bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Awareness and Skills of Modern Telemedicine Practice among Doctors in KeralaA Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Sukumaran Anil Bindu , Leela Manju , Suresh Kannan , Selvin Himiki , Jose Regi , Prakash Shilpa , Vijith Divija , Benny PV
Published: April 2022

Introduction: In this modern era of technology, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has made a very big revolution. Telemedicine is an emerging concept in health care services in Kerala, its implementation has not been satisfactory and successful. It is cost effective and provides easy access to healthcare services for people anywhere and especially during pandemic situations like this. A study is required in the domain of awareness and skill of doctors to facilitate its adoption and implementation. There was an urgent need to devise means for patients to consult doctors during Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Aim: To assess the level of awareness and skill among doctors practicing modern medicine during COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 535 modern medicine doctors of Kerala from June 2020 to May 2021, using a structured self-administered questionnaire designed for the study. The total scores of awareness and skill calculated and categorised as poor, moderate, and good. Data was analysed by Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 software by IBM. The Chi-square test/ Fisher’s-Exact test was used as test of significance. Results: Mean age of the study participants were 40.44±10.66 years, with majority 326 (60.94%) been females. Among the 535 doctors participated, 68.22% had moderate skill, 27.85% have good skill and only 3.92% have poor skill. Years of experience of doctors ranged from 1 to 48 with mean of 13.47±10.46 years. In majority, 431 (80.56%) of the participants, had moderate awareness about the telemedicine practice. Poor awareness was present in 19 (3.55%) doctors. 46.54% believes that specific software training is required for practicing telemedicine. Conclusion: The study showed that 15.89% had good awareness, while 80.56% of the participants had moderate awareness about the telemedicine. Only 27.85% of doctors had good skill, while 68.22% had moderate skill. Even though, awareness and skill of doctors practicing modern medicine are favourable, more webinars or workshops are needed to improve their knowledge.
Looking Beyond Knowledge and AccessibilityExploring Barriers and Facilitators for Cervical Cancer Screening Services among Tribal Women in Tea Gardens of Darjeeling, West Bengal
Authors: Kala Shashi , Bandyopadhyay Alapan , Bhattacherjee Sharmistha , Mukherjee Abhijit , Dasgupta Samir
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Despite efforts to motivate all reproductive age women to avail cervical cancer screening services, many still do not utilise them. Most researchers have universally identified barriers like the lack of knowledge and lack of accessibility as the reason for not availing services. However, additional barriers also prevent women from making use of these screening services. Aim: To explore the barriers to and facilitating factors for cervical cancer screening beyond the lack of knowledge and accessibility of services. Materials and Methods: This qualitative research was conducted among tribal women residing in the Kiranchandra Tea Estate and Atal Tea Estate (two tea gardens in the rural Naxalbari Block) West Bengal, India, from July 2018 to February 2019. Women aged 30-59 years, living in the garden for at least the last 5 years, not suffering from obstetrics/gynaecological disease during last two years and willing to participate in the study were included, based on a purposive sampling method. Information Education Campaign (IEC) on cervical cancer and screening were undertaken and screening services arranged in the gardens on garden holidays for two consecutive weeks. Four (4) Focus Group Discussion (FGDs) in each garden were conducted, with each FGD consisting of 5 to 6 participants (N=49). Data obtained was recorded and logged with the participants’ permission and consent. A manifest content analysis was used to explore the perceived barriers and facilitators of cervical screening. Results: The major barriers identified were lack of support, burden of responsibility and the lack of felt need. The facilitators found most frequently were provision of information, social motivation, easy accessibility and affordability of screening services. Conclusion: This study revealed that there are various actual and perceived barriers to cervical cancer screening among tribal women in tea garden areas. Even after imparting knowledge and increasing availably and accessibility of a free program, familial support, burden of responsibility and lack of felt needs hinder increased uptake of the services.
The Prevalence of ABO, Rh and Bombay Blood Group among Donors at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Mangalore, India
Authors: Shenoy Konchady Deepthi Suresh , Pailoor Kirana
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Blood types were first discovered by an Austrian physician, Karl Landsteiner. He found that blood sera from different persons would clump together (agglutinate) when mixed in test tubes, and some human blood also agglutinated with animal blood. The study of different blood groups is important as it has major role in blood transfusion, certain medico-legal cases especially disputed paternity etc. Aim: This study was carried out to find the prevalence of ABO, Rhesus (Rh) and Bombay blood group among donors at a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: The present retrospective study was done at a tertiary care hospital of Mangalore, Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka, India from June 2018 to May 2019 with data analysis done in November 2019. Data of 8,254 blood donors were collected and analysed regarding ABO, Rhesus and Bombay group from June 2018 to May 2019. Blood grouping was done by automated method using agglutination technique. The data collected was analysed by frequency and percentage. Results: The total donors studied were 8,254 with mean age of 48 years. The most common blood group was O (n=3178,38.5%) followed by B (n=2343, 28.38), A (n=2102, 25.47%), AB (n=629, 7.62%) and Bombay (n=2, 0.02%), respectively. Rh positivity among donors were 94% (n=7762). Rest were Rh negative and were found to be approx. 6% (n=490). Conclusion: The most common blood group among donors was O Rh positive and the least common was Bombay blood group. Every blood bank should have a record of frequency of ABO and Rh grouping as it is important for its effective management. Safe transfusion reduces the risk of transfusion transmitted illnesses and thus promotes patient safety
Expression of Alpha-Methyl Acyl-Co-enzyme Racemase in Gastric Carcinomas
Authors: Yogitha Namasani , Moula Mohmed Chand , Pathuri Naga Kalyani , Padmaja Vani
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Alpha-Methyl Acyl-Co-enzyme Racemase (AMACR, EC 5.1.99.4, also known as P504S) is a mitochondrial and peroxisomal enzyme involved in branched fatty acids oxidation. High dietary intake of branched fatty acids may result in overproduction of AMACR, which is associated with the development of many cancers including prostate, kidney, breast, ovary, liver and gastrointestinal cancers. Several reports have also shown an association between consumption of fat and increased risk of gastric cancer, especially intestinal type gastric carcinomas. Aim: To determine and compare the expression of AMACR in clinical types and various histological grades of gastric carcinomas. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted from November 2016 to May 2018 at Osmania Medical College/General Hospital, Hyderabad, Telangana, India. The tissue cores of the included biopsied samples of 50 gastric carcinomas, with regions of interest were removed to prepare a tissue microarray and Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining for AMACR was performed. The stained slides were graded based on the intensity of staining and results were evaluated using Chi-square test. Results: Of the 50 gastric carcinomas (32 males and 18 females; age range: 22-80 years) cases studied, 26 were intestinal type and 24 were diffuse type. According to cancer grade, 17 were well differentiated, nine were moderately differentiated and 24 were poorly differentiated. Abnormal AMACR staining was seen in 73.07% (19) cases of well and moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma and 33.33% (8) cases of poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma. The AMACR staining was found to be statistically significantly associated with the differentiation grading of the tumour (p-value 0.016). Abnormal staining for AMACR was seen more in well differentiated compared to moderately and poorly differentiated carcinomas. IHC expression of AMACR showed a statistically significant correlation with Lauren’s type of gastric cancer (p-value 0.005). Conclusion: The AMACR is a racemase present in the cytoplasm; cytoplasmic staining is observed in gastric carcinoma and also with histological grade. Abnormal staining for AMACR was seen more in well differentiated compared to moderately and poorly differentiated carcinomas. The expression of AMACR was significantly higher in intestinal type gastric carcinoma. Hence, the role of AMACR as a target for treating gastric cancer seems to be promising. Further studies are required to establish the role of AMACR as a diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic tool in gastric malignancies.
Clinico-histopathological Features of Pyoderma Gangrenosum: A Case Series
Authors: Patel Moxda Suresh , Jotva Digisha Hamirbhai , Dhinoja Niraj Virendrabhai , Patel Riya Pravinbhai , Patel Neela Madhubhai
Published: April 2022

