bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Keterampilan Komunikasi Verbal Calon Guru Biologi Melalui Pembelajaran Jarak Jauh
Authors: Hamidah Idah , Luzyawati Lesy
Published: March 2022

One of the communication skills that must be possessed by prospective biology teachers is oral communication skills. Communication learning plays an important role. The aim of this research is to know the oral communication skills of prospective biology teachers through distance learning. This study uses True Experimental Design with a type of one shoot case study design. A research sample of 30 students of Wiralodra University Biology Education was randomly selected. The results of the data analysis showed that the communication skills of prospective biology teachers in distance learning using the Moodle platform were in the good category with a percentage of 81.8%.
Key words: Communication Skills, Prospecive Biology Teacher
 
Abstrak.
Salah satu keterampilan komunikasi yang harus dimiliki oleh calon guru biologi yaitu keterampilan komunikasi lisan. Dalam pembelajaran komunikasi berperan penting. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui keterampilan komunikasi lisan calon guru biologi melalui pembelajaran jarak jauh. Penelitian ini menggunakan True Experimental Design dengan jenis rancangan one shoot case study. Sampel penelitian sebanyak 30 mahasiswa Pendidikan Biologi Universitas Wiralodra yang dipiih secara random. Hasil analisis data menunjukkan bahwa Keterampilan komunikasi mahasiswa calon guru biologi pada pembelajaran jarak jauh dengan menggunakan platform Moodle berada pada kategori baik dengan presentase sebesar 81,8%.
Kata kunci: Komunikasi Lisan, Calon Guru Biologi
Hubungan Asupan Gizi Sarapan dan Status Ekonomi dengan Tingkat Kebugaran Jasmani Siswa Kelas VIII SMP Negeri 1 Kota Jambi
Authors: Sukendro Sukendro , Yahya Deya Pratama , Widowati Atri , Indrayana Boy , Putra Anggrawan Janur , Irawan Turino Adi , Lestari Putri Ayu
Published: March 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memperoleh informasi hubungan asupan gizi sarapan dan status ekonomi dengan kebugaran jasmani siswa kelas VIII di SMP Negeri 1 Kota Jambi. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian korelasional. Metode yang digunakan adalah survei. Populasi penelitian ini berjumlah 23 siswa. Pengambilan sampel dilakukan dengan total sampling. Diperoleh rincian 10 siswa laki – laki dan 13 siswa perempuan. Instrumen mengukur asupan gizi sarapan menggunakan food record selama 3 hari, status ekonomi menggunakan angket dibuat peneliti dan kebugaran jasmani menggunakan TKJI untuk usia 13 – 15 tahun. Data Asupan Gizi siswa putra diperoleh sebanyak 5 orang (50%) memiliki skor food record 454,91 – 655,74 kategori baik, 2 orang (20%) memiliki skor 254,06 – 454,90 kategori sedang, dan 3 orang (30%) memiliki skor 53,23 – 254,05 kategori kurang. Sedangkan untuk putri sebanyak 2 orang (15%) memiliki skor food record 414,32 – 621,31 kategori baik, 6 orang (46%) memiliki skor 207,32 – 414,31 dengan kategori sedang, 5 orang (38%) memiliki skor 0,31 – 207,31 kategori kurang dan 0 orang (9%) memiliki skor 0 – 0,3 dengan kategori kurang sekali. Untuk data kebugaran jasmani diperoleh sebanyak 2 orang (10%) memiliki nilai 22 – 25 dengan kategori baik sekali, 12 orang (57%) memiliki nilai 18 – 21 dengan kategori baik, dan 9 orang (33%) memiliki nilai 14 - 17 dengan kategori sedang. Analisis data menggunakan uji korelasi sederhana. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa ada hubungan yang signifikan antara asupan gizi sarapan dan status ekonomi dengan tingkat kebugaran jasmani siswa kelas VIII di SMP Negeri 1 Kota Jambi, dengan nilai R hitung .554a > r tabel (.307).
Años potenciales de vida perdidos y análisis espacial de incidentes viales en peatones de Medellín 2015-2020
Authors: Salazar Henao Edwin Alberto
Published: March 2022

Objetivo: Describir los años potenciales de vida perdidos (APVP) y la distribución espacial de la mortalidad  por incidente vial en peatones de Medellín   durante el período 2015-2020.

Métodos: Se realizó estudio descriptivo con fuente de información secundaria, se analizaron la totalidad de registros de peatones muertos en incidente vial. El cálculo de los APVP fue realizado por grupos quinquenales y eligiendo como edad límite la esperanza de vida al nacer de Colombia, estimada por el DANE para el período 2015-2020. Para conocer la distribución geográfica de las muertes se creó mapa de puntos y densidad de Kernel con clasificación estándar-cuantil. El análisis de proximidad se realizó por el método búfer de anillos múltiples, con distancias de 100, 200 y 300 metros.

Resultados: En Medellín, durante los años 2015-2020, se registraron 696 muertes de peatones, 514(73,9%) hombres y 182 (26,1%) mujeres. Las comunas de mayor mortalidad fueron Candelaria con 217(31,2%) muertes y Castilla con 61(8,8%). Las lesiones más frecuentes fueron politraumatismos 401 (57,6%) y lesiones en cabeza 231 (33,2%). En total los peatones de la ciudad perdieron 14.553  APVP por incidente vial. Del total de incidentes fatales en peatones, 400 (57,5%) ocurrieron en un radio de distancia de 300 metros de un puente peatonal.

