bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Polar Mediterranean Imaginary. A Renewed Paradigm by Vilhjalmur Stefansson
Authors: Dantas Santiago Villalobos
Published: February 2024

Southern social imaginaries have typically conceived of the North as a frozen and inhospitable area, depriving it of much interest. However, during the first part of the 20th century, the anthropologist and explorer Vilhjalmur Stefansson unveiled many mysteries about the Arctic. Throughout his life and writings, he tried to modify many inaccurate and now old-fashioned imaginings and imaginaries about the Arctic. The concept of the Polar Mediterranean Imaginary was thus proposed by him, whereby the Arctic region could be seen as a place similar to the Mediterranean region, i.e., an important socio-cultural, economic and political hub. Past and present events (e.g., global conflicts, scientific and technologic developments) contribute also to determining how the Arctic is shaped and understood today. The contemporary twin trends of globalization and climate change are making the North more and more globally connected and interconnected, especially through the rise of transpolar routes, which represent an opportunity for the affirmation of the Arctic’s central role, precisely along the lines envisioned by Vilhjalmur Stefansson and his Polar Mediterranean Imaginary one hundred years ago.
Identity Matters: Culture and Religion as Key Factors in the Migration of Muslims
Authors: Levi Joseph
Published: February 2024

Using as a springboard the Islamic concept of الْهِجْرَة Hijrah (migration)—whereby migration is conceived as a way of saving the faithful from religious persecution—I analyze how culturally, economically, and socio-politically disenfranchised and marginalized Muslims decide or, better yet, have no other choice but to leave their homeland in search for a better life in non-Muslim lands.  Adaptation, assimilation, and compromise vs. maintaining their cultural, linguistic, and religious identity while living in دار الْحَرْب dār al-Ḥarb (land of the enemy, i.e., non-Muslim territory) are oftentimes a barrier to fully enjoying the benefits of living free from danger in their adopted homeland.  Finally, cultural, ethnic, racial, religious, and (trans)gender issues will be analyzed as these modern-day مُهَاجِرُون muhājirūna (migrant Muslims) negotiate their (new or reshaped) identities away from home, i.e., دَار الإسْلام dār al-Islām, the land under Muslim sovereignty.
TURKISH PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS’ INVOLVEMENT IN CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES
Authors: Erdem Havva , Akyol Tuğçe
Published: February 2024

Measuring students’ interest and involvement in classroom activities at all stages of education, from pre-school to upper secondary school, provides a better understanding of learning processes that enable the acquisition of abilities specific to a certain field. The purpose of this cross-age study was to investigate primary school students’ involvement level in classroom activities. The sample consisted of 560 students studying in the first, second, third, and fourth grades at primary schools affiliated with a city in Turkey’s inner Aegean area. The data were collected through “The Demographic Information Form” and “Leuven Involvement Scale”. The research revealed that students in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grades in primary school had a moderate involvement level. It was found that there was a significant difference between the involvement levels of primary school students and the gender, course type, and professional experience of the teacher, but there was no significant difference between the grade levels of the students. It was recommended to use current methods and strategies to increase the level of involvement of students in classroom activities and to make arrangements to improve involvement in the learning environment. Keywords: behavioral engagement, cross-age study, level of involvement, primary school, primary student
THE EFFECT OF MACROSTRUCTURE AND SUPERSTRUCTURE TEACHING ON SUMMARIZATION ACHIEVEMENT
Authors: Eroğlu Ebubekir , Özdemir Serpil
Published: February 2024

Selecting and remembering the necessary information from rapidly increasing information requires summarization skills. Research on improving students' summarization skills has focused on deletion, generalization, and reconstruction strategies. However, direct teaching of these strategies does not yield successful results. For this reason, researchers have turned to teaching summarization based on understanding the text. Knowing the macrostructure and superstructure of the text can help understand the text and select the information to be included in the summary. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of macrostructure and superstructure teaching on summary writing achievement. The study was conducted in a one-group pretest-posttest design and lasted for 6 weeks. The study was conducted with 22 seventh grade students in a public secondary school. The data were collected with a total of 132 summary texts in which students summarized five stories. The summaries of texts were scored with the Text Summary Evaluation Rubric (TSER). As a result of the study, significant differences were obtained in summarization achievement in favor of the posttest. Based on this result, it is recommended that macrostructure and superstructure teaching be included in programs and course books. This study is limited to narrative texts. In future studies, whether the achievement in summarization narrative and informative texts differs and how long it takes for different age groups to develop their achievement in summarization of different types of texts can be examined based on text structure teaching.
Keywords: Macrostructure teaching, superstructure teaching, summarization achievement, seventh grade students
Evaluación de impacto socioespacial por la influencia de un centro comercial; polígonos de planeamiento z26-z27-z28, Paseo Shopping, Riobamba-Ecuador
Authors: Morales González Janeth Alexandra , Cajamarca Dacto Karina Elizabeth , Nieto Páez Erick Fabricio , Heredia Santos Erika Michelle
Published: February 2024

