bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasmacytoid Urothelial Carcinoma of the Bladder: a literature review and a Case Report
Authors: Zhong Rui , Qiu Yanfang , Jigang Shusan , Tang Fanfan , Shusuan Jiang , Hu Yina , Zou Yanhui , Wang Wei
Published: May 2022

Data on the clinicopathological features or prognosis of plasmacytoid urothelial carcinoma (PUC) are limited. Herein, we report a single case of PUC among 4,331 bladder cancer patients treated in a tertiary cancer teaching cancer hospital January 2013 between December 2021. A 59-year-old man was admitted to the hospital because of frequent and urgent urination and intermittent hematuria for more than 1 month and 10 days, respectively. Cystoscopy revealed obvious hematuria in the bladder and multiple cauliflower masses on the posterior and apical walls. The patient underwent radical cystectomy and ileal bladder replacement. Postoperatively, the patient was pathologically diagnosed with poorly differentiated carcinoma of the bladder (predominantly lymphomatoid and plasmacytoid variants) and died 4 months after diagnosis. In this case, the PUC exhibited aggressive growth with no early urinary tract symptoms, which appeared only when the tumor was large and ulcerated. Since most patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage, the prognosis is poor, therefore more aggressive treatment may be required. Clinicians can make a diagnosis based on typical image exams, histological features, clinical history, and immunohistochemical results. Gastric signet-ring cell carcinoma metastatic to the bladder should be excluded before diagnosis.
Validity of the premature ejaculation diagnostic tool and its association with International Index of Erectile Function ‑ 15 in patients with evidence-based-defined premature ejaculation.
Authors: Khan Haroon Latif , bhatti Shahzad , Babar Aleena , Younus Amna , Abbas Sana , Suhail Samina
Published: May 2022

The premature ejaculation diagnostic tool (PEDT) assesses premature ejaculation (PE). However, there is insufficient evidence about its validity in evidence-based‑ defined PE. The main aim of this study was to assess the validity of PEDT and its association with an international index of erectile function (IIEF-15) in Acquired premature ejaculation (APE) patients. A total of 50 men complaining of APE from Lahore institute of fertility and endocrinology, Hameed Latif Hospital, and 50 healthy control males without PE from a medical center were enrolled in this study. All individuals were asked to complete questionnaires including demographics, sexual history, and PEDT and IIEF‑ 15. The results of this research indicated men with APE showed higher PEDT scores (13.51 ± 3.04) and lower IIEF‑ 15 (39.45 ± 6.54) than men without PE (PEDT: 4.89 ± 2.14, IIEF‑ 15: 51.36 ± 2.36, P < 0.001 for both). Results also reported that a score of ≥ 8 indicated PE in Acquired premature ejaculation (APE) individuals by sensitivity and specificity analyses (sensitivity: 0.985; Specificity: 0.891). In APE men IIEF was negatively correlated to PEDT (adjust r = -0.311 P < 0.001) after adjusting for age. It was concluded that evidence-based‑ defined PE was diagnosed by PEDT. Moreover, PEDT was negatively related to IIEF-15 in APE men.
The historical perspective of flood occurrences in the Shire River basin, Malawi
Authors: HUSSEIN DANIEL
Published: May 2022

Apart from droughts and pollution, floods are one of the most serious climate-related dangers that afflict millions of people each year, resulting in thousands of deaths and billions of dollars in losses. Malawi’s River Shire basin is highly susceptible to flood disasters and subjected to great damage every year. The Shire River has caused suffering to people with its devastating floods throughout human history. Large floods have been occurring often especially in the Chikwawa district for the past half-century, with different degrees of scale and ferocity. The historical viewpoint of flood catastrophe risk events in the district, on the other hand, has received little attention. Therefore, the historical occurrence of floods in the Shire River basin of the Chikwawa district from 1980 to 2019 in order to establish the flood frequency, is discussed in this study. Content analysis of qualitative and quantitative data acquired via survey questionnaires (n = 270) and key informant interviews (n = 18) are both part of the techniques used. The results show that for the five-year periods (2015–2019), floods become more common in the district, with a distinct increase in respect of human losses, despite a decrease in precipitation amounts. As a result, the article's unique contribution is the identification of flood occurrence trends in the Chikwawa district to provide a scientific reference for flood management. Understanding the historical occurrence of Shire River floods is crucial for sustainable disaster risk mitigation measures.
Changes in the Moisture Contribution over Global Arid Regions
Authors: Wang Chenghai , Li Jiamin , Zhang Feimin , Yang Kai
Published: May 2022

