bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efectos de la pandemia COVID-19 en la salud mental infanto juvenil: revisión bibliográfica
Authors: Retamal Parra María Dorca
Published: September 2022

Introducción: la pandemia COVID-19 es una enfermedad infecciosa causada por el virus SARS-CoV-2, la cual ha generado cambios sin precedentes en la vida de las personas a nivel mundial por medio del confinamiento, cierre de escuelas, dificultades socioeconómicas y estrés familiar. El objetivo de este estudio es conocer los efectos de la pandemia en niñas, niños y adolescentes a nivel mundial y cómo afecta en la salud mental de dicha población. Métodos: se realizó una revisión bibliográfica con búsqueda en PUBMED y Google Académico de artículos relacionados con efectos de la pandemia en la salud mental infanto juvenil, en español e inglés entre los años 2020 y 2022. Resultados: se encontró mayor cantidad de artículos de habla inglesa y de metodología cualitativa con temas de alta relevancia, tales como: el aislamiento, soledad y cambio en hábitos de niñas, niños y adolescentes asociados al confinamiento y cierre de escuelas. También se mencionan los efectos en la salud mental, siendo la ansiedad y la depresión los trastornos más prevalentes junto al agravamiento de condiciones preexistentes como el trastorno de espectro autista (TEA) y por trastorno por déficit de atención e hiperactividad (TDAH) entre otras. El confinamiento probablemente llevó a que las familias se encontraran mayor tiempo juntas en casa, pero también expuestas a estrés económico, relacional y en poder sobrellevar responsabilidades laborales, escolares y hogareñas, asociándose este estrés en ocasiones a situaciones de violencia y maltrato. En cuanto a la sintomatología, ésta se diferenció por edad y género, observando mayor severidad en mujeres adolescentes y adolescentes de género diverso. Conclusiones: la ansiedad y la depresión aparecen como los trastornos más prevalentes en población infanto juvenil, estos resultados permiten poder dirigir políticas públicas en poblaciones de riesgo específicas, medidas a largo plazo y tomar decisiones basadas en evidencia respecto de futuros confinamientos o cierre de escuelas.
Síndrome de Pfeiffer con mutación Trp290Cys del gen FGFR2 y fístula rectovaginal
Authors: Lemos Calle Natalia , Orozco Flórez Caroline , Doria Atencia Jesly , Puello Bermúdez Dionisio , Fontalvo Rivera Dilia
Published: September 2022

El síndrome de Pfeiffer es una enfermedad autosómica dominante con una incidencia mundial estimada de 1 por cada 100 000 recién nacidos vivos. Se caracteriza principalmente por craneosinostosis, hipoplasia mediofacial, extremidades con gruesos artejos prominentes y sindactilia. Es causada por mutaciones alélicas en los genes del receptor del factor de crecimiento de fibroblastos 1 y 2.
Presentamos el caso clínico de una recién nacida con cráneo en trébol, hipoplasia mediofacial, dentición congénita, proptosis bilateral severa, extremidades con dedos prominentes, sindactilia en pie izquierdo y fístula rectovaginal. A los 10 días de vida presenta perforación ocular derecha que requirió enucleación completa. Progresa con deterioro hemodinámico y respiratorio y fallece a los 11 días de edad.
El diagnóstico clínico y molecular fue de síndrome de Pfeiffer tipo 2a con mutación Trp290Cys del gen FRFG2, que presentó fístula rectovaginal como asociación no descrita, constituyéndose en el primer caso reportado en el lugar de procedencia, pudiendo ser la primera manifestación de una mutación en el gen del receptor FGFR 2 en su área geográfica.
Escenario del cuidado de las personas mayores en los próximos años
Authors: Fasce Gerardo
Published: September 2022

Comisión del Senado. República de Chile (2022). Avanza ley integral de las personas adultas mayores y de promoción del envejecimiento positivo. Accedido en:    https://www.senado.cl/avanza-ley-integral-de-las-personas-adultas-mayores-y-de-promocion-del el 20 de septiembre de 2022.

Ministerio de Salud. (2021). Plan Nacional de Salud Integral para las Personas Mayores y su Plan de Acción 2020-2030. Accedido en: https://diprece.minsal.cl/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Plan-Nacional-de-Salud-Integral-para-Personas-Mayores_v2.pdf el 20 de septiembre de 2022.