Introducción: En América Latina, el acelerado incremento de proyectos inmobiliarios y equipamientos comerciales urbanos repercute significativamente en los aspectos socioculturales, económicos, políticos y en el desarrollo espacial de sus ciudades. Riobamba no escapa a esta dinámica, especialmente tras la edificación del centro comercial "Paseo Shopping". La construcción de este complejo ha implicado la reconfiguración de varios polígonos de intervención urbana (z26, z27 y z28), alterando la planificación urbana preexistente para alinearse con el nuevo eje comercial. Esta transformación ha tenido un impacto directo en la valorización comercial de la zona, evidenciando un incremento aproximado del 400% en el valor catastral comercial en la última década. Objetivo: Evaluar el impacto socioespacial por la influencia de un centro comercial; caso específico polígonos de planeamiento Z26-Z27-Z28 circundantes al centro comercial Paseo Shopping de la ciudad de Riobamba-Ecuador. Metodología:  La investigación posee un enfoque Cuantitativa-Cualitativa; Cuantitativa por la importancia de analizar las transformaciones del tejido urbano, valor del suelo y la medición índice mínimo de habitabilidad de cada sector. Cualitativa por la observación de usos de suelo, equipamientos e infraestructura y su influencia en la ideología de las personas. Resultados: La investigación revela que el polígono Z26, establecido 40 años antes que Z27 y Z28, no experimentó influencia del centro comercial en su desarrollo. En contraste, Z27 y Z28 adaptaron su uso de suelo a residencial de alta plusvalía, evidenciado por indicadores NBI que exploran la desigualdad social. Conclusión: El desarrollo de centralidades, como Paseo Shopping, amplía desigualdades sociales y fragmentación urbana, beneficiando a altas clases y aumentando costos de suelo (Z27 y Z28). La gestión de suelo y políticas inclusivas son esenciales para reducir desigualdades y promover acceso equitativo al suelo urbano. Área de estudio general: Urbanismo. Área de estudio específica: Impacto de Globalización.
Conocimiento sobre COVID-19 y percepción de miedo frente a la pandemia en la población de los distritos de Ilo y Moquegua
Authors: Alfaro Paco Eliana Rocio , Peralta Cuadros Adriano Marcelo
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: Establecer la semejanza entre el nivel de conocimientos y la percepción de miedo sobre la COVID-19 en los distritos de Ilo y Moquegua. Material y métodos: El tipo de investigación es descriptivo, diseño prospectivo de corte transversal. La población de estudio estuvo determinada por 95 912 habitantes de los distritos de Ilo y San Antonio, Moquegua. Se realizó la técnica de población finita para la toma de la muestra; representada por 382 habitantes. La técnica para medir la variable nivel de conocimientos fue la encuesta, un cuestionario de 20 preguntas de tipo cerradas, la pregunta 20 consta de 6 partes, las cuales se evaluaron con verdadero y falso. La calificación de cada ítem es de 1 punto para las correctas y 0 puntos para las incorrectas. Resultados: El 100 % de los encuestados presenta un nivel de conocimiento alto en la dimensión modo de transmisión; el 4,02 %, una percepción muy alta de miedo; el 30,12 %, una percepción alta de miedo; el 48,19 %, una percepción baja de miedo, y el 17,67 % presenta una percepción muy baja de miedo. Conclusión: Se concluye que no existe relación entre la variable de conocimiento sobre la COVID-19 y la percepción de miedo frente a la pandemia en la población de los distritos de Ilo y Moquegua, en el 2021.
Calidad de atención y nivel de satisfacción del usuario de la consulta externa del Hospital de Apoyo Jesús Nazareno
Authors: Muñoz Pizarro Rosa María , Arevalo Marco Rodolfo Amado , Morillo Acasio Berlina del Rosario , Molina Torres Jose Gregorio
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: Determinar la relación entre la calidad de atención y el nivel de satisfacción del usuario de la consulta externa del Hospital de Apoyo Jesús Nazareno, de la provincia de Huamanga, Ayacucho, en el 2017. Material y métodos: Estudio de tipo aplicativo, correlacional y de corte transversal. La población estuvo constituida por 840 usuarios que recibieron atención en consultorios externos de las especialidades de Medicina, Cirugía, Odontología, Psicología, Ginecología, Gastroenterología, Pediatría, Planificación familiar, Materno, Crecimiento y desarrollo e Inmunizaciones; la muestra estuvo conformada por 264 usuarios. La técnica de recolección de datos fue la encuesta y los instrumentos fueron el cuestionario aplicado y la escala de evaluación de la satisfacción del usuario externo en los establecimientos y servicios médicos de apoyo. Resultados: El nivel de satisfacción de la calidad de atención está relacionada significativamente con la fiabilidad, la capacidad de respuesta y la empatía (P < 0,05), y el nivel de satisfacción de la calidad de atención no está relacionada significativamente con la seguridad en la atención y elementos tangibles de la institución (P > 0,05). Conclusión: Existe relación significativa entre la calidad de atención y el nivel de satisfacción del usuario de la consulta externa del Hospital de Apoyo Jesús Nazareno.
Proceso de cuidados de enfermería aplicado en adulto con tuberculosis ganglionar y VIH
Authors: Benites Tirado Violeta Reneé , Juárez Yactayo Rosa Victoria , Macas Barba Gladys del Carmen , Sánchez Ruiz Rosa Noa , Sánchez Díaz Verónica Giovanna
Published: February 2024

