bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Attitude Towards Mandarin as A Foreign Language Achievement
Authors: Suo Yan Ju  , Ibrahim Mikail , Muhamad Saad Nurhasma
Published: January 2023

Attitude plays a fundamental role in the learning process of foreign languages. It has recently gotten much attention from first and second-language researchers. Previous studies have indicated that learners showed a positive attitude towards learning Mandarin. Limited studies investigated the correlations between language learning attitude and course achievement among Mandarin foreign language learners. Therefore, this study tends to fill this gap.  614 non-native Malay learners of Mandarin from 5 different public universities in Malaysian participated in this study. The study used a quantitative design, and data was collected through questionnaires and the end-of-semester course grade. Descriptive statistics analysis, correlation and linear regression using SPSS. 25 were run to analyse the collected data. This study revealed a statistically positive correlation between attitude and Mandarin foreign language course achievement. The linear regression result revealed that learning attitude statistically predicted Mandarin foreign language learners' course achievement (β = .20, .001). This study has concluded limitations and recommendations to help institutions and interested researchers shed light on these further research studies.
Pendekatan Peneguhan (Al-Targhib) dalam Pendidikan Kanak-Kanak: Tinjauan dari Perspektif Psikologi Islam dan Retorik Al-Quran
Authors: Ahmad Fazullah M.Z.A.  , Wan Ahmad Wan Azura , Mohamed Yuslina
Published: January 2023

Education is a basic human need in lifelong learning to develop physical, emotional, spiritual, intellectual and social. The philosophy of education is to penetrate elements of knowledge and wisdom, skills, attitudes, abilities and values ​​towards individuals. The application of these elements should go through the educational process of teaching and learning with various approaches, methods, techniques and strategies. However, the approach in the ecosystem of teaching and learning is the reinforcement approach. Therefore, this paper examines the reinforcement approach in children's education from the perspective of Islamic psychology and the Quranic rhetoric. This study is a qualitative study by analyzing the text of the Qur'an, the Hadith and resources from Islamic psychology. As a result of the study, the reinforcement approach either positive or negative taught by al-Quran, al-Hadith, and Islamic psychology is important in shaping individual identity, self-development and quality learning process in children's education.

ABSTRAK

Pendidikan merupakan salah satu keperluan asas manusia dalam pembelajaran sepanjang hayat bagi membangunkan potensi jasmani, emosi, rohani, intelek dan sosial. Inti pati pendidikan adalah menerapkan elemen ilmu dan hikmah, kemahiran, sikap, keupayaan dan nilai-nilai yang sesuai dengan fitrah diri insan yang terdidik. Penerapan elemen-elemen tersebut perlu melalui proses pendidikan iaitu pengajaran dan pembelajaran (PdP) yang menggunakan pelbagai pendekatan, kaedah, teknik dan strategi tertentu. Salah satu pendekatan penting dalam ekosistem PdP ialah pendekatan peneguhan. Justeru, makalah ini mengupas pendekatan peneguhan (targhib) dalam pendidikan kanak-kanak dari perspektif psikologi Islam dan retorik al-Quran. Kajian ini berbentuk kualitatif yang menggunakan kaedah analisis teks al-Quran, al-Hadis dan kajian dari perspektif psikologi Islam. Dapatan mendapati bahawa peneguhan sama ada peneguhan positif atau peneguhan negatif yang disarankan oleh al-Quran, al-Hadis, dari sudut psikologi Islam dalam pendidikan kanak-kanak penting bagi kejayaan pembentukan jati diri, pembangunan diri dan proses pembelajaran yang berkualiti.
LA CANCELACIÓN DE ANTECEDENTES PENALES DURANTE EL FRANQUISMO
Authors: PINO ABAD MIGUEL
Published: January 2023

El presente estudio analiza la evolución normativa durante el franquismo de la cancelación de antecedentes penales como forma de suprimir éstos una vez que hubiese transcurrido un determinado periodo de tiempo sin que el solicitante perpetrase ningún otro delito después de la fecha en que terminaba de cumplir condena.      

 
Tráfico vehicular y peatonal, un indicador de sostenibilidad urbana para la ciudad de Cuenca
Authors: Hurtado Duarte Edward Alcívar , Romero González Rómulo Ricardo , Paucar Camacho José Abelardo
Published: January 2023

Tanto el tráfico vehicular y peatonal es un problema que actualmente están viviendo las ciudades en desarrollo, con el crecimiento de la población y del parque automotor, los espacios de movilización experimentan una congestión afectando la sustentabilidad de la ciudad. Para lograr un pronto análisis de este problema se han creado indicadores que describen cualitativa o cuantitativamente un fenómeno, pero su amplio estudio ha generado una extensa lista de estos, en donde las regiones con recursos limitados y sin cultura de recolección de información, son inaplicables y poco confiables. Por ende, el objetivo de este estudio se evalúa un marco de indicadores sostenibles que describan el fenómeno de tráfico vehicular y peatonal para una zona específica, y obtener una lista de indicadores aplicables y relevantes. La metodología comienza con la identificación de fuentes bibliográficas y la selección de indicadores ya comprobados para obtener una lista inicial, como segundo paso se zonificó esta lista de indicadores en base de opinión de expertos cumpliendo los criterios impuestos, finalmente se comprobó que estos indicadores son aplicables. En este estudio, se obtuvo una lista de indicadores verificados, medibles y aplicables para cualquier zona de la ciudad de Cuenca y una metodología de análisis que presenta un amplio potencial para la zonificación de indicadores sostenibles, queda claro que esta selección se basa absolutamente en la opinión del juicio de expertos.
Evaluación comparativa de la dosis matutina versus vespertina de levotiroxina en el tratamiento del hipotiroidismo
Authors: Tapia Merino Wendy Elizabeth , Rosas Romero Maria Teresa , Unaucho Panamá Vanessa Elizabeth , Wazhima Lituma Elisa Anabel , Rea Fernández Jessica Samantha
Published: January 2023

