bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digital-based Career Specialization Service is an Innovative Counseling Service for Counseling Teachers of Junior High Schools
Authors: Jamain Ririanti Rachmayanie , Amalia Rizka , Isma Isma
Published: March 2024

Choosing the right career specialization significantly affects students' future life prospects. However, the career specialization service provided by the Guidance and Counselling (GC) teachers remains suboptimal due to the continued reliance on manual instruments, which results in protracted analysis periods. One challenge GC teachers face is their limited proficiency in utilizing technology to digitize instruments. The objective of providing training on digital-based career guidance services is to assist counseling teachers in analyzing career guidance instruments. Digital-based career guidance service training was provided to 26 counselling teachers who are MGBK SMP Barito Kuala Regency members with brain storming and hands-on practice methods guided by the Mandatory Research Lecturer Program team. The training yielded a 75% improvement in technology-related proficiencies, meaning counseling teachers are capable of implementing this digital career specialization service within their respective academic institutions.
Improved berry and wine quality of Vitis vinifera L. cv. Gewürztraminer grown in an arid climate using a Y-shaped training system
Authors: Zohar Yaara , Reta Kidanemaryam , Drori Elyashiv , Gliksman Udi , Rauchberger Shiki , Bar Einat , Lewinsohn Efraim , Agam Nurit , Fait Aaron
Published: March 2024

Recent global climatic changes have highlighted viticulture in arid/semiarid regions as an increasingly relevant study model. Grapes in arid regions face excessive solar irradiance, leading to more than 50 °C berry surface temperatures in exposed berries. The resultant oxidative stress, sunburn necrosis, and browning consistently reduce berry quality. Adapting an adequate training system to the climate and cultivar is a simple and inexpensive method to control the radiation regime. This study compares the berry and wine characteristics and compositional components of desert-grown Vitis vinifera L. cv. Gewürztraminer, trained on either a Vertical Shoot Positioning (VSP) system or a Y-shaped training system (SAYM, Sistema di Allevamendo ad Ypsilon Integralmente Meccanizzabile), a method with a higher canopy light interception. The SAYM training reduced direct radiation and concomitant heat in the cluster zone and significantly alleviated oxidative stress in berries in the 2016/17 season. In addition, SAYM-grown berries were preferable in terms of quality and productivity. Correspondingly, a sensorial analysis rated SAYM wines higher than VSP wines in all categories. Photosynthetic pigment content in the berries' skin showed similarities between VSP and SAYM, and a volatile compound analysis of the wines by GC-MS revealed a higher ester content in the wines derived from SAYM vines, along with a higher content of compounds linked to Gewürztraminer wine typicity (varietal characteristics such as esters, terpenoids, and alcohols).
Valuasi Ekonomi Berbasis Cashflows dan Payback Periods dari Aktivitas Silvofishery di Segara Anakan Timur Cilacap
Authors: Damara Risti , Junaidi Teuku , Hilmi Endang
Published: March 2024

Penelitian ini berjudul Valuasi Ekonomi Berbasis Cashflows dan Payback Periods dari Aktivitas Silvofishery di Segara Anakan Timur Cilacap. Valuasi ekonomi merupakan upaya untuk memberikan nilai kuantitatif terhadap barang dan jasa yang dihasilkan oleh sumberdaya alam dan lingkungan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui nilai valuasi ekonomi dengan menggunakan pendekatan cashflow dan payback period dalam perhitungannya. Metode penelitian yang digunakan yaitu metode deskriptif dengan pendekatan kuantitatif. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan pada bulan Mei 2023. Penelitian dilakukan dengan wawancara menggunakan kuesioner, jumlah sampel terdiri dari 23 pelaku usaha silvofishery di Segara Anakan bagian timur yaitu di Kelurahan Donan dan Kutawaru. Hasil analisis menunjukkan analisis biaya dan keuntungan silvofishery, dalam setahun didapatkan pendapatan rata-rata Rp 31.904.347,00, biaya investasi Rp 9.335.434,00, biaya tetap Rp 1.768.206,00, biaya variabel Rp 11.254.086,00, keuntungan Rp 18.882.054,00. Nilai valuasi ekonomi berupa nilai NPV diperoleh sebesar Rp 9.072.971,00, nilai IRR rata-rata diperoleh 33,34%, dan rata-rata nilai B/C Ratio yang diperoleh adalah 1,65 yang berarti usaha yang dijalankan akan memperoleh keuntungan dan dianggap layak. Sedangkan nilai payback period diperoleh rata-rata 0,69 tahun atau 8 bulan 24 hari. Namun, meskipun secara perhitungan usaha ini layak diteruskan, tetapi pada kenyataannya di lapangan tidak semua petambak dapat mencukupi kebutuhan hidup mereka dari hasil tambak.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE ANNEXIN A5 LEVEL AND THE REGRESSION OF PULMONARY COMPLICATIONS IN PATIENTS WITH SARS-COV-2- ASSOCIATED PNEUMONIA AT THE OUTPATIENT STAGE
Authors:   Astrakhan State Medical University, KURMAEVA ASIA SH. , BASHKINA OLGA A. ,   Astrakhan State Medical University, PROKOFYEVA TATIANA V. ,   Astrakhan State Medical University, POLUNINA OLGA S. ,   Astrakhan State Medical University, POLUNINA EKATERINA A. ,   Astrakhan State Medical University
Published: March 2024

