bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Anti-Browning Treatments for Fresh-Cut Guava Slices in Prevention of Browning during Dehydration
Authors: Kumara B. A. M. S. , Wijewardane R. M. N. A. , Samarasinghe Y. M. P.
Published: January 2021

Purpose : Guava cultivations are spreading rapidly among Sri Lankan farmers, especially in dry zone. Surplus production is observed in certain months of the year. Dehydration can be used as an effective method to preserve the surplus. During dehydration, browning of guava impairs the quality of the final product. This experiment was carried out to find out the most effective browning inhibitor.Research Method : Four treatments were used prior to dehydration namely, Citric acid (CA), Ascorbic acid (AA), Sodium metabisulfite (SMS) and Blanching for 2 minute in 60 °C (BL) as twenty different combinations. The L*, a* and b* values, were recorded. Colour differences with fresh slices, total colour difference (TCD) and browning index (BI) were calculated.Findings : L*, a* and b* values were significantly different (P<0.05) among treatments. The lowest L* value difference was observed in CA 0.3% with BL (3.18±0.7). Lowest total colour difference and the lowest browning index were observed in blanching treatment followed by CA 0.3% with BL. Whereas the highest TCD was in control sample (21.86 ± 2.75) and the highest BI was in SMS 0.5% with BL (55.38±8.59). Results revealed that out of the treatments under study, BL only and CA 0.3% with BL were the most effective solutions to overcome the browning of guava during dehydration.Originality/ Value : Research findings could be used in guava dehydration industry to preserve the colour and visual quality of the dehydrated products which will increase the consumer acceptability and demand thereby reducing postharvest losses.
Root System Architecture and nitrogen Uptake Efficiency of Wheat Species
Authors: Fernando K. M. C. , Ehoche O. G. , Atkinson J. A. , Sparkes D. L.
Published: January 2021

Purpose : Plant nitrogen use efficiency can be increased by improving N uptake efficiency (NUpE). Root system architecture of the plant plays a vital role in uptaking water and nutrients including N. The present study was conducted to compare root architectural traits of different wheat species at early seedling development and vegetative growth stage while plant nitrogen uptake at vegetative and mature stages under controlled environment.Research Method : Ten genotypes belong to four wheat species; einkorn, emmer, spelt and modern bread wheat were compared. Growth pouches were used to develop root systems of seedlings and images were analysed by using RootNav software. Root charcteristics and above-graound growth at vegetative growth phase was studied using semi-hydrophonic system where WinRhizo software was used to analyse root images. Finally, glasshouse pot experiment was conducted to calculate NUpE at maturity.Findings : The highest number of seminal roots, total root length and wider tip angle of seminal root were recorded in emmer. However, total root length was not significantly different from spelt cv. Oberkulmer. Genotypes with narrow and wide tip angles of seminal roots produced deep and shallow seedling root systems, respectively. Positive relationship between root traits and nitrogen uptake at the vegetative growth stage was found. Fertiliser NUpE of ancient wheat species varied significantly among genotypes where emmer recorded the highest value followed by spelt, bread wheat and einkorn.Originality/ Value : Wheat species varied for seedling root system architecture. Emmer had wide and shallow seedling root systems while having high NUpE at maturity. It suggests the importance of a well-spred shallow root system to uptake N fertiliser rapidly before leached down. Further, emmer is an ancient wheat species with an ability to uptake N efficiently which suggests that when bread wheat was selected for high yield, favourable root traits related to NUpE might be neglected. Favourable root traits in emmer related to NUpE could be introduced to bread wheat through the direct crossing or creating synthetic wheat.
Prospects and Problems of Indigenous Sheep Production in South-Western Coastal Regions of Bangladesh
Authors: Islam S. S. , Hasan M. S. , Ghosh N. , Islam M. M.
Published: January 2021

