bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An efficient approach to attribute reductions of quantitative dominance-based neighborhood rough sets based on graded information granules
Authors: Yang Shuyun , Shi Guang
Published: December 2022

Lower approximations of quantitative dominance-based neighborhood rough sets aim at improving consistency of dominance principles by filtering inapparent pairs of objects with the predefined threshold. To reflect dominance principles intuitively, in this paper we define generalized decisions from the perspective of certain decision rules in quantitative dominance-based neighborhood rough sets. On the basis, a graded information granule is constructed, which partitions the universe. Furthermore, properties of the graded information granule are analyzed and relationship with approximating qualities is studied. Moreover, importance degree is defined to measure uncertainties of graded information granules under different attributes, which holds the property of monotonicity with respect to attributes. Then an attribute reduction method is designed and an accelerated process is studied by updating generalized decisions. Finally, we employ some public data sets to evaluate the performance of our methodology on efficiency of attribute reductions by comparing executing time with the classical method. Also structures of graded information granules can be revealed with various parameters.
Association of NFKB1 gene polymorphism (rs28362491)with cardiometabolic risk factor in patients undergoing coronary angiography
Authors: Darabi Zahra , Jambarsang Sara , Mehrjardi Mohammad Yahya Mohammad Yahya Vahidi , Hosseini Seyed mostafa Seyed , Sarebanhassanabadi Mohammadtaghi , Hosseinzadeh Mahdieh , Beigrezaei Sara , Vasmehjani Azam Ahmadi , Taftian Marzieh , Arabi Vahid , Motallaei Maryam , yazdi Faezeh Golvardi , Salehi-Abargouei Amin , Najarzadeh Azadeh
Published: December 2022

Background: In the world, the main cause of mortality and morbidity is cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Genetic and environmental factors are involved in the pathogenesis of diseases. Recently, reports have indicated that the NFKB1 gene rs28362491 is a functional polymorphism. The aim of the study was to investigate between the genotype of the NFKB1 gene and the cardiometabolic risk factor in patients undergoing coronary angiography.
Methods and materials: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 462 patients who referred to Afshar Hospital for coronary angiography in 2021-2022. The polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism method was used to detect the genotype of rs28362491. Biochemical parameters were measured using commercial kits. Gensini and Syntax scores were calculated using the angiography result to assess the extent of coronary artery stenosis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to study between cardiometabolic risk factors and genotype variants.
Results: The frequencies of the ins/ins, ins/del and del/del genotypes were 31.7%, 52.9% and 18.5%, respectively. Variant genotypes were not associated with the likelihood of having abnormally high serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (p-value = 0.51), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (p-value = 0.99), Gensini score (p-value = 0.48) and syntax score (p-value = 0.74) in the crude model even after adjustment for confounding factors. There was no association between NFKB1 gene genotypes and possible hypertension and lipid profile.
Conclusion: The ATTG polymorphism was not associated with cardiometabolic risk factors in the patients undergoing coronary angiography. Further investigations are needed to assess the association between variants of 28362491 and cardiometabolic markers.
Depression and associated factors among type 2 DM patients in Bahir Dar Public Hospitals, Bahir Dar: Cross sectional study
Authors: Zewdu Dagmawit , Lidetu Tadios
Published: December 2022

Objective: The rising disease burden of diabetes mellitus globally is a major public health priority. Depressive disorder is also one of the common and overwhelming complication among people with type 2 diabetes mellitus, which results increase in the number of diabetic complications. Therefore, this study aimed to identify prevalence and associated factors of depression among type 2 diabetes patients.
Result: Institutional based cross-sectional study was employed among 575 individuals with type 2 diabetes mellites in Bahir Dar public hospitals from March 01- to April-01. Systematic random sampling method was employed to select participants. Patient Health Questionnaire-9 tool was used for assessing depression. For analysis, descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression models were used. The prevalence of depression was 41.39 %, (95% CI; 37-45). Poor sleep quality, poor social support, having irregular follow up, and low physical activity were factors significantly associated with depression among individuals with type 2 diabetes melilites. Promoting social support at any aspect of health care service is important to minimize depression. Moderate regular physical exercise is also needed to improve the overall mental health and depression.
WITHDRAWN: Physio-metabolic and clinical consequences of wearing face masks -Systematic review with meta-analysis and comprehensive evaluation
Authors: Kisielinski Kai , Hirsch Oliver , Wagner Susanne , Wojtasik Barbara , Funken Stefan , Klosterhalfen Bernd , Manna Soumen Kanti , Prescher Andreas , Sukul Pritam , Sönnichsen Andreas
Published: December 2022

