bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Gait Parameters on Subjects with Hallux Limitus Using an Optogait Sensor System: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Castro-Méndez Aurora , Canca-Sánchez Francisco Javier , Pabón-Carrasco Manuel , Jiménez-Cebrián Ana María , Córdoba-Fernández Antonio
Published: August 2023

Background and Objetives: The foot is a part of the body’s kinetic chain and needs to be efficient during the entire gait cycle. Electronic Sensor Gait analysis is useful and an important tool within the area of podiatry to assess the physical state of patients that helps the comprehensive intervention in situations where the daily activity is limited. The aim of this research is to evaluate if the presence of a hallux limitus (HL) can alter gait space–time parameters and consequently can affect the take-off phase of the gait and the limitation of the range of motion (ROM) of the hallux. Materials and Methods: A case–control study was designed to verify whether there are alterations in the spatiotemporal parameters of the gait cycle between subjects with structural HL compared to the group of subjects with a normal hallux range. A total of n = 138 participants, cases (68 HL subjects) and healthy controls (70 subjects) were studied using an OptoGait LED sensor system to identify gait imbalances using OptoGait photocell gait analysis sensors. Results: Significant differences were found between the two groups with respect to stride length, gait cycle duration in seconds (for both feet) and for total stride and load response (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The limitation of the Hallux ROM may alter the normal gait patterns measured with an Optogait system. The early identification and treatment of gait disturbances due to HL are important to achieve normal gait physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Hemogram-Derived Ratios in the Prognosis of Acute Diverticulitis
Authors: Sabo Cristina Maria , Leucuta Daniel-Corneliu , Simiraș Constantin , Deac Ioana Ștefania , Ismaiel Abdulrahman , Dumitrascu Dan L.
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives: It is crucial to quickly identify those patients who need immediate treatment in order to avoid the various complications related to acute diverticulitis (AD). Although several studies evaluated the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) suggesting its predictive value in assessing the severity of AD, results have been inconclusive. Therefore, we aimed to assess the relationship between the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), the monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), and systemic immune inflammation (SII) with the severity of AD, the ability to predict the presence or absence of complications, and the recurrence rate, based on the values of inflammatory markers. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 147 patients diagnosed with AD between January 2012 to February 2023. Patients were divided into 2 groups, uncomplicated and complicated AD. The characteristics and full blood count between both groups were compared. Results: A total of 65 (44.22%) patients were classified as having complicated AD. The area under the ROC curve (AUROC) defining a Hinchey score ≥ 1b was as follows: SII, 0.812 (95% confidence interval (CI), 0.73 –0.888); NLR, 0.773 (95% CI, 0.676–0.857); PLR, 0.725 (95% CI, 0.63–0.813); MLR: 0.665 (95% CI, 0.542 –0.777). An SII cutoff value of > 1200 marked the highest yield for diagnosing complicated AD, with a sensitivity of 82% and a specificity of 76%. The cumulative recurrence rate was not significantly different in the groups of SII ≥ median vs. SII < median (p = 0.35), NLR ≥ median vs. NLR < median (p = 0.347), PLR ≥ median vs. PLR < median (p = 0.597), and MLR ≥ median vs. MLR < median (p = 0.651). Conclusions: Our study indicates that SII, NLR, and PLR are statistically significant and clinically useful classifying ratios to predict higher Hinchey scores. However, they cannot predict recurrences.
Attitudes towards Exercise, Leisure Activities, and Sedentary Behavior among Adults: A Cross-Sectional, Community-Based Study in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Bashatah Adel , Ali Wajid Syed , Al-Rawi Mahmood Basil A.
Published: August 2023

Background: Sedentary behavior has received increased attention as a threat to public health all around the world. A global effort has been made to avoid the spread of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) that are associated with poor lifestyle practices, which rely on public awareness. As a result, the purpose of this study was to analyze the attitudes toward exercise, leisure activities, and sedentary behaviour among adults in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among individuals living in the Riyadh Region in Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire (26 items) used in this study was divided into four sections, and the first section comprised demographic and basic information of the respondents (6 items). The second section asked the respondents about the time spent exercising and sedentary time spent (6 items), the third section of the study comprised eight questionnaires about the frequency of sedentary activity performed during their leisure time, and the last section was about the attitude towards sedentary behavior (6 items). Descriptive and analytical statistics were done to describe the study findings. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. Results: The current findings revealed that 44% (n = 305) of the respondents performed exercise 1–2 days a week, and 16.7% (n = 116) never performed any exercise. Furthermore, a considerable percentage of the respondents spent >4 h in a day as sedentary. Most of the sedentary time was spent on work relating activities 62% (n = 430), followed by time spent on coffee 36.4% (n = 252), business relating activity 22.5% (n = 156), and social media 8.9% (n = 62). In this study, most of the respondents agreed that sitting for a prolonged time might negatively impact their health. Most of the respondents showed positive attitudes towards sedentary behavior. Males were statistically more likely than females to exercise 1–2 days per week (p < 0.001). Being male and being married were both significantly associated with sedentary behavior (p < 0.001). In addition, there was a significant association between participants’ sleeping status and physical activity per week, where those who slept 5–6 h often performed physical activity, indicating a significant difference (p < 0.001) than respondents who slept 7–8 or >8 h. The participant’s age was also found to have a significant association with engaging in physical exercise (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The results of this study showed that Saudi adults are highly sedentary and inactive, though knowing the harmful consequences of inactivity. Therefore, a national active living policy must be adopted to discourage inactivity and being sedentary and encourage active living in Saudi Arabia.
Fourier Single-Pixel Imaging Based on Online Modulation Pattern Binarization
Authors: Jiang Xinding , Tong Ziyi , Yu Zhongyang , Jiang Pengfei , Xu Lu , Wu Long , Chen Mingsheng , Zhang Yong , Zhang Jianlong , Yang Xu
Published: August 2023

