bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine learning to predict no reflow and in-hospital mortality in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction that underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Deng Lianxiang , Zhao Xianming , Su Xiaolin , Zhou Mei , Huang Daizheng , Zeng Xiaocong
Published: April 2022

Background

The machine learning algorithm (MLA) was implemented to establish an optimal model to predict the no reflow (NR) process and in-hospital death that occurred in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI).

Methods

The data were obtained retrospectively from 854 STEMI patients who underwent pPCI. MLA was applied to predict the potential NR phenomenon and confirm the in-hospital mortality. A random sampling method was used to split the data into the training (66.7%) and testing (33.3%) sets. The final results were an average of 10 repeated procedures. The area under the curve (AUC) and the associated 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of the receiver operator characteristic were measured.

Results

A random forest algorithm (RAN) had optimal discrimination for the NR phenomenon with an AUC of 0.7891 (95% CI: 0.7093–0.8688) compared with 0.6437 (95% CI: 0.5506–0.7368) for the decision tree (CTREE), 0.7488 (95% CI: 0.6613–0.8363) for the support vector machine (SVM), and 0.681 (95% CI: 0.5767–0.7854) for the neural network algorithm (NNET). The optimal RAN AUC for in-hospital mortality was 0.9273 (95% CI: 0.8819–0.9728), for SVM, 0.8935 (95% CI: 0.826–0.9611); NNET, 0.7756 (95% CI: 0.6559–0.8952); and CTREE, 0.7885 (95% CI: 0.6738–0.9033).

Conclusions

The MLA had a relatively higher performance when evaluating the NR risk and in-hospital mortality in patients with STEMI who underwent pPCI and could be utilized in clinical decision making.
Acromion-axillary nerve distance and its relation to the arm length in the prediction of the axillary nerve position: a clinical study
Authors: Yildirim Cem , Demirel Mehmet , Bayram Erhan , Ekinci Mehmet , Yılmaz Murat
Published: April 2022

Background

Because of the broad anatomic variation in the course of the axillary nerve, several cadaveric studies have investigated the acromion-axillary nerve distance and its association with the humeral length to predict the axillary nerve location. This study aimed to analyze the acromion-axillary nerve distance (AAND) and its relation to the arm length (AL) in patients who underwent internal plate fixation for proximal humerus fractures.

Methods

The present prospective study involved 37 patients (15 female, 22 male; the mean age = 51 years, age range 19–76) with displaced proximal humerus fractures treated by open reduction and internal fixation. After anatomic reduction and fixation were achieved, the following parameters were measured in each patient before wound closure without making an extra incision or dissection: (1) the distance from the anterolateral edge of the acromion to the course of the axillary nerve was recorded as the acromion-axillary nerve distance and (2) the distance from the anterolateral edge of the acromion to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus was recorded as arm length. The ratio of AAND to AL was then calculated and recorded as the axillary nerve index (ANI).

Results

The mean AAND was 6 ± 0.36 cm (range 5.5–6.6), and the mean arm length was 32.91 ± 2.9 cm (range 24–38). The mean axillary nerve ratio was 0.18 ± 0.02 (range 0.16 to 0.23). There was a significant moderate positive correlation between AL and AAND (p = 0.006; r = 0.447). The axillary nerve location was predictable in only 18% of the patients.

Conclusion

During the anterolateral deltoid-splitting approach to the shoulder joint, 5.5 cm from the anterolateral edge of the acromion could be considered a safe zone to prevent possible axillary nerve injury.
A barcoding pipeline for mosquito surveillance in Nepal, a biodiverse dengue-endemic country
Authors: Hartke Juliane , Reuss Friederike , Kramer Isabelle Marie , Magdeburg Axel , Deblauwe Isra , Tuladhar Reshma , Gautam Ishan , Dhimal Meghnath , Müller Ruth
Published: April 2022

Background

Vector-borne diseases are on the rise on a global scale, which is anticipated to further accelerate because of anthropogenic climate change. Resource-limited regions are especially hard hit by this increment with the currently implemented surveillance programs being inadequate for the observed expansion of potential vector species. Cost-effective methods that can be easily implemented in resource-limited settings, e.g. under field conditions, are thus urgently needed to function as an early warning system for vector-borne disease epidemics. Our aim was to enhance entomological capacity in Nepal, a country with endemicity of numerous vector-borne diseases and with frequent outbreaks of dengue fever.

Methods

We used a field barcoding pipeline based on DNA nanopore sequencing (Oxford Nanopore Technologies) and verified its use for different mosquito life stages and storage methods. We furthermore hosted an online workshop to facilitate knowledge transfer to Nepalese scientific experts from different disciplines.

Results

The use of the barcoding pipeline could be verified for adult mosquitos and eggs, as well as for homogenized samples, dried specimens, samples that were stored in ethanol and frozen tissue. The transfer of knowledge was successful, as reflected by feedback from the participants and their wish to implement the method.

Conclusions

Cost effective strategies are urgently needed to assess the likelihood of disease outbreaks. We were able to show that field sequencing provides a solution that is cost-effective, undemanding in its implementation and easy to learn. The knowledge transfer to Nepalese scientific experts from different disciplines provides an opportunity for sustainable implementation of low-cost portable sequencing solutions in Nepal.