Background: As face masks are a mandatory public health intervention during the COVID-19 pandemic, adverse effects require substantiated investigation.
Methods: A systematic review of 2168 studies yielded 54 publications for synthesis and 37 studies for meta-analysis (on n=8641, m=2482, f=6159, age=34.8±12.5). The median trial duration was only 18 min (IQR=50) for our comprehensive evaluation of mask induced physio-metabolic and clinical outcomes.
Results: We found significant effects in both medical masks with a greater impact regarding the N95. These effects included decreased SpO2 (overall SMD=-0.24, 95%CI=-0.38 to -0.11, p=0.0004) and minute ventilation (SMD=-0.72, 95%CI=-0.99 to -0.46, p<0.00001), simultaneously increased blood-CO2 (SMD=+0.64, 95%CI=0.31–0.96, p=0.0001), heart rate (N95: SMD=+0.22, 95%CI=0.03–0.41, p=0.02), systolic blood pressure (surgical: SMD=+0.21, 95%CI=0.03–0.39, p=0.02), skin temperature (overall SMD=+0.80 95%CI 0.23–1.38, p=0.006) and humidity (SMD +2.24, 95%CI=1.32–3.17, p<0.00001). Effects on exertion (overall SMD=+0.9, surgical=+0.63, N95=+1.19), discomfort (SMD=+1.16), dyspnoea (SMD=+1.46), heat (SMD=+0.70) and humidity (SMD=+0.9) were significant in 373 cases with a robust relationship to mask wearing (p<0.006 to p<0.00001). Pooled symptom prevalence was significant in users (n=8128) for: headache (62%, p<0.00001), acne (38%, p<0.00001), skin irritation (36%, p<0.00001), dyspnoea (33%, p<0.00001), heat (26%, p<0.00001), itching (26%, p<0.00001), voice disorder (23%, p<0.03) and dizziness (5%, p=0.01).
Discussion: Masks interfered with O2-uptake and CO2-release and compromised respiratory compensation. Though evaluated wearing durations do not represent daily/prolonged use, outcomes independently validate mask-induced exhaustion-syndrome (MIES). MIES can have long-term clinical consequences, especially for vulnerable groups.
Conclusion: Face mask side-effects must be assessed (risk-benefit) against the available evidence of their effectiveness against viral transmissions.
Electrochemical treatment of a real textile wastewater using cheap electrodes and improvement in COD removal
Authors: Gümüş Dilek
Published: December 2022

Various types of dyes and other hazardous pollutants used in the textile industry are one of the leading pollutants of surface water. In this study, real textile wastewater was electrochemically treated with two different electrode combinations (graphite/graphite and iron/graphite) by changing the anode electrode type. Then, comparison studies were carried out by adding Fe2+ or H2O2 to these combinations to improve Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) removal. Current density (5, 7.5, 10 mA cm− 2), initial pH (2.5–8), and electrochemical (EC) oxidation time (0-120 min) were investigated to determine the optimum electrooxidation conditions. The results showed that in the electro-oxidation (EO) process, 100% colour removal, and 75.39% COD degradation efficiencies were achieved at pH 5.5, current density (I) 7.5 mA cm − 2, and electrolysis time (t) 40 min. In the peroxi-coagulation (PC) process, 89.41% colour removal, and 74.28% COD degradation efficiencies were achieved at pH 3, current density 7.5 mA cm − 2, and electrolysis time 120 min. In the EO + Fe+ 2 and PC + H2O2 processes, 99.9% colour removal efficiencies, 96.38 and 90.63% COD degradation efficiencies were reached at pH 3, current density 7.5 mA cm − 2, and electrolysis time 40 min., respectively. In systems using EO, PC, EO + Fe2+and PC + H2O2, energy consumption, and operating cost were estimated as 2.85, 2.34, 0.54, 0.62 kWh m− 3, and 0.304, 0.249, 0.199, 3.466 US$ m− 3, respectively. Among all processes applied in the study, the most efficient one in terms of COD removal performance, energy, and cost is the (EO + Fe2+) system.
ETHNOGRAPHIC STUDY OF SONGKET WEAVERS IN SUKARARA VILLAGE
Authors: Badriati Baiq El , Syam Nur , Arifin Sirajul
Published: December 2022

This article addresses the intersection between gender, ethnicity, work performance, and economic capital. It focuses on Sasak Muslim women who weave songkets and their economic capital in Sukarara Village, Central Lombok. This article using an ethnographic approach focused on economic capital of songket weaver. The behavior, attitudes, and personalities that are inherent in weavers in their daily operations are examined holistically and particularly through qualitative research. This study found that Sasak Muslim women who weave songket fabric in Sukarara are in good performance due to their ability to use time wisely and complete tasks quickly and effectively. They are economically capable based on a lack of consumer debt, their capacity in business, their possession of investments, their ability to manage business finances, and their mental readiness for monetary turbulence. In this framework, Sasak Muslim women’s economic capital in songket weaving is separated into three roles: as the center of the family, as vehicles for personal fulfillment, and as wives.
Evaluating Functional and Non-Functional Distractors and Their Relationship with Difficulty and Discrimination Indices in Four-Option Multiple-Choice Questions
Authors:   School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran, Shakurnia Abdolhussein , Ghafourian Mehri ,   School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran, Khodadadi Ali ,   School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran, Ghadiri Ata ,   School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran, Amari Afshin ,   School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran, Shariffat Moosa ,   School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
Published: December 2022