Down-sampling Fourier single-pixel imaging is typically achieved by truncating the Fourier spectrum, where exclusively the low-frequency Fourier coefficients are extracted while discarding the high-frequency components. However, the truncation of the Fourier spectrum can lead to an undesired ringing effect in the reconstructed result. Moreover, the original Fourier single-pixel imaging necessitated grayscale Fourier basis patterns for illumination. This requirement limits imaging speed because digital micromirror devices (DMDs) generate grayscale patterns at a lower refresh rate. In order to solve the above problem, a fast and high-quality Fourier single-pixel imaging reconstruction method is proposed in the paper. In the method, the threshold binarization of the Fourier base pattern is performed online to improve the DMD refresh rate, and the reconstruction quality of Fourier single-pixel imaging at a low-sampling rate is improved by generating an adversarial network. This method enables fast reconstruction of target images with higher quality despite low-sampling rates. Compared with conventional Fourier single-pixel imaging, numerical simulation and experimentation demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Notably, this method is particularly significant for fast Fourier single-pixel imaging applications.
The Mass Spectrometry Identification, Antimicrobial Genes Detection, and Proteomics Analysis of Stutzerimonas stutzeri Strain Was Isolated from Industrial Wastewater
Authors: Wang Zongwu , Sun Xiaoyan , Chen Xing , Wang Haifeng , He Hongxuan
Published: August 2023

A large amount of organic matter, heavy metals, and even antibiotics are present in industrial wastewater, aquaculture waters, and various types of sewage, along with abundant microorganisms. To date, only a few studies involving the resistance and proteomics of Stutzerimonas stutzeri in high-salt wastewater are available. Herein, a comprehensive assessment of a newly isolated Stutzerimonas stutzeri strain, which is present in high-salt wastewater, was performed using mass spectrometry, genetic identification, and biochemical analysis to characterize the genetic and biochemical properties. Growth experiments revealed that the Stutzerimonas stutzeri strain had a moderate growth rate in nutrient broth, and the bacterial count was not high. Further analysis highlighted an apparent susceptibility of this strain to most antibiotics but some resistance to chloramphenicol and minocycline. A resistance gene assay results showed that the gene gyrB was associated with antibiotic resistance in this Stutzerimonas stutzeri strain. Proteomic analysis revealed for the first time the co-existence of two drug-resistance-related proteins (Multidrug/solvent RND membrane fusion protein and MexE) in Stutzerimonas stutzeri. Moreover, Stutzerimonas stutzeri isolated from high-salt wastewater was subjected to drug resistance gene detection, and the total protein of Stutzerimonas stutzeri was detected by protein mass spectrometry analysis. The subcellular classification shows that the 50 proteins with the highest abundance are divided into cell inner membrane, cell outer membrane, cytoplasm, cytoplasmic side, membrane, multi-pass membrane protein, and peripheral membrane protein, among which the proportion of cytoplasmic components is the highest. Overall, this study’s findings provide a new perspective for further research on the characteristics of Stutzerimonas stutzeri in high-salt wastewater.
Gender: A Postmodern Idea Developed in Association with the Modern Concept of Sex in Considering the Implications for Evolving Sexuality
Authors: Nash Carol
Published: August 2023

The presently ubiquitous idea of how gender is defined remains deeply indebted to modern thought, depending on the concept of sex as its reference point. Originating with practices arising from capitalism, modern thought’s concept of sex was enhanced with the search for the norm regarding standardization, then further refined through the research program of eugenics. Gender, in contrast to sex, has its roots in sexual practice changes from the second half of the twentieth century onward, developed in association with 1980s postmodern thought. The presuppositions of the two concepts differ radically. Understanding the difference between sex and gender matters because gender is now more than a critique of sex—it is an idea that is accepted and understood in popular culture and affects how people interpret their sexuality. This review examines the foundations of modern and postmodern thought, then focuses on sex and gender with respect to their history within these modes of thought. The conclusion, pointing to future research, is that a further reformulation of sexuality will be required for gender, as a postmodern idea, to truly separate itself from the presumptions of sex as a modern concept, permitting individuals to express their sexuality as they choose without negative social and psychological repercussions.
Dual-Source Contrast-Enhanced Multiphasic CT of the Liver Using Low Voltage (70 kVp): Feasibility of a Reduced Radiation Dose and a 50% of Contrast Dose
Authors: Miyoshi Keisuke , Tanabe Masahiro , Ihara Kenichiro , Tanabe Masaya , Higashi Mayumi , Narikiyo Koji , Kawano Yosuke , Inoue Atsuo , Ito Katsuyoshi
Published: August 2023