Graphical Abstract
Capecitabine-induced severe diabetes and hypokalemia: a case report
Authors: Yang Qiaoling , Chen Chuping , Ran Jianmin
Published: April 2022

Background

Capecitabine is widely used in chemotherapy for breast, colorectal, and gastric cancers. The frequent adverse reactions of capecitabine mainly include gastrointestinal side effects, anemia, and cardiovascular toxicity. Here, we report a rare case of severe hyperglycemia and hypokalemia during long-term treatment with capecitabine.

Case presentation

A 48-year-old Chinese female was hospitalized with the complaint of breathlessness and weakness after activity, for 1 month. Her past history is significant for a diagnosis of right-sided breast cancer 7 years ago. She underwent right mastectomy, following which capecitabine was started 1.5 years prior to the current admission as part of her primary treatment at the discovery of systemic osseous metastasis. Her fasting plasma glucose and hemoglobin A1c levels were quite normal 7 months ago but increased to 15.3 mmol/L and 11.2%, respectively, at the present admission. Her serum potassium level was as low as 2.5 mmol/L. Plasma autoantibodies related to islets and insulin were all negative. Capecitabine was discontinued, and an insulin pump and potassium supplement were given after admission. Her blood sugar and potassium levels returned to their normal ranges soon. Self-injection of insulin was withdrawn completely at 2 months after discharge, and no oral hypoglycemic agents were added. Her plasma glucose and electrolyte levels were at normal levels at her 1-year follow-up.

Conclusion

Glucose intolerance and hypokalemia may be rare but serious adverse effects during long-term chemotherapy with capecitabine.
Mapping of major tectonic lineaments across Cameroon using potential field data
Authors: Cheunteu Fantah Cyrille Armel , Mezoue Cyrille Adiang , Mouzong Marcelin Pemi , Tokam Kamga Alain Pierre , Nouayou Robert , Nguiya Severin
Published: April 2022

The cartography of lineaments across a territory can be optimized using geophysical potential field data. In this study, land gravity and EMAG2 (Earth Magnetic Anomaly Grid) data were simultaneously used to identify and characterize the major lineaments that spread across Cameroon. The data were filtered using a multi-scale approach including horizontal and vertical gradient analyses. The Euler Deconvolution method was later applied to the filtered data to estimate the extension and depth of the identified lineaments. Results show that the main lineaments across Cameroon are laterally extended with a dominant N45°E orientation. Some of these lineaments correlated well with the geographical location of some known major tectonic structures found across the country. The depth of these lineaments varies between 1 and 35 km. Some of the identified faults are still active as their location correlated with the location of some recent earthquakes that occurred in Cameroon. This work, therefore, highlights some hidden tectonic features which knowledge generally precedes exploration for subsurface resources.

Graphical Abstract
Characteristics of the deep sea tsunami excited offshore Japan due to the air wave from the 2022 Tonga eruption
Authors: Tanioka Yuichiro , Yamanaka Yusuke , Nakagaki Tatsuya
Published: April 2022

A large eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Haʻapai volcano in Tonga on January 15, 2022 generated air–sea coupled tsunamis observed at the ocean-bottom pressure sensor network along the Japan Trench (S-net) in Japan. Initial tsunamis from the 2022 Tonga eruption, detected by 106 ocean-bottom pressure sensors, were well modeled by an air–sea coupled tsunami simulation, with a simple atmospheric pressure pulse as sine function, having a half-wavelength of 300 km and a peak amplitude of 2 hPa. A one-dimensional air–sea coupled tsunami simulation having a simple bathymetry shows that an input atmospheric pressure pulse with a short half-wavelength of 50 km, which is shorter than the length of the ocean bottom slopes, caused an amplitude increase via the Proudman resonance effect near the deep trench. The wavefront distortion due to the separation of the air–sea coupled wave propagating with a speed of 312 m/s and tsunami propagating with that of $$\sqrt{gd}$$

gd

, where g is gravity acceleration and d is the ocean depth, is also significant near the shore. In contrast, these effects are not significant for the half-wavelength of the input atmospheric pressure pulse of 300 km. These results indicate that the air–sea coupled tsunami propagating through the trench is sensitive to the wavelength of an atmospheric pressure pulse.

Graphical Abstract
A rare case of pseudoaneurysmal hemorrhage, necrotizing fasciitis, and costochondritis after pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Li Lulu , Abe Kyohei , Okamoto Tomoyoshi , Matsumoto Michinori , Futagawa Yasuro , Kanehira Masaru , Ikegami Toru
Published: April 2022

Background

Necrotizing fasciitis after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) has never been reported. We experienced a case of necrotizing fasciitis caused by pseudoaneurysmal hemorrhage after PD.

Case presentation

A 72-year-old male was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma and underwent PD. Bile leakage was detected postoperatively, conservatively resolved, and the patient was discharged on the 36th day after surgery. On the 42nd day after surgery, a pseudoaneurysm of the gastroduodenal artery ruptured. Transcatheter arterial embolization was performed for hemostasis: however, a large intra-abdominal abscess caused by an infected hematoma was recognized. On the 57th day after surgery, the patient developed necrotizing fasciitis. He underwent debridement with skin reconstruction using a latissimus dorsi flap and skin transplantation. Costochondritis and liver metastasis were detected on the 267th day after surgery. Infection was controlled by rib cartilage resection, debridement, and negative pressure wound therapy. Chemotherapy involving gemcitabine and cisplatin was initiated on the 460th day after the initial surgery with a partial response (PR) and was continued for more than one year.