Abstract. Introduction. To date, there are still some questions regarding the novel coronavirus infection. One of them concerns the long-term post-COVID-19 eﬀects and the regression of complications that have developed during the acute period of this disease. Apoptosis is one of the universal mechanisms for maintaining the body homeostasis. Annexin A5 (ANXA5) is a calcium-containing protein indicative of early apoptosis. Aim: To determine the relationship between the annexin A5 levels and the regression of pulmonary complications in patients with SARS-CoV-2-associated pneumonia 6 months after being treated regarding COVID-19. Materials and Methods. We examined 90 residents of the Astrakhan region, diagnosed with the coronavirus infection COVID-19 (virus identiﬁed), aged 47 [39; 57] years. Pulmonary complications were detected in 46 patients using сomputed tomography at discharge: 30 (33.3 %) with diﬀuse pulmonary ﬁbrosis, 3 (3.3 %) with exudative pleuritis, and 13 (11.1 %) with the combination of the two. After 6 months of outpatient follow-up, pulmonary complications were detected in 16 (17.8 %) patients: Diﬀuse pulmonary ﬁbrosis in 7 (7.8 %), pleural adhesions in 5 (5.6%), and both complications 4 (4.5 %) patients. ANXA5 level (ng/ml) in blood serum was determined by enzyme immunoassay method using immune-enzyme reaction analyzer Uniplan AIFR-01 manufactured by Picon, Russia. The distribution of numerical scores was nonparametric. To determine the statistical signiﬁcance of diﬀerences in quantitative characteristics, we used the Mann-Whitney test in two independent samples and the Wilcoxon test in dependent samples. Diﬀerences in qualitative characteristics in two independent groups were analyzed using contingency tables with subsequent calculation of Pearson’s χ2 criterion, odds ratio, and 95% conﬁdence interval. Results and Discussion. Even after 6 months of follow-up the diﬀerences remained statistically signiﬁcantly higher than in the control group. Number of patients with pulmonary complications on сomputed tomography 6 months after hospitalization decreased threefold, i. e., from 51.1% down to 17.8 %. ANXA5 level after 6 months of follow-up in patients with pulmonary complications on сomputed tomography was statistically signiﬁcantly higher compared to the patients of this group without pulmonary complications (p<0.001). Conclusions. Probability of pulmonary complications on сomputed tomography after 6 months of follow-up was 10 times higher in patients with the insuﬃcient dynamics of ANXA5 levels, as compared to those with the positive dynamics of this index level (OR 10.0, 95% CI 2.7-33.3).
DECOMPENSATED CHRONIC HEART FAILURE MANAGEMENT MODIFICATIONS FOR PATIENTS WITH FRAILTY
Authors:   ANCO Scientific Research Medical Center “Gerontologiya” (Gerontology), Moscow,, PODOBED IVAN V. , LOKINSKAYA LILIYA S. ,   Belgorod State National Research University, ALEHINA ANNA V. ,   Voronezh State Medical University named after N. N. Burdenko, OSIPOV KIRILL V. ,   Federal Medical Biophysical Center named after A.I. Burnazyan, Moscow, LENKIN SERGEY G. ,   -Profit Clinic for Dematology/Venereology), Moscow, PONOMAREV ALEXEY S. ,   Ural State Medical University, FOMCHENKOVA NATAL’YA V. ,   Сlinic GEN87, Vladimir
Published: March 2024

Abstract. Introduction. Frailty aﬀects the prognosis of patients suﬀering from chronic heart failure. This syndrome increases the frequency of hospitalizations, complicates treatment, and increases the patients’ lethality. Managing patients with chronic heart failure requires some strategic modiﬁcations, namely, such management should be supplemented with the procedures aimed at correcting geriatric syndromes. Aim. Optimization of management tactics patients with chronic heart failure and frailty syndrome. Materials and Methods. The study included 52 patients with decompensated chronic heart failure and severe or terminal frailty. Patients were divided into 2 groups: 27 people in group 1, where patients were managed in a standard manner for 7 days, and 25 people in group 2 where integrated management was used. Results and Discussion. Patients of the two groups were comparable in lethality (p=0.17). By the 7th day of observation, the groups were comparable in terms of the number of persons with malnutrition syndrome (p=0.73). The patients were comparable in terms of the pressure ulcer stages and of the presence of infectious complications (p = 1.0). The frequency of thromboembolic complications in the study sample was 5.7%. Conclusions. Integrated management may be considered to improve long-term prognosis for the decompensated chronic heart failure patients with frailty, despite the lack of improvement in short-term outcomes.
CHARACTERISTICS OF DENTAL MORBIDITY PREVALENCE IN PRESCHOOL CHILDREN LIVING IN NUCLEAR AND RECONSTITUTED FAMILIES
Authors:   Kazan State Medical University, KHADYEVA MADINA N. , GALIULLIN AFGAT N. ,   Kazan Federal University, YAKIMOVA JULIA YU. ,   Kazan Federal University
Published: March 2024