Multiple-choice questions-one best answer (MCQ-OBA) is the most frequently accepted assessment tool in Iran’s medical universities. Writing functional distractors (FDs) is an important aspect of framing MCQ-OBA. This study aimed to assess FDs and non-functional distractors (NFDs) in MCQ-OBA and the association of distractor efficiency with difficulty and discrimination indices. This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Immunology, the Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences. A total of 734 MCQ-OBA were reviewed, including 2,936 options (2,202 distractors and 734 correct responses). NFDs were defined as options chosen by <5% of examinees. Of the 734 MCQ-OBAs, 265 (36.1%) had 0 NFDs, 231 (31.5%) had 1 NFD, 146 (19.9%) had 2 NFDs, and 92 (12.5%) had 3 NFDs. The Pearson’s correlation showed a significant relationship between the difficulty index and the number of NFDs (r = 0.453; P < 0.0001). However, the correlation between the discrimination index and the number of NFDs was insignificant (r = 0.055; P = 0.135). The findings revealed that NFDs inversely affected the test quality of items. Items with more NFDs were easier and had poorer discriminatory power. The distractor function analysis and revision of NFDs serve as an important method to improve the quality of MCQ-OBA.
Learning Model to Achieve Clinical Reasoning Competency Using Technology-Enhanced Learning in Neurology Clinical Rotation: An Exploratory Study
Authors:   Master Program in Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia, Nurhidayati Ida Ratna , Findyartini Ardi ,   Department of Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia, Menaldi Sri Linuwih ,   Department of Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia,   Department of Dermatovenereology, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia,   Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
Published: December 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated major adaptations in learning activities related to developing clinical reasoning competencies in neurology clerkship. The application of technology in this context is promising, but there are also several limitations. This study explores a learning model for achieving clinical reasoning competency using technology-enhanced learning in neurology clinical rotation. The study used a case-study design and was conducted at the Faculty of Medicine of YARSI University and its two teaching hospitals. Data were collected by document analysis, three focus group discussions with eight medical students and 20 postgraduate medical students, and five in-depth interviews with five neurologists. All the transcribed data were analysed with thematic analysis using the Steps for Coding and Theorization (SCAT) approach. Two themes were revealed—contributing factors and learning strategies—and six factors were found to influence the learning model: the quantity and quality of teacher interactions, students’ motivation and skills in learning and technology, the variety and number of patients in teaching hospitals, the quality and quantity of facilities and infrastructure for service and education at the teaching hospitals, the clinical rotation programme design, and learning adaptation during the pandemic. The following technology-enhanced learning strategies for developing clinical reasoning skills were identified: blended learning, online logbook, telemedicine, collaborative online learning between teaching hospitals, and learning videos. This learning model can be implemented in a limited resource setting. Importantly, the identified factors from the perspective of students, clinical teachers, and school of medicine/teaching hospital, as well as technical factors, should be considered for the implementation of this model.
Conscientiousness and Neuroticism Predicted Learning Approaches of Medical Students
Authors:   Department of Medical Education, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Mohammad Jamilah Al-Muhammady , Joe Renne Edeline Fabiola ,   Department of Medical Education, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Yusoff Muhamad Saiful Bahri ,   Department of Medical Education, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
Published: December 2022

There are minimal published data on the relationship between personality traits and learning approaches among medical students. This study explored the causal-effect relationship of personality traits and learning approaches among medical students. A cross-sectional study was conducted on medical students and they responded to the Learning Approach Inventory and USM Personality Inventory to measure personality traits and learning approaches, respectively. A structural equation modelling was performed by AMOS 24 to test the causal-effect relationship of personality traits and learning approaches. Conscientiousness had a positive direct effect on deep learning approach, while neuroticism had negative direct effect on deep and strategic learning approaches. Extraversion, openness, and agreeableness had no significant link or effect on any learning approaches. Strategic learning approach had positive direct effect on deep learning approach and a mediator for surface learners on deep learning approach. Surface learning approach had a negative direct effect on deep learning approach. There was a significant relationship of specific personality traits and learning approaches. Conscientiousness and neuroticism had significant relationships with deep and strategic learning approaches. These findings enables medical educators to have a better understanding of the influence of personality traits on medical students’ learning approaches to learning tasks and their implications on instructional strategies.
Multiple Mini Viva as an Online Assessment Tool for Postgraduate Anatomy Programme: The USM’s Experience Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors:   Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Hadie Siti Nurma Hanim , Kasim Fazlina ,   Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Mohd Ismail Zul Izhar ,   Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Asari Mohd Asnizam ,   Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Mohd Yusof Nurul Aiman ,   Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Simok Anna Alicia ,   Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Shamsuddin Shamsi Amalina ,   Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Mohd Amin Mohamad Syabil Ikhwan ,   Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
Published: December 2022