Conclusions

We herein reported a rare case of necrotizing fasciitis following hematoma infection after PD that was treated using multidisciplinary therapy with PR following chemotherapy.
Terrestrial medium and large-sized mammalian species diversity in Michole Community Protected Forest, southern Ethiopia
Authors: Agebo Amanuel , Tekalign Wondimagegnehu
Published: April 2022

The study on medium and large-sized mammalian species' diversity and distribution is important for conservation efforts in the different protected areas of Ethiopia. The present study was intended to investigate the species diversity of medium and large-sized mammalian fauna between October 2019 and July 2020 in Michole Community Protected Forest, southern Ethiopia. The study was conducted by stratification of the study area into three habitat types: riverine forest (3.37 km2), woodland (4.14 km2), and grassland with scattered trees (2.33 km2) based on the vegetation cover. A diurnal transect survey method was implemented to record the mammalian species diversity. A total of 18 representative sample transect lines (six in riverine forest, four in grassland with scattered trees, and eight in woodland habitats) that varied in length and width were used. A total of 17 species of medium and large-sized mammalian species were identified and recorded in the study area. As a result, the orders Carnivora and Primates have the greatest abundance, while the order Lagomorpha has the least. Anubis baboon (Papio anubis) was the most abundant species (15.14%), followed by Spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) (12.98%), Crested porcupine (Hystrix cristata) (12.51%), Vervet monkey (Chlorocebus aethiops) (10.35%), Common duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia) (8.80%), and Giant root-rat (Tachyoryctes macrocephalus) (8.65%). The distributions of mammals among the three habitat types were comparable. The riverine forest harbored the highest mammalian diversity index (H′ = 2.35) followed by the woodland (H′ = 2.32), and the grassland with scattered trees (H′ = 2.30), respectively. The greatest species similarity was recorded in woodland (0.902). The study area harbors considerable mammalian species that are threatened by interacting anthropogenic factors. So, urgent conservation measures by concerned sectors are needed to safeguard these animals and their habitat.
Molecular docking assisted exploration on solubilization of poorly soluble drug remdesivir in sulfobutyl ether-tycyclodextrin
Authors: Zhang Yumeng , Zhao Zhouming , Wang Kai , Lyu Kangjie , Yao Cai , Li Lin , Shen Xia , Liu Tengfei , Guo Xiaodi , Li Haiyan , Wang Wenshou , Lai Tsai-Ta
Published: April 2022

Objective

To study structure-specific solubilization effect of Sulfobutyl ether-β-cyclodextrin (SBE-β-CD) on Remdesivir (RDV) and to understand the experimental clathration with the aid of quantum mechanics (QM), molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) calculations.

Methods

The experiment was carried out by phase solubility method at various pH and temperatures, while the concentration of Remdesivir in the solution was determined by HPLC. The complexation mechanism and the pH dependence of drug loading were investigated following a novel procedure combining QM, MD and molecular docking, based on accurate pKa predictions.

Results

The phase solubility and solubilization effect of RDV in SBE-β-CD were explored kinetically and thermodynamically for each assessed condition. An optimal drug / SBE-β-CD feeding molar ratio was determined stoichiometrically for RDV solubility in pH1.7 solution. The supersaturated solubility was examined over time after pH of the solution was adjusted from 1.7 to 3.5. A possible hypothesis was raised to elucidate the experimentally observed stabilization of supersaturation based on the proposed RDV Cation A /SBE-β-CD pocket conformations.

Conclusion

The computational explorations conformed to the experimentally determined phase solubilization and well elucidated the mechanism of macroscopic clathration between RDV and SBE-β-CD from the perspective of microscopic molecular calculations.

Graphical Abstract
Antibiotic prescription rationality and associated in-patient treatment outcomes in children under-five with severe pneumonia at Bwizibwera health center IV, Mbarara District, South-Western Uganda
Authors: Abeja Christine Joy , Niyonzima Vallence , Byagamy John Paul , Obua Celestino
Published: April 2022

Background

Pneumonia is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in children under five. Antibiotic treatment must be started immediately in children with pneumonia. The irrational use of antibiotics may increase morbidity and mortality in children with pneumonia. Pneumonia accounted for approximately 16% of the 5.6 million under-five deaths word wide in 2016. In Uganda, it kills approximately 2,400 children per year. Early diagnosis and appropriate case management with rational use of antibiotics remain the most effective intervention to reduce pneumonia-related mortality. This study aimed at determining antibiotic prescription rationality and associated in-patient treatment outcomes in children aged 2–59 months with severe community-acquired pneumonia at Bwizibwera Health Centre IV from 1st May 2018 to 30th April 2019.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study design; data were collected from in-patient records of all children aged 2–59 months with severe community-acquired pneumonia who met the eligibility criteria for a period of one year. Data abstraction template was used for data collection. Health care records of children aged 2–59 months who had other co-morbidities and were on medication that could influence or impact on in-patient treatment outcomes from 1st May 2018 to 30th April 2019 were excluded. Data was entered and analyzed using Epi-info v 7.2 and STATA v 13.0 respectively, Descriptive statistics were reported and Chi-square test was used to compare the proportions.