Abstract. Introduction. Dental diseases in preschool children do not appear to tend downward. According to the literature, the prevalence of dental decay and its complications in preschool children reaches 70%, dental abnormalities more than 80%, and periodontal diseases and oral mucosa diseases up to 98%. There are some data described in literature, regarding how family types aﬀect the overall incidence in children. At the same time, the impact of family type on the children dental health has not been studied a lot so far. Taking this into account, this paper provides data on dental morbidity in preschool children living in nuclear and reconstituted families. The aim of the study is to examine the pattern of prevalence of major dental diseases in preschool children living in nuclear or reconstituted families. Materials and Methods. Preschool children of diﬀerent ages and their parents took part in this study. During the study, we identiﬁed reconstituted and nuclear families, the children from which families constituted the subject of the study. In total, the study examined 1,929 children from 1,842 nuclear families and 166 children from 146 reconstituted children. Results and Discussions. The study found that the most important dental diseases occur in children of the earliest age, before 1 year of life. With the passage of time and the child’s growth, their dental morbidity progresses and reaches its peak among preschool children aged 4.6-6 years. Children living in reconstituted families were signiﬁcantly more susceptible to the onset and progression of major dental diseases than those from nuclear families. Conclusions. The impact of family type on dental morbidity in preschool children should be considered while planning the prevention and medical examination programs, which will help identify dental diseases at an early stage, prevent the development of complications, and optimize health care costs for the treatment and prevention of dental diseases in preschool children
Longitudinal Policy Surveillance of Private Insurance Hearing Aid Mandates in the United States: 1997–2022
Authors: Arnold Michelle L. , Heslin Brianna J. , Dowdy Madison , Kershner Stacie P. , Phillips Serena , Lipton Brandy , Pesko Michael F.
Published: March 2024

Objectives. To produce a database of private insurance hearing aid mandates in the United States and quantify the share of privately insured individuals covered by a mandate.

Methods. We used health-related policy surveillance methods to create a database of private insurance hearing aid mandates through January 2023. We coded salient features of mandates and combined policy data with American Community Survey and Medicare Expenditure Panel Survey–Insurance Component data to estimate the share of privately insured US residents covered by a mandate from 2008 to 2022.

Results. A total of 26 states and 1 territory had private insurance hearing aid mandates. We found variability for mandate exceptions, maximum age eligibility, allowable frequency of benefit use, and coverage amounts. Between 2008 and 2022 the proportion of privately insured youths (aged ≤ 18 years) living where there was a private insurance hearing aid mandate increased from 3.4% to 18.7% and the proportion of privately insured adults (19–64 years) increased from 0.3% to 4.6%.

Conclusions. Hearing aid mandates cover a small share of US residents. Mandate exceptions in several states limit coverage, particularly for adults.

Public Health Implications. A federal mandate would improve hearing aid access. States can also improve access by adopting exception-free mandates with limited utilization management and no age restrictions. ( Am J Public Health. 2024;114(4):407–414. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2023.307551 )
Effect of Nutrition Therapy on Ferritin in Pregnant Women with Anemia at Gamping 2 Public Health Center
Authors: Shafriani Nazula Rahma , Fauzia Faurina Risca , Wahyuntari Evi
Published: March 2024

Anemia in pregnant women in Indonesia is 48.9% and has the potential to endanger the safety of the mother and child. The most common type of anemia is iron deficiency. The cause of iron deficiency is inadequate nutrient intake and increasing demand for Fe in pregnant women, causing a decrease in ferritin levels and hemoglobin levels below normal limits. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of nutritional therapy for 2 months on hemoglobin and ferritin levels in anemic pregnant women. This research method is an experiment with a pretest-posttest control group design approach. This research was conducted on 2nd-trimester pregnant women who were diagnosed with anemia at the Gamping 2 Health Center with a total sample of 22 people. Respondents were taken by Simple Random Sampling, then divided into 2 groups, namely the case group 11 people who received nutritional counseling therapy and Fe supplements, and the control group 11 people who received Fe supplement therapy. Statistical analysis used the Independent t-test with the STATA 13 application. The results showed that there was no significant difference between Hb and ferritin levels in the control group and the case group with a p-value = 0.13 (p> 0.05) and p-value = 0.11 (p>0.05). So it can be concluded that there is no significant difference in Hb and Ferritin levels in pregnant women with anemia at the Gamping 2 Health Center between the case group and the control group.
Development Development of the One in Diversity Application for Class V Students on Indonesian Diversity Material
Authors: Widiyanti Isti , Hanifah Nurdinah , Nugraha Rana Gustian
Published: March 2024