Caso clínico: Paciente adulto de 53 años de edad, con diagnóstico médico de tuberculosis ganglionar asociado a VIH, adelgazado y con dificultad para deambular, grado de dependencia I, se muestra ansioso y preocupado por su estado de salud, baja autoestima, inapetencia, además, sufre de estreñimiento, FV: PA: 130/80 mmHg, temperatura de 36,2 °C, FR: 16x’ SO2 94, pesa 50 kg y mide 1,75 m. En el resultado de la radiografía pulmonar presenta cavernas y tractos fibrosos. Método: Estudio descriptivo, se realizó en el Centro de Salud Delicias de Villa - Chorrillos, para recolectar los datos se aplicó un instrumento elaborado con los 11 patrones funcionales, previamente se solicitó autorización del paciente y familia. Resultados: La evolución del paciente es favorable, con mejor conocimiento del proceso de la enfermedad, buena adherencia al tratamiento, mejora en su estado nutricional y emocional, hay apoyo familiar. Conclusiones: Según los diagnósticos de enfermería, en el primer diagnóstico se logró el 90 % del objetivo, el 10 % está en proceso, en los diagnósticos 2, 3, 4 y 5 se logró un 60 % de los objetivos y el 40 % se encuentran en proceso; el paciente continúa en tratamiento.
Conocimiento y prácticas preventivas de neoplasia maligna de mama en la policía femenina
Authors: Minaya Serna Anibal Edwin , Díaz Vargas Sara Nataly
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: Establecer si existe relación estadística entre los conocimientos y las prácticas de prevención de la neoplasia maligna de mama en la policía femenina. Material y métodos: Se trató de una investigación descriptiva, cuantitativa, con diseño no experimental, correlacional y prospectivo. En cuanto a la muestra, la constituyeron 100 integrantes del personal femenino de la policía. La técnica que se utilizó fue una encuesta, en cuanto al instrumento utilizado fue el cuestionario, en relación con los resultados que se obtuvieron fueron procesados a través del software SPSS, mientras que para contrastar la hipótesis del estudio se usó el estadístico Chi-cuadrado. Resultados: En cuanto a los conocimientos sobre la neoplasia maligna de mamas, el 52 % presentó conocimiento alto, mientras que el 48 % tuvieron conocimiento medio. En las prácticas preventivas, el 56 % realizaron prácticas adecuadas, mientras que el 44 % tuvieron prácticas inadecuadas. Conclusión: Los conocimientos sobre la neoplasia maligna de mamas en la policía femenina no guardan relación estadística con las prácticas preventivas que desarrollan, esto evidenciado a través de la utilización del estadístico Chi-cuadrado, donde se obtuvo el valor para p = 0,961 (p > 0,05).
Proceso de cuidado enfermero aplicado en un paciente con cáncer testicular en un hospital de EsSalud
Authors: Contreras Mattos Maritza , García Ñaupari Itali Araceli , Lara Diaz Hillary Isabel , Mendoza Taype Reyna Marcela , Pinedo Salazar Nicida , Bardon Matos Ruth Maria
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: Dar intervenciones de enfermería que desarrollen el buen estado de salud del usuario. Caso clínico: Paciente adulto de 45 años, de sexo masculino, con los antecedentes de líquidos ascítico y con derrame pleural bilateral; con sospecha de cáncer testicular hace 5 meses, refiere sudoración y que bajó 20 kilos de peso. El usuario ingresó al hospital el 7/4/2022 con dificultad para respirar, con abdomen distendido, con dolor de columna. Se le realizó exámenes TEM (tomografía multicorte) de abdomen, tórax y cerebro; fue operado el 4 de mayo del testículo derecho; según los resultados, el candidato recibió quimioterapia. Salió de alta el 22 de mayo del 2022, con indicaciones farmacológicas para el dolor, con dieta blanda. El paciente permanece en espera de llamado para que continúe su tratamiento de quimioterapia. Métodos: La manera de un estudio de caso único de enfoque cualitativo. Se aplicó como instrumento de valoración la teoría de 11 patrones funcionales de Marjory Gordon. Para el plan de datos se utilizaron las nomenclaturas taxonómicas internacionales de diagnósticos enfermeros 2021 - 2023 de Nanda, Noc y Nic. Resultados: El proceso del usuario fue intermedio debido a la causa de la enfermedad, se dieron los cuidados basados en planes de cuidado clasificado. Conclusión: En el diagnóstico priorizado patrón respiratorio ineficaz, la puntuación de cambio con base en los indicadores frecuencia respiratoria es (+2).
Conocimiento sobre inmunizaciones y cumplimiento del calendario de vacunación en madres con niños menores de 2 años en el Centro de Salud San Carlos, 2023.
Authors: De La Cruz Ccaico Angélica Pricila , Gonzales Saldaña. Susan Haydee
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: Determinar como el conocimiento sobre inmunizaciones se relaciona con el cumplimiento del calendario de vacunación en madres con niños menores de 2 años en el Centro de Salud San Carlos, 2023. Material y método: El estudio fue hipotético-deductivo, cuantitativo, descriptivo, corte transversal, y correlacional. La población estuvo conformada por 90 madres de niños menores de 2 años. Las técnicas son una encuesta y observación y dos instrumentos validados y confiables. Resultados: Las madres con niños menores de 2 años que asisten al Centro de Salud San Carlos, presentan edades comprendidas entre 30 a 39 años 57.8%, entre 18 a 29 años 32.2% y 40 a más años 10%; con un nivel de estudios secundaria 62.2%, superior técnico 22.2%, primaria 11.1% y superior universitario 4.4%; el estado civil convivientes 55.6%, casadas 30% y solteras 14.4%. El nivel de conocimiento sobre inmunizaciones medio 70%, alto 17.8% y bajo 12.2%. El nivel de cumplimiento del calendario de vacunación si cumple 51.1% y no cumple 48.9%. Las madres con niños menores de 2 años que tienen conocimiento medio sobre inmunizaciones cumplen con el calendario de vacunación 36.7%. Conclusiones: La Prueba de Spearman existe relación estadísticamente significativa entre el conocimiento sobre inmunizaciones y el cumplimiento del calendario de vacunación en madres con niños menores de 2 años en el Centro de Salud San Carlos (Rho = 0.827, p = 0.032 < 0.05).
Cuidados de enfermería a paciente con trastorno autista en un hospital psiquiátrico, un estudio de caso clínico.
Authors: Pinto Muñoz Yima Anai , Rojas Ramos Claudia Jimena , Aypi Sanchez Greta Estrella , Vargas Huamani Dayra Lucero , Arévalo Marcos Rodolfo Amado
Published: February 2024