Purpose : The study was conducted to observe the prospects and problems of sheep farming in south-western coastal regions of Bangladesh. Research Method : The study was based on survey data collection. An interview schedule was prepared to collect data from the sheep farmers keeping the objectives in mind. Data were collected from 90 sheep farmers who were chosen randomly from three different upazilas (sub-districts) covering 30 from each. The duration of data collection was from June to September, 2019. Findings : The socio-economic status of the sheep farmers was studied. The majority (61.1%) of the sheep farmers was middle aged group (31-50 years) and more than half (52.2%) of the sheep farmers were found illiterate. The average number of sheep per household was 6.5±3.69. The average age at puberty, age at first lambing, lambing interval, litter size, lactation length and gestation length of coastal sheep were 224.78±10.68 days, 388.39±13.13 days, 214.22±9.12 days, 2.84±0.73, 104.22±13.74 days and 149.44±5.27 days, respectively. Majority (94.44%) of the sheep farmers stated that their income was increased after adopting sheep farming and about 5.6% of the sheep farmers did not sell their sheep yet. More than half (56.7%) of the sheep farmers described sheep farming as high prospect and 43.3% cases it was described as moderate prospect. About 80% of the sheep farmers stated that their problem facing score ranged between 20 and 39 i.e., their problem facing intensity was moderately severe during sheep farming. Originality/ Value : The results of the study revealed that instead of few problems faced by the farmers, the prospects of sheep farming in south-western coastal region was high as it requires less space and investment and it also increased the income of the farmers.
Effect of Different Fruit Peel Powders as Natural Fertilizers on Growth of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.)
Authors: Dayarathna S. G. A. R. M. , Karunarathna Brintha
Published: January 2021

Purpose : Fruit peels waste is one of the waste accumulate in huge quantity every day. It is a serious problem and need to be managed to make environment free from pollution. Fruit peels are very rich in macro and micro nutrients that are beneficial for plant growth. By using fruit peel as fertilizer we can reduce load of wastes and can get more benefits than inorganic fertilizer. Research Method : The experiment was carried out in a Completely Randomized Design with six treatments having twenty replicates. Treatments were, recommended fertilizer application at basal and topdressing (T1, control), half dose of recommended fertilizer application at basal and topdressing times with 1g of banana peel powder (T2), 1g of pomegranate peel powder (T3), 1g of orange peel powder (T4), 0.5g each of banana and pomegranate peel powders (T5) and 0.5g each of orange and banana peel powders (T6) at both times. All agronomic practices were followed as per Department of Agriculture, Sri Lanka except fertilizers. Findings : The results reveals that application of fruit peel powder at basal and top dressing had significant differences (P<0.05) on plant height, number of leaves per plant, leaf area, chlorophyll content, days to 50% and 100% flowering, dry weights of leaves, stem, root and fruit, fruit length and girth. At 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th picking, and the highest value was obtained in T6 and lowest value in T1. Originality/ Value : Application of fruit peel powder into the soil leads to improve growth and yield of okra in sandy regosol compared to recommended inorganic fertilizer and present study suggested that, among the all tested treatments, half recommended fertilizer application at basal and topdressing times with 0.5g each of orange and banana peel powders at both times would be the most suitable fruit peel powders to get higher growth and yield of okra in sandy regosol.
Projected Food-grain Production and Yield in India: An Evidence from Statewise Panel Data Investigation during 1977-2014
Authors: Singh Ajay Kumar , Jyoti Bhim
Published: January 2021

Purpose : This study examines the impact of climatic change on food-grain production and yield using state-wise panel data during 1977-2014 in fifteen Indian states. Accordingly, it estimates the projected food-grain production and yield by the years of 2040, 2040, 2060, 2080 and 2100. Finally, it provides the effective practical and effective policy suggestions to reduce the climate change impact on food-grain farming based on existing studies. Research Method : Regression coefficients of food-grain production and yield with climatic and non-climatic factors are estimated using Cobb-Douglas production function model. Marginal impact analysis method is used to examine the projected food-grain production and yield. Findings : Empirical results infer that most climatic factors have a negative impact on food-grain production and yield in different weather seasons. Projected results are suggested that food-grain production is expected to be declined by 5.25%, 6.64%, 8.03% and 9.57% by 2040, 2060, 2080 and 2100 respectively. Food-grain yield is likely to be decreased by 1.05%, 1.96%, 2.87% and 5.07% by the aforesaid years. Research Limitations : This study could not capture impact of inter-states disparities in socio-economic condition of farmers, geographical conditions, agriculture policies and public spending on agriculture and rural development on food-grain production and yield. It also could not include factors such as solar radiation, sun intensity, wind speed and heat wave in empirical investigation. Originality/ Value : It compiles state-wise panel of food-grain production and yield as dependent variables, and climatic variables and non-climatic factors as explanatory variables during 1977-2014. It examines the projected food-grain production and yield.
Biology and Feeding Preferences of Spodoptera Frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) On Maize and Selected Vegetable Crops
Authors: Wijerathna D. M. I. J. , Ranaweera P. H. , Perera R. N. N. , Dissanayake M. L. M. C. , Kumara J. B. D. A. P.
Published: January 2021