This study employs Research and Development (RnD) methodology, utilizing the ADDIE model, to develop the One In Diversity application aimed at enhancing grade V students' learning of Indonesian Diversity in PPKn. The application's development involved analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation stages. Media and material experts evaluated the application, achieving scores of 82.5% and 95.3% respectively, indicating high quality. Large and small group trials further validated its effectiveness, with scores of 86.29% and 87.47% respectively. This innovative approach offers promising implications for educators seeking to integrate technology into their teaching methods, fostering enhanced student engagement and comprehension in diverse subject matter. Highlights: Innovative Learning Solution: "One In Diversity" app enhances PPKn learning Systematic Development: ADDIE model ensures effective app creation. Expert Validation: High scores from assessments and trials validate app's efficacy. Keywords: Application Development, PPKn, Indonesian Diversity
Hardware Asset Recording Information System Based on Web at PT. Smart Connect
Authors: Syah Naufal Galfan , Fitrani Arif Senja
Published: March 2024

PT. Smart Connect is an IT company that focuses on the design, development, and maintenance of LAN and WAN networks, network routers, and websites. The company has many assets in the form of computer network devices that need to be recorded meticulously. Currently, asset recording is still done manually using Google Spreadsheet, which is considered less effective and time-consuming. In the rapidly evolving digital era, the utilization of technology and information systems has become crucial. The proper use of information systems can enhance efficiency in managing asset data and facilitate information access. Therefore, PT. Smart Connect requires further improvement in its information system for asset recording and reporting. The goal is to expedite the asset recording process and provide more detailed reports, thereby increasing efficiency and productivity in company asset management.
Radiomics: A Powerful Tool
Authors:   Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Neurospinal & Medical Institute, Karachi, Pakistan., Kamal Shahid
Published: March 2024