This study investigated the feasibility of both a reduced radiation dose and a 50% of contrast dose in multiphasic CT of the liver with a 70 kVp protocol compared with a standard-tube-voltage protocol derived from dual-energy (DE) CT (blended DE protocol) with a full-dose contrast-agents in the same patient group. This study included 46 patients who underwent multiphasic contrast-enhanced dynamic CT of the liver with both a 70 kVp and a blended DE protocols. For quantitative analysis, median CT values for the liver, aorta, and portal vein, as well as signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), were measured and calculated. In addition, as a qualitative analysis, the contrast effect and overall image quality of the abdominal organs were evaluated on a five-point scale. CNR and SNR of the hepatic parenchyma were not significantly different between the 70kV protocol and the Blended DE protocol in all phases. The 70 kVp protocol showed significantly better image quality compared with the blended DE protocol in the arterial phase (p = 0.035) and the equilibrium layer phase (p = 0.016). A 70 kVp CT protocol in combination with a reduced radiation dose and half-dose iodine load is feasible for multiphasic dynamic CT of the liver by maintaining the contrast enhancement effects and image quality in comparison with the blended DE CT protocol.
Anisotropic Cosmology in the Local Limit of Nonlocal Gravity
Authors: Tabatabaei Javad , Banihashemi Abdolali , Baghram Shant , Mashhoon Bahram
Published: August 2023

Within the framework of the local limit of nonlocal gravity (NLG), we investigate a class of Bianchi type I spatially homogeneous but anisotropic cosmological models. The modified field equations are presented in this case, and some special solutions are discussed in detail. This modified gravity theory contains a susceptibility function S(x) such that general relativity (GR) is recovered for S = 0. In the modified anisotropic cosmological models, we explore the contribution of S(t) and its temporal derivative to the local anisotropic cosmic acceleration. The implications of our results for observational cosmology are briefly discussed.
Successful Treatment of Central Nervous System Lymphoma with Combination Therapy of Nimustine and Prednisolone in Two Dogs
Authors: Mizutani Yuko , Inoue Yoshiyuki , Goda Yoshimichi , Mizutani Shinya , Asanuma Taketoshi , Miura Naoki , Hidaka Yuichi , Sato Reiichiro , Satoh Hiroyuki
Published: August 2023

Of intracranial tumors, primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is rare in dogs. Herein, we describe our experience with two dogs (a 3-year-old intact female toy poodle and a 5-year-old spayed female toy poodle) that developed neurological symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed intracranial disseminated lesions. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) examination revealed pleocytosis and B-cell monoclonal proliferation in both cases. PCNSL or secondary central nervous system lymphoma (SCNSL) was diagnosed on the basis of MRI findings and CSF examinations. Nimustine (ACNU) is a nitrosourea alkylating agent, a class of drugs that includes lomustine. Nimustine is mainly used to treat human intracranial neoplasia because of its high permeability across the blood-brain barrier. The dogs in this study were treated with combined chemotherapy comprising nimustine and prednisolone, which achieved complete or nearly complete remission of neurological symptoms and long-term survival (>2583 days and 1218 days), but with problematic adverse effects. We determined that the dose of nimustine for canine PCNSL or SCNSL with intravenous infusion was 25–30 mg/m2 every 3–4 weeks for a total of four times; however, the data were insufficient to determine the optimal regimen.
Revision of Bryconamericus (Characiformes, Characidae) from Pacific coastal and Amazon River drainages with descriptions of three new species
Authors: Román-Valencia Cesar , Ruiz - C. Raquel I. , Taphorn Donald C.
Published: August 2023

We report the results of a taxonomic revision of the species of Bryconamericus from the Amazon River Basin of Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia and the Pacific coastal rivers of Peru. Based on morphological analyses, four valid species are recognized: B. bolivianus Pearson 1924, B. osgoodi Eigenmann & Allen 1942, B. pachacuti Eigenmann 1927 and B. phoenicopterus (Cope 1872). Three new species are described: B. lambayequensis sp. n. from the Cañariaco River, Pacific coast, Peru and two from the Amazon River Basin: B. abalio sp. n. from the Ucayali River drainage, Peru, and B. parapetiensis sp. n. from Itenez/Parapeti, Amazonia, Bolivia. Two species are synonymized and one was recently assigned to another genus: Bryconamericus alfredae is considered a junior synonym of Acrobrycon ipanquianus; Bryconamericus grosvenori is a junior synonym of B. bolivianus. A taxonomic key to these species of Bryconamericus and comments on the conservation status of the Amazonian and Pacific coast freshwater ichthyofauna are also included.
HUBUNGAN ANTARA DUKUNGAN INFORMASI TERHADAP PENGETAHUAN DAN SIKAP CALON PENGANTIN DALAM PENCEGAHAN STUNTING DI KOTA SEMARANG
Authors: Lestari Eva , Shaluhiyah Zahroh , Sakundarno Adi Mateus
Published: August 2023