Pyoderma Gangrenosum (PG) is a rare, ulcerative, non infectious neutrophilic inflammatory dermatosis and often associated with underlying systemic disorder. The incidence of PG is estimated to be 0.63 per 1,00,000 with the median age at presentation of 59 years. Among its clinical variants, classical PG is the most common. The diagnosis of PG can be difficult. This case series was an attempt to review the new trends for the diagnosis of PG and also to compare them with previous diagnostic criteria. Previously histopathological criteria were included as minor criteria in Su WP et al., classification. More recently proposed diagnostic criteria by Maverkis E et al., include histopathology of skin biopsy from edge of ulcer showing neutrophilic infiltration as a major criteria. Aim of the study is to correlate and stamp the clinically suspected cases of PG with help of histopathology. This retrospective observational case series study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital from May 2018 to April 2020 consisting of 19 cases (15 years to 68 years of age range; 13 males and 6 females). Detailed history, clinical examination and blood investigations were done in all suspected cases of PG followed by histopathological examination of skin biopsy. In 17 cases, lesions were located in lower limb, one case each in buttocks and lower abdomen. The classical, ulcerative form found in 12 cases (63.15%), vegetative form in 3 cases (15.78%), plaque and bullae form were in 2 cases each (10.52%). Pathergy test was positive in 11 cases (57.89%). Histopathological examination showed neutrophilic infiltration in all 19 cases (100%), vasculitis in 11 patients (57.89%), lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate in 6 patients (31.57%), pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia in 5 patients (26.31%), mixed inflammatory infiltrate in 4 patients (21%), Epidermal ulceration in 4 patients (21%) and mitosis is seen in 3 patients (15.78%). Histopathology is considered as a main tool which helps clinicians to stamp suspected cases of PG.
ЗАГАДКА ПЕРВЫХ 500 МИЛЛИОНОВ ЛЕТ ЛУНЫ, "Земля и Вселенная"
Authors: Шевченко В.В.
Published: April 2022

На лунной поверхности выявлено определенное число значительных по размерам мегакольцевых структур. Оценки возраста появления этих образований показывают, что они относятся к наиболее древним формам рельефа на лунной поверхности. Часть из них в более поздние периоды лунной истории были заполнены потоками базальтовой лавы, излившихся из лунных недр, и превратились в лунные моря. Но на обратной стороне Луны сохранились подобные структуры почти в первозданном виде. Изучение морфологии этих образований и моделирование процессов их ударного происхождения позволили выдвинуть гипотезу о характере самого раннего периода истории Луны. Можно предположить, что основными телами, падения которых образовали мегаструктуры в первые 500 млн лет лунной истории, были кометы с гигантскими размерами ядер.
СУЩЕСТВУЕТ ЛИ ДЕВЯТАЯ ПЛАНЕТА?, "Земля и Вселенная"
Authors: Эйсмонт Н.А.
Published: April 2022