Introducción: El presente caso clínico fue elaborado utilizando el método científico del lenguaje enfermero de tercera generación vinculando las taxonomías de NANDA, clasificación de intervenciones de enfermería y clasificación de los resultados de enfermería.

Objetivo: Proporcionar cuidados e intervenciones de enfermería que mejoren el estado de salud en el paciente psiquiátrico.

Presentación del caso clínico: Paciente adulto mayor de 60 años, de sexo masculino no tiene antecedentes, usuario ingresa al hospital psiquiátrico Víctor Larco Herrera con fecha 17 de julio de 1995, procedente del pabellón 9, encontrándose en la unidad de cuidados especiales (UCE), por presentar estreñimiento hace 6 días y constipación crónica, con diagnostico medico psiquiátrico de trastorno autista. Método: El método es un estudio de caso único de enfoque cualitativo. Se utilizó como instrumento de valoración la teoría de 11 patrones funcionales de Marjory Gordon y el examen mental conjunto a las esferas mentales, para el procesamiento de datos de utilizaron las nomenclaturas taxonómicas internacionales de diagnósticos enfermeros 2021 – 2023 de NANDA, NOC y NIC. Resultado: La evolución del usuario fue medianamente favorable debido a la complejidad de la enfermedad, se brindaron todos los cuidados basados en planes de cuidado individualizado. Conclusiones: Para el diagnostico priorizado Estreñimiento, tuvo como puntuación de cambio en base a los indicadores: frecuencia de deposiciones puntuación cambio (+2), y el indicador estreñimiento la puntación cambio (+2)
Development and validity evidence for the resident-led large group teaching assessment instrument in the United States: a methodological study
Authors: Frey-Vogel Ariel Shana , Dzara Kristina , Gifford Kimberly Anne , Park Yoon Soo , Berk Justin , Heinly Allison , Wolcott Darcy , Hall Daniel Adam , Elliott Scott-Vernaglia Shannon , Sparger Katherine Anne , Chung Erica Ye-pyng
Published: February 2024

Purpose: Despite educational mandates to assess resident teaching competence, limited instruments with validity evidence exist for this purpose. Existing instruments do not allow faculty to assess resident-led teaching in a large group format or whether teaching was interactive. This study gathers validity evidence on the use of the Resident-led Large Group Teaching Assessment Instrument (Relate), an instrument used by faculty to assess resident teaching competency. Relate comprises 23 behaviors divided into 6 elements: learning environment, goals and objectives, content of talk, promotion of understanding and retention, session management, and closure.Methods: Messick’s unified validity framework was used for this study. Investigators used video recordings of resident-led teaching from 3 pediatric residency programs to develop Relate and a rater guidebook. Faculty were trained on instrument use through frame-of-reference training. Resident teaching at all sites was video-recorded during 2018–2019. Two trained faculty raters assessed each video. Descriptive statistics on performance were obtained. Validity evidence sources include: rater training effect (response process), reliability and variability (internal structure), and impact on Milestones assessment (relations to other variables).Results: Forty-eight videos, from 16 residents, were analyzed. Rater training improved inter-rater reliability from 0.04 to 0.64. The Φ-coefficient reliability was 0.50. There was a significant correlation between overall Relate performance and the pediatric teaching Milestone (r=0.34, P=0.019).Conclusion: Relate provides validity evidence with sufficient reliability to measure resident-led large-group teaching competence.
Flatback futures—evaluating conservation interventions to reduce threats to an endemic Australian turtle
Authors: Hobday AJ , van Putten EI , Cvitanovic C , Dunlop M , Fossette S , Ison S , Richards SA , Thomas L , Tuohy P , Annand-Jones R , Tucker T , Whiting S
Published: February 2024