The Artificial Intelligence based technique of radiomics is an evolving modality that employs data characterization algorithms to extract a variety of useful features from medical images [1].Tumoral patterns are revealed that cannot be appreciated by the naked eye [2]. This can aid in assessing prognosis and gauging the response of tumor cells to therapy [3]. Various imaging modalities like CT, PET MR provide essential raw data. Extraction tools then use the raw data volumes to analyze pixel/voxel characteristics. Using these images, “volumes of interest” can be generated since such segmentation entails handling and processing of large image data; automatic and semiautomatic segmentation algorithms are employed enabling automation [4]. However, thorough testing and quality assurance are vital to ensure that the algorithm used is not only accurate, consistent, and reproducible but also time-efficient [5].
The Prognostic Value of Tumor Budding in Breast Biopsies and its Relationship with Survival: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors:   Department of Pathology, Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal Training and Research Hospital, Bolu, Turkey., Ozer Songul Peltek
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Background: In 1954 Imai described Tumor Budding (TB), as a tumor sprouting at the invasive tumor front of colorectal carcinomas. TB is associated with poor prognosis. TB has prognostic importance in invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast. Objective: The present study aims to examine TB in breast needle core biopsy specimens with invasive ductal type carcinoma, and its relationship with other clinicopathological parameters and overall survival. Materials and Methods: From February 2015 to December 2022, patients who had undergone breast carcinoma surgery at the Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal Training and Research Hospital and had preoperative needle core biopsies at the same center were retrospectively analyzed. Needle core biopsy slides were re-evaluated for TB. Tumor size, and nodal status, were retrieved from pathology reports. Overall survival was considered. Analysis of the data was done with statistical software (SPSS 18.0 for Windows, IBM Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Results: 122 patients were enrolled in the study. The mean age of the study and control groups were 55±12 years and 54±11 years, respectively. TB was identified in 68 (55%) patients; the rest 54 (45%) patients didn’t have any TB. The median value of the metastatic axillary lymph node in the TB absent group was 0 (0-51); in the TB group was 1 (0-21), and this was statistically significant (p=0.03). Lymphovascular invasion was detected in 33 patients (48.5%) in the TB present group and in 14 patients (25.9%) in the TB absent group. That was statistically significant (p=0.01). In the overall survival analysis, mean survival times were lower in the TB group compared to the TB absent group, but it was not statistically significant (p=0.33). Conclusion: In conclusion, tumor budding is a robust prognostic indicator; therefore, assessing tumor budding especially in core needle biopsy specimens will be very helpful for individual treatment options.
Observed Adverse Effects of Sinopharm COVID-19 Vaccine in Healthcare Workers
Authors:   Department of Medical Unit 1, Service Institute of Medical Science, Service Hospital Lahore, Pakistan., Muneer Khadija , Tufail Nimra ,   Department of Medical Unit 1, Sir Ganga Hospital Lahore, Pakistan., Khan Muhammad Imran Hassan ,   Department of Medical Unit 1, Sahiwal Medical College, Punjab, Pakistan., Inam Sadia ,   Department of Medical Unit 1, Service Institute of Medical Science, Service Hospital Lahore, Pakistan., Ayub Saima ,   Department of Bacteriology, Institute Public Health, Lahore, Pakistan.
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Background: Covid-19 was first identified in Wuhan China in December 2019, and rapidly spread world over. Vaccine was always thought as first line defence against viral infections, and Covid was no exception. Although developed through different technologies, Pakistan got its share of Sinopharm from China and vaccination started in February 2021, with priority for Healthcare workers. There were lot of myths and hesitancy related with the adverse effects and urgency in approving these vaccines. Addressing adverse effects in post vaccinated population hence, became an important matter. Objective: Aim of this study was to observe the adverse effects of this vaccine in Pakistani population, to assess safety and develop confidence in Healthcare Workers. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional Observation study was carried out in vaccinated Healthcare Professional through Non-probability purposive sampling over a period of one month. A team collected data directly, as well as on the telephone call. A Google form was also generated and sent. Information was collected and analysed on IBM-SPSS 23.0 Result: Majority of the participants were less than 55 years with female dominance. Among co-morbidities, hypertension was most common, followed by diabetes. In local and systemic adverse effects, pain and fatigue were most common, followed by muscle weakness, fever and headache respectively. These effects were also more common after first injection. Conclusion: Results favor that people should be more careful after the first dose as more adverse effects were felt after that. This vaccine has a good safety profile as no major adverse effects were noticed. It was also considered safe for patients with co-morbidities.
Oral Hygiene Practices of Rural and Urban School Going Children in Punjab
Authors:   Department of Science of Dental Materials, University of Health Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan., Hassan Hammad , Zaidi Zainab Fatima ,   Department of Community & Preventive Dentistry, Institute of Dentistry, CMH Lahore Medical College, National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS), Rawalpindi, Pakistan., Shakoor Asma ,   Department of Community & Preventive Dentistry, Institute of Dentistry, CMH Lahore Medical College, National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS), Rawalpindi, Pakistan., Asad Rabia ,   Department of Community & Preventive Dentistry Department, Akhter Saeed Medical and Dental College, Lahore, Pakistan., Fatima Roha ,   Department of Dentistry, Institute of Dentistry, CMH Lahore Medical College, National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS), Rawalpindi, Pakistan., Mir Bersha ,   Department of Oral Medicine & Diagnosis, Institute of Dentistry, CMH Lahore Medical College, National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS), Rawalpindi, Pakistan.
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Background: The early years of life are essential for establishing a solid foundation for oral and dental health. Children with poor oral and systemic health typically have poor dietary habits and insufficient oral hygiene practices, particularly brushing. Objective: To assess and compare the oral hygiene practices of rural and urban school-going children in Punjab. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2021 to August 2022, after the approval of IRB, among five urban and five rural schools in Punjab using an interview-administered survey tool through purposive sampling of 600 students. The questionnaire was developed by the authors and validated using face validity. The data were stored and analyzed using IBM SPSS version 23. Result: A total of 650 students were approached; out of them, 600 responded. Almost one-third of them had the habit of brushing twice daily (27%), whereas most were brushing once daily (65.4%). The rural school children used miswak, manjan, and their finger more significantly; however, toothpaste was the major agent for cleaning teeth (89.4%). The urban school children were using toothbrushes more significantly. Rural school children more frequently used Miswak and finger. Urban schoolchildren often brushed at night, whereas no difference was reported between morning and nighttime. Conclusion: Most urban school children were using toothbrushes and toothpaste. The use of miswak and manjan was more common in rural areas. The most common time for brushing was morning and night. Rural areas need to have access to oral health education and subsidized toothpaste and toothbrushes.
Undergraduate Nursing Students’ Satisfaction Level with their Clinical Learning Experiences in Multan, Pakistan
Authors:   Department of Nursing, University College of Nursing, Islamia University, Bahawalpur, Pakistan., Rana Anna , Rizvi Naghma ,   Department of Nursing, Aga Khan University, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Karachi, Pakistan., Maqbool Hussain ,   Department of Nursing, Aga Khan University, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Karachi, Pakistan., Siaity Eunice ,   Department of Nursing, Aga Khan University, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Tanzania, East Africa.