Assessment is fundamental to student learning as it shapes student learning behaviour. Designing a holistic assessment is a demanding task because it involves evaluations of both cognitive and noncognitive competencies. The unprecedented outbreak of COVID-19 has led to many changes in the assessment practice of higher education institutions. To ensure the sustainability of education provision to all students, assessment activities in higher education institutions are mainly conducted through online platform, and the task becomes more challenging. Hence, we introduce a new holistic assessment method, the multiple mini viva (MMV), that is used in the assessment of the Master of Science (Clinical Anatomy) programme in Universiti Sains Malaysia. The MMV was adopted from the framework of multiple mini interview that is commonly used for the student selection process in medical and allied health sciences programmes. This form of assessment was first implemented to address the drawbacks of the classical viva voce, and it could assess students’ cognitive skills, including various interpersonal competencies such as communication skills, critical thinking and professional behaviour. In this article, we describe the practice of the classical face-to-face and online MMV with regard to its purpose, process, advantages and challenges. The implications and suggestions for the future practice of anatomy assessment are also elaborated.
Knowledge of COVID-19 and Awareness of Physiotherapy Rehabilitation among Clinical Physiotherapy Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors:   Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Selangor, Malaysia, Krishnan Premala , Krishnan Kamala ,   Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Selangor, Malaysia, Chan Wei Kei ,   Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: December 2022

Background: Physiotherapy rehabilitation improves patients’ activity in daily life and helps them return to work. Physiotherapy rehabilitation for COVID-19 patients mainly focuses on respiratory and functional rehabilitation assessment. This research project aims to assess the knowledge of COVID-19 and awareness of physiotherapy rehabilitation for COVID-19 patients among clinical physiotherapy students and the relationship between these variables. Methods: A preliminary, cross-sectional study was conducted on 159 clinical physiotherapy students from various education backgrounds. A three-part questionnaire assessing socio-demographic variables, knowledge of COVID-19 and awareness of physiotherapy rehabilitation for COVID-19 patients was distributed among clinical students from major physiotherapy programmes at tertiary institutions. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests and Spearman correlation tests were used for data analysis. Results: Most of the respondents (95.6%) were categorised as having an above average knowledge on COVID-19. Eighty-seven respondents (54.7%) were categorised as having an above average awareness of physiotherapy rehabilitation for COVID-19 patients. The knowledge of COVID-19 was positively correlated with awareness of physiotherapy rehabilitation (P < 0.05). Conclusion: This research study showed that the knowledge of COVID-19 and awareness level of physiotherapy rehabilitation in COVID-19 patients was above average among clinical physiotherapy students. The association between knowledge of COVID-19 and awareness of physiotherapy rehabilitation among clinical physiotherapy students had a weak positive correlation.
The Effect of Parent Training Programmes on Screen Time and Social Function in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors:   Child Development Clinic, Paediatric Department, Hospital Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Khoo Chai-Soon , Ramachandram Sathyabama ,   Child Development Clinic, Paediatric Department, Hospital Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Published: December 2022

Background: Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are susceptible to excessive electronic screen media (ESM) use. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a parent training programme in improving the screen time and social functioning of children with ASD. Methods: This pre-/post-test quasi-experimental study involved parents by providing them with structured education based on the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)’ screen time recommendations. In total, 259 children with ASD aged 3 years old–12 years old were eligible. Of those children, 26 were excluded due to comorbidities or taking medications. Additionally, 28 parents participated. Children’s screen time were recorded, and social behaviour was scored using the Social Responsiveness Scale pre- and post-intervention. Results: There were significant reductions in the average daily screen time of children with ASD after their parents attended the training programme (-51.25 min; 95% CI: -78.40, -24.10). In subgroups with reduced screen time, the treatment effect of the intervention was significant in improving the social responsiveness total score (-3.09; 95% CI: -5.96, -0.22), the social communication scale (-3.64; 95% CI: -5.91, -1.36) and the restricted interest and repetitive behaviour (RRB) scale (-5.27; 95% CI: -10.29, -0.25). Conclusion: Parental training is effective in reducing screen time and improving social functioning in children with ASD.
Feeding Practices during the COVID-19 Lockdown: Is there a Difference between Stay-at-Home Mothers and Work-from-Home Mothers?
Authors:   Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Management and Science University, University Drive, Selangor, Malaysia, Tan Seok Tyug , Rajan Darshni Saundara ,   Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Management and Science University, University Drive, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: December 2022