Arid regions have deficient precipitation, and the sources and transportation of water vapor for precipitation here are crucial. This study examined the major moisture contributions for six arid regions—China–Mongolia, North Africa, West Asia, West United States, South Africa, and Australia—classified as coastal and inland arid regions. The moisture contribution for precipitation is tracked by employing a Water Accounting Model, and moisture recycling was estimated. The moisture for precipitation in coastal arid regions originates mostly from the ocean, which is influenced by the atmospheric general circulation, particularly by the sinking branch of the Hadley cell. For inland arid region (China–Mongolia), the surrounding mountains with glacial and snow covers supply more than 150 mm of moisture in wet months. In arid regions, the moisture for precipitation is mostly transported by advection, and local hydrological recycling is secondary. The moisture available for precipitation in wet and dry months depends on the general circulation and ranges from 5 to 150 mm. Moisture transportation in wet months is more than 10 times that in dry months, and the sources differ greatly. The moisture transported into arid regions varies significantly due to global warming, and precipitation changes from −0.08 to −1.63 mm/a. Global land precipitation changed by −0.72 mm/a in the last three decades. The changes in the precipitation recycling ratio are −0.008 to −0.025%/a, which are lower than the change in global precipitation recycling ratio (−0.003%/a).
Modeling the Risk of Insulin Resistance in Borderline Personality Disorder with Romantic Pathological Jealousy in Females: A Lyfas Empirical Study
Authors: Chattopadhyay Subhagata , Das Rupam
Published: May 2022

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) with Romantic pathological jealousy (rPAJ) influences the heart rate variability (HRV) and its cardiovascular optical biomarkers (COBs), which the Lyfas mobile application captures through smartphones. The COBs surrogate insulin resistance (IR), a marker of cardiometabolic risks. The paper aims to non-invasively study the IR risk in BPD-rPAJ affected females. Personality-based Questionnaire (PBQ) and the Multidimensional jealousy scale (MDJS) and Lyfas tests were taken by the participants under psychologists’ supervision. The VO2Max (COB of heart-lung coherence after stressful exercise), LF/HF (COB of IR), and Arterial stiffness index (ASI), a marker of early vascular aging, are chosen as the IR biomarkers. HRVScore, SD1/SD2, and pNN50 are chosen as the mood, anxiety, and sleep (MAS) biomarkers. Finally, each of the MAS-IR COBs is regressed to examine the causality. The R2 value > = 25 is considered the significant causative. Furthermore, the relative risk (RR) is computed between significant MAS-IR COBs. The study observes that HRVScore and pNN50 possess high causal relationships with ASI (R2 = 47% and 25%, respectively). The RR shows an increased risk of premature arterial stiffness (PAS) with mood dysregulations (RR = 10.5, p 0.02) and sleep issues (RR = 135, p 0.19) when compared to the baseline population. The study concludes that mood dysregulations and poor sleep quality are associated with a high risk of IR in females suffering from BPD-rPAJ disorder. The onset of the deterioration of their arterial health starts as early as an average of five-and-a-half years.
Analysing the Efficiency of National and Sub-national health systems - A Systematic Review of Literature
Authors: Mbau Rahab , Musiega Anita , Nyawira Lizah , Tsofa Benjamin , Mulwa Andrew , Molyneux Sassy , Maina Isabel , Jemutai Julie , Normand Charles , Hanson Kara , Barasa Edwine
Published: May 2022

Introduction
Health system efficiency is a priority concern for policy makers globally as countries aim to achieve universal health coverage. Efficiency analysis in the health sector has typically focused on the efficiency of healthcare facilities (hospitals, primary healthcare facilities), with few studies focusing on system level (national or sub-national) efficiency. We carried out a thematic review of literature that assessed the efficiency of health systems at the national and sub-national level.
Methods
We conducted a systematic search of PubMed, Google, and Google scholar between 2000 and 2021 and a manual search of relevant papers’ reference lists. A total of 131 papers were identified. We analysed and synthesized data from the selected papers using a thematic approach.
Findings
There were more publications from high and upper middle-income countries (62%) than from low income and lower-middle income countries. There were also more publications focusing on national level (60%) compared to sub-national health systems efficiency. Only 5% of studies used either qualitative methods or mixed methods while 95% used quantitative approaches. Data envelopment analysis was the most common methodological approach used, followed by stochastic frontier analysis. A range of regression methods were used to identify the determinants of health system efficiency. While studies used a range of inputs, these generally considered the building blocks of health systems, health risk factors, and social determinants of health. Outputs used in efficiency analysis could be classified as either intermediate health outputs, single health outcomes or composite measures of health outcomes. Factors that were found to affect health system technical efficiency include demographic and socio-economic characteristics of the population, macro-economic characteristics of the national and sub-national regions, population health and wellbeing, the governance and political characteristics of these regions, and health system characteristics.
Conclusion
This review highlights the limited evidence on health system efficiency in low- and middle-income countries. It also reveals the dearth of efficiency studies that use mixed methods approaches by incorporating qualitative inquiry. The review offers insights on the drivers of the technical efficiency of national and sub-national health systems, highlights potential targets for reforms to improve health system efficiency.
The Application of 5g and Artificial Intelligence Technology in the Innovation and Reform of College English Education
Authors: Guo Shanshan
Published: May 2022