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Background: Clinical experience is an integral part of nursing education. Obtaining quality clinical experiences in a supportive and pedagogically calibrated clinical learning environment is a significant concern for nursing institutions. The quality of clinical learning reveals the quality of the curriculum structure. Therefore, it is important to investigate students’ clinical learning experiences to produce competent future nurses. Objective: This study aimed to measure the undergraduate nursing students’ satisfaction level with their clinical learning experiences in government and private college of Nursing in Multan, Pakistan. Materials and Methods: A quantitative approach, with analytical cross-sectional design, was used. A sample of 191 undergraduate nursing students participated in the study. Data was collected using the CLES+T evaluation scale. Online Google survey forms were used to collect data, due to the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. Result: The study findings revealed that students were satisfied with their clinical learning experiences. Students’ overall mean satisfaction score was 3.54 + 0.93 and significant (p<0.05) difference was found in the satisfaction score between the government and private undergraduate nursing students. Attending pre and post-conferences, faculty visit to students’ clinical placement, electronic communication between students and clinical faculty, and environment of clinical placement were the associated factors found with students’ satisfaction. The findings revealed that a meaningful clinical learning environment motivates students to continue nursing as their career choice. Conclusion: This study concluded that, overall, students were satisfied with their clinical learning experiences, however, satisfaction varied according to the type of college and year of study.
Clinical Characteristics of Patients with Oral Submucous Fibrosis: A Single Institute Study
Authors:   Department of Oral Pathology, Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan., Iqbal Kanwal , Butt Saima ,   Department of Oral Pathology, Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan., Razi Afifa ,   Department of Oral Medicine, Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan.
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Background: Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSMF) is a well-established oral potentially malignant disorder (OPMD) affecting people of Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka because these nations have a long-standing history of chewing areca nut. Objective: The primary objective of the current study was to assess the clinical features of OSMF in patients presented to the Department of Oral Medicine, Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan. Materials and Methods: This study was done on OSMF patients who came to the Oral Medicine department of Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan from June 2020 to July 2021. Clinicopathological parameters of OSMF like age, gender, habits and its frequency and duration, clinical signs and symptoms and stages were recorded. Result: There were a total of 60 patients of which 35 were males and 25 were females. The mean age of study subjects was calculated to be 36.46±11.96 years. More than 50% of the participants were using a combination of various tobacco products. Most of the patients in our study were of stage III followed by stages II, I and IV. 70% of patients had buccal fibrous bands bilaterally, 36.66% of patients had tongue restriction and 60% of patients complained of burning sensation in the mouth. Conclusion: OSMF becomes a disease of the young generation with a slight male predilection. The majority of individuals suffered from a severe and advanced form of the disease. The development of diagnostic aids is necessary to stop the disease in its early stages.
Antifungal Potential of Bioactive Metabolites Produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa against Candida Species
Authors:   Lab of Applied Microbiology and Clinical Mycology (LAMCM), Department of Microbiology, Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology, Karachi, Pakistan., Hanif Hamna , Naz Sehar Afshan ,   Lab of Applied Microbiology and Clinical Mycology (LAMCM), Department of Microbiology, Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology, Karachi, Pakistan., Jabeen Nusrat ,   Department of Microbiology, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan., Shafique Maryam ,   Lab of Applied Microbiology and Clinical Mycology (LAMCM), Department of Microbiology, Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology, Karachi, Pakistan., Ahmed Waleed ,   United Medical and Dental College, Karachi, Pakistan.
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Background: The frequency of fungal infections targeting immune-suppressed patients has been prominently rising day by day. Among these infections, Candidiasis is one of the most common life-threatening systemic fungal infections in recent years. These infections are challenging to treat because of the inconvenience of effective antifungal drugs. Therefore, the insufficiency of current drug regimens coupled with constant mutations by the fungi to develop drug resistance can pose a potential problem for future anti-fungal treatments. This frequent increase in drug-resistant fungi has directed attention toward the use of alternative therapy from natural sources. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate Pseudomonas aeruginosa for its antifungal potential against Candida species. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted at the Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology, Karachi, Pakistan during 2021-2022. For the detection of the antifungal compound, a clinical isolate P. aeruginosa HS 28 (identified conventionally as well as by 16S r RNA analysis) was screened for its bioactivity against Candida species by using agar well diffusion technique. The growth kinetics as well as the effect of different physical and chemical factors were also determined in the study. The compound was also partially purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation. Result: This antifungal compound showed good inhibitory activity against Candida species such as Candida albicans, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. krusei, etc. This compound retained its stability at a high range of temperatures, and varying pH. Moreover, its bioactivity was also conserved when treated with organic solvents, chloroform vapors, metal salts, and different surfactants/detergents. The growth kinetics analysis illustrated that the maximum production of antifungal compounds occurred in the log phase of growth and extended supreme until the late log phase. Furthermore, the highest saturation of this protein was achieved at the concentration of 60% ammonium sulfate. Conclusion: The overall results indicated the promising antifungal potential of the compound produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa HS 28 against Candida species.
Surgical Management of Idiopathic Scrotal Elephantiasis: A Rare Case Report
Authors:   Department of Urology and Transplantation, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, Pakistan., Ali Arif , Khan Ayesha ,   Department of Urology and Transplantation, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, Pakistan., Ahmed Farooque ,   Department of Urology and Transplantation, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, Pakistan., Ali Shahzad ,   Department of Urology and Transplantation, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, Pakistan.
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Etiologically, massive scrotal lymphedema can be either congenital or acquired. Congenital is further divided into different types while the predominant variety in the acquired category includes infectious etiology. We present a case of a 35-year-old male presented with the complaint of scrotal swelling for 3 years. Blood tests for filarial, chlamydia, and tuberculosis were unremarkable. Excision of excessive scrotal skin was done and sent for biopsy. The wound was partially closed, and the remaining was left for healing by secondary intention. The biopsy report showed non-caseating granulomatous inflammation with no significant lymph node involvement.
Machine learning electron-phonon interactions in 2D semiconducting materials: The case of zero-point renormalization
Authors: Haldar* Anubhab , Clark* Quentin , Zacharias Marios , Giustino Feliciano , Sharifzadeh Sahar
Published: March 2024