Stunting merupakan gangguan pertumbuhan pada anak akibat kekurangan gizi kronis sejak bayi masih dalam kandungan. Rendahnya kesadaran masyarakat dalam mencegah stunting dapat meningkatkan kejadian stunting karena kurangnya pengetahuan dan sikap tentang pencegahan stunting. Pencegahan stunting sebaiknya dilakukan sebelum kehamilan, yaitu sejak menjadi calon pengantin agar dapat mempersiapkan kehamilannya. Peningkatan pengetahuan calon pengantin dapat dilakukan dengan meningkatkan akses informasi tentang stunting yang dapat diperoleh dari berbagai sumber. Penelitian ini bertujuan menganalisis hubungan dukungan informasi yang diperoleh dari internet, media sosial, keluarga, kader dan tenaga kesehatan dengan pengetahuan dan sikap calon pengantin dalam pencegahan stunting. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif dengan desain penelitian cross sectional. Sampel penelitian adalah calon pengantin wanita yang terdaftar di beberapa Kantor Urusan Agama di Kota Semarang sejumlah 100 orang. Pengumpulan data menggunakan wawancara terstruktur. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa sumber informasi yang paling banyak digunakan adalah internet (47%) dan media sosial (52%). Dukungan informasi yang menunjukkan hubungan yang signifikan dengan pengetahuan calon pengantin mengenai pencegahan stunting yaitu dari tenaga kesehatan (p = 0,015). Walaupun, informasi tentang stunting banyak dijumpai di internet dan sosial media, dukungan tenaga kesehatan sangat penting karena peran tenaga kesehatan sebagai komunikator, motivator, dan fasilitator dapat membantu meningkatkan pengetahuan hingga perilaku calon pengantin dalam mencegah stunting.
Business valuation in mergers and acquisitions
Authors: Baryshnikova N. S. , Baranova A. P.
Published: August 2023

The article provides an overview of ideas about the essence of the company's restructuring, the process of mergers and acquisitions, methods of valuation in the process of mergers and acquisitions of companies. There was a need for a comparative description of the methods of assessing the value of the organization. The conclusion is made about the scope of the profitable, costly and comparative method in assessing the value in merger and acquisition transactions. The assessment obtained as a result of the application of financial analysis indicators enables the company's management to solve the problems of strategic choice and allows comparing alternatives to the strategy, making a judgment on the feasibility of a merger and affiliation transaction.
The role of corporate management in the development of regional integration processes
Authors: Pilova F. I.
Published: August 2023

The article reveals the essence of corporate governance and corporate management and their role in the development of integration processes at the regional level. The necessity of professional management of companies to achieve the effectiveness of the results of their activities is substantiated. Models such as the model of the organizational structure of the subject of the regional economy, the structural model of corporate governance, the model of interaction between the subjects of integration formation, the model of operational management of the intersectoral complex have been developed and proposed. The radar diagrams proposed in the article are designed to provide an effective assessment of business activity indicators and investment attractiveness of integration subjects.
Methodological approaches to building an energy management system in oil and gas companies
Authors: Fomina E. A. , Khodkovskaya Yu. V.
Published: August 2023

The article is devoted to the study of the problem of building an energy management system in oil and gas companies, the multifactorial and multidimensional nature of energy saving and energy efficiency is determined. Based on the analysis, the authors propose a variant of the formation of an energy management system in an oil and gas company and an algorithm for its implementation. The directions of energy management that require significant improvements based on the average industry estimates of oil and gas companies in Russia are identified.
Problems of mortgage housing lending in conditions of economic instability and prospects for its development
Authors: Rakhmatullina Yu. A.
Published: August 2023

This article analyzes the problems of mortgage housing lending in the Russian Federation. Such an indicator as the dynamics of housing commissioning is considered, the dynamics of the commissioning of apartment buildings (MCD) and individual housing construction (IHS) are compared, and trend methods for forecasting the prospects for the development of the housing mortgage lending market based on a time series are proposed.
Robots, GPS/GIS, and Programming Technologies: The Power of "Digital Manipulatives" in Youth Extension Experiences
Authors: Barker Bradley , Grandgenett Neal , Nugent Gwen , Adamchuk Viacheslav
Published: August 2023

The study reported here examined the effectiveness of educational robotics combined with GPS/GIS technologies used as "digital manipulatives" in the teaching of concepts in science, engineering, and technology. Based on the success of previous summer camps, the study also examined a scaling-up of the intervention from 38 participants to 147. The 147 youth (ages 10-15) participated in one of six summer camps held in Nebraska during 2008. Results indicate that participants scored higher on the content posttest than the pretest. The study further examined the differential results. The article makes recommendations for further studies, while acknowledging the potential power of digital manipulatives.
Long-Term Outcomes of Early Adult 4-H Alumni
Authors: Marshall-Wheeler Nicole , Nayak Roshan , Iaccopucci Anne , Worker Steven
Published: August 2023

Very little has been published reporting on long-term outcomes experienced by young adults (aged 19 to 34 years old) who participated in 4-H youth development programs. We adopted Gambone et al.’s (2002) framework advancing three long-term outcomes for early adulthood: economic stability, health and well-being, and community involvement. With cross-sectional survey methods, we compared long-term impacts between 693 California 4-H young adult alumni and 373 young adults in a U.S. general population sample who had not participated in 4-H. The results demonstrated that 4-H alumni report more positive long-term outcomes than the U.S. general population sample. The study contributes to the dearth of research around long-term outcomes, may be useful for marketing and funding, and will help better understanding the public value of Extension.
A Seven-Year Etiological Study of Adult Bowel Obstruction in Shiraz, Iran
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Ali , Abdzaid Akool Mohammed , Emami Meybodi Amir Hossein , Hosseini Seyed Vahid
Published: August 2023

