results indicated that urea cycle; alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism; arginine and proline metabolism; phenylalanine metabolism and tryptophan metabolism were abundant after vaccination. Additionally, correlation analysis showed that intestinal microbiome was related to alteration in metabolite composition and functions. Conclusions: The present study indicated the alterations in the gut metabolome after COVID-19 vaccination and the findings provide a valuable resource for in-depth exploration of mechanisms between gut metabolite and SARS-CoV-2 virus vaccines.
Prognostic Significance of DNA Topoisomerase II Alpha (TOP2A) in Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Ong Khaa Hoo , Lai Hong-Yue , Sun Ding-Ping , Chen Tzu-Ju , Huang Steven Kuan-Hua , Tian Yu-Feng , Chou Chia-Lin , Shiue Yow-Ling , Chan Ti-Chun , Li Chien-Feng , Kuo Yu-Hsuan
Published: April 2023

Background: Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a malignant tumor with an increasing incidence worldwide. Although radiation therapy has improved the therapeutic efficiency of CCA treatment, differential expression of genes among cholangiocarcinoma subtypes has been revealed through precise sequencing. However, no specific molecular therapeutic targets or biomarkers have been figured out for use in precision medicine, and the exact mechanism by which antitumorigenic effects occur is still unclear. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct further studies on the development and mechanisms associated with CCA. Methods: We examined the clinical data and pathological features of patients with cholangiocarcinomas. We investigated the associations between DNA Topoisomerase II Alpha (TOP2A) expression and patient outcomes, such as metastasis-free survival (MFS) and disease-specific survival (DSS), as well as clinical characteristics and pathological results. Results: TOP2A expression was shown to be upregulated in CCA tissue sections by immunohistochemistry staining and data mining. Moreover, we observed that the TOP2A expression correlated with clinical features, such as the primary tumor stage, histological variants, and patients with hepatitis. Furthermore, high expression of TOP2A was associated with worse survival outcomes in terms of the overall survival (p < 0.0001), disease-specific survival (p < 0.0001), and metastasis-free survival (p < 0.0001) compared with patients in the low TOP2A expression group. This indicates that a high level of TOP2A expression is related to an unfavorable prognosis. Conclusions: Our results show that TOP2A is highly expressed in CCA tissues, and its upregulation is correlated with the primary disease stage and poor prognosis significantly. Consequently, TOP2A is a prognostic biomarker and a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of CCA.
A Cloned Gene HuBADH from Hylocereus undatus Enhanced Salt Stress Tolerance in Transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana Plants
Authors: Qu Yujie , Bian Zhan , Teixeira da Silva Jaime A. , Nong Quandong , Qu Wenran , Ma Guohua
Published: April 2023

Background: Betaine aldehyde dehydrogenase (BADH) catalyzes the synthesis of glycine betaine and is considered to be a type of osmoregulator, so it can play a role in plants’ responses to abiotic stresses. Methods: In this study, a novel HuBADH gene from Hylocereus undatus (pitaya) was cloned, identified, and sequenced. The full-length cDNA included a 1512 bp open reading frame that encoded a 54.17 kDa protein consisting of 503 amino acids. Four oxidation-related stress-responsive marker genes (FSD1, CSD1, CAT1, and APX2) were analyzed by Quantitative real-time reverse transcription (qRT-PCR) in wild type (WT) and transgenic A. thaiana overexpression lines under NaCl stress. Results: HuBADH showed high homology (79–92%) with BADH of several plants. The HuBADH gene was genetically transformed into Arabidopsis thaliana and overexpressed in transgenic lines, which accumulated less reactive oxygen species than WT plants, and had higher activities of antioxidant enzymes under NaCl stress (i.e., 300 mM). All four marker genes were significantly upregulated in WT and HuBADH-overexpressing transgenic A. thaliana plants under salt stress. Glycine betaine (GB) content was 32–36% higher in transgenic A. thaliana lines than in WT in the control (70–80% in NaCl stress). Conclusions: Our research indicates that HuBADH in pitaya plays a positive modulatory role when plants are under salt stress.
Factors Influencing Learners’ Participation in Physical Education in The New Normal: An Input to Curriculum Development Program
Authors: Alcantara Josephine R , Yazon Alberto D , Tan Consorcia S , Buenvinida Lerma P , Bandoy Marcial M
Published: April 2023