Results

Of the total records of children retrieved and screened (N = 847), 229 prescription records of children fulfilled inclusion criteria, 57 (24.9%) had rational prescriptions with good outcomes and 172 (75.1%) had irrational prescriptions with 10 (4.4%) having unfavorable outcomes. The majority (73.7%) of those who received rational prescription were on treatment with a combination of benzyl penicillin plus gentamycin while (26.3%) were on ampicillin plus gentamycin. The majority (32.4%) of patients with good treatment outcomes were aged 6 – 11 months. This age category also doubled as the group that experienced the highest percentage (40.0%) of unfavorable outcomes. There were no statistically significant associations between patient characteristics and treatment outcomes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the majority of children had irrational antibiotic prescriptions and 40 percent of children aged 6–11 Months had unfavorable treatment outcomes with 20 percent death. This study also found out that majority of antibiotic prescription among children under five was irrational and it’s against Uganda clinical guideline for treatment of severe pneumonia among children under five.
Circulating CTRP5 in rheumatoid arthritis: an exploratory biomarker study
Authors: Taherian Marjan , Almasi Simin , Mehdizadeh Saber , Fazeli Banafshe , Kalantari Mahsa , Bayati Paria , Pashangzadeh Salar , Mojtabavi Nazanin
Published: April 2022

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory disease that is characterized by the overproduction of cytokines. Among the newly discovered cytokines are the adipokines which are primarily produced by and released from the adipose tissue and some immune cells, as well as synovial cells. they are involved in various immune responses and inflammatory processes. However, there are controversial data regarding the pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory effects of adipokines in different conditions. C1q/TNF-related protein 5 (CTRP5) is a newly identified adipokine and adiponectin paralogous protein, which has been shown to be correlated with inflammatory diseases. Accordingly, the present study was designed to investigate the serum levels of CTRP5 in RA patients and evaluate any possible alterations in comparison to healthy individuals.

Methods

Serum CTRP-5 levels were measured in 46 patients and 22 healthy controls by ELISA. The demographic, laboratory, and clinical features of the patients were also evaluated in order to find any correlations.

Results

Serum levels of CTRP-5 were significantly (p < 0.0001) higher in patients with RA (14.88 ± 25.55) compared to healthy controls (4.262 ± 2.374). There was a significant correlation between serum CTRP-5 levels and triglyceride (TG) (r: − 0.3010, p: 0.0498), as well as erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) (r: 0.3139, p: 0.0457), C-reactive protein (CRP) (r: 0.5140, p: 0.0008), and the number of white blood cells (WBC) (r: 0.3380, p: 0.0307), which are considered as the markers indicating the extent of inflammation. Moreover, CTRP-5 was found to be correlated with interstitial lung disease (ILD) (r: 0.3416, p: 0.0385), a comorbidity associated with RA disease.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the increased level of circulating CTRP-5 in RA patients, which correlated with some inflammation-associated parameters and RA-associated comorbidities. Our observations suggest CTRP-5 as a putative inflammatory biomarker in RA, which may be useful besides the other disease-related markers.
Efficacy of some entomopathogens against Ephestia cautella (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in stored date fruits
Authors: El Shafei Wael Kamal Mohamed , Mahmoud Rania Hassan , Mohamed Sahar Sayed Ali
Published: April 2022

Background

Ephestia cautella (Walker) (Lepidoptera:Pyralidae) is one of the most economically important date fruits insect pests, which causes major losses in quantity and quality of the date yield. The present study aimed to evaluate 3 of the entomopathogens: Beauveria bassiana (Basonym 1836), Metarhizium anisopliae (Metchnikoff 1879), and Bacillus thuringiensis (Berliner 1915) var. kurstaki individually and mixed with each other against E. cautella in stored date fruits.

Results

Four concentrations from spores' suspension of each entomopathogen were sprayed on 50 eggs of E. cautella (24:48 h. old) (for fungal pathogens) and 30 2nd instar larvae of E cautella in glass jars. Pathogenicity was evaluated at different time intervals post treatments 3, 5,7and 14 days. Obtained results showed that mortality percentages of E cautella stages increased by increasing the tested entomopathogen concentrations and increasing of the exposure time. Results indicated that the reduction percentages of E. cautella eggs hatchability after separately treated at the concentrations (3.0 × 105, 3.0 × 106, 3.0 × 107 and 3.0 × 108 spores/ml) were (27.50, 39.17, 48.33 and 62.50%) for B. bassiana, (35.83, 44.17, 50.83 and 69.17%) for M. anisopliae, respectively. After14 days of treatment, the recorded larval mortalities were (49, 62, 77, and 81%) for B. bassiana and (60, 66, 78, and 89%) for M. anisopliae at concentrations (3.0 × 105, 3.0 × 106, 3.0 × 107and 3.0 × 108 spores/ml), respectively. In case of treating E. cautella larvae with B. thuringiensis, the mortality percentage was (44, 52, 63, and 72%) at concentrations (2.0 × 108, 2.0 × 109, 2.0 × 1010 and 2.0 × 1011 spores/ml), respectively, after14 days of exposure. E. cautella larvae were more susceptible to B. bassiana and M. anisopliae than the eggs. M. anisopliae was more effective than B. bassiana. The combination of the entomopathogens LC50 (B. bassiana + M. anisopliae, B. bassiana + B. thuringiensis, M. anisopliae + B. thuringiensis and B. bassiana + M. anisopliae + B. thuringiensis) caused E. cautella larval mortality percentages of 67.00, 73.33, 63.33 and 86.29%, respectively, 14 days after exposure. The combination of the 3 tested entomopathogens (B. bassiana + M. anisopliae + B. thuringiensis) increased their efficacy for controlling E. cautella.