Background: Bowel obstruction is a disorder in the passage of bowel contents, the etiology of which varies depending on temporal and geographical conditions. This study investigated the etiology of bowel obstruction in a large number of patients at an adult surgery referral center in southern Iran. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we reviewed the medical records of all patients admitted to Shahid Faghihi hospital (Shiraz, Iran) between 2014 and 2020 with a diagnosis of small or large bowel obstruction. Patients with missing or obscure data on etiology were excluded. Data was collected on the patients’ age, gender, history of relevant surgeries, comorbidities, cause of obstruction, site/type of obstruction, treatment, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, length of hospital stay, and outcome. Statistical analyses were made using SPSS v. 25.0. Results: A total of 2781 bowel obstruction patients (61.4% males, 38.6% females) with a median age of 58 (IQR 43-71) years were studied. Most responded to non-surgical treatment (61.3%). While the obstruction was mostly partial (65.5%), 94.4% of patients with complete obstruction required surgery. Small bowel obstruction (SBO) was almost three times more prevalent than large bowel obstruction (LBO). Adhesion bands were the leading cause of SBO (66.77%), while LBO was primarily due to colorectal tumors (33.9%). Conclusion: The predominant etiology of LBO was colorectal cancer, suggesting that policymakers should improve surveillance programs to detect the condition earlier. Regarding SBO, the leading cause was adhesion bands, indicating the necessity of further efforts to reduce the rate of adhesions following intra-abdominal operations.
Incidence of Retinopathy of Prematurity in Neonates with Neonatal Sepsis
Authors: Boskabadi Hassan , Abrishami Majid , Shoeibi Nasser , Kakavandi Mahsa , Moradi Maryam , Zakerihamidi Maryam
Published: August 2023

Background: One of the most important complications of premature birth is retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Sepsis may increase the incidence of this complication. The aim of this study is to compare the incidence of ROP in neonates with and without sepsis. Methods: In a retrospective case-control study, preterm infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Ghaem hospital from 2014 to 2022 were examined. The case group consisted of 155 preterm infants with definite sepsis (positive blood culture and clinical signs of sepsis) and the control group included 145 preterm infants without sepsis whose maternal and neonatal characteristics were collected; they were examined by a retinologist and evaluated for ROP at 32 weeks or four weeks after birth. Finally, we used the chi-square and the t test to compare the two groups. Results: Out of 155 preterm infants with sepsis, 70% and out of 145 preterm infants without sepsis, 58% had ROP (P=0.023). Also, low birth weight, low initial Apgar score and low 5-minute Apgar score were significantly associated with ROP (P<0.05). Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, sepsis is a serious risk factor for ROP. We can reduce its incidence and complication by preventing sepsis in premature infants.
Impact of COVID-19 on renal transplant recipients
Authors: Geethanjali Ganesan , Ramprasad Elumalai , Manikantan Sekar , Jayakumar Matcha
Published: August 2023

Introduction: It was essential to explore immunosuppressant management strategies and potential clinical variables associated with COVID-19 related mortality in order to provide insight for clinicians attempting to manage kidney transplant recipients during the ongoing severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of COVID-19 on post-transplant renal function and outcome of immunosuppressant management on COVID-19. Patients and Methods: This is a cross sectional observational study conducted from March 2020 to January 2022 in a tertiary care hospital in South India. Baseline characteristics, comorbidities, history of graft dysfunction, symptoms and immunosuppressant modification was noted. Outcomes of COVID-19 such as acute kidney injury (AKI), need for dialysis and post COVID-19 complications were noted. The statistics were expressed as percentage for categorical variables and mean ± SD for continuous variables. Results: Out of 400 renal transplant patients on regular follow up, 28 patients developed COVID-19. The incidence of AKI was 64.2%. Immunosuppressant dose modification was done in majority of patients [mycophenolate mofetil (28.5%), steroids (53.5%) and tacrolimus (39.2%)]. Outcomes included recovery from AKI in 61.1%, recovery from oxygen dependence in 100% patients with an overall mortality rate of 7.1% patients. About 17.8% patients developed post-COVID-19 complications. Conclusion: Immunosuppressant dose modification during COVID-19 could play a role in development of AKI; infection being an independent risk factor. Patients should be monitored for development of post-COVID-19 complications.
Comparison of Lower Extremity Long Bone Fracture Surgery Results between Obese and Non-obese Patients
Authors: Jamshidi Gohari Nasrollah , Karimi Mobarake Mahmood , Sadeghifar Amirreza
Published: August 2023