This study aims to compare the feeding practices adopted by stay-at-home mothers and work-from-home mothers during the COVID-19 lockdown. Feeding practices were assessed using a 39-item validated Comprehensive Feeding Practices Questionnaire (CFPQ). The Multivariate Analysis of Covariance (MANCOVA) was used to determine the mean difference in feeding practices by maternal employment status after adjusting for the mother’s age and educational attainment and the child’s age and gender. The current study revealed that a noticeable proportion of mothers adopted feeding practices that encourage balance and variety (4.45 ± 0.62), promote a healthy environment (4.34 ± 0.81) and impose dietary restrictions for health (4.32 ± 1.04) during the COVID-19 pandemic. There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in the mean scores of feeding practices across maternal employment status, except for the emotion regulation and modelling subscales. Work-from-home mothers had a significantly higher mean score in the emotion regulation subscale than stay-at-home mothers (F = 14.892, P < 0.001). In comparison to work-from-home mothers, stay-at-home mothers had a significantly higher mean score in the modelling subscale during the COVID-19 pandemic (F = 4.163, P = 0.044). In conclusion, there was just a modest variation in the feeding practices adopted by stay-at-home mothers and work-fromhome mothers in this unprecedented pandemic.
Comparative Evaluation of Three Phenotypic Tests—Carba NP, Modified Carba NP and Rapidec Carba NP Test for Rapid Detection of Carbapenem Resistance in Blood Culture Isolates of Escherichia coli in an ICU Setting
Authors:   Departments of Microbiology, Government Medical College and Hospital, Chandigarh, India, Kour Ivneet , Vasesi Dipanshu ,   Departments of Microbiology, Government Medical College and Hospital, Chandigarh, India, Singhal Lipika ,   Departments of Microbiology, Government Medical College and Hospital, Chandigarh, India, Gupta Varsha ,   Departments of Microbiology, Government Medical College and Hospital, Chandigarh, India
Published: December 2022

Background: To determine the antibiotic resistance pattern, the prevalence of extended- spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) and carbapenem resistance in blood culture isolates of E. coli. Further, we evaluated and compared Carba NP, Modified Carba NP and a kit-based Rapidec Carba NP test to detect carbapenem resistance rapidly. Methods: Twenty-six carbapenem-resistant strains and four susceptible strains were selected. The three methods mentioned above were evaluated as per Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). These tests are based on biochemical detection of the hydrolysis of the beta-lactam ring of a carbapenem-imipenem, followed by the colour change of a pH indicator. Results: Carba NP test was positive in 24 out of 26 isolates; the Modified Carba NP and Rapidec Carba NP tests were positive for all the isolates (26/26). All the carbapenemase non- producers (100%, 04/04) were negative. Conclusion: Modified Carba NP is a more effortless and inexpensive alternative to the Carba NP test, allowing the detection of carbapenemase activity directly from bacterial cultures of Enterobacteriaceae. The test could be used in low-income countries with large reservoirs for carbapenemase producers and can be implemented in any laboratory worldwide.
Optimal Tuning of Random Survival Forest Hyperparameter with an Application to Liver Disease
Authors:   Department of Statistics and Mathematical Sciences, Kwara State  University, Malete, Nigeria, Dauda Kazeem Adesina
Published: December 2022

Background: Random Forest (RF) is a technique that optimises predictive accuracy by fitting an ensemble of trees to stabilise model estimates. The RF techniques were adapted into survival analysis to model the survival of patients with liver disease in order to identify biomarkers that are highly influential in patient prognostics. Methods: The methodology of this study begins by applying the classical Cox proportional hazard (Cox-PH) model and three parametric survival models (exponential, Weibull and lognormal) to the published dataset. The study further applied the supervised learning methods of Tuning Random Survival Forest (TRSF) parameters and the conditional inference Forest (Cforest) to optimally predict patient survival probabilities. Results: The efficiency of these models was compared using the Akaike information criteria (AIC) and integrated Brier score (IBS). The results revealed that the Cox-PH model (AIC = 185.7233) outperforms the three classical models. We further analysed these data to observe the functional relationships that exist between the patient survival function and the covariates using TRSF. Conclusion: The IBS result of the TRFS demonstrated satisfactory performance over other methods. Ultimately, it was observed from the TRSF results that some of the covariates contributed positively and negatively to patient survival prognostics.
A Theory Planned Behaviour of Study on Improving Abdominal Bloating among the Malays Population: A Qualitative Study
Authors:   Biostatistics and Research Methodology Unit, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Abdullah Nurzulaikha , Kueh Yee Cheng ,   Biostatistics and Research Methodology Unit, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Kuan Garry ,   Exercise and Sports Science, School of Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia,   Department of Life Sciences, Brunel University, London, United Kingdom, Yahaya Fatan Hamamah ,   School of Distance Education, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Lee Yeong Yeh ,   Department of Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia,   GI and Motility Unit, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
Published: December 2022

Background: Abdominal bloating (AB) is a common medical complaint known to diminish patients’ quality of life. However, lifestyle and behavioural changes could mitigate its expression and severity. This study sought to explore the health beliefs, intentions and health-promoting behaviours among people with AB in Kelantan, Malaysia. Methods: The theory of planned behaviour (TPB) was employed to explore the factors that influence the management of adults with AB, namely health beliefs and intentions. An interview guide was developed by adapting the TPB and the findings of prior studies concerning the factors associated with AB management. All eligible participants took part in in-depth interviews. Results: The mean age of the participants was 32.5 years old (standard deviation [SD] = 14.19 years old) and the majority of participants were female (58.3%). The themes and sub-themes that emerged following the application of the TPB framework represented the qualitative results of this study, which indicated that the health beliefs, intentions and health-promoting behaviours observed among people with AB were closely related. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that the adoption of a healthy lifestyle could be an effective means of improving AB. Thus, it is vital to implement a health education programme that promotes health-related beliefs and intentions in order to trigger health- promoting behaviour among people with AB.
ALUMINUM WASTE CANS RECYCLING IN LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA: ANALYSIS OF SOIL AND WATER BENEFITS
Authors: a Ajisegiri , S. Musa , b Makanjuola , A. Samson
Published: December 2022