Introducción: El hipotiroidismo es un trastorno endocrino común que resulta de la deficiencia de la hormona tiroidea. La prevalencia de hipotiroidismo manifiesto aumenta con la edad, con más del 10% de las mujeres mayores de 60 años que tienen hipotiroidismo subclínico. El Objetivo principal de este estudio fue evaluar la comparativa de la dosis matutina versus vespertina de levotiroxina en el tratamiento del hipotiroidismo. Metodologia:152 pacientes con hipotiroidismo primario sin tratamiento previo se dividieron en grupos de dosificación matutino (Grupo 1) y vespertino (Grupo 2) y se evaluó el cambio en el perfil bioquímico, el funcionamiento físico y la calidad de vida durante el transcurso de 12 semanas de estudio. Resultados: Al final de las 12 semanas, 70 (90,90 %) sujetos del Grupo 1 y 72 (96 %) del Grupo 2 alcanzaron el eutiroidismo. En la evaluación, los síntomas y las puntuaciones clínicos totales mejoraron en ambos grupos al final de las 6 y 12 semanas. Se observó una mejora significativa en el perfil tiroideo en ambos grupos al final de las 6 y 12 semanas (Pvalor <.0001). Conclusión: en la comparación entre grupos, no se observaron diferencias significativas en el perfil tiroideo a las 6 y 12 semanas entre el grupo de dosis de la mañana y el de la noche. Se requirió una dosis similar de levotiroxina para lograr el eutiroidismo en ambos grupos. Aunque se observó una restauración temprana del eutiroidismo en el grupo vespertino, la diferencia en comparación con el grupo matutino no fue estadísticamente significativa.  En la evaluación de la calidad de vida, se observó una mejora estadísticamente significativa en varios parámetros en ambos grupos. Por lo tanto, del estudio inferimos que la dosis vespertina es tan eficaz como la dosis matutina y proporciona un régimen de dosificación alternativo. Área de estudio: Ciencias de la salud, endocrinología.
Genetic variability, genetic advance and heritability of black and brown seeded soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] lines in Jimma and Bonga Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Belay Tesfaye , Tesfaye Abush , Alamerew Sentayehu
Published: January 2023

An experiment was conducted with a simple lattice design with two replications to estimate the genetic variability in 62 soybean genotypes and 2 standard check varieties. The variability parameters such as mean, range of variation, genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation, heritability in the broad sense, genetic advance, and genetic advance as percentage of mean were estimated for 11 different traits. The values of the phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) were greater than the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for all the traits, revealing the influence of environmental factors. The value of heritability was determined to be high for the traits such as grain yield, harvest index, number of seeds per pod, number of primary branches per plant, number of pods per plant and hundred seed weight. Indicating that the larger portion of total variation would be under genetic control and selection based on phenotypic levels would be useful for the improvement of these traits in soybean. High estimates of heritability together with high genetic advance as percentage of mean were recorded for grain yield, harvest index, number of seeds per pod, number of primary branches per plant, number of pods per plant and hundred seed weight, which may be attributed to the presence of additive gene action and had high selective value. Thus, selection pressure could successfully be applied to these traits for soybean improvement programs.
Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 12(2): 14-17, December 2022
Cured characteristics of non-nitrite-ham produced with Ocimum gratissimum as additive
Authors: Akwetey Worlah Yawo , Teye Gabriel Ayum , Adzitey Frederick
Published: January 2023

Cured meats are desirable to consumers across the world. Unfortunately, the use of nitrite to obtain cured characteristics has health implications for consumers. Three (3) kg each of ham were produced and labeled as H0, H1, H2, H3 and H4, respectively. H0 represented traditional ham produced with nitrite-curing salt and H4 contained common salt alone. H1, H2 and H3 were produced with 15.0 mg kg-1, 30.0 mg kg-1 and 60.0 mg kg-1 Ocimum gratissimum leaf extract as an additive with common salt. Proximate composition, pH, water activity and residual nitrite levels in treatments as well as color profiles were studied. The percentage contents of moisture, fat, protein and ash ranged from 40.02 (H3) to 41.20 (H4), 2.05 (H0) to 2.61 (H2), 19.37 (H4) to 20.83 (H3) and 2.27 (H4) to 2.69 (H2), respectively. Residual nitrite levels reduced significantly (P<0.05) with increased use of OG as an additive in ham production. Lightness, redness and yellowness characteristics of OG-common-salt-cured ham were not significantly different (P>0.05) from nitrite-cured ham, but redness of common-salt cured ham was significantly lower (P>0.05) compared to 60.0 mg kg-1 Ocimum gratissimum-common-salt-cured and conventionally cured types of ham. It was concluded that Ocimum gratissimum leaf extract as an additive can potentially influence the development of desirable characteristics in ham.
Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 12(2): 60-63, December 2022
Adaptation of recently released improved orange flesh sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) varieties in Southwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Ejigu Fikadu , Yonas Wondimu , Amare Asaminew , Gadisa Andualem
Published: January 2023