Higher education is becoming increasingly competitive these days. Today's education revolves around students. All educational institutions are concentrating on improving quality and changing traditional higher education teaching methods. New-type classroom instruction has embraced a unique advancement opportunity with the arrival of the fifth generation (5G) era. It is critical to develop a teaching assistance system that makes use of high-speed network methodology and new-type display methodology. Current 5G-supported educational investigation focuses primarily on studies that look at 5G educational application conditions and those that look into the execution path for smart education, but a teaching assistance system depending on 5G interaction methodology is also needed. For the innovation and reform of higher education, this article combines soft computing techniques, artificial intelligence (AI), and 5G networks. This paper outlines the exact processes and measures for incorporating "5G" technology into higher education. This will aid higher education students in gaining a better comprehension of the subject and improving their logical reasoning abilities. Finally, a comparison experiment will be conducted to see how good this system is at learning AI knowledge when compared to standard learning approaches. The outcomes of the experiments are examined to show that employing this approach to gain AI knowledge is successful and improves students' enthusiasm in learning as well as their hands-on abilities.
Quality of Oral Drug Formulations of Artemisinin-Based Combination Therapy Sold in Katsina State, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Microbiology, Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina, Nigeria, Lawal Mukhtar Gambo , Muhammad Dauda Mukhtar ,   Microbiology Department, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria, Magaji Magashi Abdulkadir ,   Microbiology Department, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
Published: May 2022

There are increasing reports of substandard antimalarial drugs, and these have been a severe under-recognised public health problem especially in developing countries. For this reason, 21 samples of different brands of artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) comprising of artemether/lumefantrine and artesunate/amodiaquine oral drug formulations that are available on sale in different hospital pharmacies and patent medicine stores in Katsina State, Nigeria were evaluated for microbial and chemical qualities. Microbial limit test (MLT) and assay for the content of the active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) using standard high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) procedures were carried out as described in the official monograph of the United States Pharmacopoeia (USP) and the International Pharmacopoeia (IP). The results obtained had indicated that all the ACTs oral drug preparations were free from microbial contamination except one sample of artesunate-amodiaquine showing viable total combined yeasts/moulds count (TYMC) of 1.0 x 101 colony forming units (CFU)/g. All the samples complied with the USP and IP criteria for the microbiological quality of non-sterile oral dosage forms. On the other hand, 10 (47.6%) out of the 21 samples met the specific chemical quality standards. Moreover, 8 (57.1%) and 3 (42.9%) of the artemether/lumefantrine and artesunate/amodiaquine had active ingredient outside the set pharmacopoeial limit and, therefore, were none compliant to the IP specifications for percentage content. The presence of substandard ACTs may lead to possible therapeutic failure from the use of such kind of formulations, facilitate the development and spread of drug-resistance. There is the need for effective government regulation and adequate enforcement on the production, distribution and sales of good quality medicines.
Supply Chain of Iron Chelators for Thalassaemia in Malaysia: An Overview for Process Optimisation
Authors:   Discipline of Social & Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Shafie Asrul Akmal ,   Institutional Planning and Strategic Centre, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Mohammed Noor Syahireen ,   Discipline of Social & Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia,   Clinical Research Center, Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah, Kedah, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Malaysia, Hui Yi Jacqueline Wong ,   Discipline of Social & Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia,   Pharmacy Department, Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Malaysia, Chhabra Irwinder Kaur ,   Discipline of Social & Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia,   Pharmacy Department, Sabah Women and Children’s Hospital, Sabah, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Malaysia, Mohd Ibrahim Hishamshah ,   Women and Children’s Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,   Division of Research and Technical Support, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
Published: May 2022

Iron chelating therapy (ICT) drugs are prescribed to transfusion dependent thalassaemia (TDT) patients to prevent iron overload complications. The high number of TDT patients in Malaysia strained the public healthcare resources. This paper aims to provide an insight on existing supply chain management of ICT medicines in Malaysia and to explore ways for a more efficient system. A rapid review of literatures was conducted in electronic databases (PubMed, Emerald, Scopus and ScienceDirect) and other relevant Malaysian government documents. Supply of ICT to thalassaemia patients is publicly funded but much availability of oral ICT is restricted due to financial consideration. ICT in Malaysia is supplied through central procurement but purchasing and inventory management are decentralised to each hospital. Vendor-managed inventory system is an ideal option to the inventory management practice in Malaysian public healthcare facilities as it could provide better efficiency and reduces inventory management costs.
Evaluating and Comparing the Impact of an Enhanced Antimicrobial Stewardship Programme in a District Specialist Hospital: A Two-Year Retrospective Study
Authors:   Department of Pharmacy, Taiping Hospital, Perak, Malaysia, Yi Lyn Yean , You Leng Tan ,   Department of Pharmacy, Taiping Hospital, Perak, Malaysia, Ee Siew Lai ,   Department of Pharmacy, Taiping Hospital, Perak, Malaysia, Chew Beng Ng ,   Department of Pharmacy, Taiping Hospital, Perak, Malaysia, Sabki Noor Hamizah ,   Department of Pharmacy, Taiping Hospital, Perak, Malaysia, Ahmad Norulsaffia ,   Department of Pharmacy, Taiping Hospital, Perak, Malaysia, Wan Omar Wan Azuati ,   Department of Pharmacy, Taiping Hospital, Perak, Malaysia, Sook Tyng Chan ,   Department of Pharmacy, Taiping Hospital, Perak, Malaysia, Sobri Najwa Khairani ,   Department of Pharmacy, Taiping Hospital, Perak, Malaysia, Noor Afandi Nur Nadia ,   Department of Pharmacy, Taiping Hospital, Perak, Malaysia, Mahamad Nur Afiqah ,   Department of Pharmacy, Taiping Hospital, Perak, Malaysia, Bakhtiarlili Mohammad Saiful ,   Department of Pharmacy, Taiping Hospital, Perak, Malaysia, Li Peng Teoh ,   Department of Pharmacy, Taiping Hospital, Perak, Malaysia, Yin Ying Chang ,   Department of Pharmacy, Taiping Hospital, Perak, Malaysia, Aizuddin Aishah Nuroni ,   Department of Pharmacy, Taiping Hospital, Perak, Malaysia
Published: May 2022

Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programme is established to optimise use of antibiotics and to contain antibiotic resistance. This single centre, cross sectional retrospective study aimed to evaluate and compare the impact of an enhanced AMS programme in 2019 with data obtained in 2018 before its implementation. Types of interventions made by the AMS team, acceptance rate of AMS recommendations, antibiotic usage (DDD/1000 patients-days) and expenditure (antibiotic usage cost, RM) of 14 antibiotics under national surveillance were reviewed. Our study demonstrated non-significant reduction in total antibiotic usage (mean 188.25 versus 183.94; p = 0.523). Nonetheless, significant decline in prescribing of cefoperazone either alone or in combination with sulbactam, ciprofloxacin and meropenem was observed. There was a significant reduction in total usage cost (mean RM80,070.39 versus RM70,858.81; 95% confidence interval (CI):1519.48, 16903.69; p = 0.022) contributed in part by decreased third generation cephalosporins, meropenem and ciprofloxacin prescriptions. During enhanced AMS period, total AMS cases (45 versus 358), frequency of rounds (12 versus 37) and ward pharmacist-initiated AMS interventions were increased. The most common intervention and recommendation encountered were inappropriate choice and de-escalation of antibiotic, respectively. There was an improvement in overall acceptance rate in 2019 (67% versus 78%; p = 0.081). In conclusion, the enhanced programme resulted in decreased overall antibiotic prescription and expenditure, besides greater acceptance of AMS recommendations.
RADIOTHERAPY WITH HYPOXIC RADIOSENSITIZER IN LOCALLY ADVANCED HEAD AND NECK CANCER
Authors:   Department Of Radiation Oncology, Madras Medical College Hospital, Chennai, India., A. Ragavendra , S. Selvalakshmi ,   Department Of Radiation Oncology, Madras Medical College Hospital, Chennai, India., Prasad R. Durga ,   Department Of Radiation Oncology, Madras Medical College Hospital, Chennai, India., a Senthilkumaran ,   Department Of Radiation Oncology, Madras Medical College Hospital, Chennai, India., Madhumathi S. M. ,   Department Of Radiation Oncology, Madras Medical College Hospital, Chennai, India.
Published: May 2022

Background: Bulky solid tumors contain oxygen-deficient hypoxic areas which cause tumors to become radioresistant. Modification of tumor hypoxia will result in improved outcomes. Objective: To assess and compare the immediate loco regional response rates of locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (LAHNSCC) treated with radiotherapy and Nimorazole, with radiotherapy alone to assess the degree of symptom relief and acute toxicities. Methods:30 patients with LAHNSCC with performance status (PS) 3, ineligible to receive concurrent chemotherapy were treated with radiotherapy 50Gy/16# and Nimorazole. The response after 6 weeks was assessed using RECIST criteria. The symptoms present before and after treatment were registered using symptom assessment scale. The toxicities of radiation and nimorazole were documented. Results: 14 among 21 patients with stage IV B showed partial while others had static response. Among the 9 in stage IV A, 6 had complete and 3 had partial response. Overall response rate was 77% compared to 51-73% in historical controls. Significant (>50%) improvement in symptoms was seen in 20 patients (80%). None of the patients developed severe toxicities specific to Nimorazole. 4 patients who developed grade 1 vomiting had dose reduction. None developed rashes or flushing. Conclusion:Hypofractionated radiotherapy along with Nimorazole demonstrated a good response with better symptom control in LAHNSCC patients with poor performance status without added toxicities.
EFL TEACHING AND LEARNING CONTINUITY AMID AND BEYOND THE PANDEMIC: AN ANALYSIS
Authors:   Assistant Professor Department of English Language, King Khalid University Abha KSA., Sagir Khan Aayesha , Alnmer Samar ,   Head of English Language Department, King Khalid University Abha KSA., Ahmed Khan Sagir ,   Associate Professor Department of Computer Science, I K College DAVV India.
Published: May 2022

COVID-19 has impacted the majority of the worlds sectors. In most places throughout the world, education is the only industry that has entirely transitioned to an online method. During the pandemic, online learning was the ideal choice for continuing education, particularly in tertiary education. The purpose of this study is to identify the issues and hurdles that English language learners (EFL) have when transitioning to online learning in the second semester of 2020 because to the COVID-19 epidemic. This studys contribution is to analyse learners new experiences in online education and to examine the practicality of virtual ways of learning. The study discovered that the primary issues influencing and impacting online EFL learning during COVID-19 are technological, academic, and communication concerns. The study found that students were most satisfied with the support offered by teaching staff and their universities public relations during the worldwide shutdown and transition to online learning, with a sample of 30,383 students from 62 countries. Despite this, they were unable to recognise their own enhanced performance in the new teaching environment due to a lack of computer skills and the perception of a larger burden. This study focuses on the obstacles and variables that influence the acceptability and usage of E-Learning as a teaching tool in higher education. As a result, it will aid in the development of a strategic plan for the effective implementation of e-learning, as well as the acceptance of technology as a good step toward evolution and transformation.
Automatic Pollen Management System Using Arduino
Authors:   Korea Information Technology, & Marketing Association, Jung Ji Hye , Kim Myoung Kwan
Published: May 2022