Первая планета вне Солнечной системы была открыта в 1995 г. астрономами Мишелем Майором и Дидье Кело. Эта экзопланета принадлежала звезде 51 Пегаса, и за ее открытие в 2019 г. ученые получили Нобелевскую премию по физике. К настоящему времени открыто более 4800 экзопланет. Однако не менее впечатляющими оказались недавние исследования новых объектов на гораздо более скромных расстояниях, всего лишь за пределами орбиты Нептуна. Речь пойдет не об уже состоявшемся открытии, а об обещанном. Планетологи Джеймс Браун и Константин Батыгин, опираясь на анализ траекторий транснептуновых объектов, пришли к заключению о существовании довольно крупного небесного тела с массой около пяти масс Земли. Это небесное тело – гипотетическая Девятая планета, претендующая на место некогда именуемого так Плутона.
МИКРОБИОЛОГИЧЕСКАЯ ДИАГНОСТИКА ТУБЕРКУЛЕЗА В УЧРЕЖДЕНИЯХ ФСИН РОССИИ В 2020 г.: РЕЗУЛЬТАТЫ И ПЕРСПЕКТИВЫ РАЗВИТИЯ, "Вестник Центрального научно-исследовательского института туберкулеза"
Authors: Русакова Л.И. , Пономарев С.Б. , Стерликов С.А. , Мезенцева Н.И.
Published: April 2022

Цель исследования: провести анализ охвата и качества микробиологической диагностики туберкулеза в учреждениях ФСИН России в 2020 г. Материалы и методы. Использованы данные официального статистического наблюдения, специализированных запросов и результаты участия бактериологических лабораторий в системе внешней оценки качества исследований. Результаты. Доля больных туберкулезом легких (впервые выявленных и с рецидивами), выявленных методом бактериоскопии мокроты в клинико-диагностических лабораториях, снизилась до 3,7%. Охват впервые выявленных больных туберкулезом легких микроскопией мокроты составил 99,7%. Доля впервые выявленных больных туберкулезом легких с положительным результатом мокроты изменялась статистически малозначимо и составила в 2020 г. 15,9%, что указывает на наличие проблем при выполнении исследований. На это же указывает низкое значение доли больных с положительным результатом микроскопии мокроты среди больных с деструкцией легочной ткани (36,7%). Доля лабораторий, подтвердивших качество микроскопических исследований по Цилю–Нильсену, составила 6,2%. Охват впервые выявленных больных туберкулезом легких культуральной диагностикой составил 97,9%. Доля впервые выявленных больных туберкулезом легких с культуральным подтверждением диагноза недостаточная (24,2%). Доля лабораторий, подтвердивших достаточное качество культуральной диагностики, составила 9,8%. Охват впервые выявленных больных туберкулезом легких тестами на лекарственную чувствительность (ТЛЧ) – 90,7%. Охват больных туберкулезом с устойчивостью к рифампицину ТЛЧ к фторхинолонам – 88,6%, бедаквилину и линезолиду – 1,2%. Доля лабораторий, подтвердивших достаточное качество ТЛЧ к препаратам I ряда, составила 11,4%, II ряда – 11,1%. Автоматизированные системы диагностики на жидких питательных средах используются в одной лаборатории, молекулярно-генетические методы используются в лабораториях 56 регионов России. Охват больных туберкулезом (впервые выявленных и с рецидивом) молекулярно-генетическими методами составил 41,4% при целевом значении 90%. Заключение. Система микробиологической диагностики туберкулеза в учреждениях ФСИН России показывает неудовлетворительные результаты работы и нуждается в реформировании. Целесообразно создание оснащенных лабораторий, выполняющих исследования высокого качества (в том числе – ТЛЧ к бедаквилину и линезолиду) на базе крупных фтизиопульмонологических центров. Лабораторную диагностику туберкулеза в регионах, не имеющих крупных фтизиопульмонологических центров ФСИН России, целесообразно перенести по аутсорсинговой модели в микробиологические лаборатории гражданского здравоохранения. Целесообразно внедрить систему курации микробиологических лабораторий специалистами гражданского здравоохранения.
КРИТЕРИИ ОЦЕНКИ СТЕПЕНИ РАСПРОСТРАНЕННОСТИ ТУБЕРКУЛЕЗНОГО ПРОЦЕССА У ДЕТЕЙ ПО ДАННЫМ КОМПЬЮТЕРНОЙ ТОМОГРАФИИ ОРГАНОВ ГРУДНОЙ КЛЕТКИ, "Вестник Центрального научно-исследовательского института туберкулеза"
Authors: Губкина М.Ф. , Петракова И.Ю. , Юхименко Н.В. , Овсянкина Е.С. , Амансахедов Р.Б. , Хохлова Ю.Ю. , Стерликова С.С.
Published: April 2022