Most sweet potato varieties currently grown by farmers are poorly adapted, have low root yields, less nutritive and white fleshed which have no beta carotene, a precursor to vitamin “A”. However, among the cheapest and richest sources of vitamin A; orange fleshed sweet potato varieties were rich in beta carotene are well accepted by young children. Hence the aim of this research project was conducted to evaluate the adaptability and performance of improved orange-fleshed sweet potato varieties on yield and other yield related traits during the 2020 main cropping season in southwest Ethiopia. The varieties used were Tulla, Kulfo, Guntutie, Vita, Kabode, Alamura and Dilla. The experiment was carried out using a randomized block design with three replications. The analysis of variance over locations depicted significant differences (p ≤0.05) among varieties for most of the studied traits. In this study, Alamura (31.42 t ha-1) and Dilla (27.8 t ha-1) varieties give a high yield among seven evaluated orange-fleshed sweet potato varieties. Based on farmer test preference, the first and second rank of test preference was recorded from Alamura and Dilla variety. Therefore, by considering both farmer’s test preference and the yield potential of the variety, Alamura and Dilla were selected as high yields and have the best test preference. Therefore, to fill the gap vitamin “A” deficiency at the community level Alamura and Dilla were selected as the best orange fleshed variety that has the best test preference with the highest yield in the humid tropics of Southwestern Ethiopia and these two varieties were recommended for production. Finally, since the result of this finding was based on data gathered from two locations and only one cropping season to test adaptability. So, one more additional season evaluation is necessary and also further studies are required to generate more reliable information on performance, nutrition and resistance to disease.
Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 12(2): 111-116, December 2022
Progress of seabass, Lates calcarifer (Bloch, 1970) culture in Bangladesh: Field-level updates from the Bhola and Satkhira Districts
Authors: Farhaduzzaman A M , Khan Md Suzan , Osman Mahadi Hasan , Shovon Md Neamul Hasan , Azam Mehedi , Makhdum Niaz
Published: January 2023

Since the high market value of seabass, Lates calcarifer (Bloch, 1970), mainly found in Bangladesh's coastal waters and tidal rivers of Bangladesh, farmers in those areas cultivate it alongside carp fish in ponds and shrimp farms. Even though farming began many years ago, progress in overcoming obstacles of only natural sources for hatchlings, supplemental feeding, and knowledge on advanced farming management in seabass farming at the field level has been prolonged. This study discusses the current farming and trading of seabass in Bangladesh's coastal districts. Seabass fry is collected from rivers and estuarine areas, grown in hatcheries or ponds, and sold to farmers in large sizes. Some farmers cultivate this fry in mixed fish culture ponds in the extensive method; some farmers cultivate them with carp fish in a semi-intensive method. Seabass feeds only live feed (Tilapia and carp fishes fry); continuous supply is difficult and expensive. In these ponds, seabass is cultivated in the traditional method in 18–20 months, weighing 7-8 kg, and in the advanced traditional method in 1 year, weighing 2-3 kg. The profit percentage of seabass farming with the semi-intensive method is 77.42%. To expand this profitable fish farming, it is crucial to acclimate the fish to induced breeding and supplemental food. The institutions involved should not work in isolation but rather collaborate on developing induced breeding techniques and expanding seabass farming. In this case, prosperous seabass farming countries' experience can be applied.
Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 12(2): 117-125, December 2022
Groundnut production performance based on chemical fertilizer practices and its profitability conditions
Authors: Jahan Mashrat , Sarker Jaba Rani , Burman Preetilata , Barman Linnet Riya
Published: January 2023

From the mid of the 19th-century chemical fertilizers were introduced into Bangladesh as an additional source of plant nutrients. After that the use of fertilizer in crop production increases. However, the extreme use of chemical fertilizers can create hazardous environmental degradation, which in turn can lower yields. So, the optimum level should maintain that can help in turn increase production. In this current study, 150 groundnut farmers in the research areas were taken based on their fertilizer application methods. It shows that the number of chemical fertilizer users constituted a major share of the total almost 44.67%. Among all the farmers, chemical fertilizer users incurred the highest return on investment by 1.48. Land area, cost of irrigation and chemical fertilizer affect the adoption of chemical fertilizer usage positively. The higher cost of production due to the application cost of inorganic fertilizer also increases the yield simultaneously. The study shows that farmers who avoid using fertilizer result in lower production compare to others. In that case, age and education were identified as factors that pushed the farmers towards chemical fertilizer and enjoying higher production.
Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 12(2): 126-133, December 2022
Response of midland sorghum varieties to different intra-row spacing at kaffa zone south western Ethiopia
Authors: Abriham Ashenafi
Published: January 2023