The new technologies have emerged and different day and they are already captured significant place in our lives. The fastest growing part of the Internet of Things in the IT industry. In this paper, we construct an automatic planter control system with features such as these apply to the Internet of Things by pollen person do not have to turn the fan depending on the temperature and humidity control , or to supply water. Arduino is an electronic platform of hardware and software that aims to open source . It is possible to record the computer software for the physical platform and the board based on this. In this paper, we present a study for the smart management of your planter.
¿Últimos mesolíticos o pioneros neolíticos? El Abrigo de la Font d’Horta (Vilafranca, Castelló, País Valenciano)
Authors: Roman Dídac , Domingo Inés
Published: May 2022

En este trabajo presentamos los materiales recuperados en la excavación del abrigo de la Font d’Horta (Vilafranca, Castelló). Las características de estos materiales, entre las que destacan las armaduras geométricas (entre ellas un segmento de doble bisel) y la datación obtenida sobre hueso, nos remiten a los momentos de transición entre las últimas poblaciones cazadoras y recolectoras y la llegada de las primeras comunidades neolíticas. La valoración de los datos en el contexto de la zona del Maestrat/Maestrazgo y sus vínculos con el litoral mediterráneo y el valle del Ebro nos permiten discutir su posible vinculación con unas u otras poblaciones, concluyendo que nos encontramos ante una ocupación de las últimas poblaciones mesolíticas de este territorio.
Estructura del fitoplancton de lagos andinos ubicados en diferente rango altitudinal
Authors: Hernández Sierra Yaneth Viviana , Pedroza Ramos Adriana Ximena , Aranguren Riaño Nelson Javier
Published: May 2022

La estructura taxonómica de la comunidad fitoplanctónica se encuentra influenciada por múltiples factores, en su mayoría integrados en aspectos funcionales y del metabolismo del ecosistema. Con el objetivo de evaluar la variación en la estructura del fitoplancton en lagos andinos sobre un amplio espectro de condiciones, se realizó un estudio en 12 lagos de la Cordillera Oriental colombiana agrupados en diferentes rangos altitudinales (alta montaña tropical, andino y tierras bajas). Bajo el criterio de sustitución de espacio por tiempo, se hicieron mediciones de variables físicas y químicas, entre ellas, descriptores del metabolismo de los lagos (carbono orgánico disuelto y clorofila-a), junto a la caracterización de la estructura taxonómica del fitoplancton. Según el Análisis de Correspondencia Canónica (ACC), los lagos se ordenaron en función de la combinación de factores climáticos, tróficos e hidrogeoquímicos asociados al rango altitudinal y el grado de mineralización. De acuerdo con el índice de Margalef el rango de tierras bajas evidenció la mayor riqueza de taxones; y según el índice de Sorensen, los lagos andinos y de tierras bajas presentaron mayor similitud en la composición taxonómica de sus comunidades. En cuanto a la condición metabólica de los lagos y su asociación con la estructura de fitoplancton, se obtuvieron cuatro combinaciones que reflejan las variantes metabólicas: 1). Predominio de sistemas mixtos con baja o intermedia concentración de COD y Chl-a, asociados con las clases Chlorophyceae y Zignematophyceae; 2). Relevancia de la vía heterotrófica, con predominio de las clases Bacillariophyceae y Chlorophyceae; 3). Sistema mixto con alta concentración de COD y Chl-a, asociado con las clases Cyanophyceae y Euglenophyceae; 4). Relevancia de la vía autotrófica, relacionado con las clases Cyanophyceae y Chlorophyceae.
Variación temporal del zooplancton durante 2017 y 2018 en el sureste de Isla Margarita, Venezuela
Authors: Gómez Gaspar Alfredo
Published: May 2022

En el sureste de isla Margarita (Venezuela), durante dos años (2017 y 2018), se estudió la abundancia del zooplancton en dos estaciones fijas a cinco millas de la costa. Se recolectaron muestras nocturnas (7:00-8:00                 p.m; total: 72) utilizando una red con diámetro de 1,7 m y longitud de 3,5 m (abertura de malla de 400 micras), arrastrada horizontalmente durante 20 minutos a profundidad de 10-15 m. La temperatura varió entre 24,3 y 29,1 °C; la salinidad, entre 35,12 y 37,68, y el oxígeno disuelto, entre 3,38 y 4,72 mL/L. No se determinó diferencia estadística entre estaciones en la abundancia del zooplancton, pero sí entre los años (p<0,01). La abundancia en densidad del zooplancton varió entre 26,84 y 398,09 ind/m3; su biomasa seca, entre 0,12 y 5,05 mg/m3, y el volumen sedimentado, entre 0,01 y 0,72 mL/m3. La abundancia promedio anual en 2017 fue de 110,33±94,36 ind/m3; la biomasa seca fue de 0,88 ± 0,74 mg/m3, y el volumen sedimentado, de 0,10±0,09 mL/ m3, mientras que en 2018 los registros fueron de 128,97± 87,13 ind/m3, 1,37±1,15 mg/m3 y 0,20±0,17 mL/m3 respectivamente. Estos valores son intermedios entre periodos de menor abundancia del zooplancton (años 2002-2004 y 2014-2016) y el de mayor abundancia durante los años de la crisis sardinera (2005-2013). Los años 2017 y 2018 fueron de transición entre esos periodos.
Morphology of three marine epizoic diatoms from the Mexican Pacific: Protoraphis hustedtiana, Pseudohimantidium pacificum and Sceptronema orientale (Bacillariophyta)
Authors: Hernández-Becerril David U.
Published: May 2022