Широкое внедрение компьютерной томографии (КТ) органов грудной клетки (ОГК) при обследовании больных туберкулезом (ТБ) определяет необходимость пересмотра критериев оценки степени распространенности туберкулезного процесса, которые ранее были сформулированы по данным обзорной рентгенограммы ОГК и по настоящее время используются в клинической практике. Цель исследования: разработать критерии оценки степени распространенности туберкулезного процесса у детей по данным КТ ОГК для выбора адекватной схемы химиотерапии. Материалы и методы. Проведен анализ КТ ОГК 190 пациентов в возрасте 3–12 лет с первичными формами ТБ органов дыхания. КТ ОГК проводили на мультиспиральном компьютерном томографе Siemens Somatom Emotion с использованием стандартного алгоритма. Выделяли ведущий рентгенологический синдром, для каждого синдрома определяли объем патологических изменений по ряду характеристик, позволивших в последующем классифицировать процессы по степени распространенности: малая, ограниченная, значительная, которые в клинической практике соответствуют «малым формам» ТБ, ограниченным или распространенным процессам. При наличии дополнительных изменений в виде очагов диссеминации, деструктивных изменений в легочной ткани, изменений со стороны плевральных оболочек, в том числе свободного выпота процессы относили к значительной степени распространенности, независимо от ведущего рентгенологического синдрома. При сочетании патологических изменений в легких и внутригрудных лимфатических узлах (ВГЛУ) степень распространенности процесса определяли по максимальной степени поражения. У 101 (53,2%) пациента туберкулезные изменения локализовались во ВГЛУ, у 70 (36,8%) пациентов – только в легочной ткани, сочетанное поражение легких и ВГЛУ наблюдалось у 19 (10,0%) человек. Результаты. С учетом разработанных критериев степени распространенности патологического процесса по данным КТ ОГК у пациентов с поражением ВГЛУ были установлены «малые формы» в 54,4% случаев, ограниченные процессы – в 23,8%, распространенные – в 21,8%. При поражении легочной ткани «малые формы» составили 68,6% случаев, ограниченные процессы – 17,1%, распространенные процессы – 14,3%. При сочетанном поражении ВГЛУ и легких «малые формы» определялись в 26,3% случаев, ограниченные процессы – в 26,3%, распространенные процессы – в 47,4%. Заключение. Разработанные критерии распространенности туберкулезного процесса стали базовым компонентом при формировании режима противотуберкулезной химиотерапии у детей: назначение меньшего количества противотуберкулезных препаратов (ПТП) и меньшая продолжительность лечения при «малых формах» и увеличение количества препаратов и продолжительности химиотерапии при ограниченных, распространенных и осложненных процессах.
Planning for the Mental Health Surge: The Self-Reported Mental Health Impact of Covid-19 on Young People and Their Needs and Preferences for Future Services
Authors: Radomski Ashley , Cloutier Paula , Gardner William , Pajer Kathleen , Sheridan Nicole , Sundar Purnima , Cappelli Mario
Published: April 2022

We investigated young people’s mental health (MH) and preferences for future MH services early in the Covid-19 pandemic to support user-centered service planning and delivery. We administered a webbased survey to young people living in Ontario. Logistic regressions identified predictors of worsening MH and service preferences among a sample of 1341 participants. 61.1% reported worse MH since the pandemic. Worsening MH was significantly associated with one MH and five sociodemographic factors. Participants’ MH and service preferences aligned well with clinical practice guidelines in that those with a greater self-reported MH need preferred more intensive MH services.
Objective Comparison of Benefits Derived From Contralateral Routing of Signal Hearing Aid and Bone Conduction Device in Noisy Surroundings in Patients With Single-Sided Deafness
Authors: Sikka Kapil , Yogal Rijendra , Thakar Alok , Kumar Rakesh , Chaudhary Tanvi , Bhartiya Mao , Verma Hitesh , Sharma Sonam , Singh Chirom Amit
Published: April 2022

Background and Objectives: Single-sided deafness (SSD) leads to non-participation of the diseased ear in generating adequate auditory input, which results in poor speech discrimination in noisy surroundings. The present study objectively compared the audiological benefits rendered by contralateral routing of signal (CROS) hearing aid and bone conduction device (BCD) in patients with SSD >70 dB HL using the modified hearing in noise test (HINT).Materials and Methods: Patients with SSD >70 dB HL in poor and clinically normal hearing in the better ear were enrolled. Patients aged <18 or >70 years, with a history of neurological insult or ear infection in the last 3 months, mental retardation, psychiatric or developmental disorders, and diabetes were excluded. Modified HINT was performed with the affected ear unaided, aided with CROS hearing aid, and with BCD, generating three groups. Noise signal was presented at a fixed intensity of 65 dB at the neutral position in the center and speech signal was presented to either ear sequentially. The test was repeated with the speech signal fixed at the neutral position and the noise signal presented to either ear.Results: BCD led to a better signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) than CROS hearing aid in all situations except when noise was centralized and speech was presented to the affected ear.Conclusions: A benefit was observed when auditory rehabilitation was used for the affected ear as demonstrated by better SNR scores. The results showed that BCD performed better than CROS hearing aid.
Symmetric Bilateral Congenital Middle Ear Cholesteatoma: A Case Report
Authors: Hong Joon Pyo , Kim Min-Beom
Published: April 2022