The experiment was conducted to determine optimum plant spacing and suitable variety and as well as to identify the interaction effect of varieties and Intra-row spacing on the yield of sorghum. The experiment having a factorial arrangement of three varieties (Geremew, Lalo and farmer’s local variety) and three intra-row levels (10 cm, 15 cm and 20 cm) was laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. According to the current results, varieties were significantly (p<0.05) affected by all the parameters (days to maturity, plant height, panicle length, thousand seed weight and total grain yield) except stand count. The maximum days to maturity and total grain yield (205.2 days and 5628.1 kg ha-1 respectively) were obtained from Lalo. The highest thousand seed weight (23.1 g) was recorded from Geremew and at it takes a short period for maturity (119.5 days). Similarly, intra-row spacing significantly (p<0.05) affected the panicle length and stand count. The highest panicle length (28.15 cm) was recorded in 15 cm intra-row spaced plants. The maximum stand count (78.6 % and 83.6%) was obtained from 15 cm and 20 cm spaced plants respectively. Generally, the outcome of this study revealed that even though the yield was statistically non-significant to intra-raw spacing, at 15cm and 20cm the grain yield was a maximum of 4178.5 kg ha-1 and 4190.9 kg ha-1, respectively. Therefore, among the intra-row spacing 20 cm intra-row spacing for its minimized planting materials (seed) and easy management and among the varieties, Lalo could be promoted in study areas and similar agro-ecologies.
Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 12(2): 138-143, December 2022
Physicochemical quality of cauliflower as influenced by cling film wrapping during storage
Authors: Nasrin Taslima Ayesha Aktar , Islam Md Nazrul , Rahman Md Atiqur , Arfin Most Sadia , Afroz Mafruha , Molla Mohhammad Minuddin , Sabuz Ashfak Ahmed , Matin Md Abdul
Published: January 2023

Compact, medium size, white to creamy cauliflower curds were packed into different packaging techniques like i. without packaging (control); ii. packed in low density polyethylene (LDPE) bag with 1% perforation; iii. wrapped with polyethylene (PE) cling film and iv. newspaper (locally used). Half of each treatment was kept at (6±1°C and 50±5% RH) and the other half was kept at ambient conditions (25±3°C and 60±5% RH).  LDPE bag or PE cling film has a great effect to retain firmness and reduce weight loss of cauliflower in both storage conditions. Respiration rate, rot incidence and changes of colour values (lightness and hue angle) was reduced significantly for the cauliflowers packed in LDPE bag or wrapped with PE cling film stored in a refrigerator than that of control (without packaging) and all packaging techniques stored at ambient condition throughout the storage period. Initially, acidity, TSS and ascorbic acid content were 0.26%, 4.7° Brix and 58.7 mg 100g-1, respectively. Ascorbic acid content was reduced severely in the cauliflower stored in ambient conditions than that stored in a refrigerator. Cauliflower wrapped with PE cling film and packed in an LDPE bag (1% perforation) stored in a refrigerator (6±1°C and 50±5% RH) could retain white colour, good sensory quality, firm and fresh curds with minimum loss in weight, texture and disease incidence up to 18 days and 16 days, respectively.
Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 12(2): 155-163, December 2022
Expresión gráfica 4: boceto del espacio interior
Authors:   Universidad del Azuay, Larriva-Rivera Álvaro
Published: January 2023

La elaboración del proyecto de diseño mediante la simulación gráfica se programa abordarlo en este curso de la asignatura de la Expresión Gráfica en la carrera de Diseño de Interiores, con la ayuda de las aplicaciones del dibujo a mano alzada o habitualmente denominados croquis (proyecciones) y bocetos (perspectivas), considerando que sus recursos satisfacen todas las exigencias que requiere el proceso de la descripción del proyecto, tanto en los análisis de las ideas preliminares como en los avances de las especificaciones y revisiones constructivas. No se pretende en este planteamiento relacionar este modo de la representación con una manera de pensar (Rodríguez, 2011), ni con una etapa de la disponibilidad de recursos (técnicos) del dibujo para llegar a resultados más óptimos de la representación o más aún, de las propias soluciones del proyecto. Su mérito para expresar las ideas, sobre todo cuando el proyecto se encuentra en gestación, está frente a la preocupación de una cierta falta de autenticidad del dibujo cuando se lo realiza con el apoyo de aparatos de precisión (una especie de copia desde una fotografía o de trazados con la ayuda de programas computarizados los CAD) y que suele apreciarse en aquellas prácticas que no tienen todavía las facilidades de interpretar y representar la realidad, puesto que sus autores prefieren los apoyos de esta modalidad del dibujo, sabiendo que les suple muchas de las imprecisiones que las tendrían si lo realizarían a mano. El diseñador que no sepa dibujar (Powell, 1986) dice Dick Powell, va a enfrentarse a situaciones de menor aporte y limitaciones en su creatividad, que las de quien tiene una mayor experiencia para manejar esta herramienta del dibujo. 138 páginas e-ISBN 978-9942-822-81-9
Academia Ecuatoriana de la Lengua Memorias No 77
Authors: de la lengua Academia Ecuatoriana
Published: January 2023