Background: Obesity is a growing epidemic in developed countries which leads to an increase in the percentage of obese people in the orthopedic trauma population and affects patients’ postoperative period. Lower extremity long bone fractures are among the most common fractures and lead to significant complications, prolonged hospitalization, and heavy financial burden on the community health networks. Methods: In this cohort study, all patients with lower extremity long bone fractures (tibia or femur) treated in Bahonar hospital in Kerman were included using the simple sampling method. Then, they were divided into two groups based on BMI (patients with BMI greater than or equal to 30 were considered obese, and with BMI less than 30 were considered non-obese) and followed up for one year after treatment. Results: Our study was conducted on two groups, each including 65 people, of obese and non-obese people with lower extremity fractures. In statistical studies, no significant difference was found between the obese and non-obese groups in terms of underlying disease (P=0.1), fracture site (P=0.130), open or closed fracture (P=0.283), type of surgery (P=0.217), and fracture complications (P=0.699). Conclusion: According to this study, there is no significant relationship between the complications of lower extremity long bone fractures in obese and non-obese people; it seems that after the incidence of fracture, mostly systemic complications should be considered in obese people. Finally, considering the differences between the results of this study and similar studies and genetic and ethnic differences in other parts of Iran, conducting further studies in this field with larger sample sizes in different geographical locations is recommended.
Production of HPV16-L1 Through BL21/pET32a Expression System
Authors: Jahandideh Sanaz , Behboudi Emad , Razavi-Nikoo Hadi , Moradi Abdolvahab
Published: August 2023

Background: The human papillomavirus (HPV) main capsid protein L1 is naturally capable of self-assembly as virus-like particles (VLPs). There are different recombinant protein expression systems, such as bacteria, yeast, insect, plant, and mammalian cells, for the generation of VLP-based candidate vaccines targeting various pathogens. In this study, we produced the HPV16-L1 protein by BL21/pET32a expression system, and VLP production was confirmed. Methods: The recombinant plasmid pET32/L1 was transformed into Escherichia coli BL21 and selected with ampicillin. The positive clones containing the recombinant plasmid pET32/L1 were assessed by restriction endonucleases HindIII and XhoI and nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The expression of HPV16-L1 fusion protein in Escherichia coli BL21 was identified by SDS-PAGE and western blotting. Electron microscopy was used to evaluate VLP formation. Results: A codon-optimized L1 gene was expressed in BL21 under the control of the T7/lac promoter. Purification of L1 protein was achieved after Ni NTA chromatography. The 60 kDa protein was detected in the lysates of BL21, recognized as HPV16- L1 protein by western blotting. The VLPs were confirmed using electron microscopy. Conclusion: In this study, we established an efficient recombinant E. coli expression system for the production of HPV 16- L1 protein. The generated L1 protein was correctly self-assembled into VLPs. Therefore, BL21/pET32a as a prokaryotic expression system is a potent tool for HPV16-L1 VLP production.
Cross-sectional Imaging of Bifid Mandibular Condyle – A Rare Condition
Authors: Asan Mohamed Faizal , Castelino Renita Lorina , Babu Subhas Gogineni , Bhat Supriya
Published: August 2023

Mandibular condyles constitute a major part of the temporomandibular joint. Bifid mandibular condyle (BMC) is a rare morphological variant of the condyle that is asymptomatic in most cases and can be diagnosed incidentally on a orthopantomogram during routine radiographic examination. But orthopantomography is a 2-dimensional imaging modality with various structures superimposed over the temporomandibular region causing practical difficulty in the diagnosis of BMC. The exact morphological architecture of the condyles can be more accurately visualized in advanced imaging techniques like computed tomography (CT) and cone beam computed tomography (CBMT), helping in the diagnosis of the bifid condyles. The radiological appearance of BMC varies depending on direction and depth of the separating groove. The typical radiographic presentation in most cases is a complete or incomplete split of the condylar heads, separated by a groove. This paper presents a case of a unilateral BMC on the right side which was diagnosed CBMT.
Glomerulotubular function in transfusion-dependent thalassemia children: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Puspitasari Henny Adriani , Rahmartani Ludi Dhyani , Mardiasmo Diashati Ramadhani , Wahidiyat Pustika Amalia , Hidayati Eka Laksmi
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Thalassemia is the most common hemoglobinopathy in Indonesia. Chronic anemia, iron overload, and treatment with iron chelating agents are factors that contribute to kidney dysfunction in children with transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT). Urine neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (uNGAL) and urine albumin-creatinine ratio (uACR) are markers of glomerular and tubular damage. Objectives: To analyze the glomerulotubular function in TDT children. Patients and Methods: This prospective cohort study recruited 40 TDT children aged ≤18 years old from thalassemia transfusion outpatient clinic, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo general hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia between February and June 2021. Disease history, treatment, and anthropometry were obtained during enrollment (T0). Blood and urine samples were taken at enrollment (T0) and at 1 (T1), 2 (T2), and 3 (T3) month follow-up appointments. Data analyzed were iron chelating agent, ferritin, hemoglobin, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR ), uNGAL, uACR levels. Results: We observed kidney hyperfiltration in more than 30% of the participants. Transfusion volume was the most dominant factor for eGFR (β=-0.974, P=0.022) and uNGAL (β=0.872, P=0.015). A low-proportion of albuminuria was found with duration of disease as the predominant factor (β=-0.946, P=0.000). Deferiprone (DFP) and deferasirox (DFX) showed comparable association with all kidney biomarkers. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate glomerular hyperfiltration in TDT children as the main early sign of glomerulotubular function impairment. In addition, a small proportion of proteinuria was also found in our study. Thus, both biomarkers should be part of long term kidney follow up in TDT children.
Texture based Animal Segmentation in Aerial Videos
Authors: Abdoola Rishaad , Fang Yunfei , Du Shengzhi , Bartels Paul , Oosthuizen Christiaan
Published: August 2023