Conclusions

The combination of the tested entomopathogens: B. bassiana, M. anisopliae and B. thuringiensis could be recommended for controlling E. cautella stages in stored date fruits.
Vibration, a treatment for migraine, linked to calpain driven changes in actin cytoskeleton
Authors: LaGier Adriana J. , Elbe Andrew , Thamke Amanda , Anderson Payton
Published: April 2022

Understanding how a human cell reacts to external physical stimuli is essential to understanding why vibration can elicit localized pain reduction. Stimulation of epithelial cells with external vibration forces has been shown to change cell shape, particularly in regards to structures involved in non-muscle cell motility. We hypothesized that epithelial cells respond to vibration transduction by altering proteins involved in remodeling cytoskeleton. Epithelial cells were exposed to vibration and assessed by microscopy, cytoskeletal staining, immunoblotting and quantitative RT-PCR. Here, we report that epithelial cell lines exposed to 15 minutes of vibration retract filopodia and concentrate actin at the periphery of the cell. In particular, we show an increased expression of the calcium-dependent, cysteine protease, calpain. The discovery that cell transitions are induced by limited exposure to natural forces, such as vibration, provides a foundation to explain how vibrational treatment helps migraine patients.
Imaging the influence of peripheral TRPV1-signaling on cerebral nociceptive processing applying fMRI-based graph theory in a resiniferatoxin rat model
Authors: Wank Isabel , Kutsche Lisa , Kreitz Silke , Reeh Peter , Hess Andreas
Published: April 2022

Resiniferatoxin (RTX), an extract from the spurge plant Euphorbia resinifera, is a potent agonist of the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1), mainly expressed on peripheral nociceptors—a prerequisite for nociceptive heat perception. Systemic overdosing of RTX can be used to desensitize specifically TRPV1-expressing neurons, and was therefore utilized here to selectively characterize the influence of TRPV1-signaling on central nervous system (CNS) temperature processing. Resting state and CNS temperature processing of male rats were assessed via functional magnetic resonance imaging before and after RTX injection. General linear model-based and graph-theoretical network analyses disentangled the underlying distinct CNS circuitries. At baseline, rats displayed an increase of nociception-related response amplitude and activated brain volume that correlated highly with increasing stimulation temperatures. In contrast, RTX-treated rats showed a clear disruption of thermal nociception, reflected in a missing increase of CNS responses to temperatures above 48°C. Graph-theoretical analyses revealed two distinct brain subnetworks affected by RTX: one subcortical (brainstem, lateral and medial thalamus, hippocampus, basal ganglia and amygdala), and one cortical (primary sensory, motor and association cortices). Resting state analysis revealed first, that peripheral desensitization of TRPV1-expressing neurons did not disrupt the basic resting-state-network of the brain. Second, only at baseline, but not after RTX, noxious stimulation modulated the RS-network in regions associated with memory formation (e.g. hippocampus). Altogether, the combination of whole-brain functional magnetic resonance imaging and RTX-mediated desensitization of TRPV1-signaling provided further detailed insight into cerebral processing of noxious temperatures.
Selection signatures and formation of the Samosir goat breed through the cultures of the Batak Toba Tribe in Samosir Island, Indonesia
Authors: Pakpahan Suhendra , Widayanti Rini , Artama Wayan T.
Published: April 2022

Background and Aim: The Samosir goat has a high cultural value and is a source of germplasm in Indonesia. This study aimed to reveal the history and selection signatures of the Samosir goat. Materials and Methods: A total of 25 goats were divided into seven subpopulations of Indonesian goat breeds. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) from blood samples was isolated with the use of the gSYNC™ DNA Mini Kit (Geneaid, Taipei, Taiwan). Cytb gene amplification was performed by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method, and the PCR products were sequenced. A phylogenetic tree was constructed by the neighbor-joining method using MEGA 11 software. A questionnaire was used to collect information related to the history and breeding practices of the Samosir goat on Samosir Island. Results: Samosir goats are divided into four groups based on their coat color: Completely white, white with brown spots, white with black spots, and white with brown and black spots. The body form of the Samosir goat is similar to that of the Kacang goat. The space below a traditional Toba Batak house is used as a goat pen. The genetic difference between the Samosir goat and the Kacang goat based on the Cytb gene was approximately 0.1%. Conclusion: Phylogenetic analysis between Samosir goats and other indigenous Indonesian goats revealed that Samosir goats form a single clade, with a very close genetic distance from other local goats, such as the Kacang goat. The Toba Batak culture on Samosir Island has significantly influenced the selection and formation of the Samosir goat breed.
First study on assessments of farmers' benefits under a payment program based on dairy milk quality in Thailand
Authors: Punyapornwithaya Veerasak , Jampachaisri Katechan , Arjkumpa Orapun , Moonpho Methanon , Klaharn Kunnanut , Kampoosiri Naovarat , Sansamur Chalutwan
Published: April 2022

Background and Aim: To improve overall milk quality in Thailand, dairy farmers and milk collection centers employ a payment program based on milk quality (PPBMQ) for milk trade. This study aimed to determine and compare the proportion of dairy farmers receiving benefits from the PPBMQ using data from selected dairy cooperatives located in northern and central regions in Thailand.