El 19 de enero de 2017 leí, como hoy, en Asamblea general, el informe de lo vivido durante el año 2016. Fue, para la mayoría de nosotros, otra reunión anual a la luz de la cual mirar la vida de nuestra Academia y mirarnos a nosotros mismos desde nuestros derechos y deberes en ella. Entonces, nos referimos al problema que sin solución clara, atraviesa aún nuestra vida académica, cual es el casi crónico asunto de la transferencia en tiempo adecuado del presupuesto estatal, sensiblemente agravado durante los años del gobierno de Rafael Correa. El entonces subdirector, don Hernán Rodríguez Castelo lo vinculó a la nueva Ley de Cultura, según la cual, la Academia. 528 páginas ISBN: 978-9942-778-20-8 eISBN: 978-9942-778-21-5
SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Antigen Kit Efficacy in Comparison with Quant Studio 12 PCR
Authors: R Turner , J Farajzadeh , E St. Denis , J Jackson , K Yukutake , Y Valles-Ayoub , S Beqaj , M Pietruszka
Published: January 2023

COVID-19 is an acute respiratory disease that has profoundly affected the way we test for disease and monitor viral infection. COVID-19 is caused by the novel coronavirus, SARS CoV-2. This virus is rapidly spread from person to person through contact with sputum particles, even when the infected individual is asymptomatic. Testing for the disease relies heavily on PCR molecular assays, and during the COVID-19, pandemic at-home rapid antigen test kits became widely available to improve the convenience of diagnosing the disease and increase the access to testing capabilities. COVID-19 rapid antigen kits have been a cornerstone of COVID-19 testing as a supplement for PCR testing. Rapid antigen kits can determine the presence of SARS CoV-2 using a lateral flow assay that targets the nucleocapsid protein of the virus for a qualitative result. This study aims to determine the efficacy of the rapid antigen kit by analyzing 105 rapid antigen results and comparing them with Quant Studio 12 PCR cycle threshold values. The results indicate that the lateral flow assay can detect SARS CoV-2 in samples that have a cycle threshold of 28.92 out of 40 cycles. Relative to other at-home antigen kits, the findings in this study imply that this kit is especially sensitive and able to detect low levels of viral load within patients.
Successful Separation of Siamese Twins at Conakry University Hospital
Authors: MA Touré , B Keita , BM Touré , N Fofana , IK Dioubaté , A Touré TM
Published: January 2023

Introduction: The birth of conjoined twins is an event extremely rare which offers unique therapeutic challenges and circumstances. Each situation must be examined with the many questions that arise and which sometimes require a long reflection. We report a case of separation of pygopage twins as well as a review of the literature. Patients and Observation: A pair of conjoined twins of 11 days of life, weighing 3080g between them, was referred to the neonatal service from the Faranah prefecture, 300 km from Conakry, for treatment. The mother, a 30-yearold housewife, multiparous, eight gestures and nine parities, had not followed any prenatal consultation. The birth took place at home in a village with the death of the mother in the immediate postpartum period. The clinical and para-clinical investigation had concluded with the diagnosis of Siamese pygopage type. After a multidisciplinary consultation, the surgical treatment by separation of the twins was carried out at the age of 50 days with success and conservation of physiological functions. Conclusion: The birth of conjoined twins is extremely rare. Each pair of Siamese is different and the surgical strategy must be adapted according to the shared organs. The perfect multidisciplinary work of the nursing staff has been the main contribution to our success.
Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Deficiency: With More Phenotypes Than We Believe
Authors: Divahia García , C Martinez Natalia , Eugenia Espinosa
Published: January 2023

Introduction: The pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) is a multienzyme complex responsible for catalyzing the oxidative decarboxylation of pyruvate to Acetyl-CoA. A defect in any of its components can interfere with the production of energy on a cellular level; within these disorders we find pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) deficiency characterized by clinical neurological and systemic signs of varying severity, highlighting lactic acidosis, neurological and progressive neuromuscular deterioration. Objective: Describe the case of a female, school aged patient with characteristic craniofacial dysmorphology, neurodevelopmental delay and episodes of metabolic decompensation due to infections, with a mutation in the PDHX gene, treated with a ketogenic diet, thiamine, lipoic acid and carnitine. Results: The findings that made it possible to focus the diagnosis were elevated plasma and CSF lactate levels associated with persistent metabolic acidosis with accentuation of hyper intensity in the cortical sulci and in the in the bilateral basal ganglia and lenticular nuclei region of the brain on magnetic resonance imaging. Magnetic resonance imaging with spectroscopy showed a negative peak of lactate. Confirming the diagnosis with an exome of 6000 genes where a homozygous pathogenic variant is found in the PDHX gene position c.1426C> T. Conclusion: PDH deficiency should be considered in cases of neurodevelopmental delay associated with intermittent episodes of neurological deterioration and elevated blood lactate and as well as elevated lactate in magnetic resonance spectroscopy of the brain. Unlike those affected by other subtypes, patients with E3-binding protein deficiency often survive childhood and even adulthood due to the presence of assembly to a certain extent of some of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex. Prompt diagnosis opens the possibility of starting early supportive management, providing genetic counseling to parents, as well as establishing prognosis.
Efficacy and Safety of Multimodal Analgesic Therapy to Prevent Pain during Screening for Retinopathy of Prematurity
Authors: María de Lourdes Lemus-Varela , Dorian Areli Villaseñor-Chávez , Belinda Claudia Gómez-Meda , Marcela Elizabeth Martínez-Ruezgas , Martha Patricia Gallegos-Arreola , Blanca Miriam Torres-Mendoza
Published: January 2023