Las diatomeas constituyen un grupo taxonómico de microbios exitosos, que exhiben una alta diversidad en hábitats marinos. Las diatomeas epibiontes marinas también despliegan una diversidad importante de asociaciones simbióticas. Se analizaron muestras de red de fitoplancton de localidades del Pacífico mexicano, que estuvieron representadas por especies planctónicas, y adicionalmente se observaron tres especies de diatomeas epizoicas: Protoraphis hustedtiana, Pseudohimantidium pacificum y Sceptronema orientale. Las tres especies, usualmente adheridas a copépodos, fueron estudiadas mediante microscopía de luz, electrónica de barrido y transmisión (ML, MEB y MET), cuyas observaciones mostraron caracteres morfológicos como forma de las valvas, sternum central (y sigmoideo), delicada estriación, forma de las areolas, rimopórtulas agregadas en los ápices, y campos apicales (o en los polos) de ranuras, con lo que se confirman estudios previos. Algunos detalles morfológicos encontrados en Pseudohimantidium pacificum y Sceptronema orientale incluyen el tipo de velum de las areolas (del tipo rota) y las aperturas externas de las rimopórtulas, respectivamente. Protoraphis hustedtiana y Sceptronema orientale son nuevos registros para el Pacífico mexicano.
Las vidas cotidianas de las y los testigos del terremoto de 2010 en Chile: ruptura, recuperación y reconstitución
Authors: Saavedra Vásquez Juan , Carrasco-Valdebenito Yeniffer , Núñez-Núñez Darlyn
Published: May 2022

Este artículo examina el modo en que el terremoto de 2010 afectó la vida cotidiana de testigos de este desastre en el sur de Chile. Se realizaron 32 entrevistas en profundidad a testigos directos en las localidades afectadas. Se categorizan tres momentos en la trayectoria de la cotidianidad posdesastre: ruptura, recuperación y reconstitución. Los resultados discuten la cualidad de los testigos como actores de la cotidianidad, en un contexto neoliberal y de utilización de estrategias biopolíticas para producir normalidad en el marco de este régimen sociopolítico. La experiencia compartida tras el desastre no logra remover los sustratos en los que transcurre la cotidianidad neoliberal.
El Departamento de Turismo. Una institución precursora del fomento turístico en Chile (1929-1942)
Authors: Yáñez Andrade Juan Carlos
Published: May 2022

Este artículo analiza los orígenes y desarrollo del Departamento de Turismo, creado durante la administración de Carlos Ibáñez del Campo (1927-1931). Dependiente del Ministerio de Fomento y originado en el marco de la Ley de Fomento al Turismo de 1929, sus competencias se orientaron a la promoción e inspección de las actividades turísticas. Se argumenta que la creación de dicho departamento se enmarca en una visión estratégica del Estado de Chile en cuanto a comprender el turismo como una actividad económica fundamental, vehículo de la modernización del país y fuente de ingresos para el fisco.
Clinical Evidence of Interaction between Nutraceutical Supplementation
and Platinum-based Chemotherapy
Authors: Cocetta Veronica , Tinazzi Mattia , Giacomini Isabella , Rosato Benedetta , Ragazzi Eugenio , Berretta Massimiliano , Montopoli Monica
Published: May 2022

Platinum agents, which include cisplatin, oxaliplatin and carboplatin, are chemotherapeutic
drugs that represent the first-line treatment for different types of solid tumors,
such as ovarian, head and neck, testicular, and bladder cancers. Their beneficial effect
is limited by the onset of drug resistance and severe toxicities, involving mainly ototoxicity,
neurotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Recent studies highlight the supplementation
of herbal products, vitamins and minerals with antioxidant properties to prevent and protect
from side effects. In particular, the introduction of nutraceuticals associated with chemotherapy
has improved the patients’ quality of life. However, if from one side, complementary
and alternative medicine ameliorates chemotherapeutics-induced toxicities, from
the other side, it is important to take into consideration the possible interference with
drug metabolism. This review aims to consider the current literature focusing on clinical
trials that report an association between nutraceutical supplementation and platinum-
based chemotherapy to prevent toxicities, highlighting both beneficial and side effects.
8-oxoguanine DNA Glycosylase (OGG1) may be a Diagnostic Indicator of
Diminished Ovarian Reserve (DOR)
Authors: Wu Gengxiang , Yang Jing , Xia Jing , Wang Zehao , Zou Wen , Jin Wenyi
Published: May 2022

Background:

Oxidative/antioxidant imbalance is considered a causal cause of diminished
ovarian reserve (DOR). 8-oxyguanine DNA glycosylase (OGG1) has been reported to act as an antioxidant
by binding non-catalytically to oxidation-induced DNA damage in the promoter region.