Animal detection in aerial videos is a challenging problem due to the complex nature of the scenes involved as well as the natural ability of the animals to camouflage their environment. To assist with the detection and classification of animals for the purpose of nature conservation management, texture analysis is applied to aerial videos of wildlife scenes to segment the environment from the animals. To perform automatic wildlife surveying and animal monitoring, it is proposed to use GLCM texture segmentation to reduce the search area for animals in the aerial videos. Using the texture in the scene, the issues of a moving background and unpredictable state of the animal are avoided. The method presented is well suited to implementation on a UAV as it is easily parallelizable.
Application of Expert Systems in Diagnosing Persian Cat Diseases using the Dempster Shafer Method
Authors: Kristianda Diyego
Published: August 2023

The rapid development of information technology in the current era of globalization has provided many benefits in progress in various aspects. Information technology is inseparable from artificial intelligence which is used by humans in facilitating the completion of their daily tasks. An expert system is a system that seeks to adopt human knowledge into computers that are designed to represent the ability to solve problems like an expert. With this expert system, ordinary people can solve their problems or just look for quality information that can only be obtained with the help of experts in their fields. In this study, it is explained how the Expert System diagnoses Persian Cat disease using the Dhempster Shafer method. The Dhempster Shafer method is a method in the branch of mathematics and is commonly used to calculate probabilities. By using the Dhempster Shafer method, a similarity value was obtained with the previous case of disturbance experienced by the Persian cat. This expert system makes it easier to find out the symptoms suffered by Persian cats because this application provides a list of symptoms and is supported by a percentage. The results obtained by testing three types of diseases, it can be concluded that the member is affected by Feline Leukemia Virus with a value of 99.4 %.
ANÁLISE DE FLUÍDOS ALTERNATIVOS NÃO INFLAMÁVEIS NO DESENVOLVIMENTO DE SISTEMAS DE COMBUSTÍVEL
Authors: CARIDA CASADEI ERICO
Published: August 2023

Currently, in the main manufacturers of aircraft or components used in fuel tanks and systems, development tests are carried out entirely with the fuel fluid itself, that is, aviation kerosene (QAV1), whose flash point is 38°C, characteristic of highly flammable fluids. This study aims to analyze the feasibility of using a fluid with a high flash point, around 90°C or more, allowing a significant reduction in costs and risks, since the treatment of electrical installations in these environments can be considerably delayed and, mainly, the occupational risk of employees involved in the activity, eliminated.
AVULSÃO DENTÁRIA EM DENTES PERMANENTES E SUAS CARACTERÍSTICAS: UMA REVISÃO INTEGRATIVA
Authors: Ferreira Vasques Fernandes Luana , Alexandre Casimiro de Oliveira Marcos , Gigianne Texeira e Silva Frank
Published: August 2023

Introdução: A avulsão dentária é caracterizada pelo deslocamento total do elemento dental fora do alvéolo, é a lesão dento-alveolar com maiores danos funcionais, estéticos e psicológicos. Ocorre relativamente com frequência sendo os dentes anteriores os mais afetados, acometem principalmente crianças e adolescentes, com prevalência do sexo masculino. Causando danos ao ligamento periodontal e polpa dentária. O tratamento mais conservador é o reimplante dentário, o qual é recomendado ser imediato ou até 30 minutos após o trauma, assim podendo devolver a função e estética do dente avulsionado. Objetivo: Demonstrar as causas da avulsão dentária em dentes permanentes. Método: O estudo trata-se de uma revisão integrativa, o qual consiste em um método específico que resume o passado da literatura empírica ou teórica para fornecer uma compreensão mais abrangente de um fenômeno particular. A busca dos artigos incluídos na revisão foi realizada em importantes bases de dados nacionais, sendo: PubMed (Biblioteca Nacional de Medicina dos Estados Unidos), Lilacs (Literatura Latino-americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde) e SciELO (Sistema Online de Busca e Análise de Literatura Médica). tempo de busca foi no primeiro semestre de 2023. Os critérios de inclusão foram definidos com base nos objetivos, sendo incluídos apenas artigos recentes, publicados nos últimos 08 anos (entre 2015 e 2022), estudos centrados na temática proposta em língua portuguesa e inglesa, disponíveis na íntegra e gratuitamente em meio eletrônico. Resultados: Foram selecionadas 72 publicações relacionadas ao tema nos últimos oito anos e, após minuciosa triagem respeitando os critérios de inclusão e exclusão, foram destacados 5 estudos. Conclusão: Conclui-se que reimplantar dentes avulsionados é um tratamento conservador de baixo custo, e possui resultado satisfatório. Porém o resultado mais favorável, ocorre quando o elemento dental é reposicionado imediatamente no alvéolo ou em até 30 minutos após o trauma, levando em consideração a importância dos meios de armazenamento, e atendimento de urgência.