Materials and Methods: Monthly data on milk components (n=37,077), including fat, solids not fat (SNF), and somatic cell counts (SCC) were collected from the two regions in 2018 and 2019. Based on the PPBMQ, farmers were classified into benefit-gain, benefit-loss, and no-benefit groups. A mixed-effects logistic regression model was used to compare the number of farmers in northern and central regions who received monthly benefits from the PPBMQ.

Results: More than 70% of dairy farmers benefited from the PPBMQ. The proportion of dairy farmers in the benefit-gain group was higher in the northern region (88.7%) than in the central region (57.1%). A high percentage of dairy farmers in the central region lost their benefits mainly due to SCC (40%) and SNF (44%).

Conclusion: The PPBMQ benefited the vast majority of dairy producers in the northern region and approximately two-thirds of those in the central region. Thus, the efforts of authorities and stakeholders should be enhanced to support dairy farmers in the central region in improving milk quality.
ORTAOKUL ÖĞRENCİLERİ İÇİN İNGİLİZCE DİL BECERİLERİ ÖZ YETERLİK ÖLÇEĞİ GELİŞTİRME ÇALIŞMASI
Authors: OCAK Gürbüz , KÜÇÜKÇINAR Ali , KARAKUYU Akın
Published: April 2022

Bu çalışmanın amacı ortaokul öğrencilerinin İngilizce dil becerisi öz yeterliklerini ölçmeye yönelik bir ölçme aracı geliştirmektir. Araştırmada önce literatür taraması yapılmış daha sonra odak grup görüşmesi ile öğretmenlerden elde edilen verilerle madde havuzu oluşturulmuştur. Maddelere dil uzmanı ve alan uzmanlarının görüşleri alınarak son şekli verilmiştir. Araştırmanın örneklemini kolay ulaşılabilir örnekleme tekniği ile belirlenen ve çalışmaya katılmaya gönüllü 307 ortaokul öğrencisi oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmada önce nitel veriler daha sonra nicel veriler toplanmıştır. Bu nedenle araştırmanın yöntemi karma yöntem, deseni ise keşfedici ardışık desen olarak belirlenmiştir. Verilerin analizinde, nitel veriler için içerik analizi, nicel veriler için ise açımlayıcı ve doğrulayıcı faktör analizi yapılmıştır. Araştırma sonuçlarına göre, ölçeğin KMO değeri 0.913 ve Bartlett testi p değeri 0.00 bulunmuştur. Ölçek, toplam varyansın % 59’u nu açıklamaktadır. Açımlayıcı faktör analizi (AFA) sonucunda 20 madde ve dört alt boyuttan oluşan ölçme aracı elde edilmiştir. Ölçeğin 1.alt boyutu (okuma) 0.692 – 0.867 arasında faktör yükleri olan 5 madde, 2.alt boyutu (dinleme) 0.588 – 0.733 arasında faktör yükleri olan 6 madde, 3.alt boyutu (konuşma) 0.584 – 0.741 arasında faktör yükleri olan 5 madde ve 4.alt boyutta (yazma) 0587. – 0.800 arasında faktör yükleri olan 4 maddeden oluşmaktadır. Geliştirilen ölçeğin alt boyutlarının Cronbach alfa katsayıları sırasıyla 0.895, 0.818, 0.754 ve 0.771 ve ölçeğin tamamı için 0.898 olarak hesaplanarak güvenilir olduğu sonucuna varılmıştır. Doğrulayıcı faktör analizi (DFA) sonucunda ölçme aracının X2/ df değeri 2.38 RMSEA değeri 0,067 olarak hesaplanmıştır. Araştırma sonucunda ölçme aracının 20 maddeye sahip, 4 alt boyutLU, 5’li likert tipinde ve güvenilir bir ölçek elde edildiği tespit edilmiş ve DFA ile doğrulanmıştır.
SWHEI: A New Approach to Measure Policy Effectiveness for Solar Water Heaters
Authors: Luis-Badillo Bruno , Guerrero-Hoyos Daniel , Escamilla Gerardo A. , Rojas-Solórzano Luis
Published: April 2022