Australia’s endemic flatback turtle Natator depressus is the focus of a long-term conservation program aimed at securing the persistence of healthy populations in the northwest of Australia into the future. Primary threats to flatback turtles include (1) sea level rise, (2) predation from introduced species, (3) temperature increases, (4) onshore and nearshore light, (5) marine debris, and (6) modification to beaches. Population declines resulting from these threats have been reported or are anticipated, and a range of intervention options are possible that may limit their negative impact. Following methods previously developed and applied to iconic marine species and habitats, we generated a range of intervention options, and asked experts to prioritise those actions using an intervention prioritisation tool (IPT) and the public to prioritise based on social acceptability assessment (SAS). The IPT allows different conservation interventions to be assessed based on their economic cost, implementation feasibility, social acceptability, and perceived effectiveness in maintaining or increasing future turtle populations while simultaneously accounting for expert confidence in their assessment. Results generated by the IPT and SAS can be explored further to resolve uncertainty, a process that can help managers and experts alike in their decision-making process associated with flatback conservation. While this paper is focused on interventions relating to flatback turtles, we propose that our IPT can be applied in different settings to enable consideration of interventions for a range of threatened species and habitats to guide research and conservation investment decisions by managers.
RVB method is equivalent to the kinetic energy theorem-Bridging Residues and Euler Characteristics: A Theoretical Exploration
Authors: CHEN WEN-XIANG
Published: February 2024

In this paper, the method of category theory is used to simply prove that the RVB method is equivalent to the kinetic energy theorem.When $\Omega_{\mathrm{H}}$can be 0, for the case of the RVB method, its algebraic structure is equivalent to the group of prime numbers. Dimensionally setting the RVB method to the simplest case, it is equivalent to the kinetic energy theorem.This paper explores the theoretical underpinnings that connect the concept of residues, a fundamental aspect of complex analysis, with Euler characteristics, a pivotal invariant in topology. While residues are central to calculating integrals around isolated singularities in complex functions, Euler characteristics offer insight into the topological structure of spaces. We propose methodologies to bridge these seemingly distinct mathematical domains through the lens of advanced mathematical theories such as algebraic geometry, topology, and complex geometry. By examining specific geometric structures and manifolds, we delineate a conceptual framework that links residues with Euler characteristics, providing a novel perspective on understanding the interplay between complex analysis and topology.
Editorial
Authors: Vieira Chirlei Silva , Barbiratto Jhéssica Zezak Rodrigues
Published: February 2024

Prezados leitores e estimada comunidade acadêmica é com renovado entusiasmo, que apresentamos a segunda edição da Calunga AE - Revista Interdisciplinar de Engenharia Civil, Arquitetura e Urbanismo. Essa edição acontece em um momento no qual as mudanças climáticas se manifestam com muita intensidade e cada vez mais respondendo as ações antropológicas, tornando-se necessário olhar para urbanismo e a construção civil de forma mais responsável e sustentável, pois esses setores são parte importante nas transformações ambientais e urbanas.
Subsídios para elaboração de projeto de biovaleta em um trecho de via do sistema de drenagem urbana em Paranavaí/PR
Authors: Costa Luana Pradella , Rios Angélica Vinci do Nascimento Gimenes
Published: February 2024

O crescimento rápido, desordenado e sem planejamento de cidades faz com que os centros urbanos necessitem de maiores atenções quanto a drenagem urbana. Nesse cenário, a implantação da infraestrutura verde visa minimizar os impactos ambientais e reestabelecer a relação entre o construído e o natural, bem como, conservar os ecossistemas ao seu redor. Nesse sentido, desenvolveu-se no presente trabalho a elaboração de um projeto com subsídios para o emprego de biovaletas em determinada região da cidade de Paranavaí, no estado do Paraná, afim de se amenizar os problemas trazidos pelo escoamento superficial em áreas de infiltração limitada. O local escolhido para a implantação das biovaletas possui um histórico de inundações devido a intensa precipitação e falhas na absorção de águas provenientes da chuva, sendo verificados a declividade e a integração do possível projeto com o fluxo de veículos, além dos demais elementos necessários. Pode-se afirmar que é sim possível elaborar um projeto para a implantação de biovaletas no município com pouca interferência na funcionabilidade do trecho de via e agregar com a drenagem urbana local, porém sem um estudo de viabilidade econômica e financeira é impossível determinar sua aplicabilidade, sendo necessária a realização de pesquisas futuras.
Establishment and application of a rapid molecular diagnostic platform for the isothermal visual amplification of group B Streptococcus based on recombinase polymerase
Authors: Liu Meilin , Wang Huan , Chu Chu , Min Fanli , Sun Lizhou , Zhang Teng , Meng Qian
Published: February 2024