Descritores: Avulsão dentária. Dentes permanentes. Traumatismo dentário.
Trikoepitelioma Multipel Familial: Laporan Kasus
Authors: Durry Meilany , Iwisara Anggreiny , Mawu Fera , Gaghana Sthefanie
Published: August 2023

Abstract: Trichoepithelioma is a benign tumor of folliculosebaceous-apocrine germ cell origin. There are three clinical variants of trichoepithelioma, as follows: solitary, multiple, and desmoplastic. The clinical features of trichoepithelioma are skin-colored papules up to 0.5 cm in size. with predilection areas on the nose, upper lip, and cheeks. The specific variant of familial multiple trichoepithelioma is inherited in an autosomal-dominant type and usually occurs in childhood and puberty. We reported a 36-year-old woman with complaints of skin-colored papules on the face and neck. There were family members with the same complaint. Histopathological examination showed skin tissue with dermal tumor consisting of basaloid cells arranged in palisade form in the periphery, and several horn-cysts among the cells that indicated a trichoepithelioma. The patient was planned to be treated with topical imiquimod and electric surgery. In conclusion, based on anamnesis, physical examination, and histopathological result, the diagnosis of this case was familial multiple trichoepithelioma.
Keywords: trichoepitelioma; cylindromatosis; skin appendageal tumor; histopathological examination
 
Abstrak: Trikoepitelioma merupakan suatu tumor asal sel germinal folliculosebaceous-apocrine. Terdapat tiga varian klinis trikoepitelioma yaitu soliter, multipel, dan desmoplastik. Gambaran klinis trikoepitelioma ialah papula sewarna dengan kulit ukuran sampai 0,5 cm dan lokasi predileksi yaitu hidung, bibir atas, dan pipi. Terdapat satu varian spesifik yaitu trikoepitelioma multipel familial yang diwariskan secara dominan autosomal dan biasanya timbul pada masa kanak-kanak dan pubertas. Kami melaporkan seorang perempuan berusia 36 tahun dengan keluhan bintil-bintil sewarna kulit, multipel pada area wajah dan leher. Di dalam keluarga pasien terdapat anggota keluarga dengan keluhan yang sama. Hasil pemeriksaan histopatologik mendapatkan jaringan kulit dengan tumor pada dermis yang terdiri dari sel-sel basaloid, bagian tepi tersusun palisade, dan di antaranya tampak beberapa horn-cyst yang menunjukkan suatu trikoepitelioma. Pasien ini direncanakan diberikan terapi dengan imiquimod topical dan bedah listrik. Simpulan kasus ini ialah suatu trikoepitelioma multipel familial yang ditegakkan berdasarkan anamnesis, pemeriksaan fisik, dan pemeriksaan histopatologik.
Kata kunci: trikoepitelioma; cylindromatosis; skin appendageal tumor; pemeriksaan histopatologik
Treatment of Non-Union with Bone Loss in Femur Fracture Using Non-vascularized Fibular Graft: A Case Report
Authors: Lengkong Andriessanto , Kambey Stefan , Rawung Rangga , Sunarso Haryanto , Noersasongko Albertus D. , Suharso Tommy , Senduk Ryan A.
Published: August 2023

Abstract: Fibula is a very versatile source of autogenous graft and has been used for decades in the field of limb reconstruction. Bony defects of the lower extremity are usually the result of high-energy trauma, tumor resection, or severe sepsis. Non-vascularized fibular graft (NVFG) is useful in the reconstruction of skeletal defects, especially in cases of scarred and avascular recipient sites, or in patients with combined bone and soft tissue defects. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of NVFG in the management of non-union bone fracture. We reported a 16-years-old male with non-union femur fracture. Debridements were applied at the first time of admission to the hospital. Open reduction of fracture with internal femur fixation. Fibula bone was extracted as the donor of vascularized graft for the bone loss. After two years of follow-up, the patient acquired his motor functions back well, and was able to carry out daily activities as expected. In conclusion, taking together the repair and reconstruction of non-union bone in the lower extremity with NVFG and internal fixation is an effective and important option for treating non-union femoral fracture. NVFG osteosynthesis has encouraging results in such instances. It is technically less demanding, simple, and can be performed in almost all centers where image intensifier is available.
Keywords: bone fracture; non-vascularized fibular graft; reconstructive microsurgery; femoral non-union
Management of JKN Medicine: The Role of Social Security Agency of Health (BPJS-K) in Strategic Health Purchasing
Authors: Anggriani Yusi , Andayani Nurita , Rahmi Mawaddati , Pratita Rasta Naya , Sarnianto Prih , Atmiroseva Atmiroseva , Nugraha Erfan Chandra , Jaya Citra
Published: August 2023

The National Health Insurance System (JKN) has social and equity insurance principles aiming participants receive basic health benefits. This raises must-have other requirements for circulated medicine, namely availability and accessibility. Thus, this must meet the elements of safety, efficacy/ benefits, good quality, market availability, and easy accessibility. However, drug shortages problem still occurs and ranks 3rd for BPJS Kesehatan services complaints. This study is to identify opportunities and constraints of BPJS in strategic health purchasing to increase access to JKN medicine . This is a crosssectional study using quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative research uses Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), while qualitative uses Focus Group Discussion (FGD). This found the problem roots related to JKN medicine shortages, including limited human resource capabilities, in optimal planning processes, e-purchasing method constraints, e-purchasing system and manual purchases medicine prices differences, medicines ordering long lead time, and in optimal BPJS Kesehatan role as a strategic health purchaser. Therefore, it is to increase BPJS Kesehatan’s role as an active purchaser by making an information system for all medicine use in JKN services, forming a Drugs Advisory Board/JKN drug working group and coordination between policy-making institutions to optimize BPJS Kesehatan role in ensuring JKN medicines access.