Rojas FH, Rodríguez Canache L. & Rodríguez León J. (2022) Envejecimiento en Chile: Evolución, características de las personas mayores y desafíos demográficos para la población. Accedido en: https://www.ine.cl/docs/default-source/demografia-y-migracion/documentos-de-trabajo/documentos/envejecimiento-en-chile-evolucion-y-caracteristicas-de-las-personas-mayores.pdf?sfvrsn=b76bd496_4 el 22 de septiembre de 2022.
Valsalva Retinopathy after a Vomiting Episode
Authors: Leite João , Meireles Angelina , Correia Nuno Alves
Published: September 2022

This case presents a minimal invasive alternative for the treatment of subhyaloid hemorrhages. Young, female, 32 years old, with no regular medication and with no personal or ophthalmological history, reports a sudden and profound decrease in visual acuity after an episode of vomiting, with 2 days of evolution. After funduscopic observation and complementary diagnostic tests, subhyaloid hemorrhage was detected and laser hyaloidotomy was performed, with restoration of visual acuity after 1 week. Nd:YAG laser treatment made it possible to quickly restore the visual acuity of the patient after following diagnostic procedures, avoiding other types of treatments, such as pars plana vitrectomy. This case reports a Valsalva retinopathy with clinical presentation in the form of subhyaloid hemorrhage after an episode of self-limited vomiting, effectively treated with Nd: YAG laser.
Advanced optimal GWO-PID controller for DC motor
Authors: Aziz Ghada Adel , Shneen Salam Waley , Abdullah Fatin Nabeel , Shaker Dina Harith
Published: September 2022

The current work aims to use traditional control algorithms and advanced optimization algorithms that was chosen for its ease of control and the possibility of using it in many industrial applications. By setting the appropriate specifications for the simulation model and after conducting the planned tests that simulate different applications of the motor’s work within electrical systems, the results proved to obtain good performance of the motor’s work, better response, high accuracy, in addition to the speed. The goal is to design and tune a proportional–integral–derivative (PID) controller by grey wolf optimization (GWO) using T.F for a direct current (DC) motor. To adjust the parameters of the traditional controllers using the optimum advanced, an appropriate mechanism and technology from the advanced optimization techniques were chosen, as the gray wolf technology algorithm was chosen as an optimization technique and integral time absolute error (ITAE) to adjust the parameters of the traditional PID controller.
Creative project-based learning model to increase creativity of vocational high school students
Authors: Usmeldi Usmeldi , Amini Risda
Published: September 2022

The competence of vocational students in mastering electric motor installation was still low, because learning process has not involved student activities. One of the choices to activate students in learning was through project-based learning. Students were trained to be able to solve problems and make creative products. Project-based learning that applied in learning the Electric Motor Installation has not been able to increase students’ creativity in solving problems and make creative products. Therefore, research was carried to develop a project-based learning model into creative project-based learning. To support the implementation of the creative project-based learning model, teaching material is needed. The development of creative project-based learning use research and development method of 4D model of Thiagarajan with the stages of define, design, develop and disseminate. The research instruments were interview guides, observation sheets, questionnaires, skills assessment sheets, and test. Data analysis use percentage, gain score, and t-test. The research resulted a creative project-based learning model that was valid, practical and effective to improve student competence in Electric Motor Installation. The creative project-based learning model can increase students' creativity and competence in the form of mastery of teaching materials, skills in make the creative product and work attitudes.
Administrative stressors and psychological and physiological symptoms among novice primary school principals
Authors: Ling Yii Chai , Tahir Lokman Mohd , Ali Mohd Fadzli , Ahmad Roslee , Anis Siti Nisrin Mohd , Hassan Roslizam
Published: September 2022

This study was conducted to identify whether the administrative workloads led to the stress level among novice principals in their new schools. In addition, we also explore whether the principals are experiencing the psychological and psychological symptoms from their stress issue. The data collection consisted of two major phases. In the first phase, questionnaires were administered to 70 novice primary principals who were just being appointed at their new schools. It was followed by three sessions of interviews with purposely selected 10 novice primary principals as the second phase. From the quantitative data analysis, primary principals perceived their schools’ administrative stress caused them a moderate stress level from their heavy administrative workloads. However, principals reported having psychological and physiological symptoms from the quantitative findings and interview sessions.
Assessing feedback practices in classroom assessment at federal government educational institutions of Lahore, Pakistan
Authors: Shah Syed Kamran Ali , Habib Zahida
Published: September 2022