In the context of the global energy transition, governments design and apply renewable energy policies as tools to replace fossil fuel sources for the heating end-use sector, which represents half of the global total final energy consumption (TFEC). In the last two decades, large deployments of solar thermal technologies, such as solar water heaters (SWH), have helped renewable energy penetrate the heating sector. To be successful, their adoption must be supported by effective policies; however, measuring the effectiveness of a particular policy is a complex task. Some studies design and propose indicators to measure this effectiveness but are difficult to replicate or adapt to specific markets. This work submits a novel policy-outcome effectiveness indicator, the Solar Water Heater Effectiveness Indicator (SWHEI), based on equipment deployment (installed capacity per capita, installed capacity growth) and the solar energy potential of each country, constructed using publicly available data to ensure replicability and universal utilization. The overall SHWEI values for the period 2003–2019 are low, reflecting the current low adoption of solar technologies, but show regional clusters of good performance, such as in Europe. Barbados achieved the maximum value of 6.9, which reflects its outstanding performance, driven by its installed capacity per capita. The analysis shows that the SWHEI is particularly useful to determine policy ineffectiveness while confounding factors could camouflage policy effectiveness. The SWHEI-active SWH policies matrix can help policymakers identify courses of action. Policymakers could 1) use market-entry policy instruments in undeveloped SWH markets (segment C, no policies in place); 2) review and improve failing SWH policies (segment D); 3) propose randomized controlled trials to study causal relationships between SWH policies and large SWHEI (segments A and B with policies in place); and 4) regulate successful markets, allowing for continued organic growth (segment A, no policies).
Short Term Solar Irradiation Forecasting using CEEMDAN Decomposition Based BiLSTM Model Optimized by Genetic Algorithm Approach
Authors: Gupta Anuj , Gupta Kapil , Saroha Sumit
Published: April 2022

An accurate short-term solar irradiation forecasting is requiredregarding smart grid stability and to conduct bilateral contract negotiations between suppliers and customers. Traditional machine learning models are unable to acquire and to rectify nonlinear properties from solar datasets, which  not only complicate  model formation but also lower prediction accuracy. The present research paper develops a deep learningbased architecture with a predictive analytic technique to address these difficulties. Using a sophisticated signal decomposition technique, the original solar irradiation sequences are decomposed  into multiple intrinsic mode functions to build a prospective feature set. Then, using an iteration strategy, a potential range of frequency associated to the deep learning model is generated. This method is  developed utilizing a linked algorithm and a deep learning network. In comparison with conventional models, the suggested model utilizes sequences generated through preprocessing methods, significantly improving prediction accuracywhen  confronted with a high resolution dataset created from a big dataset.On the other hand, the chosen dataset not only performs a massive data reduction, but also improves forecasting accuracy by up to 20.74 percent across a range of evaluation measures. The proposed model achieves lowest annual average RMSE (1.45W/m2), MAPE (2.23%) and MAE (1.34W/m2) among the other developed models for 1-hr ahead solar GHI, respectively, whereas forecast-skill obtained by the proposed model is 59% with respect to benchmark model. As a result, the proposed method might be used to predict short-term solar irradiation with greater accuracy using a solar dataset
Leveraging the Pied Piper effect -The case of teaching programming to sixth-grade students via music
Authors: Lavy Ilana
Published: April 2022

This paper describes a pilot study that explores students learning how to program via a multi-disciplinary approach. The study participants were eleven 6th grade students who learned programming fundamentals via music activities in a Scratch 3.0 environment. These activities included the programming of familiar melodies and the development of suitable animations or computer games. For that matter, a study unit termed MelodyCode was developed in the spirit of the STEAM education approach and the spiral learning method and included exploration tasks based on individual learning. Via the programming of familiar melodies, they became acquainted with programming concepts such as functions, variables, repetition and control commands, parallel processes, and more. Competitions that win awards were held from time to time, which prompted students to invest efforts in their projects to reach first place and gain the teacher and classmates' appreciation. The study was conducted in the form of action research. The data analysis yielded references to the effect of MelodyCode on common stereotypes students hold regarding programming (masculine profession, necessitates good mathematics knowledge), cognitive aspects (cognitive load, linking music concrete use to abstract programming concepts), and affective aspects (joyful and relaxing class atmosphere, motivation, curiosity, self-efficacy).
Correlation analysis of factors of development of sterility
Authors:   Shupyk National Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education, Kiev, Berestovoy O.A.
Published: April 2022

The objective: to carry out the correlation analysis of factors of development of sterility. Materials and methods. On existence of risk factors we compared group of healthy patients to existence of labors in the anamnesis (group of control) into which 50 patients with group of patients with sterility which was made by 100 women entered: 40 – with primary sterility, 60 – with secondary sterility. Results. Prognostically significant predictors for emergence of sterility is existence of an endometriosis, polycystic ovaries (increase probability), pathologies of uterus cervix, an ovary resection (reduce probability). Thus for this model coefficient of determination of R2=0.292 that shows statistically significant explanation these factors of probability of development of primary sterility at studied group of women for 29.3%. A share of correct predictions of lack of sterility in to studied selection (specificity) I made – 99.3%, for existence of sterility (sensitivity) – 27.5%. The general percent of correct predictions made 79.6%. Conclusion. The received results needs to be used in practical health care at stage of preparation for auxiliary reproductive technologies. Key words: sterility, factors, correlation analysis.
General principles and recommendations for the determination of tumor markers in the clinical practice of a gynecologist
Authors:   Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine, Shumytskyi A.V. , Burka O.A. ,   SI Institute of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology named after academician O.M. Lukyanova of the NAMS of Ukraine, Kyiv, Tutchenko T.M. ,   ML «DILA», Kyiv
Published: April 2022