Background: Premature infants admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit are exposed on average to 14 painful procedures per day, as the retinopathy of prematurity screening. Neonatal pain is often underestimated and insufficiently treated, but there are short-term and long-term deleterious effects in premature infants exposed to repetitive pain. Since premature infants cannot verbalize the pain, the use of validated measurement tools is recommended for its evaluation and measurement of pain. The aim of this study was to determine the usefulness of a multimodal analgesic therapy proposed, to prevent pain in premature infants under retinal evaluation. Methods: We carried out a blinded, randomized clinical trial. Premature infants ≤ 34 weeks of gestational age received standard therapy (one drop of tetracaine in each eye) or proposed multimodal analgesic therapy (paracetamol oral at 15 mg/ kg, 30 minutes prior to retinal evaluation, and intranasal fentanyl 2 μg/kg, 5 minutes prior to retinal screening, as well as warm containment and non-nutritional suction. The primary outcome was the score of Premature Infant Pain Profile-Revised (PIPP-R). The application of the score PIPP-R was performed 35 minutes before the procedure, during, and 15 minutes after the procedure. Results: There were no significant differences in PIPP-R score prior to the retinal screening, however, during the retinal evaluation the PIPP-R score was significantly lower in the proposed multimodal therapy group (14.0 vs 6.5, p=0.0001); and 15 minutes after the procedure, score remained lower in the proposed multimodal therapy group (2.9 vs 1.6 p=0.0001). No adverse effects were documented in neither group. In conclusion, retinal screening cause’s deep pain, the topical tetracaine is insufficient to mitigate it. The proposed multimodal therapy can be useful to prevent the pain caused by the procedure and it does not cause adverse effects.
Giggles: Development of a New Eye Covering Device Used During Neonatal Phototherapy
Authors: Kalane Shilpa , Wagh Shatakshi , Deshpande Manjiri J , Kenjale Akshay , Thorat Nandini , Devaskar Uday P
Published: January 2023

About 10 % of all neonates worldwide develop jaundice needing phototherapy (PT) during which an eye covering device (ECD) is used. The existing ECDs made of fabric are tight bands preventing the baby from opening his eye lids, are a source of discomfort and are not aesthetic. The major emphasis of new ECD named Giggles was to use a dome like design allowing free eye lid movements. It was also important to ensure complete light blockage, a good fit to prevent dislodgement, easy to clean, non-fabric material, reusable while maintaining good hygiene, soft, not causing skin irritation, mouldable, light, medically acceptable, durable, affordable and aesthetic. An open label randomized control trial was conducted to compare the efficacy of giggles vs the existing ECD. All neonates needing PT who were >35 weeks G.A. and B.W. >2.0 kg were eligible for the study. Babies in the control group (n-30) were treated with the standard ECD while those in the study group (n-30) were treated with Giggles. Primary outcomes were baby’s comfort level and irritability, the number of spontaneous dislodgements needing reapplication and the aesthetics. Babies in the study group did better during breast or the cup feeding. Babies in the study group were more comfortable and easier to take care of. Episodes of dislodgement needing reapplication were similar. Care givers and the parents alike loved the aesthetics of giggles.
A Case of Subgaleal Hematoma in a Child from Combing Hair
Authors: Sati Sunil Kumar , Taborda-Alvarez Marvic Maria , Castillo Fiorella Beatriz , Peichev Mario , Viswanathan Kusum
Published: January 2023

A subgaleal hematoma is the collection of blood in the subgaleal space of the scalp. This entity is mostly seen in neonates as result of birth trauma. In children, it has been described in both accidental and non-accidental trauma and presents as painful scalp swelling. Subgaleal hematoma, outside the setting of birth or other trauma, is rare. In this report, we describe a case of a massive subgaleal hematoma in a child from non-abusive hair pulling.
Septic Shock And Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome: A Observational Study From Amazon Region
Authors: Farias Emmerson CF , Carvalho Railana Deise da FP , Silva Cristiane TC , Pinheiro Andreza Holanda de O , MM Ferraro Kíssila Márvia , de Q Aires Larisse Félix , Dias Luana G , Fiuza de Mello Mary Lucy FM , Machado Mayara MM , Alves Marília CB , Serrão Michaelle JD , de Carvalho Patrícia Barbosa , Gomes Raphaella R , de Moraes Sara MP , Diniz Sales Susan Carolina , dos Santos Azevedo Valéria TS , Pinto do Nascimento Luciana MP , Pavão Junior Manoel JC
Published: January 2023