We utilize first-principles theory to investigate the role of electron-phonon interactions within a dataset of monolayer materials. Using density functional theory to describe excited state transitions and the special displacement method to describe the role of phonons, we analyze the relationship between simple physical observables and electron-phonon coupling strength. For over 100 materials, we compute the band gap renormalization due to zero-point vibrational (ZPR) motion as a measure of electron-phonon interactions and train a machine learning model based on physical parameters. We demonstrate that the strength of electron-phonon interactions is highly dependent on the band gap, dielectric constant, and degree of ionicity, all of which can be physically justified. We then apply this model to 1302 2D materials, predicting the ZPR, which for five randomly selected materials tested agree well with first-principles predictions. This work provides an approach for quantitatively predicting the ZPR as a measure of electron-phonon interactions in 2D materials.
Adaptive changes of farmers to the continued invasion of Senecio madagascariensis Poir. (fireweed) in pasture-based systems
Authors: Sindel Brian , Coleman Michael , Reeve Ian
Published: March 2024

Senecio madagascariensis Poir. (fireweed) is a rapidly invading poisonous weed of temperate and subtropical pastures across several continents and islands worldwide. While the geographic spread of pasture weeds, such as fireweed, can be relatively readily monitored, it is often farmer perceptions of weed impact that form the imperative for their management. In order to assess the types of adaptive changes that farmers may consider to the continued invasion of weeds in pasture-based systems, in 2011, we repeated a published 1985 farmer survey in fireweed-impacted regions in Australia to investigate: its continued spread; changes in the perceptions of its importance; and resulting changes in management. Fireweed had spread to new regions and was better established in previously lightly infested regions. It was less likely to be considered troubling by respondents when it was new on their farms, or had been present for an extended period. The effectiveness of a control method was only one of several factors driving adaptive changes in pasture weed management amongst survey respondents. Use of some approaches had declined alongside a perception that they were relatively ineffective, while the level of use of other reportedly successful techniques remained static, indicating major impediments to adoption. Weed invasions are by definition dynamic, and landholder perceptions of pasture weeds appear equally dynamic. As poisonous Senecio species spread around the world, the findings of this Australian research emphasise the need to understand how farmers adapt to weed invasion. Policymakers and landholders can benefit from such research for Senecio and other important weed species, by exploring the perceptions that may drive successful adaptive management of these species on-farm.
Study on a Soft Sensor for Coking Diagnosis Using Bayesian t-Distributed Mixed Regression Modeling
Authors: xia changhai , Peng Zhiping , Cui Delong , Li Qirui , sun lihui , He Jieguang , qiu jinbo
Published: March 2024

In the process of ethylene production by steam cracking, the coking diagnosis of the furnace tube of the cracking furnace is of great significance. Due to the existence of multimodal, nonlinear, non-Gaussian, and strong noise characteristics of the operating data of the cracking furnace, this paper proposes a soft sensor for coking diagnosis using bayesian t-distributed mixed regression modeling, which realizes the effective characterization of the multimodal, nonlinear, and non-Gaussian data through the hybrid model, and the model's parameter estimation is completed by the VBEM algorithm under the Bayesian framework to guarantee the anti-interference ability of the model. distribution to ensure the anti-interference ability of the model and the parameter estimation of the model is accomplished by the VBEM algorithm under the Bayesian framework. Finally, through simulation experiments and real industrial data experiments, as well as comparative analyses with PLSR, GMR, and GPR models, the model is verified to have good robustness, excellent prediction accuracy and robustness, which further confirms its potential application value in the diagnosis of furnace tube coking.
Extracellular vesicle derived miRNAs from plasma as promising diagnosis and prognosis biomarkers for neuroblastoma
Authors: Zhou Duo , Zhu Mengying , Wang Yilong , Hu Yuxiang , Peng Jinkai , Li Lingjie , Xiong Jieni , Tao Ting , Wang Jinhu , Zhao Zhengyan
Published: March 2024

Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common extracranial solid tumor in children. NB patients with amplification of the MYCN oncogene usually associated with a high risk of recurrence and poor survival. The small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) have potential as novel appropriate noninvasive tumor biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis. In this study, the differentially expressed microRNAs (DEMs) were determined in plasma-derived sEVs from 168 participants, including 24 children with NB (9 MYCN+ high-risk (HR) patients, 8 MYCN− HR patients and 7 MYCN− intermediate-risk or low-risk (IR/LR) patients) and also 10 healthy controls (HCs) in the discovery stage using miRNA-seq, 87 neuroblastoma children (28 MYCN+ HR patients, 33 MYCN− HR patients and 26 MYCN− IR/LR patients) and 47 HCs during the validation phase. Our results showed that miR-150-5p, miR-142-5p, miR-30b-5p, miR-320a-3p, miR-30b and miR-342-3p were significantly dysregulated in NB samples with the area under the curve (AUC) over 0.8. Additionally, the expression of miR-150-5p and miR-342-3p with the AUC of 0.738 was also significantly different between the MYCN+ group and MYCN− group. Functional analysis demonstrated the key mRNAs and signaling pathways involved in NB and MYCN amplification. In summary, our findings indicated plasma sEVs-derived miRNAs can be used as efficacy diagnosis and prognosis biomarkers in NB.
Comparative Study of Stability and Activity of Wild-Type and Mutant Human Carbonic Anhydrase II Enzymes Using Molecular Dynamics and Docking Simulations
Authors: Mapar Maryam , Taghdir Majid , Ranjbar Bijan
Published: March 2024