Tumor markers play a large role in all aspects of cancer surveillance, from screening to follow-up after treatment, and their prudent use in clinical practice requires a thorough understanding of the basics of pathophysiology, methods of identification or testing, and their role in any disease. Detection can be carried out either in tissues or in body fluids, such as ascites, pleural and, most often, in blood serum. The clinical use of tumor markers can be classified into 4 groups: screening and early detection, diagnostic confirmation, prognosis and prognosis of the therapeutic response and monitoring of the disease and relapse. The serum tumor marker level in certain situations can be used in making a diagnosis, predicting the course of a disease, or predicting a response to therapy. Disease monitoring is the most common clinical use of serum tumor markers. A growing tendency to determine the level of tumor markers in blood serum helps to detect a relapse of the disease long before the onset of obvious clinical or radiological signs of the disease. Key words: tumor markers (tumor markers), screening, diagnosis, cancer, antigen, malignancy, laboratory.
Features of lactation in puerperal women with obesity
Authors:   Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine, Dyndar O.A. , Nykoniuk T.R. ,   Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine, Manzhula L.V. ,   Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine,, Oleshko V.F. ,   Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: April 2022

The objective: to determine the features of lactation in obese puerperas, depending on the body mass index and the therapeutic and preventive measures. Materials and methods. The analysis and evaluation of quantitative and qualitative indicators (lactose, casein, total protein, lipids, lactoferrin, transferrin, ceruloplasmin, vitamins C and E, immunoglobulins of G, A, M classes) of maternal milk in the dynamics of the postpartum period in 386 puerperas was conducted. The main group consisted of 115 women with obesity, the management of the preconception period, pregnancy and the postpartum period was carried out according to the proposed by us program, including non-drug and drug methods. The comparison group included 103 puerperas with obesity, the management of which was carried out in accordance with the Order No. 417 of the Ministry of health of Ukraine dated 15.07.2011. The control group consisted of 53 primiparous with normal body weight. Results. Analysis of the state of lactation revealed hypogalactia and pathological changes in the qualitative composition of breast milk, manifested in women with obesity and lower levels of lactose and lactoferrin by 1.6 times, total protein, ceruloplasmin by 2.2 times, lipids by 2.1 times, transferrin by 1.4 times, casein by 1,5 times, vitamin C by 1,8 times and E by 1,5 times, and the content of IgG by 2.1 times, IgM by 1.9 times, IgA by 2.2 times. The stage of hypogalactia severity and pathological changes in the quality of breast milk increase due to the body mass index growth. Conclusion. The proposed pathogenetically justified program of therapeutic and preventive measures contributed to the increase in the volume of breast milk and its quality improve. Key words: postpartum period, lactation, obesity.
Complex approach to diagnostics and treatment of patiology of pregnancy in women with perinatal losses in anamnesis
Authors:   Shupyk National Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education, Kiev, Vorobey L.I. ,   Kyiv City Center for Reproductive and Perinatal Medicine
Published: April 2022

The objective: improving the diagnosis and treatment of pregnancy pathology in women with a history of perinatal loss by implementing a comprehensive approach. Materials and methods. A prospective longitudinal controlled randomized trial was conducted with the participation of 105 women aged 27.9 ± 0.4 years, with gestation at the first examination of 28.5 ± 0.47 weeks with a history of perinatal loss. Two anthropological-demographic and gestational group comparisons were formed: the main group (57 women), in which, in addition to the standard protocol, the author’s integrated approach to diagnostics (using cardiointervalography) and treatment of pregnancy pathology (including therapy, including treatment) cardiointervalography), and a comparison group (48 women) with a standard treatment-diagnostic approach. The nature and scope of the survey are in accordance with industry standards. Results. As a result of the study, the best clinical parameters in the main group were determined, which included a lower frequency and severity of complications of pregnancy (premature delivery, anomalies of delivery, etc.). Conclusion. The prospect of further research is the development of a mathematical model for predicting the effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment of pregnancy pathology in women with a history of perinatal loss. Key words: pregnancy pathology, perinatal losses, cardiointervalography, obstetric history, neurovegetative regulation, fetal distress, treatment.
Adaptation reserves in partner labor
Authors:   Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine, Usevych I.A.
Published: April 2022

Studying the causes of excessive intensity of the influence of stress factors is an urgent task of modern medicine, therefore, the scientific substantiation of the technology of partner birth will optimize obstetric and perinatal consequences and improve the psychoemotional adaptation of the mother. The objective: to study the stress of the adaptive reserves of the body in partners with partner births. Materials and methods. Surveyed: Group I 30 mothers of women in childbirth who acted as partners in childbirth; ІІ group – 30 husbands of women in childbirth; 30 husbands who visited their wives who were in separate pathology of pregnancy for prenatal preparation in the period of pregnancy of 38–40 weeks, comprised the control group. A survey was conducted using the Teylor, Spіelberger scales and the San Test definition. Results. The described correlation relationships between the levels of tension of psychoemotional adaptive abilities in husbands and mothers of women in childbirth at partner births. A significant difference was revealed in some psychological factors and behavioral reactions. Conclusion. Delivery partners have a high psychoemotional load. Husbands have a significantly greater psycho-emotional load acting as a partner in childbirth in relation to mothers-partners. Key words: cesarean section, psychoemotional state, pregnancy, childbirth, J. Teylor, Ch. Spielberger, SAN-test.