Conclusión: Peatones hombres presentaron las tasas de APVP más altas del período, y son quienes más mueren en la vía. Lesiones en cabeza y cráneo son las más fatales, especialmente si son adultos mayores quienes las sufren. La pérdida de fuerza laboral y económica es alta para la ciudad, pero la social y familiar es incalculable.
Metabolomic analysis of untargeted bovine uterine secretions in dairy cows with endometritis, using ultra-performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry
Authors: yuan wang , ting chen , ze gan , jiang li , na li , yong zhang , xu zhao
Published: March 2022

Endometritis is among the most common bovine uterine diseases. It may
cause infertility and affect the sustenance and progress of the cattle
industry. In this study, a novel metabolomics technique based on
ultra-performance liquid chromatography/ quadrupole time-of-flight mass
spectrometry was used to compare the uterine secretion metabolomics of
healthy cows and those with clinical endometritis, classified based on
clinical symptoms. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses
identified significant differences between groups. Compared with healthy
uterine secretion samples, coumaric acid, benzoic acid, and equol were
downregulated in the clinical endometritis samples. However,
L-phenylalanine, glutamine, succinic acid, linoleate, arachidonic acid,
and other metabolites were significantly upregulated, revealing
significant variations between healthy cows and those with endometritis
(p < 0.05). This metabolomics approach may provide a more
in-depth understanding of the pathobiology of endometritis and a
theoretical framework for the diagnosis and treatment of bovine
endometritis.
Individualized Stratified Treatment for Epstein-Barr Virus-associated Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis : A Case Report and Review of Literature.
Authors: Lu Qiming
Published: March 2022

In this case, we report a patient with Epstein-Barr virus-associated
hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, mainly manifesting as fever, no
liver function damage or HLH related gene mutation. After treated with
cortisol and intravenous immunoglobulin, the fever got controlled and
most aboratory examinations returned to normal. It suggests that we
should attach importance to individualized stratified treatment in
clinical practice, avoid overtreatment, and reduce the toxic and side
effects of drugs.
Minimum Spouting Velocity in a Gas Solid Spouted Bed: Analytical Approximation and Experimental Findings
Authors: Mollick Palash , Pandit Aniruddha , Pallipattu Vijayan
Published: March 2022

Calculating a minimum spouting velocity for a given solid-fluid system
has never been easy as the right choice of the correlation was
difficult. It is shown in the present work that an analytical
approximation for the exponent on the major influential parameters may
be helpful if the derivation results from the basic force balance
between solid and fluid. Nearly a dozen of earlier reported correlations
are compared here with their key experimental details. Systematic
experiments were performed using seven different spouted bed apparatus,
nine different solid particles and two different spouting gases. Results
from the analytical approximation, present experiments and the past
reported correlations, a comprehensive correlation is proposed covering
a wide range of variables. An industrial engineer or a scientist can now
judiciously choose suitable exponent on the major influential parameters
for a given set of spouted bed apparatus/ column, solid and fluid.
THE PROBLEM OF DETERMINING THE SPE ED OF SOUND AND MEMORY OF ANISOTROPIC MEDIUM
Authors: Rahmonov Askar , Durdiev Umidjon , Bozorov Zavqiddin
Published: March 2022

We consider the problems of simultaneously identifying two unknowns. The
wave propagation velocity and the memory of the layered medium will be
determined. For their determination, two observations are used for how
the boundary of the domain fluctuates. Main results are stability
estimates and uniqueness theorems for the problems under consideration.
Clinical features and outcome of children with hereditary spherocytosis
Authors: Kılıç Mehmet , Özdemir Nihal , Güçer Tuba Tahtakesen , Uysalol Ezgi , Bayram Cengiz , Aycicek Ali , Aydoğan Gönül
Published: March 2022

Objective: Hereditary spherocytosis is the most common erythrocyte
membrane disorder characterized by splenomegaly, jaundice and anemia.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the demographics, clinical and
laboratory findings and treatment responses of patients with hereditary
spherocytosis. Material and Method: Data of patients under the age of 18
with a diagnosis of hereditary spherocytosis between 1989-2018 were
examined retrospectively. Diagnosis was based on clinical history,
physical examination, family history, presence of spherocytes in
peripheral smear and osmotic fragility test. Demographic, clinical and
laboratory features, family history, complications, and history of
splenectomy and cholecystectomy were evaluated. Results: One hundred and
one patients were included. The median (range) age at diagnosis was 38.0
(1-188) months. Mild, moderate and severe forms of hereditary
spherocytosis were present in 29 (28.7%), 15 (14.9%) and 57 (56.4%)
patients, respectively. Family history was investigated in 73 (72.3%)
and 56 (76.7%) had a family history of hereditary spherocytosis. Ninety
one patients had available physical examination results; of these 79
(86.8%) had splenomegaly, 53 (58.2%) pallor and 16 (17.6%) jaundice.
Forty-five (44.5%) patients needed regular transfusions and most
(78.9%) of these had severe spherocytosis. Although most patients did
not require transfusion post-splenectomy, two of 45 (4.4%) patients
continued to require transfusion. Transfusion dependence was
significantly (p<0,001) higher in patients with severe
spherocytosis. Conclusions: In hereditary spherocytosis splenomegaly,
pallor and jaundice are the most common physical findings. Splenectomy
is effective in reducing hemolysis and virtually abolishes further
requirement for transfusion. Key words: hereditary spherocytosis,
anemia, hemolytic anemia, children
Persistence of plant--pollinator interactions in time and space
Authors: Resasco Julian , Chacoff Natacha , Vázquez Diego
Published: March 2022