The human carbonic anhydrase II (HCA II) enzyme is a cytosolic protein located in the membrane of red blood cells. A zinc ion (Zn2+) in this enzyme makes it an excellent example of a metalloenzyme that reversible hydration of carbon dioxide (CO2). Considering the critical role of the HCA II, computational methods such as molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, and molecular mechanic/Poisen-Boltzman surface area (MMPBSA) analysis are used to study the structure and dynamics of the wild-type enzyme and the mutant enzyme with two ligands, CO2, and 4-nitrophenyl acetate. Our results of MD simulation of a wild-type enzyme with 4-nitrophenyl acetate ligand show that it created essential effects on the fluctuation of this enzyme and made it more unstable and less compact than the same enzyme without ligand. In the MD simulation of the mutant enzyme with 4-nitrophenyl acetate ligand, no significant difference is observed between this enzyme with and without ligand, but the solvent accessible surface area (SASA) measure of the mutant enzyme without ligand is higher. The affinity of the wild-type enzyme to the 4-nitrophenyl acetate ligand is notably higher than the mutant enzyme with the same ligand. The reason for this difference in stability is the mutation of Ala 65 to Leu (A65L). Furthermore, results showed that wild-type enzyme and mutant enzyme with CO2 ligand are more favorable in stability and flexibility than the same enzymes without ligand. These results can help in the engineering and design of new variants of carbonic anhydrase enzyme.
Effects of bread fortification with pomegranate peel powder on inflammation biomarkers, oxidative stress, and mood status in patients with type 2 diabetes: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zare Maryam , Tarrahi Mohammad Javad , Sadeghi Omid , Karimifar Mozhgan , Goli Amir Hossein , Amani Reza
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims: To assess the effects of bread fortified with pomegranate peel powder (PPP) on inflammation, oxidative stress, and mood indices in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
Methods and Results: In total, 90 T2DM patients were randomized to receive either bread fortified with 3.5% pomegranate peel powder (PPP) (n=45) or PPP-free bread during 12 weeks. Dietary intake throughout the trial was assessed using food records. Laboratory parameters including total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), hs-CRP-reactive-protein (hs-CRP), and psychological disorders including depression, anxiety, and stress were assessed at the beginning and end of the study. Overall, 77 diabetic patients completed the trial (39 in the PPP group and 38 in the control group) and were included in the analysis. Based on the compliance assessment, adherence to the interventions was high in the trial. PPP bread intake led to a significant reduction in hs-CRP levels (change: -0.56 ± 1.29, P=0.01) and depression score (-1.33 ± 3.66, P=0.04)), in the intervention group. Other variables including MDA, TAC, anxiety, and stress, showed no significant changes for PPP-fortified bread.
Conclusion: Our findings showed that while intake of PPP-fortified bread for 12 weeks had no significant effect on oxidative stress, hs-CRP, and mental health in T2DM patients, there might be some positive outcomes regarding inflammatory and mood states.
Trial registration Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials: Trial was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (available at: www.irct.ir, with ID: IRCT20191209045672N1) on 21/09/2020.
Efficacy, drug sustainability, and safety of ustekinumab treatment in Crohn’s disease patients over three years
Authors: Barkai Laszlo Jozsef , Gonczi Lorant , Balogh Fruzsina , Angyal Dorottya , Farkas Klaudia , Farkas Bernadett , Molnar Tamas , Szamosi Tamas , Schafer Eszter , Golovics Petra A. , Juhasz Mark , Patai Arpad , Vincze Aron , Sarlos Patricia , Farkas Alexandra , Dubravcsik Zsolt , Toth Tamas G. , Szekely Hajnal , Miheller Pal , Lakatos Peter L. , Ilias Akos
Published: March 2024

Background: Long-term data on ustekinumab in real-life Crohn’s disease patients are still missing, though randomized controlled trials demonstrated it as a favorable therapeutic option.
Aims: We aimed to evaluate ustekinumab's clinical efficacy, drug sustainability, and safety in a prospective, nationwide, multicenter Crohn’s disease patient cohort with a three-year follow-up.
Methods: Crohn’s disease patients on ustekinumab treatment were consecutively enrolled from 9 Hungarian Inflammatory Bowel Disease centers between January 2019 and May 2020. Patient and disease characteristics, treatment history, clinical disease activity (Harvey Bradshaw Index (HBI)), biomarkers, and endoscopic activity (Simple Endoscopic Score for Crohn’s Disease (SES-CD)) were collected for three-years’ time.
Results: A total of 148 patients were included with an overall 48.9% of complex behavior of the Crohn’s disease and 97.2% of previous anti-TNF exposure. The pre-induction remission rates were 12.2% (HBI), and 5.1% (SES-CD). Clinical remission rates (HBI) were 52.2%, 55.6%, and 50.9%, whereas criteria of an endoscopic remission were fulfilled in 14.3%, 27.5%, and 35.3% of the subjects at the end of the first, second, and third year, respectively. Dose intensification was high with 84.0% of the patients on an 8-weekly and 29.9% on a 4-weekly regimen at the end of year 3. Drug sustainability was 76.9% during the follow-up period with no serious adverse events observed.
Conclusion: Ustekinumab in the long-term is an effective, sustainable, and safe therapeutic option for Crohn’s disease patients with severe disease phenotype and high previous anti-TNF biological failure, requiring frequent dose intensifications.