With growing concerns about Group B streptococcal (GBS) infections and their adverse effects on perinatal pregnancies, including infection, premature delivery, neonatal septicemia, and meningitis, it is urgent to promote GBS screening at all pregnancy stages. The purpose of this study is to establish a device-independent, fast, sensitive, and visual GBS detection method. Taking advantage of the characteristics of the recombinase polymerase isothermal amplification (RPA), the activity of the nfo nuclease cleavage base analog (tetrahydrofuran, THF) site, and the advantages of visual reading of the lateral flow chromatography strip (LFS), a GBS detection method was developed. This method focused on the conservative region of the Christie–Atkins–Munch–Petersen factor encoded by the cfb gene, a virulence gene specific to GBS. Two forward primers, two biotin-labeled reverse primers, and one fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled and C3spacer-blocked probe were designed. The study involved optimizing the primer pair and probe combination, determining the optimal reaction temperature and time, evaluating specificity, analyzing detection limits, and testing the method on 87 vaginal swabs from perinatal pregnant women. The results showed that the visual detection method of GBS-RPA-LFS, using the cfb-F1/R2/P1 primer probe, could detect GBS within 15 min at the temperature ranging from 39°C to 42°C. Furthermore, the method specifically amplified only GBS, without cross-reacting with pathogens like Lactobacillus iners, Lactobacillus crispatus, Candida albicans, Listeria monocytogenes, Yersinia enterocolitica, Klebsiella Pneumoniae, Enterobacter cloacae, Citrobacter freundii, Vibrio alginolyticus, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Salmonella typhimurium, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, or Trichomonas vaginalis. It could detect a minimum of 100 copies per reaction. In clinical 98 samples of vaginal swabs from pregnant women, the agreement rate between the GBS-RPA-LFS method and TaqMan real-time fluorescence quantification method was 95.92%. In conclusion, this study successfully established a combined RPA and LFS GBS in situ detection platform, with short reaction time, high sensitivity, high specificity, portability, and device independence, providing a feasible strategy for clinical GBS screening.
The inflammatory spectrum of cardiomyopathies
Authors: Musigk Nicolas , Suwalski Phillip , Golpour Ainoosh , Fairweather DeLisa , Klingel Karin , Martin Pilar , Frustaci Andrea , Cooper Leslie T. , Lüscher Thomas F. , Landmesser Ulf , Heidecker Bettina
Published: February 2024

Infiltration of the myocardium with various cell types, cytokines and chemokines plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of cardiomyopathies including inflammatory cardiomyopathies and myocarditis. A more comprehensive understanding of the precise immune mechanisms involved in acute and chronic myocarditis is essential to develop novel therapeutic approaches. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge of the immune landscape in cardiomyopathies based on etiology. It identifies gaps in our knowledge about cardiac inflammation and emphasizes the need for new translational approaches to improve our understanding thus enabling development of novel early detection methods and more effective treatments.
A wolf in sheep's clothing—aortic stenosis and cardiac amyloidosis: “RAISE”ing awareness in clinical practice
Authors: Sabbour H. , Al-Humood K. , Al Taha Z. , Romany I. , Haddadin H. , Mohty D.
Published: February 2024

Aesop's fable of the wolf in sheep's clothing encourages us to look beneath the exterior appearance of a situation and evaluate the truth that lies beneath. This concept should be applied when managing older patients with severe aortic stenosis. This population of patients is increasingly being identified as having concomitant cardiac amyloidosis, which is an underrecognized cause of common cardiac conditions. The presence of cardiac amyloidosis negatively affects the outcome of patients with aortic stenosis, these patients undergo transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) with increasing frequency and have a significantly higher overall mortality rate than patients with aortic stenosis alone. Although left ventricular wall hypertrophy is expected in patients with aortic stenosis, it should not be assumed that this is caused only by aortic stenosis. A suspicion of cardiac amyloidosis should be raised in patients in whom the degree of hypertrophy is disproportionate to the degree of aortic stenosis severity. The remodeling, age, injury, systemic, and electrical (RAISE) score was developed to predict the presence of cardiac amyloidosis in patients with severe aortic stenosis. This article highlights the value of increased clinical suspicion, demonstrates the use of the multiparameter RAISE score in daily clinical practice, and illustrates the scoring system with case studies. In elderly patients being considered for TAVR, systematic testing for cardiac amyloidosis should be considered as part of the preoperative workup.
The impact of concomitant chronic total occlusion on clinical outcomes in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement: a large single-center analysis
Authors: Will Maximilian , Schwarz Konstantin , Weiss Thomas , Leibundgut Gregor , Schmidt Elisabeth , Vock Paul , Mousavi Roya , Borovac Josip A. , Kwok Chun Shing , Hoppe Uta C. , Mascherbauer Julia , Lamm Gudrun
Published: February 2024

Background

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a common finding in patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). However, the impact on prognosis of chronic total occlusions (CTOs), a drastic expression of CAD, remains unclear.

Methods and results

We retrospectively reviewed 1,487 consecutive TAVR cases performed at a single tertiary care medical center. Pre-TAVR angiograms were analyzed for the presence of a CTO. At the time of TAVR, 11.2% (n = 167) patients had a CTO. There was no significant association between the presence of a CTO and in-hospital or 30-day mortality. There was also no difference in long-term survival. LV ejection fraction and mean aortic gradients were lower in the CTO group.

Conclusions

Our analysis suggests that concomitant CTO lesions in patients undergoing TAVR differ in their risk profile and clinical findings to patients without CTO. CTO lesion per se were not associated with increased mortality, nevertheless CTOs which supply non-viable myocardium in TAVR population were associated with increased risk of death. Additional research is needed to evaluate the prognostic significance of CTO lesions in TAVR patients.
Time series subsidence evaluation using NSBAS InSAR: a case study of twin megacities (Rawalpindi and Islamabad) in Pakistan
Authors: Zafar Waqar Ali , Javed Farhan , Ahmed Rizwan , Shah Muhammad Ali , Ahmad Mahmood , Khan Muhammad Younis , Abdullah Gamil M. S. , Khan Daud , Najeh Taoufik , Gamil Yaser
Published: February 2024