Generalist species are important for maintaining network structure and
function. Previous studies showed that interactions between generalists
persist across sites and years. However, the mechanisms for persistence
across spatiotemporal scales are not clear. To address this gap, we
collected data on plant–pollinator interactions throughout the
flowering period for five years across six plots in a subalpine meadow.
We hypothesized that tolerance of environmental variation across time
and space plays a key role in species’ generalization by regulating
spatiotemporal overlap with partners. We found that interactions between
species with broader temporal and spatial distributions tended to be
more generalized such that interactions near the network core were more
persistent across years and plots and within seasons. These results
further understanding of networks by linking the role of environmental
variation in time and space in organizing interactions, marrying niche
concepts that emphasize species environmental constraints and their role
in the community.
Metformin protects against sunitinib-induced cardiotoxicity: Investigating the role of AMPK
Authors: Kuburas Refik , Gharanei Mayel , Haussmann Irmgard , Maddock Helen , Sandhu Hardip
Published: March 2022

Abstract BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor
sunitinib malate is associated with cardiotoxicity through inhibition of
5’adenosine monophosphate protein kinase (AMPK) signalling. Here we
demonstrate the cardioprotective properties of metformin limiting the
adverse cardiotoxic effect of sunitinib. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Heart
rate (HR), left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP), coronary flow
(CF), infarct size, and phosphorylated-AMPKα levels were measured in the
rat Langendorff hearts perfused with 1 µM sunitinib ± 50 µM metformin ±
1 µM human equilibrative nucleoside transporter inhibitor
S-(4-Nitrobenzyl)-6-thionosine (NBTI). Isolated cardiac myocytes were
incubated with 1 µM sunitinib ± 50 µM metformin ± 1 µM NBTI to determine
the live cell population levels. Human hepatoma G2 (HepG2) and
promyelocytic leukemia (HL-60) cells were incubated with 0.1-100 µM
sunitinib ± 50 µM metformin to determine the cell viability. KEY RESULTS
Sunitinib significantly increased the infarct size and decreased the
LVDP, while the p-AMPKα level declined. In the cardiac myocytes study,
treatment with sunitinib decreased the cell viability. Co-administration
of metformin abolished these cardiotoxic effects of sunitinib.
Co-administration of NBTI (1 µM) inhibited the cardioprotective effects
of metformin. Anti-cancer properties of sunitinib and metformin was
recorded using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium
bromide (MTT) assay. MTT revealed that co-administration of metformin
with sunitinib decreased sunitinib’s antiproliferative properties,
evidenced by an increase in EC50 concentration value when compared to
sunitinib monotreatment in in-vitro HepG2 and HL60 cell lines. However,
metformin co-administration did not inhibit sunitinib’s properties
CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS This study highlights the novel
cardioprotective properties of metformin via AMPK during
sunitinib-induced cardiotoxicity.
Subsequent fertility in women treated for caesarean scar pregnancy: A five years follow-up descriptive study in a tertiary hospital
Authors: Sun Xinyi , Liu Yang , Tang Yunhui , Yu Hongying , Zhao Min , Chen Qi
Published: March 2022

Objective: To investigate the subsequent fertility in women with a
history of caesarean scar pregnancy Design: Observational study Setting:
Tertiary hospital in China Sample: 149 women treated for caesarean scar
pregnancy were followed up for five years. Methods: 53 women had
unprotected sexual intercourse attempting to become pregnant again,
while most women did not even attempt to conceive. Data including
clinical parameters and treatment options at the time of diagnosis, and
the outcomes in subsequent pregnancy were collected. In addition, a
questionnaire about the menstrual cycle after treatment was voluntarily
completed by these women. Main Outcome Measures: The outcomes of
subsequent fertility from 53 women were analyzed. Results: Of the 53
women, 46 (84%) women had a subsequent pregnancy, while 7 (14%) women
did not. There was no difference in clinical parameters in previous
caesarean scar pregnancy or treatment options between the two groups.
From the questionnaire, there was no difference seen in the length of
the menstrual cycle and menses between the two groups. However, a higher
number of women with light menstrual bleeding was seen in women without
a subsequent pregnancy (67%), compared with women who did (27%).
Furthermore, 6 women (13%) who had a subsequent pregnancy experienced
missed miscarriage in the first trimester. Conclusion: We reported that
14% of women treated for cesarean scar pregnancy did not have a
subsequent pregnancy, after unprotected sexual intercourse. Light
menstrual bleeding after treatment may be one of the reasons for this
adverse effect. Our findings need to be further investigated.
PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β signaling pathway involving in the mechanism of polymyxin B induced melanogenesis
Authors: Zhang Chuhan , Liu Xiaofen , Wu Hailan , Wang Yu , Fan Yaxin , Guo Beining , Bian Xingchen , Li Xin , Zhang Jing
Published: March 2022