Congenital middle ear cholesteatoma (CMEC) accounts for 2%-5% of all cases of middle ear cholesteatoma. CMEC is rare and diagnostically challenging; therefore, only a few cases are reported in the literature, and the pathophysiology of this condition remains largely unclear. Currently, epidermoid formation, amniotic fluid contamination, lack of the tympanic ring, and squamous metaplasia are among the mechanisms implicated in the pathogenesis of CMEC; however, no single theory satisfactorily explains the pathophysiology of this disorder. We report a case of CMEC in a young male patient, who showed a symmetric, binaural whitish mass posterior to the anterosuperior quadrant of the tympanic membrane. A few reports have described bilateral CMEC; however, no study has reported symmetrical CMEC as observed in this case. Bilateral tympanoplasty concomitant with cholesteatoma removal was performed, and histopathological evaluation of the resected specimen showed closed-type cholesteatoma. In this report, we describe a rare case of symmetric CMEC, which supports the epidermoid formation theory associated with CMEC, together with a literature review.
Pattern and Implication of Youth Migration in the Garhwal Division of Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Rana Kiran , Mamgain Ajay
Published: April 2022

This study examines the youth migration patterns, driving forces, reasons, factors of migration and consequences of out-migration in the Garbwal division of Uttarakhand. Data were collected from both primary and secondary sources .The district Tehri Garbwal comprises of nine blocks out of them two blocks Chamba and Thauldhar were chosen. Four villages Kainchu, Jaspur, Kot and Bhainskoti were selected for the study. Sample of 120 respondents was selected through PPS method. We used both qualitative and quantitative approaches to conduct this study. Data was gathered from both primary and secondary sources. The findings of the study revealed that majority of the respondents (40.83%) belonged to 24-32 age groups, (73.33%) were men, 40.84 per cent had intermediate education, (67.50%) belonged to general category, 55.00% had medium family size, majority 40.00 per cent of the respondents were in service, 54.16% had moderate level of achievement motivation, 59.16 per cent had moderate mass media exposure, had less than 1 acre land holding (64.16%), 63.33 per cent had medium level of change proneness. Majority of the respondents (92.50%) had migrated for non – agricultural purpose, (53.33%) had migrated from village to nearby town, (81.66%) had up to 2 migrants in their family, and (69.16%) had medium term of migration (6 to 10 years). Majority of the respondents (64.16%) had high level of push factors of migration, majority of the respondents (59.16%) had medium level of pull factors of migration. The study concludes that the high rate of rural-urban migration is driven by the various forces such as poor socioeconomic conditions, climate, education, unemployment and overall lacking in infrastructural facilities. It was observed that rural-urban migration has several implications both in sending and receiving areas. Development of rural areas through implementing various innovative programmes may control rural-urban migration and develop Suitable strategy for reducing out-migration was suggested.
Improving the Assessment Performance in Philippine Politics and Governance through Project Reconnect
Authors: Manahan Ian Jeffrey E.
Published: April 2022

Aims: The study aimed to improve the assessment performance of Grade 12 students in a specialized course under the Academic Track / Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) Strand called Philippine Politics and Governance.

Study Design: The study primarily used the descriptive-comparative method.

Place and Duration of Study: Binulasan Integrated School, Barangay Binulasan, Infanta, Quezon Province, Philippines, between January 2021 and March 2021.

Methodology: The participants were seven Grade 12-HUMSS students who got “below expectation” or 74% and below in assessment performance after four weeks of lessons. The study aimed to improve the assessment performance through Project RECONNECT (Remedial Class On New Normal Education Through Phone Call Tutoring Strategy). To determine the increase in students’ assessment performance, pretest and posttest results were compared. Descriptive was used to get the mean of the test results. The t-test for the dependent sample was used to find out if there is a significant difference in the test results.

Results: The assessment performance in Philippine Politics and Governance of seven Grade 12 HUMSS students before and after the implementation of Project RECONNECT was below average and upper average respectively. Project RECONNECT (Remedial Class On New Normal Education through Phone Call Tutoring Strategy) was an effective tool for improving the assessment performance of students.

Conclusion: It concluded that students in this assessment performance lack knowledge and skills in this subject. They need remediation to improve their assessment performance in Philippine Politics and Governance. The assessment performance of “below expectation” students could improve through phone call tutoring as a form of remediation during this time of the pandemic. Project RECONNECT was commendable to improve the assessment performance of students.
Effeciency of Procedural Use of Hormonal Agent in Propagation of Clarias gariepinus
Authors: Uka A. , Obilo G. I.
Published: April 2022

Administration procedures of some hormones including single, double and multiple induction protocols were investigated to determine the implications of different induction process in propagation of Clarias gariepinus.  The hormones studied were ovulin, Carp pituitary extract (CPE) and gonopore.  A total of 36 Clarias gariepinus of the same age comprising 27 females and 9 males were used for the study.  Eggs produced among treatments were fertilized with pooled sperm from a total of 3 males per hormonal treatment.  Propagation was assessed by fecundity, fertilization, hatchability and larval survival.  Highest egg production was recorded at double inductions with ovulin and CPE while highest egg production was observed in single induction with gonopore.  There was significant disparity (P<0.05) in fertilization and hatchability percentages.  Best fertilization and hatching rate was recorded with ovulin at single induction (80.2%) and ovulin at multiple inductions (81.9%) respectively.  There was significant difference (P<0.05) in number of larvae realized among the treatments.  Highest larval survival was recorded with gonopore at single induction (68.1%).  Findings from the study showed that hormone type and mode of administration are important in propagation of C. gariepinus.  The study recommended double inductions in usage of Ovulin and CPE and single induction with gonopore.  Adopting best procedural technology in usage of specific hormone is necessary for mass production of Clarias gariepinus seeds.
Assessment of Functional Mitral Regurgitation Severity by Proximal Isovelocity Surface Area via 3D Transthoracic Echocardiography
Authors: A. M. Balbaa Ahmed , M. Atia Wael , Abdelshafook Khalaf Hani
Published: April 2022

Background: Accurate quantitative evaluation of MR severity remains challenging because limited scan plane orientation of 2D echocardiography does not provide direct measurement of the regurgitant lesion. Three-dimensional echocardiography, which has become a clinically established technique, has been shown to provide useful information for flow quantification and so has the potential to address the major drawbacks of 2D-based approaches.