Objectives: To evaluate the risk factors and mortality associated with septic shock and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), and to examine associations with unfavorable outcomes among pediatric patients from the Brazilian Amazon. Design: A matched nested case-control, observational, single-center study was conducted between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2019. Patients: All children admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) with sepsis, as defined in the inclusion criteria, were included. Interventions: The selected cases consisted of patients with septic shock with MODS, while the control group consisted of children who were randomly chosen (1:2 ratio) among patients admitted to the PICU, matched for age and sex. Qualified students collected the data while being “blinded” to the research hypotheses. Measurements and Main Results: There was an association between septic shock with MODS and pH, sodium bicarbonate and base excess, hypernatremia, hypocalcemia, and hyperchloremia. In patients with septic shock with or without MODS, hypocalcemia, hyperchloremia, hypomagnesemia, hypokalemia, and hypophosphatemia were associated with mortality. We also observed an association between acute respiratory distress symptoms, elevated anion gap, and hyperlactatemia in patients with septic shock and non-surviving MODS. Infections by gram-negative organisms, changes in coagulation markers, inadequate nutritional status, pulmonar impairment requiring invasive support, and the presence of acute respiratory distress syndrome were associated with an increased risk of septic shock with MODS and mortality. Conclusions: In our study, septic shock with MODS associated with death affected male infants with previous comorbidities, hospitalized for clinical reasons, and coming from other services. The main factors associated with a higher risk of septic shock with MODS in this study were the origin of outside facilities.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Apnea in Preterm Neonates Admitted to the French Medical Institute for Mothers and Children Hospital in Kabul City: An Analytic Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Aslamzai Mansoor , Froogh Basir Ahmad , Faizi Omid , Hamidi Mohammad Farouq , Sajid Sayed Azam
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Prematurity is one of the leading causes of neonatal death in Afghanistan and complicates many serious problems including apnea. Although recurrent and prolong apnea of prematurity (AOP) may be directly or indirectly associated with significant adverse outcomes, there isn’t enough scientific information regarding the prevalence and risk factors of this problem in Afghanistan, therefore, this study is performed to obtain such information. Objective: To determine the prevalence rate and risk factors for apnea of prematurity in neonates admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the French Medical Institute for Mothers and Children Hospital, Kabul City. Patients and Methods: This analytic cross-sectional study was conducted at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the French Medical Institute for Mothers and Children Hospital in Kabul City, Afghanistan. The study participants were preterm neonates. Statistical analysis was performed by SPSS 24. Results: 75 preterm newborns were enrolled in this study and the apnea of prematurity were developed in 48% of them. Extremely low birth weight preterm neonates had a 71.4% prevalence rate of such apnea, while in very low birth weight and low birth weight the rates were 47.4% and 36.4% respectively. Based on gestational age, the prevalence rates of apnea in the early and moderate preterm neonates were 55.6% and 52.8% respectively, whilst also in late preterm neonates it was 42.8%. The apnea of prematurity appeared more prevalent in boys (54.3%) than girls (45.7%). The preterm neonates in the apnea group versus the non-apnea group had the mean birth weight of (1233.33 ± 235.25g vs 1333.46 ± 274.44g, 90%CI= -198 _ -1.4), mean maternal age of (24.78 ± 3.68y vs 26.62 ± 4.58y, 90%CI= -3.44_-0.23) and RR of anemia (2.2, P=0.05). Conclusion: The overall prevalence rate of AOP in preterm neonates was 48% and the highest rates were seen within extremely low birth weight and early preterm neonates. The lower neonatal birth weight, neonatal anemia and younger maternal age were found to be the risk factors for apnea of prematurity.
Acute Liver Failure in Children: Clinical Presentation and Management
Authors: Roben Hassan Muath Mohammed , Magzoub Omer Saeed , Suliman Omer SM , Hamza A Magid Isam Eldin
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Acute liver failure (ALF) is an uncommon condition in which rapid deterioration of liver functions results in coagulopathy, usually with an international randomized ratio (INR) of greater than 1.5 which is not corrected by a single dose of vitamin K, the condition associated with encephalopathy or INR 2 or more and is not corrected by a single dose of vitamin K without encephalopathy. Acute liver failure (ALF) is a life-threatening condition characterized by jaundice, encephalopathy and coagulopathy leading to multi-organ failure in a patient with no prior history of liver disease and carries a very high mortality rate. Objective: To study the clinical presentation and management of acute liver failure (ALF) among children admitted to Jaffer Ibn Oaf Teaching Hospital in Khartoum, Sudan during the year 2019. Methods: A descriptive cross sectional and hospital-based study conducted in all children presented to Jaffer Ibn Oaf Teaching Hospital in Khartoum, Sudan with acute liver failure during January to December 2019. The study sample was calculated by total coverage of all patients. Study questionnaires captured mainly quantitative data. The data was reviewed and analyzed into descriptive and inferential statistics by using computerized software package for window statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 21. Results: 47 children had acute liver failure were included. The prevalence of pediatric ALF in the studied hospital was 8.95%. The majority of participants were males and were 2 months to 14 years of age. All patients (100%) presented with jaundice, 38 (80.9%) had weakness and fatigue, 23 (48.9%) developed encephalopathy, mainly grade-I, 19 (40.0%) had nausea, 16 (34%) had ascites and 7 (14.8%) had seizures. INR was prolonged in all patients. Most patients had abnormal liver function tests. Almost all patient received vitamin K injection. Many patients needed pressure and circulation support and special treatment based on the underline cause. The mortality rate was 34% and 29.8% of the patients were recovered without liver transplantation. Statistically significant best outcome associated with elder age and hepatic encephalopathy grade-1. Poor outcome was significantly frequent among patients with anemia, thrombocytopenia, leukocytosis, hypokalemia and high liver enzymes. Conclusion: Pediatric acute liver failure mainly presented with jaundice, weakness and fatigue, grade-I encephalopathy, nausea, ascites and seizures. Treatment was mainly supportive with some patient needed treatment for the underlying causes. Poor outcome associated with anemia, thrombocytopenia, leukocytosis, hypokalemia and high liver enzymes.
First and Common Clinical Presentation of Sickle Cell Disease in Children
Authors: Magzoub Omer Saeed , Magid Isam Eldin H.A , Zayed Mohammed A.A , Munir Roaa A.R
Published: January 2023