This study aimed at investigating current feedback practices in classroom assessment. A sample of 300 participants including 150 teachers and 150 students each was selected using a stratified random sampling technique. Under the positivist paradigm, a survey method was deployed to conduct the research. In this study, a self-developed questionnaire comprising 20 items was used for data collection from the participants. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS (24.0). Frequencies and percentages were calculated in descriptive stats, whereas an independent sample t-test was used to verify research hypotheses. The study explored that class tests, class exercises, homework, and trial work during lessons were the most commonly used assessment tools whereas essay-type questions, and multiple-type questions were the most commonly used assessment formats. Moreover, it was found that delayed marking and returning of assessment tasks, less or no motivation for better performance, and lack of contact with parents were the major issues in feedback on classroom assessment at Federal Government Educational Institutions (FGEIs). The study recommended that the workload of teachers should be reduced so that they may have sufficient time to design and evaluate assessment tasks. Professional training on assessment on regular basis may be arranged for the faculty. A comprehensive plan of classroom assessment may be proposed by school principals along with a defined syllabus and be timely communicated the same to all stakeholders. An effective mechanism of monitoring to assess classroom assessment feedback practices may also be established.
Enhancing students’ nature of science understanding through project-based learning and mind mapping
Authors: Sukaesih Sri , Zubaidah Siti , Mahanal Susriyati , Listyorini Dwi
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to investigate students' understanding of the nature of science (NOS) in project-based learning combined with mind mapping (PjBL-MM), students' NOS understanding across gender, and PjBL-MM and gender interaction's effect on students' NOS understanding of conservation education. It employed a pretest-post-test non-equivalent group design. The research population consisted of first-year students at the Biology Department, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Negeri Semarang, Central Java, Indonesia. Thus, the study consisted of 98 students (40 males and 58 females) selected randomly from three different classes. The students' NOS understanding was assessed using the views of NOS type B questionnaire. The learning models' effectiveness was tested using ANCOVA. The results showed a significant difference in students' NOS understanding, PjBL-MM group reported the highest NOS score among all treatment groups in the Conservation education course. There is a significant difference NOS understanding between male and female students. Females outperformed males in NOS understanding. However, PjBL-MM and gender interaction did not affect students' NOS understanding. This study is expected to encourage the implementation of PjBL-MM to improve the students' NOS understanding. The educators are also expected to empower NOS understanding through students' active participation in science by implementing project-based learning combined with mind mapping techniques.
Mediating role of employee engagement between Blue Ocean Leadership and team performance
Authors: Oh Zi Jian , Awang Marinah , Khoo Yin Yin
Published: September 2022

The study examined the mediating effect of employee engagement between blue ocean leadership and team performance among lecturers. A cross-sectional study design was used, and quantitative data were collected using a structured survey from 2,580 lecturers from the population across the 22 vocational colleges in Malaysia's north zone. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used for data analysis. The results revealed a considerable positive relationship between blue ocean leadership and employee engagement, as well as between employee engagement and team performance. Employee engagement, as demonstrated through the use of bootstrapping analysis, acts as a mediator between blue ocean leadership and team performance. The finding supported the Blue Ocean Leadership theory and Social Exchange theory in this study. Future research is be recommended to conduct in other states as well as private institutions to get a comprehensive understanding.
Effectiveness of joyful game-based blended learning method in learning chemistry during COVID-19
Authors: Sundaram Sripriya , Ramesh Rajendran
Published: September 2022

The recent introduction of joyful learning in National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 created great interest among students and is predicted to be the most suitable learning method for 21st-century learners. Game-based learning enhances education making all educational games increasingly popular. Learning efficiency can be enhanced through educational games. This article purposes to examine the efficiency of the game-based joyful blended learning method in learning chemistry, periodic table elements (1 to 30) among tenth standard students. The main purpose of the current study was to assist secondary school students to learn science-related ideas via participating in educational card games and using digital media for learning concepts. The educational advantages of the game in terms of learning performance, as well as students’ views of its integration into scientific learning, were studied. A quasi-experimental technique was used to obtain the study’s goal. The sample comprises 240 students studying the tenth standard in 4 different private CBSE schools in Palakkad district, Kerala, India. The pretest, posttest, gain scores, and retention scores were compared. The study's results indicated that there is a substantial mean score variation in learning chemistry (elements) between pretest, posttest, and retention tests of students in the experimental and control group. The students developed positive attitudes towards the usage of educational cards in learning Chemistry. The developed game-based joyful blended learning method develops reflective thinking and self-regulated learning among students.
The correlation between learning styles and self–directed learning of fifth graders
Authors: Nguyen Dong Truong Phan , Van Tuong Nguyen
Published: September 2022

Vietnam education has been directed into a learner-centered approach and fostering competencies for students, especially self-directed learning. Thus, understanding how students’ learning styles impact self-directed learning are crucial for the new direction of Vietnam education. This research employed the survey method by questionnaire and presents the results of practical research on the correlation between styles of learning and self–directed learning of fifth-grade students at elementary schools in District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The sample was 364 fifth graders voluntarily participating in the survey with the consent of parents. The results indicated that learning styles are strongly correlated with self–directed learning competency of fifth graders. The data revealed that students at District 10 not only attained high self-directed learning levels but also their learning styles attributing impactfully on their self-directed learning competency.
Chemistry lecturers’ attitudes toward educational technology: Afghanistan lecturer perspective
Authors: Falah Sayed Abdul Aziz Ahmady , Hanri Chuzairy , Bunyamin Muhammad Abd Hadi , Osman Sharifah
Published: September 2022

Teachers play important role in applying technology in teaching and learning especially their attitude towards educational technology. Therefore, this study aimed to determine Afghanistan’s chemistry lecturers’ attitudes and find out differences in technology attitudes based on gender. The random sampling was used to select 154 participants. The result shows the positive attitudes of Afghanistan chemistry lecturers toward using education technology in the class. Furthermore, based on the finding, there was no significant difference between male and female lecturers’ toward using educational technology in the class. The result of this study can be use by the Afghanistan’s Ministry of higher education (HEM) and all university managers to introduce modern education technology into the education system since Afghanistan lecturers seem ready to use it in class.
Student speaking skill assessment: Techniques and results
Authors: Sanjaya Budi , Hidayat Wahyu
Published: September 2022