The study empirically evaluated the environmental (water and soil) benefits of aluminum waste cans recycling in Lagos State, Nigeria. Soil samples were collected from three locations using a soil auger the locations were aluminum at the recycling site, soil 100m away from the recycling site, and soil 150m away from the recycling site. From each location, three soil samples were collected and taken to the laboratory for analysis of soil physicochemical properties and heavy metal contents using standard methods. Similarly, a random sampling technique was employed to collect 3 borehole water samples 100m away from the recycling site and 150m away from the recycling site using 750 millimeters of a SMART plastic container. The collected water samples were taken to the laboratory for analysis of heavy metals using standard methods. The results obtained revealed that high contents of physio-chemical properties of OC (2.96%), Ca (10.92 cmol/kg), Mg (0.77 cmol/kg), K (0.24 cmol/kg), Na (0.57 cmol/kg), exchange acidity (0.33 cmol/kg) and ECEC (12.46 cmol/kg) were found in soil 100m away from the recycling site. Also high content of Av. P (23.27 mg/kg) was found in soil 150m away from the recycling. The contents of OC, P, Ca, Mg, K, and ECEC increase with distance away from the recycling site. No significant variations were found in the contents of OC, TN, P, Ca, Mg, K, Na, ,Al and ECEC (p>0.05). The content of Fe (223.87 mg/kg) was found to be high at the aluminum waste cans recycling site (discharge point) and low in soil 150m away from the recycling site while high Mn (2.62 mg/kg) content was found in soil 150m away from the recycling site and low in soil 100m away from the recycling point. The contents of Fe, Mn, Pb,Cd and Zn were withwhomWHO maximum permissible level indicating low concentration in the soil. A negative and significant association was observed between Zn and Cd (rho = -0.812, p<0.05). High Fe (259.18 mg/L), Pb (2.49 m,g/L) and Zn (16.01 mg/L) contents were found in the wastewater (discharge point), while high Mn (56.42 mg/L) content was found in the borehole water sample. The contents of Fe, Mn, Pb and Zn were the above WHO permissible limit. Based on the findings, the study concluded that the government should set up modalities to control the discharge of substances into the soil and water.
RADIOLOGICAL FEATURES OF TYPICAL AND ATYPICAL COVID-19 INFECTION
Authors:   Medical Imaging, King Abdulla Bin Abdulaziz University Hospital, Riyadh, SA., A. Alharbi Mohammed , G. Alghamdi Ebtehaj ,   Medical Imaging, King Saud University, Riyadh, SA., S. Albuqmi Seham ,   Medical Imaging, King Abdulla Bin Abdulaziz University Hospital, Riyadh, SA., S. Almawi Abdullah ,   Medical Imaging, SFH, Riyadh, SA., A. Aldosary Reoof ,   Oncology, National Guard Hospital, Jeddah, SA., Aman Muntha ,   Family Medicine, MNGH, Jeddah, SA.
Published: December 2022

Background:This study describes thecommon radiological findings in COVID-19 patients and defines the typical and atypical findings seen on chest radiography and computed tomography (CT) in these patients. Methods:A cross-sectional study of 385 patients diagnosed with COVID-19, aged 18 years or over who presented to King Abdullah University Hospital. Patients with incomplete data were excluded. Data were collected from electronic patient records and analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics. Statistical significance was set at P <0.05. Results:The age group with most patients was 31 to 50 years old. The most common COVID-19 symptoms were fever and cough. The most frequent distribution of findings on chest X-rays was peripheral predominant, and the most frequently involved is the left lower zone. The study showed a high prevalence of the typical appearance of COVID-19 on CT scans. Conclusion:Chest X-rays and CT are vital tools for early diagnosis and management of COVID-19, as patients frequently show typical imaging findings on CT and chest X-rays.
COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF EFFICACY OF NEO ENDO RETREATMENT FILES BY AUTOCLAVE AND COLD STERILIZATION AFTER EACH USE - AN INVITRO STUDY
Authors: P.A Jayalakshmi , Amin Swathi , Naik Rajaram
Published: December 2022