Backgrounds: Polymyxin B， which is a last line antibiotic for
multi-drug resistant gram-negative bacteria, has been reported to induce
skin hyperpigmentation in patients during treatments.
8~15% or more cases were reported hyperpigmentation,
especially in head and neck, seriously influencing the compliance of
patients. To investigate the mechanism of hyperpigmentation is
beneficial for intervention strategy and improve compliance. Methods:
The melanoma cells, SK-MEL-2 cells were employed in the present study to
verify whether polymyxin B treatment could directly induce
hyperpigmentation. Melanin contents were measured by hot alkali lysis
method and tyrosinase were quantified by dopaquinone oxidation method.
The real-time quantitative PCR was applied to measure the mRNA levels of
melanogenesis-related genes to investigate the possible signaling
pathway involved in the polymyxin B induced hyperpigmentation. Results:
The melanin content and tyrosinase activity were up-regulated after 5
μg/mL polymyxin B treatment in SK-MEL-2 cells at 48 hr. and 72 hr. The
mRNA levels of melanogenesis-related genes were up-regulated, including
PI3K, Akt, GSK-3β, CREB, MITF in the polymyxin B treatment group
compared with control group at 48 hr. (p<0.001). Conclusions:
In the present study, for the first time to reveal that polymyxin B
induced hyperpigmentation involved the signaling pathway of
PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β and the up-regulation of CREB and MITF subsequently,
then induced the activity of tyrosinase and melanin content in melanoma
cells.
Quantum Chemical Design of Near-Infrared Sensitive Fused Ring Electron Acceptors Containing Selenopheneas π-bridge for High-Performance Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Mehboob Muhammad , Hussain Dr. Riaz , Adnan Muhammad , Irshad Zobia
Published: March 2022

End-capped acceptor modification of fused-ring electron acceptors
(FREAs) is an attractive strategy to boost the optoelectronic and
photovoltaic properties of the materials. FREAsare proved beneficial due
to their tremendous applications in organic solar cells (OSCs). Among
fused-ring electronic species, small fullerene-free FREAs have already
been drawn more attention due to their near-infrared sensitivity and
constantly increasing efficiencies. Therefore, we have designed six new
FREAs (K1-K6) having selenophene as π-bridge in between the central
alkylated indaceno[1,2-b:5,6b]dithiophene (IDT) unit after the
incorporations of various end-capped acceptors on to the recently
synthesized IDT2SeC2C4-4F molecule. Structural-property relationship,
photophysical and photovoltaic properties of newly designed molecules
are studied with the help of density functional theory (DFT) and
time-dependent-density functional theory (TD-DFT). Certain critical
specifications like frontier molecular orbital (FMOs) alignment, the
density of states (DOS), absorption maxima, excitation energy, binding
energy (B.E) along with transition density matrix (TDM), and the
specifically estimated re-organizational energy values of electron and
hole and the open circuit voltages of newly designed molecules are
computed and compared with reference molecule. Generally, a red-shifting
absorption behavior of FREAs is considered the most important reason for
their high efficiencies in OSCs. Our novel designed molecules exhibit
redshift in the absorption spectrum. Similarly, low excitation and
binding energies of designed molecules offer improved power conversion
efficiencies (PCE) with the highest possible charge photo-current
density (Jsc) in OSCs devices. Furthermore, the study of the PTB7-Th/K1
complex is also done in order to examine charge transfer between within
complex. By introducing the efficient end-capped acceptor moieties in
reference molecule, enhancement in charge mobilities is noted. The large
open-circuit voltage, low reorganizational energies, narrower HOMO-LUMO
energy gap, lower binding and excitation energies, and highly
red-shifting in absorption phenomenon indicates an efficient designing
of molecules that could be best fitted for high-efficiency OSCs.
Finally, theorized molecules are much superior related to their
photovoltaic and electronic properties and thus are recommended to
experimentalists for their synthesis and out-looking future developments
of highly efficient solar cell devices.
Outcome of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia treatment in a single center in Brazil: a survival analysis study
Authors: Bonilha Thais , Obadia Danielle , Valveson Andressa , Land Marcelo
Published: March 2022

Bacgrond: acute lymphoid leukemia (ALL) is the most common neoplasm in
childhood. The probability of current overall survival is around 90% in
developed countries. There are few studies that demonstrate the results
in Brazil. This work aims to analyze the results of children with ALL
treated at a single institution in Rio de Janeiro. Procedure:
retrospective analysis survival study of a cohort of childhood ALL
patients treated in Hemorio. Kaplan-Meier and log-rank methods were used
for analysis of overall survival (OS) and events free survival (EFS) and
the Cox proportional hazards regression model for multivariate analysis.
Results: the probability of OS and EFS at 6 years was 52% and 45%. The
probability of OS and EFS in 6 years for pacients aged 10-17 years was
31% and 28% and for the younger was 65% and 55% respectively
(p<0.001). A probability of OS and EFS in 6 years for patients
with more than 100.000 leukocytes/mm3 at diagnosis was 19% and 16% and
those with less than 100.000 was 62% (p=0.007) and 55% (p= 0.008).
Those who received less than 10 doses of native Echerichia coli
asparaginase had a probability of OS and EFS in 6 years of 27% and 21%
and that who received at least 10 doses was 74% and 65%
(p<0.001). Conclusions: the presence of a high number of
adolescents and high-risk patients, as well as many patients who
discontinueted the use of asparaginase or any substitute led to a lower
probability of OS and EFS in our cohort.
Effects of endogenous hormones and climate factors on ergot alkaloids accumulation of Epichloë endophyte-drunken horse grass symbiont
Authors: Liu Jing , Chen jiang , Chen Taixiang , Shi Qian , Jin Yuan , Li zhang , Lang xiao , Li Chunjie
Published: March 2022