This paper describes the learning techniques of Arabic subjects and the results of the evaluation of students' Arabic speaking skills. This study involved 51 Arabic language teachers and 395 State Madrasah Aliyah students in Jambi Province, Indonesia. This study obtained quantitative and qualitative data. The research instrument used a questionnaire, checklist, and oral test. The data were analyzed descriptively (frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation), and qualitatively. The results showed that the technique of speaking skills from students' perceptions was at a sufficient level. Likewise, the speaking skill assessment technique from the teacher's perception is at a sufficient level. The results of observations on speaking skills assessment techniques showed that teachers use techniques that do not require prior preparation. The students' Arabic speaking skills are at a sufficient level. Further research needs to explore other techniques in Arabic speaking skills.
Identification of academic peer effects in college: Does data aggregation matter?
Authors: Chen Qihui , Tian Guoqiang , Jiang Liyan
Published: September 2022

This study exploited random roommate assignments in a small Chinese college to estimate the causal effects of roommates’ scores on the national College Entrance Test (CET) on first-year students’ Grade Point Average (GPA). Analyzing data on an entire cohort of enrolled students, we found that the level of aggregation, for both the peer-ability measure and one’s own academic-outcome measure, matters for the identification of academic peer effects. Specifically, while roommates’ average CET score has a barely significant impact, the highest-scoring roommate’s CET score has a strong positive impact. Peer effects are also larger for one’s GPA for required courses than that of elective courses. Finally, peer effects in both types of courses decline over time while the effects of one’s own CET score increase over time, suggesting that students in this college tend to substitute their own ability for peer ability as they become more academically independent.
Teachers’ conceptions of music teaching: A systematic literature review 2010-2020
Authors: Valdebenito Karla , Almonacid-Fierro Alejandro
Published: September 2022

This article provides an overview of research in music education between 2010 and 2020 and affords a systematic review of literature related to the experiences of teachers in teaching music in the classroom. The literature reports that music teaching depends mostly on the teacher, who must employ teaching-learning strategies according to the initial training received and the different educational contexts of professional practice. The article has the objective of analyzing the teaching practices that teachers deploy in the regular classroom of primary and secondary education. Bibliographic information was collected from the Web of Science, Scopus, and EBSCO databases. The inclusion of studies was based on having the elements of the search strategy and the selection process through inclusion criteria according to the stated objective. There were 21 selected articles. The results indicate that musical interventions by teachers in the classroom depends on some factors: i) Socioeconomic context of the educational institution; ii) Educational policies, initial teacher training; and iii) Insufficient support for this discipline. The conclusion according to the teachers’ perceptions indicate that music teaching depends on the purposes of the educational institution, the professional development of the teacher, and the teacher's preparation in the management of musical content and teaching skills.
Teaching in the midst of the pandemic: Insights and perspectives from the lenses of the pre-service teachers
Authors: Camayang Jamina G. , Bautista Romiro G.
Published: September 2022

The experiences of the pre-service teachers in their student teaching (ST) program are crucial as they bridge the divergence between their dependence to their cooperating teacher under the wings of their four-year teacher training program and their emancipatory leap towards autonomy in the field of actual teaching. This study was designed to document the experiences of the pre-service teachers in their pandemic ST for the school year 2020-2021. Describing their experiences and identifying factors contributing to their experiences are ways of analyzing this phenomenal issue in our educational state. Employing the qualitative research design using Phenomenology as point of inquiry, 18 pre-service teachers eloquently narrated their experiences in this pandemic education. The following experiences are documented: challenging and engaging, experiences are superficial, ST is best done via face-to-face, and ST is hopeless this pandemic. On the other hand, the known factors affecting the informants’ pandemic education experiences include poor internet connectivity, lack of gadgets, technological know-how, feedback is not enough, and inattentive, distracted students. Based on the foregoing results and on the parameters of this study, it is concluded that the pre-service teachers who had their ST in the school year 2020-2021 in a state university in the Philippines did not practice well as they were confronted with mounting roadblocks in optimizing their potentials in teaching. It is further recommended that a revision on the current framework of the program is necessary in order to fully optimize the learning experiences of pre-service teachers.
Sociomathematical norms in online learning in the COVID-19 pandemic period
Authors: Maarif Samsul , Oktarina Novia , Sessu Sandi , Sulistyowati Fitria , Utami Wikan Budi
Published: September 2022

This case study analyzed students' sociomathematical norms for the formation of study groups conducted by teachers, the role of sociomathematical norms on students' social interactions when learning mathematics, gender differences that can affect students' sociomathematical norms, and sociomathematical norms on derived material in terms of gender aspects among students. The nine subjects of this study were selected purposively. Data collection techniques were observation, interviews, and documentation. The study concluded that among the four indicators of sociomathematical norms, three indicators of male students are superior to female students. Male students are superior in accepting explanations from teachers, accepting differences of opinion, and mathematical insight. Meanwhile, female student excels in only one indicator (the effectiveness of mathematics).
Effectiveness of chain whispering learning method assisted by online chat messaging
Authors: Sasmito Agung Panji , Zahro' Hani Zulfia , Wahyuni Febriana Santi
Published: September 2022