Background: sickle cell disease (SCD) is the most common inherited blood disease worldwide with the vast majority of cases occurring in sub-Saharan Africa. In Sudan, sickle cell anemia is one of the commonest chronic hemolytic anemias with high mortality and morbidity. Objective: the objective of this study is to determine the first and common presentation of sickle cell in children to assist early diagnosis, prevent complications and decrease morbidity and mortality of sickle cell disease in children. Methodology and Results: the study represented a combined descriptive study (hospital-based) and analytic study (cross-sectional observational) at Mohamed El-Amin Hamed Pediatric Emergency Hospital for Children in Omdurman, Khartoum State where 50 children diagnosed with sickle cell anemia, for the first time, aged 4 months -17 years were included during period of six months (January – June 2016). The commonest first presentation of SCD was sickle cell crises in 46%, features of infection in 18% and the rest 36% presented with combined symptoms. 62% of children presented with pallor as a feature of anemia, 32% with jaundice, 14% with fatigability, 14% with shortness of breathing and 6% presented with other symptoms related to anemia. Conclusion and Recommendations: It is clear that features of vaso-occlusive crises were the first presenting clinical features of sickle cell disease followed by features of infections and anemia. We believe that starting premarital screening, neonatal screening, expand and support SCD clinics and stablishing social support networks will help in decreasing morbidity and mortality from SCD.
Pattern of Congenital Heart Disease with its outcome among 100 Newborns admitted in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: MA Mannan , Afroze Sharmin , Ruba Ishrat Jahan , Sultana Taiaba , Rahman Tareq , Uddin Shaon Shah Nizam , Alam Shakhawat
Published: January 2023

Background: Congenital heart disease is one of the most common congenital problems of neonates which can contribute to infant mortality and morbidity. The goal of this study is to identify the different patterns of congenital heart diseases with its outcome among neonates attending a tertiary care hospital in Dhaka. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted over a period of 1 year from March 2020 to February 2021, among the neonates admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Central Hospital Limited. Neonates with structural congenital heart disease, diagnosed by routine echocardiography were included in this study. Pattern of the lesions was observed and analyzed. Patients were followed up to neonatal period to see the outcome. Results: A total of 100 neonates were diagnosed with congenital heart disease during the study period and majority of them were acyanotic (98%) and combined lesions such as PDA with ASD (37.7%) followed by PDA only (36.7%). Males were predominant (60%). The majority of neonates were pre-term (79%) with low birth weight (38%). Consanguinity was present in 5% of cases. Resuscitation was required mostly among the combined type of CHD cases. Treatment was required in 67% of cases with a complete resolution of the defect in 89% of cases. Overall mortality was 7% mostly due to combined cardiac lesions. Conclusion: Regarding the type of congenital heart defect, acyanotic defect was more common than cyanotic with patent ductus arteriosus alone or in combination were the commonest lesion.
Neonatal Omphalo-Mesenteric Fistula: About 1 Case
Authors: A Doumbia , Y Coulibaly , M kouyate , I Amadou , O Coulibaly , B Kamate , M Daou , MK Djire
Published: January 2023

Introduction: The omphalo-mesenteric (FOM) or entero-umbilical fistula is a congenital anomaly related to the complete persistence of the omphalo-mesenteric canal (COM). Its diagnosis is often easy and is based on clinical examination and fistulography. We report a case of neonatal omphalo-mesenteric fistula. Observation: This is a newborn at 10 days of life, male, from a full-term pregnancy, who presented from the first days of life an umbilical discharge made up of intestinal fluid and meconium. Examination of the umbilicus showed a raspberry umbilical bud, centered by an easily catheterizable orifice. The injection of water-soluble contrast product through this orifice objectified a communication of the fistula with the ileal loops. The data from the clinical examination and the fistulography made it possible to make the diagnosis of omphalo-mesenteric fistula. At the surgical intervention, the exploration finds an omphalo-mesenteric fistula. We performed an intestinal resection on either side of the fistula with end-to-end anastomosis. Conclusion: The omphalo-mesenteric fistula is a rare condition. The clinical picture is sometimes atypical and consists of a simple oozing umbilical bud which does not respond to the application of nitrate. Its diagnosis must be made from the neonatal period to avoid serious complications.