Objectives: To assess the reliability of PISA measurement using real-time 3D color trans-thoracic echocardiographic imaging in clinical practice and to compare its derived EROA, regurgitant volume (Rvol) and regurgitant fraction with that obtained by 2D trans thoracic PISA.

Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional study, included 30 patients with at least moderate functional MR came for evaluation on clinical basis indications at Al-Hussein and Bab El-Shaareya University Hospitals during the period from November 2020 to July 2021. Two- and three-dimensional echocardiography was done to asses MR and calculate vena contract width, 2D PISA and derived EORA and regurgitant volume. Also, calculation of 3D EROA using PISA method by 3D probe.

Results: There was a significant positive correlation between 2D EPISA and 3D EROA using PISA method and EROA, p value was 0.0001. With higher values for 3D EROA using PISA method when compared with 2D PISA in different degrees of MR as summarized in “the mean value of EROA by 2D PISA in moderate MR was 0.25 ±0.042 cm2, while it was 0.32±0.059 cm2 by 3D EROA using PISA method. While the mean value of EROA by 2D PISA in severe MR was 0.58 ±0.14 cm2, and it was 0.47 ±0.049 cm2 by 3D EROA”. Also showed significant difference in different direction of MR jets especially in eccentric jet as shown by the mean value of EROA by 2D PISA in central MR was 0.41±0.19 cm2, while it was 0.41±0.87 cm2 by 3D method. While the mean value of EROA by 2D PISA in eccentric MR was 0.53 ±0.21 cm2, and it was 0.44 ±0.096 cm2 by 3D EROA using PISA method.

Conclusion: The use of 3D EROA using PISA method and simple calculation of a mean systolic regurgitation orifice area proved to be superior to 2D measures (VC, 2D-PISA) for distinguishing moderate from severe MR, evaluation, classification and grading of MR in a routine clinical cardiology setting. 3D EROA reduces assumptions and seemingly improves diagnostic value as compared with 2D-PISA.
Lipoprotein-associated Phospholipase A2 Activity Contributes to the Coronary Artery Disease with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Naser Abdulrahman , Bener Abdulbari , Atmaca Murat , Nurkalem Zekeriya
Published: April 2022

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is an inflammatory process characterized by atherosclerosis in coronary arteries and it is a major cause of death and disability in developed countries. Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) has been consistently associated with CAD risk factors and predictive of CVD outcomes; additionally, it is consistently higher among type 2 diabetics than nondiabetics. However, the relationships of circulating Lp-PLA2 activity with incident CAD among patients with metabolic syndrome (MetSynd) have not been examined sufficiently.

Objective: The aim is to determine contribution of Lp-PLA2 to coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with Metabolic Syndrome (MetSynd).

Subjects and methods: This is a cohort prospective study based on 412 patients male and female were eligible and aged 25-75 years old patients and gave consent to participate in study. The study included socio-demographics, clinical biochemistry and the presence of co-morbid diseases. The data were analyzed using descriptive and multivariate analyses.

Results: There was a significant difference between MetSynd Positive and normal subjects with respect to age groups, gender, BMI, smoking, nargile use, thyroid, COPD, CAD, hypertension, diabetic and stroke. Also, there was a significant difference between MetSynd versus normal subjects with respect to BMI, Waist Circumference, hemoglobin, HbA1c, vitamin B12, fasting blood glucose, vitamin D, calcium, creatinine, triglyceride, uric acid,  ferritin, systolic BP (mm Hg) and diastolic BP (mm Hg), creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB) (p=0.001); Lp-PLA2 activity, (p=0.001); HOMA-IR index,(p=0.004), insulin (p=0.001); C-reactive protein (p=0.004);White blood cell (WBC) (p=0.008); Platelet p= 0.018) Mean Plate Volume (p= 0.032); red cell distribution width (p=0.001);  and vitamin D levels (p=0.018), respectively. The multivariate stepwise regression analysis indicated that Lp-PLA2 (p<0.001), BMI (kg/m2) (p<0.001), systolic BP (p<0.001), MetSynd (p=0.002), CK-MB (p=0.019), Calcium) (p= 0.023), Triglyceride (p= 0.029), Total-cholesterol (p= 0.046) were considered as risk predictors of the CAD patients after adjusting for age and gender.