The online learning process cannot fully explore the potential of students, mainly due to monotonous learning methods. This makes students less enthusiastic in participating in online learning. Students’ learning motivation and achievement become less optimal. This study initiated an alternative online learning method that can be used during the COVID-19 pandemic. This was a research and development (R&D) using ADDIE model with the steps including analysis, design, development, then continued with implementation and ended with evaluation. The learning method developed was the chain whispering method which was carried out online. The developed method was a valid and effective learning method in increasing understanding and motivation.
The impact of headmaster distributive leadership towards professional learning communities
Authors: Ismail Siti Noor , Omar Mohd Norakmar , Halim Shabinar Abd , Faizuddin Ahmad , Rathakrishnan Mohan
Published: September 2022

Effective school leadership has a massive impact on excellence and success. This study was conducted to identify distributive leadership and professional learning communities (PLC) practice in cluster primary schools of excellence (CPSE) in Kedah, Malaysia. This study also aimed to analyze the extent of principals’ distributive leadership influencing PLC practices and examine the relationship between these two variables. A total of 162 respondents from randomly selected five primary schools participated in the survey. The findings showed that the level of distributive leadership (M=4.4, SD=0.4) and teacher PLC practice (M=4.3, SD=0.4) were very high. The findings also showed a strong and significant positive relationship between principals’ distributive leadership and teachers’ PLC practice (r=.72). Furthermore, the findings indicated the existence of a strong influence for all dimensions of distributive leadership on PLC practices (r2=.60, p<.05). The findings of this study can be used as an essential guide in improving skills, adding knowledge of leadership management, and enhancing PLC practices in producing positive work culture towards realizing educational excellence.
Principal transformational leadership and teacher readiness to teach: Mediating role of self-efficacy
Authors: Musadad Akhmad Arif , Sumarsono Raden Bambang , Adha Maulana Amirul , Ariyanti Nova Syafira , Abidin Nur Fatah , Kurniawan Dadan Adi
Published: September 2022

Student should participate in high-quality learning regardless of all existing conditions; therefore, efforts are needed to identify various factors related to teacher readiness in teaching (TR). This research identified the effect of the four components of transformational leadership (TL) on teacher TR in the era of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic through the role of teacher self-efficacy mediation. The study used a quantitative approach, with a model of structural equation modelling (SEM) causality with the help of the analysis of moment structure 24.0 (AMOS 24.0) program. This study involved 332 secondary school teachers as respondent. SEM is used to build relationship models and to analyze direct or indirect effects, while the Sobel test is conducted for testing mediation hypotheses. Based on the results of research, four components of TL, can affect teacher TR through teacher self-efficacy. The contribution of this research provides insight into the importance of the principal's TL practices in preparing teachers for teaching through teacher self-efficacy, which is a necessity today.
Academic self-concept as the predictor of secondary school adolescent students’ school engagement
Authors: Olana Ejigu , Tefera Belay
Published: September 2022

The objective of this study was to examine the role of academic self-concept (ASC) in predicting adolescent students’ school engagement by using a cross-sectional research design. Data was collected from 278 (149 males and 129 females) Ethiopian adolescents aged 15 to 20 years old. The result of regression analysis indicated that socioeconomic status (SES) and ASC significantly contributed to the overall school engagement score and the four components of school engagement (behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and agentic engagement). Additionally, the results from hierarchical regression revealed that SES significantly moderated the relationship between ASC and school engagement (β3=1.323; ∆R2=.033, p<.01). However, gender and grade level did not significantly relate to school engagement. As conclusion, ASC is a significant personal trait that has been linked to school engagement in which students from high SES are more advantageous regardless of their gender and grade levels.
Responses and strategies of Indonesian higher education during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Yusnaini Yusnaini , Lydia Eva , Mulyanto Mulyanto , Yogsunandar Harry , Santoso Anang Dwi
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to identify the responses and strategies of higher education in Indonesia in dealing with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The data in this study came from several legal frameworks and news issued by relevant ministries as well as regulations and news released by universities which were analyzed to map how universities adapt to the COVID-19 situation. In addition, interview to faculty members, students and administrative staffs were also conducted. This study found that the relevant ministries responded no faster than the responses made by universities. The ministry has provided a series of regulations and also guidelines but unfortunately, the universities have published these things first. This research is an initial study to identify responses, obstacles to providing education, and research and community service in the COVID-19 era. This research is the first to investigate how universities conduct the three main tasks of the university in Indonesia investigating responses at the organizational and individual levels to identify responses and obstacles they find.
Parametric Study of Pulsed Field Ablation With Biphasic Waveforms in an In Vivo Heart Model: The Role of Frequency
Authors: García-Sánchez Tomás , Amorós-Figueras Gerard , Jorge Esther , Campos María C. , Maor Elad , Guerra Jose M. , Ivorra Antoni
Published: September 2022

Background:

Pulsed field ablation (PFA) is a novel nonthermal cardiac ablation technology based on irreversible electroporation. Unfortunately, the characteristics of the electric field waveforms used in clinical and experimental PFA are not typically reported. This study examines the effect of the frequency of biphasic waveforms and compares biphasic to monophasic waveforms.