Objective:

This study aimed to evaluate serum OGG1 concentrations in patients with or without
DOR and to explore the clinical value of OGG1 as a novel diagnostic indicator for DOR.

Methods:

Sixty-four women with DOR and seventy-eight women with normal ovarian reserve
(NOR) from the reproductive medical center of Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University were included.
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits were used to determine serum OGG1
levels in patients on 2-5 days of the menstrual cycle. Data regarding the enrolled patients were also
obtained from the database of the hospital, including age, body mass index (BMI), anti-Müllerian
hormone (AMH), etc.

Results:

OGG1 levels were increased in the DOR group (2.08 ± 0.70 vs 1.46 ± 0.47 nmol/L,
P < 0.001) and negatively correlated with AMH levels (Spearman r = -0.586, P < 0.001). After adjusting
for age and BMI, a negative association between OGG1 and AMH remained (β = -0.619, P
< 0.001). ROC curve analysis showed that a cut-off value of 1.765 nmol/L had an appropriate sensitivity
(81.30%) and specificity (76.90%) for discriminating individuals with and without DOR,
with the area under the curve (95% CI) of 0.870 (0.814 to 0.926), P < 0.001.

Conclusion:

We determined that serum OGG1 levels might be suggested as a new diagnostic indicator
for DOR.
COVID-19-associated Coagulopathy: Role of Vitamins D and K
Authors: Tizabi Yousef , Getachew Bruk , Landis Harold E. , Manaye Kebreten F.
Published: May 2022

Recent reports show coagulopathy as a potential complication and poorer outcome of
coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), especially in those with comorbid conditions such as diabetes
and hypertension as thrombosis could result in stroke and heart attacks. Indeed, cardiovascular
complications in COVID-19 account for 40% of mortality. Although there is no standard treatment
protocol or guidelines for COVID-19, it is a common practice to use anti-inflammatory corticosteroids
and anti-coagulants, especially for severe COVID-19 patients. It has also been confirmed that
deficiencies of vitamin D and/or vitamin K can exacerbate premorbid cardiovascular and diabetes
conditions associated with COVID-19, at least partially due to a higher incidence of coagulopathy.
Here, we discuss the roles of vitamins D and K in general and in COVID-19-related coagulopathy.
Moreover, the suggestion for proper supplementations of these vitamins in countering COVID-19 is
provided.
The Relation Between Red Blood Cell Distribution Width and Coronary
Atherosclerotic Plaque Vulnerability Detected by Intracoronary Optical
Coherence Tomography
Authors: Jin Peng , Wu Si-Jing , Ma Qian , Liu Wei , Zhao Ying-Xin , Han Hong-Ya , Hou Fang-Jie , Li Ya , Zhou Yu-Jie
Published: May 2022

Background:

A higher red blood cell distribution width (RDW) predicts major
adverse cardiac events in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). However, there are only a
few studies regarding the relationship between RDW and vulnerable plaques. Thus, the purpose of the
present study is to retrospectively explore the predictive value of the association between RDW and
plaque vulnerability assessed by optical coherence tomography (OCT) in patients with cardiovascular
(CV) diseases.

Methods:

This study included 35 patients with stable angina pectoris (SAP) and 70 patients with the
acute coronary syndrome (ACS). We documented clinical features as well as peripheral RDW. Plaque
vulnerability was determined by OCT. We defined thin-cap fibroatheroma (TCFA) as a lipid-rich plaque
(fibrous cap <65 μm thick).

Results:

Plaque rupture was detected more frequently in patients with ACS compared with patients with
SAP (62.9 vs 2.9%, p<0.001, and the corresponding TCFA were 50.69±15.68 vs 80.03±21.60 μm,
p<0.001, respectively). A higher RDW was found in patients with ACS than in patients with SAP
(p<0.001). A cut-off value of RDW >13.85% could detect ruptured plaque with a sensitivity of 72.3%
and a specificity of 62%.

Conclusions:

TCFA and plaque rupture were detected more frequently in patients with ACS compared
with SAP. Elevated RDW was positively the predictive value of the association between plaque vulnerability.
An Overview of Treatment Modalities and Management Aspects for
Obesity
Authors: Kumar Mohit , Hussain Md Sadique , Sonu  , Raj Sakshi , Verma Rahul , Sharma Sakshi , Sahu Sanjeev Kumar
Published: May 2022

Background:

Obesity is a prominent disorder that has a drastic effect on lots of individuals.
It is a consequence of non-equilibrium in the energy expenditure and intake of energy,
while other etiological factors can be genetic, epigenetic, and physiological.

Objective:

The aim is to explore the multiple aspects reported for its management based on controlled
metabolic approaches as well as surgical approaches.

Results:

It has been reviewed that medical interventions for obesity are lifestyle-altering interventions
that include appropriate diet and exercise. Furthermore, pharmacotherapy is also proving
to be efficient for the management of obesity. Drugs allowed by the competent authority of
the US are for long-term such as orlistat and phentermine for the short-term obesity treatment.
Surgical approaches involve restrictive, malabsorptive as well as mixed bariatric procedures and
these procedures show evidence to alleviate obesity and its comorbidities.