Conclusion: Lp-LPA2 contributes to CAD in the presence of MetSynd, as well as Lp-PLA2 could be utilized as a useful predictor in cases of CAD with MetSynd.
Influence of Dates of Sowing and Planting Geometry on Yield, Nutrient Uptake and Economics of Baby Corn
Authors: Dutta Rinjumoni , Jiban Panda Dibya
Published: April 2022

During the summer season of 2018, a field experiment was conducted at Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat. The treatments consisted of four date of sowing viz., 20th February (D1), 2nd March (D2), 12th March (D3) and 22nd March (D4) in main plot and four planting geometry practices viz., 40 cm x 20 cm (S1), 40 cm x 25 cm (S2), 45 cm x 20 cm (S3) and 45 cm x 25 cm (S4), in sub-plot with three replications. The results revealed that 2nd March sowing recorded higher plant height, number of cobs per plant, weight of cob, cob yield and fodder yield which was at par with 12th March sowing and significantly higher than other sowing dates. Similar effects of these treatments were also observed in respect to N, P, K uptake and economics. Among the different planting geometry, yield of cob without husk and fodder yield, gross return and net return were found to be higher under spacing 45 cm x 20 cm as compared to others. Total N, P and K uptake were also found to be higher under 45 cm x 20 cm spacing than rest of the planting geometry. Planting geometry had non-significant effect on available N,P2O5 and K2O status of soil after harvest of the crop.
Topical Intranasal Corticosteroids Compared with Systemic Steroids in the Treatment of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction in Children
Authors: Elkotb Ahmed Farag , Elsherif Hossam Sayed , Elbirmawy Osama Amin , Behery Abo-Bakr Salah
Published: April 2022

Background: Using corticosteroids in treatment of ETD has been the focus of various studies in which many of them suggested that either topical intranasal corticosteroids or systemic oral steroids are helpful in the management of ETD. The aim of the work was for comparing the efficacy of topical intranasal corticosteroids with that of systemic oral steroids in the treatment of ETD.

Patients and Methods: prospective trial on 100 consecutive patients in the age group of 6- 12 years with an intact TM as to be documented on otoscopic examination and with an ETD as to be documented with a tympanogram type C. Subjects were allocated equally into two groups group 1: had intranasal corticosteroids and group 2:  had systemic oral steroids. Data such as ear complaint, patient history, general investigation, otorhinolaryngological clinical check, tympanometry, pure tone audiometry and treatment, if taken were collected from all the patients.

Results: The decrease in tympanograms type C after treatment was correlated with the increase in type A tympanograms which indicate complete resolution of the condition in both tested groups of both treatment arms. Difference between the two study groups regarding tympanogram type C normalization shows no statistically significant difference between each treatment arm. Pure tone audiometry results indicate an improvement in the subjects HL after management in both examined groups, but results weren’t statistically significant.

Conclusions: Using corticosteroids, whether oral or intranasal, in the management of ETD is effective in resolving the condition, but there is no significant difference between the two in the outcome results and so oral steroid complications could be avoided by using local steroid spray.
Psychological Status of Online Education among Dental College Students
Authors: Priyan I. , Jothipriya A. , Devi R. Gayatri
Published: April 2022

E-learning has become an essential method and implemented by educational institutions across the world. Physiological change of online education among college students, based on a questionnaire or a Google form. Age among 21 to 25 where more knowledge about online education. Time spent for online classes per day is more than 6 hrs. The effectiveness of online classes varies among age groups. To make awareness about online education. A self structured questionnaire is being prepared and uploaded in Google forms. Increased implementation of technology will increase students' comprehension of content and skill developed. Asynchronous delivery is threaded discussions, e-mail and telephone calls. Education institutions created to deliver knowledge have yet to adopt technology for this purpose. Learning comparison has now been introduced in school. Online education experience is typically asynchronous and also incorporates synchronous elements. Increased implementation of technology will increase students' comprehension of content and skill developed. The study showed that the people who are aged between 21 to 25 are more aware of online education.  The p- value of this study is found to be 0.002, (p<0.05), hence statistically significant. The aim of the study is to rule out the physiological changes of online education among the college students.
Time‐Varying Association of Rheumatoid Arthritis Disease Activity to Subsequent Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Yoshida Kazuki , Harrold Leslie R. , Middaugh Nicole , Guan Hongshu , Stryker Scott , Karis Elaine , Solomon Daniel H.
Published: April 2022

Objective

It is unknown how the relationship between disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and cardiovascular (CV) events may change over time. We examined the potentially time‐varying association of RA disease activity to CV events.

Methods

We used the CorEvitas prevalent RA registry. The Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) score category, averaged within each 6‐month window since enrollment, was the exposure, and the outcome was major adverse CV events (MACEs). We used marginal structural models to estimate the hazard ratio (HR), comparing each CDAI score category with remission, allowing for differential association over time. We predicted MACE‐free survival under several CDAI score scenarios.

Results

We found 44,816 eligible patients (77% female; mean age 58 years) with a crude event rate of 5.3/1000 person‐years (median follow‐up 3.4 years). The strongest association between higher CDAI score and MACEs was observed during the first 6 months of enrollment (HR for CDAI score low 2.29 [95% CI: 1.21‐4.36], moderate 2.81 [95% CI: 1.46‐5.43], and high 2.99 [95% CI: 1.48‐6.02]). These estimates gradually diminished; by year 5, the HRs were 1.00 (95% CI: 0.49‐2.05) for low, 1.18 (95% CI: 0.51‐2.71) for moderate, and 1.04 (95% CI: 0.45‐2.40) for high CDAI score. Predicted MACE‐free survival suggested a potential decrease in MACEs with a hypothetical earlier transition to remission.