Methods:

A total of 29 Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with PFA using an epicardial monopolar electrode. Biphasic waveforms with three different frequencies, 90, 260, and 450 kHz (10 bursts of 100 µs duration at 500 V or 800 V) and monophasic waveforms (10 pulses of 100 µs duration at 500 V) were studied. Collateral neuromuscular stimulation and temperature increase in the point of application were directly measured. Lesion formation was assessed 3 weeks after treatment by histopathologic analysis. Computer simulations were used to estimate the electric field lethal threshold for each condition. A previous in vitro study was performed to draw a complete characterization of the studied dependencies.

Results:

Morphometric analysis demonstrated a significant association between chronic lesion size and waveform characteristics. For the same voltage level, monophasic waveforms yielded the largest lesions compared with any of the biphasic protocols (
P
<0.05). Increasing PFA frequency was associated with reduced neuromuscular stimulation but also with reduced ablation efficacy. Maximum absolute temperature increase recorded along a complete treatment was 3 °C. Vascular structures inside the lesions were preserved for all conditions. Computer simulation-based analysis showed that waveform frequency had a graded effect on the lethal electric field threshold, with threshold of 600 V/cm for monophasic waveforms versus 2000 V/cm for biphasic waveforms with a frequency of 450 kHz.

Conclusions:

Frequency is a major determinant of efficacy in biphasic PFA. Our results highlight the critical need of disclosing waveform characteristics when reporting the results of different PFA systems.
Critical revision of Trichiales (Myxomycetes) at the Natural History Museum London (BM)
Authors: MORENO G. , CASTILLO A. , THÜS H.
Published: September 2022

Light and scanning electron microscopy were applied to re-assess diagnostic characters of type specimens and critical specimens of twelve species in the order Trichiales (Myxomycetes) from the collections of the Natural History Museum in London (BM). The results were used to discuss published data and the type status for specimens of Arcyria imperialis, Hemitrichia chrysospora, H. intorta, H. karstenii, H. leiotricha, Perichaena cornuvioides, Prototrichia metallica, Trichia affinis, T. intermedia, T. munda and T. scabra. We conclude that Hemitrichia karstenii and Trichia contorta are autonomous species, and we confirm the synonymy of Trichia intermedia with Trichia contorta. The transfer of Perichaena cornuvioides to the genera Trichia or Hemitrichia is rejected.
Hohenbergia amargosensis (Bromeliaceae: Bromelioideae), a new ornamental species from Bahia, Brazil
Authors: SOUZA EVERTON HILO DE , SILVA TIAGO ABREU DA , AONA LIDYANNE Y. S. , SOUZA FERNANDA V. D. , LEME ELTON M. C.
Published: September 2022

The authors describe Hohenbergia amargosensis, a new ornamental species of Bromeliaceae from the Atlantic Forest of the Amargosa city, in Bahia state, Brazil. This new species is morphologically related to H. reconcavensis, but can be distinguished from it by the larger plant size when in bloom, longer inflorescence with laxly arranged branches, and a broader diameter at the base, primary bracts equaling to exceeding the primary branches, primary branches with longer stipe, and lilac petals. Additionally, its conservation status and phenology are discussed, and the illustrations of this new species and its morphologically close relatives are compared.
Polystichum suiyangense (sect. Sphaenopolystichum, Dryopteridaceae), a new fern from Guizhou, China
Authors: WANG BO , SUN QING-WEN , WANG ZE-HUAN , CHEN CHUN-LING , XU WEN-FEN , ZHANG LI-BING
Published: September 2022

Polystichum suiyangense (Dryopteridaceae), a new species from Suiyang County, Guizhou, China, is described and illustrated. It is a member of P. sect. Sphaenopolystichum and similar to P. auriculum, P. bifidum, and P. martinii, but differs from them in its frond texture, leaf color, scales on petiole and rachis, pinna shape, and pinna apex. The new species is currently known only from the type locality and is classified as CR (critically endangered) following the IUCN criteria.
Service Providers' Perspectives: Reducing Intimate Partner Violence in Rural and Northern Regions of Canada
Authors: Letourneau Nicole , McBride Dawn Lorraine , Barton Sylvia S. , Griggs Keira
Published: September 2022

Background

Intimate partner violence (IPV) persists as a serious challenge, globally, with regions in Central and Northern Canada reporting the highest rates of shelter use to escape abuse, of sexual assault, and of IPV in the country. Despite research into IPV, barriers and gaps exist in understanding what an effective response to IPV in rural and northern communities should look like.