Epichloë endophyte can protect drunken horse grass (Achnatherum
inebrians)s from pest and livestock by producing alkaloids, which are
attributed to very high level ergonovine and ergine. In this and other
plants, biotic and abiotic stresses can trigger alkaloid production but
the relationship between the concentration of ergot alkaloids and
endogenous hormones and how do climate factors affect ergot alkaloid
content were not studied. Here, we analyzed the relationship between
alkaloid production, endogenous hormones and climate factors by
Pearson’s method and best Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) model. We
observed that ergot alkaloids (ergonovine, ergine and total alkaloid)
contents of A. inebrians from twenty sites were positively correlated
with jasmonic acid (JA) and ethylene (ET) (P < 0.01),
negatively correlated with salicylic acid (SA) (P < 0.05). The
ergot alkaloids contents were not significantly affected by climate
factors (mean annual rainfall, altitude and mean annual temperature) (P
> 0.05). The SEM model indicated that climate factors could
indirectly affect the concentration of ergot alkaloids by influencing
endogenous hormones levels. These results concluded that endogenous
hormones had mainly impacts on ergot alkaloids levels of A. inebrians,
whereas the effects of climate factors were limited.
The Effects of Stem Cells and Platelet-Rich Fibrin on Colonic Anastomosis: An Experimental Study
Authors: KARAKAYA Emre , Şendoğan Ahmet , Ekici Yahya , Uysal Ahmet Çağrı , Özdemir Handan , Erkent Murathan
Published: March 2022

Background Anastomotic leakage is among the most common complications
following gastrointestinal surgery. Objectives This study aimed to
determine the effects of stem cells and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) on
anastomotic healing. Design and Setting The study included 60 rats that
were randomly divided into 3 groups, each with 2 subgroups. The study
included the control group (no treatment post anastomosis), the PRF
group (PRF administered following anastomosis), and the PRF + stem cell
group (PRF + stem cells administered following anastomosis). Methods
Anastomosis was performed at the descending colon in all groups.
Anastomosis bursting pressure was determined, and histopathological and
angiographic examination were performed on postoperative d 7. Results
Intraabdominal adhesion was significantly more common in the control
group. Anastomosis bursting pressure was significantly higher and
angiogenesis was significantly more common in the PRF + stem cell group
(P < 0.005). Based on histopathologic examination, vascular
proliferation and inflammation were significantly more common in the PRF
+ stem cell group than in the control group (P < 0.005).
Conclusion In cases of risky gastrointestinal system anastomosis, PRF +
stem cells might reduce the incidence of anastomotic healing. Keywords:
Stem cell; wound healing; anastomosis; platelet-rich fibrin
Impact of race versus ethnicity on infertility diagnosis between Black American, Haitian, African, and White American women seeking infertility care: a retrospective review
Authors: Handal-Orefice Roxane , McHale Melissa , Politch Joseph , (USA) Alex Friedman , Kuohung Wendy
Published: March 2022

Objective: Studies have examined the impact of race on infertility, but
few have compared ethnic differences in infertility within a given race.
We sought to determine whether infertility etiologies differ between
Black ethnic subgroups. Design/Setting: Retrospective study in an urban
safety net hospital. Population: Women seeking infertility care between
2005-2015. Methods: Charts of women with infertility and PCOS ICD-9
diagnoses were reviewed to confirm diagnoses. Data was stratified by
race and subsequently by ethnicity to evaluate differences in
infertility etiologies between Black American, Haitian, and African
women. White American women were used as the comparison group. Main
outcome measures: Infertility diagnoses between ethnic groups. Results:
A total of 358 women met inclusion criteria including 99 Black American,
110 Black Haitian, 61 Black African, and 88 White American women.
Anovulation/polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) was the most common
diagnosis in each ethnic group, accounting for 40% of infertility among
White American, 57% among Black American, 25% among Haitian, and 21%
among African women. There were no significant differences in individual
infertility diagnoses between Black and White women. Between ethnic
subgroups, multivariate analysis showed significantly higher odds of
infertility due to anovulation/PCOS in Black American women compared to
African women (odds ratio [OR]=4.9; 95% CI=1.4-17.0). Compared to
African women, higher odds of tubal factor infertility were observed in
Black American (OR=4.7; 95% CI=1.16-18.7) and Haitian women (OR=4.0;
95% CI=1.1-14.0). Conclusions: Causes of infertility weren’t
homogeneous across Black ethnic groups. Studies examining infertility
should specify ethnic subgroups within race as this may affect results.
Continuous recording of vital signs with a wearable device in pediatric patients undergoing chemotherapy for cancer -- a feasibility pilot study
Authors: Koenig Christa , Ammann Roland , Kuehni Claudia , Rössler Jochen , Brack Eva
Published: March 2022

Background Pediatric patients with cancer are at high risk for severe
infections. Delayed diagnosis and treatment increases mortality.
Infections can trigger changes of vital signs long before clinical
symptoms arise. Continuous recording may detect such changes earlier
than discrete measurements. We aimed to assess the feasibility of
continuous recording of vital sings by a wearable device (WD) in
pediatric patients undergoing chemotherapy for cancer. Methods In this
prospective, observational single-center pilot study (NCT04134429)
pediatric patients undergoing chemotherapy for cancer wore the Everion®
WD for 14 days. Results Twenty patients were included (median age, 6
years; range, 2-16). Six patients (predefined feasibility criterion, ≥15
patients) aged 3-16 years fulfilled the patient specific goal, defined
as heart rate recorded with good quality during ≥18 hours/day on ≥7
consecutive days. The quality of heart rate recording was good during
3992 of 6576 (61%) hours studied, poor during 300 (5%) hours, and no
data was recorded during 2284 (35%) hours. Eighteen of 20 participants
indicated that this WD is acceptable to measure vital sings in children
undergoing chemotherapy for cancer. Conclusion We found that continuous
recording of vital signs by the Everion® WD is feasible across a very
wide age range in pediatric patients undergoing chemotherapy for cancer.
In the configuration studied, however, the predefined feasibility
criterion was not fulfilled. This was mainly due to important compliance
problems and independent of the WD itself. These results will influence
the design of future WD-studies including those aiming to identify
patterns predicting fever or infection.
A patient with very early onset FH-deficient renal cell carcinoma diagnosed at age seven
Authors: Taniguchi Rieko , Muramatsu Hideki , Okuno Yusuke , Yoshida Taro , Wakamatsu Manabu , Hamada Motoharu , Shirota Chiyoe , Sumida Wataru , Hinoki Akinari , Tainaka Takahisa , Gotoh Yoshimitsu , Tsuzuki Toyonori , Tanaka Yukichi , Kojima Seiji , Uchida Hiroo , Takahashi Yoshiyuki
Published: March 2022

Hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer (HLRCC) is caused by
heterozygous germline mutations in the fumarate hydratase (FH) gene and
is associated with increased susceptibility to cutaneous leiomyomas,
uterine leiomyomas, and renal cell carcinoma (RCC). This report
describes a seven-year-old male who developed a large right kidney tumor
with multiple cystic lesions that contained enhanced solid components.
Whole-exome sequencing identified his germline mutation in the FH gene
and its loss of heterozygosity in the tumor. This was the youngest-onset
case of HLRCC-associated RCC to date. This report may affect the
starting age for future RCC-surveillance programs for patients with
HLRCC.
Intramuscular Progesterone After PPROM in Patients with Extreme Fetal Prematurity- A case-control pilot study
Authors: futterman itamar , Weingarten Sarah , Shilkrut Alexander
Published: March 2022

Objective: Compare pregnancy outcomes in patients with short cervix
receiving vaginal progesterone, had preterm prelabor rupture of
membranes (PPROM) and were switched intramuscular (IM) progesterone
after PPROM, to historical data of patients with short cervix and PPROM
who did not receive IM progesterone after PPROM. Design: A retrospective
case control pilot study of singleton pregnancies complicated by short
cervix, receiving vaginal progesterone, who subsequently had PPROM, and
then switched to IM progesterone. Setting: All delivered at a regional
perinatal and tertiary referral center, between 24-34 weeks of
gestation, from January, 2015 to April, 2020. Sample: 11 singleton
pregnancies complicated by short cervix, receiving vaginal progesterone,
who subsequently had PPROM, and then switched to IM progesterone.
Methods: Maternal and neonatal outcomes included gestational age at time
of delivery, PPROM to delivery interval, chorioamnionitis, birthweight,
APGAR score <7 at 1 and 5 minutes of life, NICU admission and
significant fetal morbidity. Findings were compared to historical
control Main outcome: PPROM to delivery interval. Results: Our patient
population was significantly more premature at time of PPROM diagnosis
(mean 21.4±2.4 compared to 31.5±1.125 in the control group). The group
who received IM progesterone after PPROM had a longer PPROM to delivery
interval, higher mean birth weight. There were two cases of neonatal
death in the IM progesterone group. Conclusion: Administration of IM
progesterone supplementation in the patients with short cervix after
PPROM before 28 weeks of gestation may result in pregnancy prolongation,
especially to benefit from steroid administration to improve fetal lung
maturity.
A Nation-Wide Assessment of Community Pharmacists’ Attitude towards Dispensing Medication Errors: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Karout Samar , Karout Lina , Kadry Seifedine , Abdallah Dima , Kouzi Khaled El , Itani Rania
Published: March 2022

Dispensing errors in community pharmacies are common reasons for a
patient’s injury and harm. Therefore, to improve patient safety in
relation to the use of medicine in the primary care setting, the study
sought to determine the attitude and perception of community pharmacists
towards dispensing errors. A survey-based cross-sectional study
consisted of 171 community pharmacists in different regions in Lebanon.
This study retrieved information about demographic data, perceived
factors associated with of dispensing errors, perceived strategies that
might reduce the risk for dispensing error, perceived types of
dispensing errors and reasons for underreporting dispensing errors. The
majority of the pharmacists were young between 20 to 35 years (87.1%)
and holding only BS degree in Pharmacy (66.7%). Poor prescription
handwriting (90%), unreadable prescriptions (89.4%) and heavy workload
(87.7%) were perceived as the main contributing factors for dispensing
error. While Collaboration with physicians (96.4%) and double-checking
(96%) of medications before dispensing were mainly appreciated to
decrease error incidents. The main reasons for underreporting dispensing
errors were non-mandatory reporting policy (58.5%) and absence of
national reporting system (55.6%). Dispensing errors were highly
associated with the quality of the prescription and heavy workload.
Pharmacists’ main reason for underreporting dispensing errors was mainly
due to lack of reporting systems that do not mandate the pharmacist to
report it. These findings enlighten future interventions to improve
pharmacy practices that aim in providing new directives for policies and
procedures for reporting and managing dispensing errors in the Lebanese
community pharmacies.
Approximation factor of the piecewise linear functions in Mamdani fuzzy systems and its realization process
Authors: Tao jie , suo chunfeng , Wang Guijun
Published: March 2022