Conclusion:

This review explored various treatment options for obesity.
A New Dıagnostic Tool for the Assessment of Pelvic Dysfunction in MR
Defecography
Authors: Özmen Zafer , Aktaş Fatma
Published: May 2022

Background:

Pelvic floor dysfunction is characterized by incomplete fecal defecation,
negatively affecting the quality of life. Magnetic resonance defecography (MRD) is a useful examination that is ionizing radiation-free and easily reproducible, and provides anatomical and functional
details that are obtainable through multiplanar and dynamic examinations. The study aims to detect
pathology using MRD in patients with suspected pelvic floor dysfunction and determine its cause.

Methods:

MRD was performed on 79 individuals. Dynamic images were obtained at rest, straining,
and during defecation. Pelvic hiatus mediolateral diameters were compared between groups.

Results:

The defecation phase provided more accurate results than the straining phase for determining
the existence and severity of pathology significantly.

Conclusion:

The defecation phase is the most accurate phase for identifying the existence and severity
of pathology, as the pelvic hiatus mediolateral diameter is thought to be an important factor in triggering pelvic dysfunction.
Microwave: An Ecologically Innovative, Green Extraction Technology
Authors: Das Aliviya , Basak Souvik , Chakraborty Santanu , Dhibar Manami
Published: May 2022

Background:

Recently, the microwave has shown tremendous research interest and potential
for the extraction of phytoconstituents from plant resources as there is a need for the advancement of performance
in the extraction method. Extraction is the first basic step in the preparation of crude extract
followed by isolation, and characterization of isolated components related to current analytical chemistry.
The current use of microwaves implements green technology and satisfies the demand for getting the
maximum yield of the target compound.

Method:

Research articles related to the current research topics on Microwave-Assisted Extraction
(MAE) were collected and reviewed.

Results:

MAE promises to be a novel extraction technique for the extraction of phytoconstituents from
natural sources than other conventional extraction techniques.

Conclusion:

Microwave-assisted extraction is proved to be advantageous as this method permits specificity,
higher yield, selectivity, and extraction efficiency over traditional methods such as Soxhlet extraction,
maceration and others along with reduced time and solvent consumption, less environmental pollution,
and reduced degradation of thermolabile constituents.
A Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) Study of Root Anatomy, Canal Morphology and Bilateral Symmetry of Permanent Maxillary Premolar Teeth Among the Qatari Subpopulation
Authors: Diab Hanan , Al-Sheeb Fatima , Diab Amal , Marouf Nadya , Al Obaid Maryam , Lari Mashael
Published: May 2022

Objectives:

The study aims to evaluate the root anatomy, canal morphology, and symmetry of maxillary premolars teeth in a Qatari subpopulation using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Materials and Methods:

544 CBCT images of Qatari patients were analyzed by two endodontists. Tooth position, number of roots, canal configuration, and number of canals per root were investigated. A chi-square test was used to evaluate the association between gender and the number of roots. The interexaminer and intraexaminer were performed and documented.

Results:

The most common root anatomy and canal morphology observed in maxillary first premolars (MFP) were two roots (70.6%) with a single canal per root, while in maxillary second premolars (MSP), there was one root (84.3%) with a single canal (83%).

Type I Vertucci morphology was predominated in all roots of two-rooted MFP (97%), three-rooted MFP (100%), single-rooted MSP (42%), and two-rooted MSP (100%). The Chi-square test showed an association between gender and number of roots in both MFP and MSP, with a higher number of roots seen in men(P<0.05).

A symmetrical pattern was observed in the number of roots and canals in both maxillary premolars. But the symmetry for the type of canal configuration is higher in MFP (78%) than MSP (54%).

Conclusion:

In the Qatari subpopulation, most MFP had two roots with a predominance of type I Vertucci, while MSP had one root with type I. Contralateral MSP showed more diversity in canal configuration that should be considered during root canal treatment. CBCT is an effective diagnostic tool to investigate root anatomy and canal morphology.
The Complete Genome Sequence of Bacillus safensis BRM1 Isolated from Brazilian Mangrove Sediment: A Potential Source of Biomass Converting Enzymes
Authors: Scarduelli Marcelo , Guizelini Dieval , Alves Cardos Rodrigo Luis , Ceccon Denny Marcel , Donatti Lucélia , de Baura Valter Antônio , de Oliveira Pedrosa Fábio , Huergo Luciano Fernandes , de Souza Emanuel Maltempi
Published: May 2022

Background:

Bacillus safensis BRM1 was isolated from Brazilian mangrove sediment and selected for its ability to grow in xylan as the sole carbon source. To identify genes encoding biomass conversion enzymes, the genome of this bacterium was sequenced.

Methods:

Genome wide analysis revealed 99% nucleotide identity to the Bacillus safensis genome. The isolated strain was named B. safensis BRM1, and its genome consists of a circular chromosome of 3.74 Mb with a GC content of 41.8%. Genes encoding a plethora of hydrolytic enzymes are present in the BRM1 genome but absent from the other B. safensis genomes.

Results:

A total of 23 genes encoding putative cellulases or hemicellulases were identified.

Conclusion:

These data support that B. safensis BRM1 is an interesting candidate for the prospection of enzymes that can be applied in the conversion of cellulosic biomass to biofuel.