Ground deformation associated with natural and anthropogenic activities can be damaging for infrastructure and can cause enormous economic loss, particularly in developing countries which lack measuring instruments. Remote sensing techniques like interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) can thus play an important role in investigating deformation and mitigating geohazards. Rawalpindi and Islamabad are twin cities in Pakistan with a population of approximately 5.4 million, along with important government and private entities of national and international interest. In this study, we evaluate rapid paced subsidence in this area using a modified small baseline subset technique with Sentinel-1A imagery acquired between 2015 and 2022. Our results show that approximately 50 mm/year subsidence occurs in the older city of Rawalpindi, the most populated zone. We observed that subsidence in the area is controlled by the buried splays of the Main Boundary Thrust, one of the most destructive active faults in the recent past. We suggest that such rapid subsidence is most probably due to aggressive subsurface water extraction. It has been found that, despite provision of alternate water supplies by the district government, a very alarming number of tube wells are being operated in the area to extract ground water. Over 2017–2021, field data showed that near-surface aquifers up to 50–60 m deep are exhausted, and most of the tube wells are currently extracting water from depths of approximately 150–160 m. The dropping water level is proportional to the increasing number of tube wells. Lying downstream of tributaries originating from the Margalla and Murree hills, this area has a good monsoon season, and its topography supports recharge of the aquifers. However, rapid subsidence indicates a deficit between water extraction and recharge, partly due to the limitations inherent in shale and the low porosity near the surface lithology exposed in the area. Other factors amplifying the impacts are fast urbanization, uncontrolled population growth, and non-cultivation of precipitation in the area.
Research on the data-driven inter-well fracture channeling identification method for shale gas reservoirs
Authors: He Feng , Yue Ming , Zhou Yibo , He Huaiying , Jiang Wei , Liu Long , Qian Chao , Shu Pinghua
Published: February 2024

The issue of inter-well fracture channeling in shale reservoirs is becoming increasingly prominent, significantly impacting the production of nearby wells. Therefore, it is crucial to accurately determine the location of fracture channeling in order to effectively design anti-channeling measures and optimize reservoir fracturing. In this paper, a data-driven fracture propagation model and fracture channeling identification method are established. In the model, the fracture morphology is fitted by the bottom-hole flowing pressure constraint. The bottom-hole flowing pressure (pwp) calculated by the construction pump pressure and the fluid wellbore flow is mainly considered as the real solution. The bottom-hole flowing pressure (pwf) calculated by the construction displacement and the fracture morphology is used as the constraint variable, and the fracture parameters are changed using the SPSA optimization algorithm to realize the dynamic fitting of the fracture morphology. In order to accurately describe the position of fracture channeling, the seepage radius of the fracture boundary is introduced to calculate the volume of fracture reconstruction. The volume coefficient of repeated reconstruction is used as the quantitative evaluation index of fracture channeling. This approach enables an accurate depiction of the position of fracture channeling. Finally, the model method is applied to the actual fracture channeling well. The study shows that the fracture length of the well inversion is greater than the well spacing, and there is a possibility of inter-well fracture channeling. The volume coefficient of repeated reconstruction is 8%, similar to the critical fracture channeling index. There are nine fracturing sections with fracture channeling, and the maximum fracture channeling coefficient is 14.2%. This paper successfully explains the reason for cross-well fracture channeling, and its conclusion aligns with the actual monitoring results. The proposed method in this paper effectively identifies the location of fracture channeling and offers guidance for optimizing channeling prevention in subsequent designs.
Vascular changes of the choroid and their correlations with visual acuity in diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Jing Ruixia , Sun Xiubin , Cheng Jimin , Li Xue , Wang Zhen
Published: February 2024

Objective

To investigate changes in the choroidal vasculature and their correlations with visual acuity in diabetic retinopathy (DR).

Methods

The cohort was composed of 225 eyes from 225 subjects, including 60 eyes from 60 subjects with healthy control, 55 eyes from 55 subjects without DR, 46 eyes from 46 subjects with nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), 21 eyes from 21 subjects with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), and 43 eyes from 43 subjects with clinically significant macular edema (CSME). Swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) was used to image the eyes with a 12-mm radial line scan protocol. The parameters for 6-mm diameters of region centered on the macular fovea were analyzed. Initially, a custom deep learning algorithm based on a modified residual U-Net architecture was utilized for choroidal boundary segmentation. Subsequently, the SS-OCT image was binarized and the Niblack-based automatic local threshold algorithm was employed to calibrate subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT), luminal area (LA), and stromal area (SA) by determining the distance between the two boundaries. Finally, the ratio of LA and total choroidal area (SA + LA) was defined as the choroidal vascularity index (CVI). The choroidal parameters in five groups were compared, and correlations of the choroidal parameters with age, gender, duration of diabetes mellitus (DM), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting blood sugar, SFCT and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were analyzed.

Results

The CVI, SFCT, LA, and SA values of patients with DR were found to be significantly lower compared to both healthy patients and patients without DR (P < 0.05). The SFCT was significantly higher in NPDR group compared to the No DR group (P < 0.001). Additionally, the SFCT was lower in the PDR group compared to the NPDR group (P = 0.014). Furthermore, there was a gradual decrease in CVI with progression of diabetic retinopathy, reaching its lowest value in the PDR group. However, the CVI of the CSME group exhibited a marginally closer proximity to that of the NPDR group. The multivariate regression analysis revealed a positive correlation between CVI and the duration of DM as well as LA (P < 0.05). The results of both univariate and multivariate regression analyses demonstrated a significant positive correlation between CVI and BCVA (P = 0.003).