Methods

To enhance this understanding, qualitative interviews and focus groups with a total of 55 participants were conducted with service providers, including shelter services, victims services, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, counselors, and others (e.g., psychologists). A grounded theory approach was used to analyze data, with findings illustrated in a schematic that conceptualize the challenges service providers experience.

Results

The findings reveal how an IPV environment, characterized by oppression, abuse, and illness, requires transformation into an IPV-free environment, characterized by empowerment, positive social connections, and wellness. As service providers work to influence this transition, they become experts in understanding the sociocultural context, formal services, and informal supports accessible or not for women experiencing IPV. Service providers encourage social media use into service delivery to improve communication; lobby for rural-specific IPV specialists; and recognize isolation as a barrier to seeking out safe shelter and housing, transportation, and economic assistance.

Conclusion

In order to reduce rates of IPV, the results suggest we must support service providers, document service gaps, and maximize policy change and community action based on IPV as it is experienced in rural and northern regions of Canada.
Elevated NT-proBNP levels are associated with CTP ischemic volume and 90-day functional outcomes in acute ischemic stroke: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Shen Xiaozhu , Liao Juan , Jiang Yi , Xu Yiwen , Liu Mengqian , Zhang Xianxian , Dong Nan , Yu Liqiang , Chen Qingmei , Fang Qi
Published: September 2022

Objective

To investigate the impact of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) on CTP infarct core volume and poor 90-day functional outcomes in acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

Methods

A total of 403 hospitalized patients with AIS in the Stroke Center of the First Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University were enrolled from March 2018 to January 2021. The association between NT-proBNP and clinical outcomes in acute ischemic patients was assessed by logistic regression and adjusted for confounding factors. Also, subgroup analyses were conducted based on treatment decisions.

Results

NT-proBNP was positively correlated with CTP ischemic volume (p < 0.001), infarct core volume (p < 0.001), and ischemic penumbra volume (p < 0.001). Univariate analysis showed that the influence of NT-proBNP and functional outcomes were statistically significant in model 1 (p = 0.002). This phenomenon was persistent after adjusted for age, sex, and body mass index in model 2 (p = 0.011), adjusted for SBP, current smoking, family history of stroke, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus in model 3 (p < 0.001), and adjusted for TnI, D-dimer, PLT, Cr, TC, TG, HDL-C, treatment decisions, and NIHSS score in model 4 (p = 0.027). A high NT-proBNP was associated with a high 90-days mRS score among the total population, IV rt-PA, and standardized treatment groups, but not in IV rt-PA + EVT, EVT, and EVT/IV rt-PA + EVT groups.

Conclusion

Elevated NT-proBNP levels reveal large CTP infarct core volume and poor 90-day functional outcome in AIS. NT-pro BNP is an independent risk factor for functional outcomes.
Perceived barriers to physical activity behaviour among patients with diabetes and hypertension in Kosovo: a qualitative study
Authors: Bytyci Katanolli Ariana , Probst-Hensch Nicole , Ann Obas Katrina , Gerold Jana , Zahorka Manfred , Jerliu Naim , Ramadani Qamile , Fota Nicu , Merten Sonja
Published: September 2022

Background

In a cohort of primary health care users across Kosovo (KOSCO cohort), high rates and poor control  of diabetes and hypertension were observed. These conditions can be prevented and better controlled by adapting to a healthy lifestyle. Physical activity is an important target, as inactivity and related obesity were very prevalent in the KOSCO cohort. This qualitative study aims to identify individual and structural barriers to physical activity perceived by patients with diabetes and/or hypertension so as to inform health care providers and policy-makers in Kosovo on strategies for promoting physical activity.

Methods

Interviews were conducted from July to October 2020 with 26 public primary health care users from five municipalities of Kosovo (Mitrovica, Vushtrri, Fushe Kosova, Gjakova, and Malisheva). The qualitative study was nested into the KOSCO cohort. KOSCO was implemented in 2019 and recruited consecutive patients visiting the public primary health care centres in these municipalities. Participants of this qualitative sub-study were selected if they had a doctor’s diagnosis of diabetes and/or hypertension. The interview guide consisted of questions related to physical activity barriers these patients are facing, despite having received motivational counselling sessions in primary healthcare centres. Data were analysed using a framework methodology.

Results

Three main themes moderating physical activity behaviour were identified: 1) neighbourhood built environment, 2) health-related problems, and 3) social support. The barriers to physical activity related to the first theme were structural features of the neighbourhoods such as: crowded sidewalks, lack of green spaces, lack of proper lighting in public spaces, as well as dense traffic. In regards to the second theme, the main health reasons for study participants to delay physical activity were related to: physical discomfort as well as stress, worry, and lack of energy. An additional barrier to exercise was lack of social support specifically from friends.