Aim: The aim of the study is comparative evaluation of efficacy of neo endo retreatment files after autoclave and cold sterilization. Materials And Methods: 45 human mandibular premolars with a single straight root canal were selected and decoronated leave 16mm of root.The working length was determined by subtracting 1mm from above measurment. Canal preparation was done with Neo endo flex rotary files (25/6) and were obturated with GP size 25/6% .After 2 weeks of storage in normal saline they were randomly divided into three groups .In Group A (5 sub-groups :A1, A2, A3, A4 and A5 of 3 sets of specimens) Neo endo retreatment files were subjected to sterilization by autoclaving.In group B files were sterilized by cold sterilization with 2.4% Glutaraldehyde solution for 12 hours.In Group C files were cleaned using soap and water . Statistical analysis was done with One-way ANOVA Test followed by Tukeys post hoc test to compare the mean remaining GP & time taken between different groups and usage times. Result: All samples showed GP remnants. Irrespective of the sterilization methods used, the amount of remaining GP increased sequentially from first to fifth use along with usage time. The remaining GP was lesser in the group A where sterilization was done by autoclave, and remaining GP was highest in Group C where no sterilization was done. The remaining GP of Group B ( Cold sterilization) was higher than Group A and lower than Group C. Conclusion :From the findings of present study it can be concluded that Autoclave sterilization causes least changes to the physical properties of the files when compared to Gluteraldehyde sterilization which adversely effects the cutting efficiency of the files. Unsterilized files exhibits least cutting efficiency resulting in reduced gutta percha removal from the canals. Also the number of use was a determining factor for cutting efficiency. Reduction in the cutting effectiveness of instruments may increase operating time and it could take longer to remove the material from root canal.
A STUDY OF FEQUENCIES OF CRAO CASES IN POST COVID 19 RHINO ORBITAL MUCOR MYCOSIS
Authors: Patel Aparna , R. Reshma
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Mucormycosis is a life-threatening fungal infection that occurs in patients who are immune compromised because of diabetic ketoacidosis, neutropenia and/or organ transplantation. In pandemic of COVID 19 an unusual epidemic of rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis was observed affecting post COVID patients mainly. Covid 19 causes endothelial dysfunction due to inflammatory induced homeostasis and a pro coagulant state with multi-organ involvement[1].All these inflammatory and hypercoaguble states are established risk factors for retinal artery occlusion. Direct invasion of vessels by fungal hyphae leading to widespread occlusive vasculitis and thrombosis can also lead to complications like Central Retinal Artery Occlusion in patients of mucormycosis. Aim: To report a series of CRAO cases in Post Covid Rhino-orbito cerebral mucormycosis patients and describe clinical profile and outcome. Methodology: In a cross sectional study all adult patients at SDU medical college from 1st April to 31st August 2021 diagnosed as Rhino-orbital-cerebral Mucormycosis were included. Epidemiological data of all cases and relevant history were noted. Detailed history regarding COVID hospitalization and treatment received were noted. Detailed ocular examination including fundus examination was done.Primary outcome measure was CRAO. Results: A total of 34 patients were included in study out of which 26.47% were females and 73.52% were males. CRAO was observed in a total of 10 patients (27.02) out of which 9(90%) were males and 1(10%) was female. Conclusion: Association of invasive mucormycosis with COVID-19 is dangerous and has serious consequences. Detailed ophthalmological surveillance in such patients is mandatory to avoid sight threatening complications.
SIC - INTELLIGENT SYSTEM TO CONTROL THE ENTRY AND EXIT OF VEHICLES USING COMPUTER VISION AT FAMETRO UNIVERSITY CENTER
Authors: Maia Costa Dario , Pedro De Souza Toga Joao , Mark De Oliveira Lobo Jean
Published: December 2022

The security of physical and logical information are vital to any institution, which has to ensure availability, confidentiality and integrity of all types of information, be it logical or mainly property. The investments in the physical access control adopted must be directly linked to the importance of the assets to be protected, as in the parking of vehicles. And through the computer vision that covers several areas, specifically character identification, in this project the use of this technology aims to identify vehicle license plates, which can be used to authorize the entrance of vehicles. The main objective of this project is to intelligently automate the control of vehicles and increase the security of the internal environment, both for the patrimony and for the users themselves, making sure that only students and collaborators will use them. The developed system will add to the institution, having control over daily tasks, bringing security and statistical control through complete reports.
THE ROLE OF PHARMACISTS IN MINIMIZING MEDICATION ERRORS IN THE NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE UNIT: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors:   Department of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Jeddah 21499, Saudi Arabia., Hamid Alharbi Shroug , Ali Alhazmi Ghaidaa ,   Departments of Pharmacy, King Abdullah Medical City, Ministry of Health, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia., Owedah Alshomrani Afnan ,   King Abdul Aziz Medical City, WR, Jeddah, Ministry of National Guard, Jeddah 21423, Saudi Arabia., Mohammad Almatrafi Malak ,   Departments of Pharmacy, King Abdullah Medical City, Ministry of Health, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia., Saeed Alotibi Hind ,   Prince Meshari Bin Saud- General Baljarshi Hospital, Al Baha 65779, Saudi Arabia., Saleem Zikria ,   Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakaria University, Multan., Haseeb Abdul ,   Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al Qura University, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia.
Published: December 2022