A piecewise linear function is not only an extension of a segmented
linear function of one variable in the case of multivariate variables,
but also an important bridge to study the approximation of a continuous
function by Mamdani and Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy systems. In this paper, the
concepts of a piecewise linear function and subdivision number are
introduced in hyperplane, the analytic expression of the piecewise
linear function is given by matrix determinant, and a new definition of
the approximation factor is first proposed by m-mesh subdivision.
Secondly, by the method of generating small polyhedron from
three-dimensional cube, the change rule of vertex coordinates of
n-dimensional subdivision polyhedron is studied, the vertex coordinates
of small polyhedron are obtained by rotating component coordinates of
their respective coordinate axes. Furthermore, the calculation methods
of algebraic cofactor and matrix norm for the corresponding determinant
are given. Finally, according to the method of solving algebraic
cofactors and matrix norms, it is proved that the approximation factor
has nothing to do with the subdivision number, but the approximation
precision has something to do with the subdivision number. In addition,
the realization process of a specific binary piecewise linear function
approaching a continuous function according to infinite norm in two
dimensions space is given by an example.
INVASIVE FUNGAL DISEASE IN A PEDIATRIC HEMATOLOGY AND ONCOLOGY UNIT: A 14-YEAR PERIOD REVIEW
Authors: Calle-Miguel Laura , Garrido Carmen , Santiago-Garcia Begoña , Santos Martha Patricia Moreno , Pascual Henar Gonzalo , Salas Beatriz Ponce , Beléndez Cristina , Gómez Maria Navarro , Rincon-Lopez Elena
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND. Invasive fungal disease (IFD) is a significant cause of
morbidity and mortality in immunosuppressed children. We aim to describe
the epidemiology and clinical parameters of IFD in a Pediatric
Hematology-Oncology Unit (PHOU) with an increasing activity during the
last 14 years. METHODS. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records
of children (up to 18 years old) admitted for IFD to the PHOU of a
tertiary hospital in Madrid (Spain), between 2006-2019. Epidemiological,
diagnostic and therapeutic parameters were compared according to the
type of infection, study period (considering 3 equivalent time
fractions) and outcome. RESULTS. Twenty-eight episodes of IFD occurred
in 27 out of 471 children at risk (13 males, median 10 years old). Five
episodes of candidemia (all in the first period) and 23 bronchopulmonary
mold diseases were registered. Six (21.4%), eight (28.6%) and 14
(50%) episodes met criteria for proven, probable and possible IFD,
respectively. Most episodes (71.4%) occurred in high-risk children
receiving antifungal prophylaxis. Eight children required intensive care
and six died during treatment. Mold infections occurred in older
children (126 vs. 21 months; p=0,045), increased over time (p=0.002) and
were more common in high-risk compared to low-risk children (87% vs.
0%; p=0.001). There were no differences in mortality rates between
periods, types of infection or underlying conditions. CONCLUSIONS. Yeast
infections decreased within the study time and mold infections were more
frequent in high-risk patients. A rising activity in our PHOU and an
increase in the complexity of pathologies were not followed by an
increase in mortality rates.
Two linearized finite difference schemes for time fractional nonlinear diffusion-wave equations with fourth order derivative
Authors: Elmahdi Emadidin , Huang JianFei
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we present a finite difference and a compact finite
difference schemes for the time fractional nonlinear diffusion-wave
equations (TFNDWEs) with the space fourth order derivative. To reduce
the smoothness requirement in time, the considered TFNDWEs are
equivalently transformed into their partial integro-differential forms
with the classical first order integrals and the Caputo derivative. The
finite difference scheme is constructed by using Crank-Nicolson method
combined with the midpoint formula, the weighted and shifted
Gr$\ddot{u}$nwald difference formula and the second
order convolution quadrature formula to deal with the temporal
discretizations. Meanwhile, the classical central difference formula and
fourth order Stephenson scheme are used in spacial direction. Then, the
compact finite difference scheme is developed by using the fourth order
compact difference formula for the spatial direction. The stability and
convergence of the proposed schemes are strictly proved by using the
discrete energy method. Finally, some numerical experiments are
presented to support our theoretical results.
QTc Interval on 24 hour Holter Monitor: To Trust or Not to Trust?
Authors: Agha MHD Khalil Tamr , Fakhri Ghina , Ahmed Mohamed , Sedawy Omar El , Abi-Saleh Bernard , Bitar Fadi , Arabi Mariam
Published: March 2022

Introduction: QT interval represents the ventricular depolarization and
repolarization. Its accurate measurement is critical since prolonged QT
can lead to sudden cardiac death. QT is affected by heart rate and is
corrected to QTc via several formulae. QTc is commonly calculated on the
ECG and not the 24-hour Holter. Methods: 100 patients presenting to our
institution were evaluated by an ECG followed by a 24-hour Holter. QTc
measurement on both of these platforms using Bazett and Fridreicia
formulae was recorded and compared. Results: Mean age was 14.09 years,
with the majority being males. Mean heart rate was 125.87. In the ECG,
the mean QTc interval via Bazett formula was 0.40 seconds compared to
0.38 seconds using the Fridreicia formula. The mean corrected QT via
Bazett formula was 0.45, 0.39 and 0.42 seconds for the shortest RR,
longest RR and the average RR respectively. In contrast to Fridreicia
formula, the corrected QT interval was 0.40, 0.39, and 0.40 seconds for
the shortest RR, longest RR and the average RR respectively. Using
Bazett, highest specificity reached during longest RR interval (92.2%)
while highest sensitivity was recorded during shortest RR interval
(40%). As for Fridreicia, sensitivity always reached 0% while highest
specificity was reached during average RR interval. Conclusion: QTc
measured during Holter ECG reached a high specificity regardless of RR
interval using the Fridreicia and during long and average RR interval
for Bazett formula. The consistently low sensitivity reveals that Holter
ECG should not be used to rule out prolonged QT.
Association between Vitamin D and COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: BIGNARDI PAULO , Castello Paula , Aquino Bruno
Published: March 2022