Conclusion

The association of higher disease activity with CV events may be stronger earlier in the disease course of RA. Interventional studies may be warranted to precisely determine the effect of disease activity suppression on CV events in RA.
Quantum Conductance in Memristive Devices: Fundamentals, Developments, and Applications
Authors: Milano Gianluca , Aono Masakazu , Boarino Luca , Celano Umberto , Hasegawa Tsuyoshi , Kozicki Michael , Majumdar Sayani , Menghini Mariela , Miranda Enrique , Ricciardi Carlo , Tappertzhofen Stefan , Terabe Kazuya , Valov Ilia
Published: April 2022

Quantum effects in novel functional materials and new device concepts represent a potential breakthrough for the development of new information processing technologies based on quantum phenomena. Among the emerging technologies, memristive elements that exhibit resistive switching, which relies on the electrochemical formation/rupture of conductive nanofilaments, exhibit quantum conductance effects at room temperature. Despite the underlying resistive switching mechanism having been exploited for the realization of next‐generation memories and neuromorphic computing architectures, the potentialities of quantum effects in memristive devices are still rather unexplored. Here, a comprehensive review on memristive quantum devices, where quantum conductance effects can be observed by coupling ionics with electronics, is presented. Fundamental electrochemical and physicochemical phenomena underlying device functionalities are introduced, together with fundamentals of electronic ballistic conduction transport in nanofilaments. Quantum conductance effects including quantum mode splitting, stability, and random telegraph noise are analyzed, reporting experimental techniques and challenges of nanoscale metrology for the characterization of memristive phenomena. Finally, potential applications and future perspectives are envisioned, discussing how memristive devices with controllable atomic‐sized conductive filaments can represent not only suitable platforms for the investigation of quantum phenomena but also promising building blocks for the realization of integrated quantum systems working in air at room temperature.
Multifunctional Molecule Modification toward Efficient Carbon‐Based All‐Inorganic CsPbIBr2 Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Xin , Xu Yuan , Zhang Huayan , Yan Zhongliang , Jing Yu , Liu Xiao , Wu Jihuai , Lan Zhang
Published: April 2022

Favorable stability is a big challenge for the commercialization of perovskite solar cells, and all‐inorganic perovskite semiconductors have attracted much attention due to their excellent performance in this field. In reality, the poor stability is mainly due to the high‐density defects in the perovskite films, which provide a channel for charge nonradiative recombination and ion migration. In this work, a multifunctional aminoguanidine hemisulfate (AG HSUL) is introduced into the CsPbIBr2 perovskite layer to achieve defect passivation. Guanidine cations (GA+) can form strong hydrogen bonds with under‐coordinated halogen ions to stabilize the crystal lattice; the nitrogen atom in the amino group can form a complex with the under‐coordinated lead ion; inorganic acids and ions can not only compensate for halogen anion vacancies, but also combine with lead clusters or capped lead ions to reduce defect density. The synergistic effect of anions and cations can effectively passivate the defects, and an energy conversion efficiency of 10.10% is obtained at the optimal concentration of modification. In addition, carbon electrodes are used instead of metal electrodes, which greatly reduces the cost. The results provide a new idea for the development of efficient all‐inorganic CsPbIBr2 perovskite solar cells.
How does transaction governance in the animal supply chain influence antibiotic use? A study of the French young bull sector
Authors: Poizat Axelle , Duvaleix Sabine , Hobbs Jill
Published: April 2022

Reducing the over‐use of preventative antibiotics in animal production to limit the spread of antimicrobial resistance is important for public health and animal health. We explore how supply chain relationships influence the incentives for beef farmers to engage in production practices, including antibiotic use, that are optimal from public and animal health perspectives. We examine the case of the French young bull sector, where animals are gathered, mixed, and transported over long distances, increasing the risk of developing the bovine respiratory disease (BRD). Interviews with economic actors in the French young bull sector reveal how transaction costs and patterns of vertical coordination influence the incidence of BRD and the preventative use of antibiotics. Dispersed supply chains with low levels of vertical coordination inhibit information flows about vaccination status and reduces incentives for cow‐calf producers to adopt optimal animal health management practices.
Decorating Bacteria with Triple Immune Nanoactivators Generates Tumor‐Resident Living Immunotherapeutics
Authors: Li Juanjuan , Xia Qing , Guo Haiyan , Fu Zhenzhen , Liu Yong , Lin Sisi , Liu Jinyao
Published: April 2022

An approach of decorating bacteria with triple immune nanoactivators is reported to develop tumor‐resident living immunotherapeutics. Under cytocompatible conditions, tumor‐specific antigens and checkpoint blocking antibodies are simultaneously conjugated onto bacterial surface and then polydopamine nanoparticles are formed via in situ dopamine polymerization. In addition to serving as a linker, polydopamine with its photothermal effect can repolarize tumor‐associated macrophages to a pro‐inflammatory phenotype. The linked antigens promote the maturation of dendritic cells and generate tumor‐specific immune responses, while the anchored antibodies block immune checkpoints and activate cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Decorated bacteria show spatiotemporal tumor retention and proliferation‐dependent drug release, achieving potent antitumor effects in two antigen‐overexpressing tumor models. This work provides a versatile platform to prepare multimodal and long‐acting therapeutics for cancer immunotherapy.