Background: Hospitalized pediatrics, especially neonates, are more prone to excessive medication errors. Implementation of pharmacy services shows a decline in medication errors in hospitals and clinics. In this study, we aimed to demonstrate the role of pharmacists in reducing medication errors in hospitalized neonates Methods: The systematic review of the literature was undertaken through the PubMed database from 2002 to 2022. The search MESH terms were multiple combinations of Medication error, Clinical pharmacist, Clinical pharmacy services, Infant & newborn. Afterward, the results were filtered to include the role of pharmacy services in preventing medication errors for the inpatient neonatal population Results: a total of 15 articles were eligible to be included in the current review, comprising neonatal or whole pediatric population, including neonates. The primary pharmacy interventions were prescription auditing, identification of medication errors, changing preparation and administration, medication reconciliation, educating healthcare workers, and developing policies Conclusions: Our systematic review illustrated that pharmacists integration with other healthcare teams could help minimize medication errors before reaching neonates.
Communicative Functions of Code Glosses in Academic Discourse
Authors: KAFES Hüseyin
Published: December 2022

A considerable amount of research has already established that academic writing is an interactive accomplishment, the success of which largely depends on appropriate writer-reader relationship. Yet, the nature of this relationship has been the subject of few studies. Also scarce are the studies on how academic writers address the needs of their readers and so, through elaboration, manage their interactions with them. Drawing on a corpus of 68 research articles (RAs) from the field of applied linguistics, this study explores how experienced writers (EWs) and novice writers (NWs) elaborate their ideas in their RAs to address their readers’ needs, and in so doing, manage their relations with them. Analysis of the corpus revealed that reformulation and exemplification, complex features of academic writing, serve important rhetorical functions. The results also show that these two groups of writers manage writer-reader relationship differently, differing in the type, number, (un)even distribution, and use of code glosses. These results are discussed, and pedagogical implications are offered.
David Hare’s Proposal of an Alternative Religion to Object to the Commercial Religion of Thatcherism
Authors: AĞKAŞ ÖZCAN Tuba
Published: December 2022

British political drama of the 1980s was heavily under the influence of Margaret Thatcher’s government and its policies which were introduced to the economy and which diffused into every domain of public life. Political dramatists could not respond immediately to the abrupt changes that occured in social and political life at the beginning of the decade. They got prolific only in the second half of the decade and dared to display the influence of Thatcher’s government not only on the state institutions but also on the private lives of the people. One of the foregoing political dramatists, David Hare, in the 1980s, looked back on his dramaturgy and revised it in tune with the requirements of this new decade. As a result, in The Secret Rapture, staged in 1988, Hare dwells upon the state politics as insinuated into people’s private lives rather than directly criticise it. Moreover, Hare contrasts, in the play, the dominant values of the present decade, in social and private terms, with those embraced in the previous decade. Then, he creates a new moral-religious alternative by the help of the protagonist Isobel in clash with the economical-religious attitude endorsed by Thatcher’s Britain.
Kurum Bakımında Yetişmiş Kişilerde Damgalanma
Authors: KAYA KILIÇ Ayten , UĞUR Sinem Burcu
Published: December 2022

Çalışmanın amacı, çocukluk yaşamlarının büyük bir kısmını kurum bakımında geçiren kişilerin bakım süreci ve sonrası dönemde damgalanma deneyimlerini, damganın kendilerini konumlama biçimlerine etkisini ve damganın yarattığı sorunlarla başa çıkma stratejilerini incelemektir. Nitel yöntem ile tasarlanan çalışmada rastlantısal kartopu örnekleme tekniği kullanılmıştır. Uzun süreli kurum bakımında kalan 12 kişi ile yapılan görüşmeler sonucunda elde edilen verilerin analizinde içerik analizi kullanılmıştır. Çalışmada öne çıkan sonuçlardan biri; boşanma, ebeveyn yokluğu ve yoksulluğu gibi nedenlerle kurum bakımına yerleştirilen çocuk/gençlere yönelik ön yargı, damgalayıcı ve dışlayıcı tutumların varlığıdır. Kurum bakımına yerleştirilen çocukların bu bakım türüne ilişkin hayatlarında yaşadıkları ilk dışlanmışlık deneyimleri, kendilerini biyolojik ailelerinden uzaklaştıran terk edilmişlik duygusudur. Ön yargılı ve damgalayıcı tutumlar, kurum bakım öyküsüne sahip katılımcıların bakım sürecinde ve sonrasında karşı karşıya kaldıkları önemli bir sosyal problemi oluşturmaktadır. Kurumdan ayrıldıktan sonra damgalanıp dışlanmanın en yoğun yaşandığı alan, iş piyasası olmuştur. Katılımcılar kurum dışı hayatlarında dışlanmaktan kaçınmak için kurumda yetişmiş olduklarını gizlemişler ve sosyal iletişimlerini sınırlandırmışlardır. Katılımcılar açısından damgalanıp dışlanma, kurum bakımında yetişen çocuk/gençlerin hatalarının değil toplumun ayırıcı bakış açısının bir yansımasıdır. Kurum bakımına yerleştirilen çocukların kendilik algısının kurum bakım sürecinden nasıl etkilendiğini anlayabilmek açısından boylamsal çalışmaların yapılması önerilmektedir.