Conclusion

The study identifies structural and individual targets for integrated and inter-sectoral physical activity promotion efforts.
Understanding the risk factors for adverse events during exchange transfusion in neonatal hyperbilirubinemia using explainable artificial intelligence
Authors: Zhu Shuzhen , Zhou Lianjuan , Feng Yuqing , Zhu Jihua , Shu Qiang , Li Haomin
Published: September 2022

Objective

To understand the risk factors associated with adverse events during exchange transfusion (ET) in severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.

Study design

We conducted a retrospective study of infants with hyperbilirubinemia who underwent ET within 30 days of birth from 2015 to 2020 in a children’s hospital. Both traditional statistical analysis and state-of-the-art explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) were used to identify the risk factors.

Results

A total of 188 ET cases were included; 7 major adverse events, including hyperglycemia (86.2%), top-up transfusion after ET (50.5%), hypocalcemia (42.6%), hyponatremia (42.6%), thrombocytopenia (38.3%), metabolic acidosis (25.5%), and hypokalemia (25.5%), and their risk factors were identified. Some novel and interesting findings were identified by XAI.

Conclusions

XAI not only achieved better performance in predicting adverse events during ET but also helped clinicians to more deeply understand nonlinear relationships and generate actionable knowledge for practice.
How is pain associated with pelvic mesh implants measured? Refinement of the construct and a scoping review of current assessment tools
Authors: Todd Jennifer , Aspell Jane E. , Lee Michael C. , Thiruchelvam Nikesh
Published: September 2022

Background

Recommendations for the management of pain related to pelvic mesh implants are still under development. One limitation that has impeded progress in this area is that mesh-related pain has not been consistently defined or measured. Here, we reviewed the ways in which pain associated with pelvic mesh implants has been measured, and mapped the ways in which these existing measures capture the construct.

Methods

First, we reviewed existing accounts of the pain associated with pelvic mesh implants to develop a multifaceted construct definition, which includes aspects related to pain intensity, timing, body location, phenomenological qualities, impact/interference with daily living, and patient expectations and beliefs. Next, we reviewed the ways that the construct has been measured in the extant literature.

Results

Within 333 eligible studies, 28 different assessments of pain associated with pelvic mesh were identified, and 61% of studies reported using more than one measurement tool. Questionnaire measures included measures designed to assess urological and/or pelvic symptoms, generic measures and unvalidated measures. We did not identify any validated questionnaire measures designed to assess pain associated with pelvic mesh implants. The phenomenological, location, and expectation/belief components of the construct were not captured well by the identified questionnaire measures, and there is no evidence that any of the identified measures have appropriate psychometric properties for the assessment of pain related to pelvic mesh implants.

Conclusions

We recommend further qualitative research regarding women’s experiences of pelvic mesh-related pain assessment, and the development of a condition-specific patient reported outcome measure.
Novel mechanism of napabucasin, a naturally derived furanonaphthoquinone: apoptosis and autophagy induction in lung cancer cells through direct targeting on Akt/mTOR proteins
Authors: Petsri Korrakod , Thongsom Sunisa , Racha Satapat , Chamni Supakarn , Jindapol Saresa , Kaekratoke Nantawat , Zou Hongbin , Chanvorachote Pithi
Published: September 2022

Background

Akt and mTOR are aberrantly activated in cancers and targeting these proteins are interesting for cancer drug discovery. Napabucasin (NB), a phytochemical compound, has been reported as potential anti-cancer agent, however, Akt and mTOR targeting mechanisms remain unclear. 

Method

Apoptosis induction was investigated by Hoechst 33342/PI double staining and annexin V/PI staining with flowcytometry. Autophagy was evaluated by monodansylcadaverine staining and Western blot analysis. Binding affinity of NB and essential signaling proteins (PI3K, Akt, and mTOR) was investigated using molecular docking and confirmed by Western blot analysis.

Result

A structure modification from changing methyl moiety of acetyl group of NB to hydroxyl moiety of carboxyl group of NB derivative (napabucasin-acid or NB-acid) greatly affected the compound activities. NB showed more potent anti-cancer activity. NB reduced cell viability with an approximately 20 times lower IC50and inhibited the colony formation capacity much more than NB-acid treated cells. NB induced cell apoptosis, which was accompanied by decrease Bcl‑2 and Mcl-1 and clevage of PARP, while NB-acid show lesser effect on Mcl-1. NB was found to strongly induce autophagy indicated by acidic vesicle staining and the LC3B conversion. Interestingly, computational molecular docking analysis further demonstrated that NB directly bound to Akt and mTOR (complex 1 and 2) proteins at their critical sites indicating that NB targets the upstream regulators of apoptosis and autophagy. The docking results were confirmed by decrease of p-Akt/Akt, p-mTOR/mTOR, and c-Myc a downstream target of Akt protein levels.

Conclusion

Results show for the first time that NB exerts an anti-cancer activity through the direct interaction to Akt and mTOR proteins. The methyl moiety of acetyl group of NB is required for its potent anti-cancer activities. These data encourage further development of NB compounds for Akt and mTOR driven cancers.