Aim. Assess the association of plasma vitamin D levels or vitamin D
supplementation in the outcomes of COVID- 19. Methods. PubMed, EMBASE,
and Cochrane Library databases were searched. Studies with COVID-19
patients that reported an association between plasma vitamin D levels or
vitamin D supplementation and mortality, need of hospitalization, ICU
admission, or ventilation requirement published until December 8, 2020,
were included. The risk ratio (RR) and confidence interval (CI) were
pooled using a fixed-effects model. Results. A total of 16 studies were
included in the meta-analysis, eleven cohorts, one case-control, one
randomized clinical trial, and two quasi-experimental studies. Low
plasma vitamin D levels in patients with COVID-19 were associated with
mortality (RR=1.42, 95%CI 1.14 – 1.71), need for ICU admission
(RR=1.76, 95%CI 1.03-2.49), and need for ventilation (RR=3.58, 95%CI
1.45-5.70). Regular supplementation showed a decreased risk of death,
and vitamin D supplementation in patients with COVID-19 showed a
decrease in the need for ICU admission. Conclusion. Sufficient vitamin D
level is associated with better outcomes in patients with COVID-19.
Vitamin D supplementation in patients with COVID-19 appears to reduce
the risk of ICU admission and regular supplementation reduces mortality.
Fractal model of a Brownian polymer network: investigation of its dynamic fractal response using an ancient Chinese algorithm
Authors: Elías-Zúñiga Alex , Martínez-Romero Oscar , Olvera-Trejo Daniel , Palacios-Pineda Luis
Published: March 2022

In this paper, a mathematical model that describes polymer chain
dynamics considering the Brownian motion of particles, an external
driving force, the material fractal structure, and a finite
extensibility nonlinear elastic (FENE) spring is investigated. To solve
the fractal differential equation of motion, first, a two-scale
dimension transform is introduced. Then, an ancient Chinese algorithm is
used to derive the approximate steady-state frequency-amplitude response
curves. Theoretical predictions show that the response shift from the 2D
frequency-amplitude curves for fractal parameter values different from
one, which modifies the polymer network oscillation amplitudes.
Economic implications of polypharmacy in Nepal: Multicenter community-based study
Authors: Sapkota Binaya , Shakya Suraj , Sah Saroj , Chaudhary Narendra , Tamang Bijendra , Karki Saugat Singh
Published: March 2022

Aims: Improper management of polypharmacy in community and hospital
pharmacies may lead to adverse effects and drug interactions in patients
of all age groups, especially children and elderly. This study sought to
determine scenario of polypharmacy at multiple communities in Nepal and
costs implicated. Methods: Multi-center community-based cross-sectional
study was conducted to explore scenario of polypharmacy at multiple
communities in Nepal and their cost implications for individual. Total
400 patients of all age groups, who were consuming medicines and
fulfilling inclusion criteria (i.e., prescribed with ≥4 medications)
from May 2017 to August 2018 were recruited. Semi-structured
questionnaire, based on prescription optimization method, was used.
Multinomial logistic regression was performed to analyze statistical
significance of polypharmacy with various predictors, considering
p-value <0.05 as statistically significant. Results: Overall,
79 (97.5%) patients aged 22-31 years, 208 (95%) female, 219 (98.2%)
illiterate, 202 (99%) from Siraha district, 113 (97.4%) taking
medications for common cold, cough, fever problems and 303 (96.5%)
expending USD 1.01 - 11 experienced moderate polypharmacy. There were
216 patients (54%) with prescriptions of five medicines (i.e., moderate
polypharmacy), with total number of medicines consumed by 400 patients
2269 (mean = 5.67) and total expenditure USD 3409.54 (mean = 8.66).
Conclusion: The present study analyzed economic aspect of polypharmacy
at multiple communities in Nepal and found that both moderate and severe
polypharmacy were significantly related with almost all age groups,
education levels and total cost of medications. Economic implications
and health consequences of polypharmacy are to be considered to avoid
preventable polypharmacy.
Stroke admissions: are we being paid enough? A cross-sectional study.
Authors: Basgaran Amedra , Harut Knara , Sivagnanaratnam Aravinth , Bathula Raj
Published: March 2022

Objectives: To investigate whether discharge summaries are accurately
coding clinical details of patient admissions and to identify whether
such differences lead to a loss of financial income for acute trusts.
Design: A cross-sectional study of medical records, discharge summaries
and financial outcomes. Participants: A review was conducted of two
weeks of discharge summaries and patient notes from the stroke unit,
totaling 95 patient episodes. Results: The total number of medical
details not coded in discharge summaries was 580, resulting in a loss of
income of £17,488.38. Extrapolated over the year, this could have led to
a missed income of £454,000 for the stroke department. Sub-group
analysis identified that 24% of un-coded details were extra primary
diagnoses, 45% secondary diagnoses, 14% social factors, 3%
investigations performed, and 14% were specialty team reviews.
Conclusions: The impact of the quality of discharge summaries has proven
to be huge. A major contributor is unawareness of the correct
terminology by both clinical and coding teams. Specific measures to
introduce standard diagnoses and coding practices to minimise
variability will lead to clearer coding and allow for the trust to be
accurately paid for the care performed.