Conclusion

Choroidal vascular alterations, especially decreased CVI, occurred in patients with DR. The CVI decreased with duration of DM and was correlated with visual impairment, indicating that the CVI might be a reliable imaging biomarker to monitor the progression of DR.
Re-analysis of gene mutations found in pituitary stalk interruption syndrome and a new hypothesis on the etiology
Authors: Wang Shengjie , Qin Qiaozhen , Jiang Deyue , Xiao Yan , Ye Lingtong , Jiang Xiaoxia , Guo Qinghua
Published: February 2024

Background

Pituitary stalk interruption syndrome (PSIS) is a complex clinical syndrome characterized by varied pituitary hormone deficiencies, leading to severe manifestations across multiple systems. These include lifelong infertility, short stature, mental retardation, and potentially life-threatening pituitary crises if not promptly diagnosed and treated. Despite extensive research, the precise pathogenesis of PSIS remains unclear. Currently, there are two proposed theories regarding the pathogenic mechanisms: the genetic defect theory and the perinatal injury theory.

Methods

We systematically searched English databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase) and Chinese databases (CNKI, WanFang Med Online, Sinomed) up to February 24, 2023, to summarize studies on gene sequencing in PSIS patients. Enrichment analyses of reported mutated genes were subsequently performed using the Metascape platform.

Results

Our study included 37 articles. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed mutated genes were enriched in the Notch signaling pathway, Wnt signaling pathway, and Hedgehog signaling pathway. GO enrichment analysis demonstrated mutated genes were enriched in biological processes such as embryonic development, brain development, axon development and guidance, and development of other organs.

Conclusion

Based on our summary and analyses, we propose a new hypothesis: disruptions in normal embryonic development, partially stemming from the genetic background and/or specific gene mutations in individuals, may increase the likelihood of abnormal fetal deliveries, where different degrees of traction during delivery may lead to different levels of pituitary stalk interruption and posterior lobe ectopia. The clinical diversity observed in PSIS patients may result from a combination of genetic background, specific mutations, and variable degrees of traction during delivery.
L−shaped association of triglyceride glucose index and sensorineural hearing loss: results from a cross-sectional study and Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Wang Yixuan , Liu Hui , Nie Xinlin , Lu Na , Yan Sheng , Wang Xin , Zhao Yuxiang
Published: February 2024

Background

The association between the sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) and triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index remains inadequately understood. This investigation seeks to elucidate the connection between the TyG index and SNHL.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, we utilized datasets sourced from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). A comprehensive analysis was conducted on 1,851 participants aged 20 to 69, utilizing complete audiometry data from the NHANES database spanning from 2007 to 2018. All enrolled participants had accessible hearing data, and the average thresholds were measured and calculated as both low-frequency pure-tone average and high-frequency pure-tone average. Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) was defined as an average pure tone of 20 dB or higher in at least one better ear. Our analysis involved the application of multivariate linear regression models to examine the linear relationship between the TyG index and SNHL. To delineate any non-linear associations, we utilized fitted smoothing curves and conducted threshold effect analysis. Furthermore, we conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study, leveraging genetic data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) on circulating lipids, blood glucose, and SNHL. The primary analytical method for the MR study was the application of the inverse-variance-weighted (IVW) approach.

Results

In our multivariate linear regression analysis, a substantial positive correlation emerged between the TyG index and SNHL [2.10 (1.80-2.44), p < 0.0001]. Furthermore, using a two-segment linear regression model, we found an L-shaped relationship between TyG index, fasting blood glucose and SNHL with an inflection point of 9.07 and 94 mg/dL, respectively. Specifically, TyG index [3.60, (1.42-9.14)] and blood glucose [1.01, (1.00-1.01)] concentration higher than the threshold values was positively associated with SNHL risk. Genetically determined triglyceride levels demonstrated a causal impact on SNHL (OR = 1.092, p = 8.006 × 10−4). In addition, blood glucose was found to have a protective effect on SNHL (OR = 0.886, p = 1.012 × 10−2).

Conclusions

An L-shaped association was identified among the TyG index, fasting blood glucose, and SNHL in the American population. TyG index of more than 9.07 and blood glucose of more than 94 mg/dL were significantly and positively associated with SNHL risk, respectively.
Metal bioavailability in aquatic systems— beyond complexation and competition
Authors: Fortin Claude
Published: February 2024

Metal bioavailability in solution is mostly driven by two factors: complexation and competition. The first factor, complexation, contributes to decrease the overall reactivity of the metal by reducing the activity of the free metal ion, which is known as the common denominator of metal reactions involving either dissolved ligands or surface functional groups (abiotic or biotic). Ubiquitous in natural ecosystems, natural organic matter is, for several metals, the most important metal complexing ligand. The second factor, competition, contributes to decrease the availability of biotic ligands involved in the membrane transport of metals from the bulk solution to the intracellular medium. In freshwater systems, proton and hardness cation concentrations are the main parameters potentially modulating metal bioavailability. The above reflects the current accepted paradigm. In this paper, two knowledge gaps are identified: i) the role of natural organic matter other than metal complexation that may lead to an increase in metal bioavailability; and ii) the effects of multiple metals other than competition that may trigger biological feedback mechanisms which may, in turn, alter biotic ligand binding properties. More research efforts are needed to decipher the extent of these overlooked potential effects and to improve the predictability of metal bioavailability.