This study focused on determining the factors that influence the learners’ participation in Physical Education (PE) under the New Normal; it also investigated perceptions about teaching quality, level of readiness in distance learning, and the mean level of participation in PE in accordance to MELCS.  It further looked into the significant relationships between factors of teaching quality; learners’ level of readiness to distance learning as against learners’ participation; and learners’ demography. This study offers a lot of learning opportunities about simplified and essential teaching modalities, which are focused and easy for learners, under the New Normal environment and under the threat of being infected with Covid-19. Frequencies, percentage, means, standard deviation, Pearson product moment of correlation, multiple linear regression, and hierarchical linear regression were the statistical tools applied in the analysis of data collected from selected Junior High School learners from 25 districts in the Division of Laguna. Major findings from the study are that (i) learners have a high level of perception of teaching quality in terms of cognitive activation, supportive climate, and classroom management; (ii) learners have a high level of readiness on distance learning in terms of availability of technology, use of technology, self-confidence, acceptance, and time management skills; and (iii) a high mean level on learner’s participation in PE according to their respective MELCS in terms of personalized exercise programs, physical activity participation, physical activity/fitness assessment, and skills demonstration. This study recommended that physical education teachers may provide students with more enhanced and localized activities that are tailored to their interests and appropriate for this new normal setting.
ILAW SA LILIM ANG PARA TEACHERS KONG NATAY: A PARENTS-INDUCED LEARNING TOWARDS ENHANCEMENT OF GRADE I PUPILS’ NUMERACY AND LITERACY SKILLS
Authors: Belarmino Mary Jean T. , Tamban Victoria E.
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of parent-induced learning, namely "Ilaw Sa Lilim Ang Para teachers Kong Natay": an intervention program to enhance Grade I Pupils’ Numeracy and Literacy Skills. Through descriptive research design, the study involved 11 parents of those pupils who struggle with language literacy and numeracy who had voluntarily undergone online parental training for two weeks. Also, the statistical tools used in this study were mean, standard deviation, and dependent t-test.  Through the mean scores in pre-test and post-test, the results showed that pupils scored in language literacy in terms of phonological awareness, alphabet knowledge, fluency, and reading comprehension. And in numeracy skills in terms of counting, basic arithmetic, number symbols, and recognizing symbols, all significantly improved their rating after the intervention program. The results also revealed a significant difference between the pre-test and post-test mean scores of Grade 1 Pupils in Language Literacy and Numeracy Skills indicating an improvement in their statistical value. Thus, the researcher recommends strengthening the communication link among the parents by tapping them to be actively involved in school and academic-related activities. Also, integrate the intervention program into the curriculum to consistently check and upgrade its needs and applicability, especially in the challenge of the new normal, by considering including it in any future training among the parents. Effective, practical, and feasible pedagogical skills that would meet the different learning styles and interests of the children so as to maintain their span of attention.
Nexus between Principals’ Instructional Responsibilities and Secondary School Effectiveness
Authors: Olaifa Adeseko Sunday , Awodiji Omotayo Adewale
Published: April 2023

Success in school is attributed to regular evaluation of teaching and learning, an emphasis on professional growth, and a positive learning environment. This study investigated the correlation between school effectiveness and principals’ instructional responsibilities. A correlational design of post-positivism was adopted in this study. All 7059 teachers employed by the 347 public senior secondary schools in Kwara State, Nigeria, made up the study's population. A systematic sampling technique was used to select 558 participants. Five hundred and fifty-eight participants were chosen using a systematic sampling method. The findings show a significant nexus between principals’ instructional responsibilities and the effectiveness of secondary schools. Therefore, it recommends that to enhance school effectiveness, principals should be provided with induction courses at their appointment as principals to acquaint them with relevant knowledge on the importance of instructional responsibilities.