Purpose : Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) was recently reported for the first time in Sri Lanka in Oct 2018 as a new invasive pest of maize. Therefore, the objectives of present study were to study biology and to evaluate feeding preferences of S. frugiperda on maize and selected vegetable crops. Research Method : During the experiment, newly hatched larvae were fed with maize, cabbage, okra, beans, radish and brinjal leaves under laboratory conditions. Maize was used as the positive control. Duration of development from larva to adult, pupal weight, pupal length, sex ratio, survival percentage, and oviposition (Choice and No-Choice test) on different vegetable crops were evaluated. Findings : Results of the feeding preference test envisaged that there was no host dependent variability among neonate larvae for maize, cabbage, raddish and brinjal. The highest damage (50-75%) was reported in larvae fed on okra, and (25-50%) damage was showed in beans after 24 hours of inoculation. The highest survival percentage of larvae (80%) and shortest larval development period (23.8±0.3days) were reported in larvae fed with maize where as it was the longest in brinjal. The highest oviposition (4.1±1.2 in Choice test and 3.6±0.7 in No-choice test) was observed in maize compared to other crops. With the absence of the most preferred host (maize) for oviposition, other hosts were used by the pest. During the off season Fall armyworm could survive in alternate crops. Research Limitations : Field observations were not carried out to confirm (validate) the laboratory observations with the time limitation. Originality/ Value : The research provides interest and idea about the survival mechanism of S. frugiperda during off season of maize and potential alternative host plants of the pest. It identifies the possibility of moving of S. frugiperda into five vegetable crops and thereby make awareness of the farmers about the pest to follow the suitable management practice of the S. frugiperda.
Ecological Boundaries and Interference with the Global Nitrogen Cycle: A Review on Soil Nitrogen Management Strategies
Authors: Perera R. N. N. , Maharjan B.
Published: January 2021

Purpose : Nitrogen (N) fertilizer is a major input in agro-ecosystems and has health, economic, and environmental implications. Changes in the global N cycle has transgressed the ecological safe boundary at present. Therefore, sustainable soil N management tools should be identified and implemented to reduce environmental implications of agriculture. This review paper intends to describe the magnitude of the global N based pollution, its health, economic, and environmental implications and suggest for approaches to achieve sustainable soil N management. Research Method : This paper shares a literature review on current efforts in optimizing soil N management. The central topic is an on-farm experiment conducted in the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, USA that monitors and manages in-season N in maize using a crop sensor technology. Other reliable findings from previously conducted studies worldwide are presented as well. Findings : Results of field studies revealed that there were no significant variations in maize grain yields between sensor-based treatment and farmer’s business-as-usual treatment However, the crop sensor-based treatment recorded savings of N at an average rate of 32 kg/ha. Based on the reported findings in literature, advanced fertilizer technology, manipulation of fertilizer application methods and development of conceptual models to predict the crop N need are other potential tools to optimize N in agriculture. Research Limitation : The behavior of reactive N in soil is unpredictable due to a complex interacting effect of crop, soil, climatic and management factors.Originality/ Value : In Sri Lanka as a country having a significant stake in agriculture, understanding and adoption of some of these available new technologies for efficient N management will serve well in our efforts for ecological sustainability.
Farmers’ Perception of Selling Chili to the New Auction Market: A Case at Sleman Regency of Indonesia
Authors: Dewi Yuniar Mutiara , Nugroho Agus Dwi , Jamhari .
Published: January 2021

Purpose : The aim of this study is to know the effect of economic and social factors on the farmers’ marketing decisions. Research Method : This research was conducted from January to March 2020. The respondents were 60 (sixty) farmers who were chosen by purposing sampling. The analysis models used in this research are likert and correlation analysis. Findings : The economic factor has a medium effect on farmers’ marketing decisions. Ease of farmers’ access to the auction market or to get information is the main economic variable to the farmers’ marketing decision. Price has a very high effect on the farmers’ marketing decisions. The social factor also affects the farmers’ marketing decisions but at a weak level. Research Limitation : The respondents only 60 farmers. Originality/ Value : Provides information for the new marketing institution to stay competitive and attractive to customers.
HEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS AND BIOCHEMICAL MARKERS OF IRON STATUS IN ALFA-THALASSEMIA 3.7KB DELETION FROM METROPOLITAN REGION OF MANAUS, AMAZONAS, BRAZIL.
Authors: Anselmo Fernanda Cozendey , Soumanou Abdou Gafar , Ferreira Cleidiane de Aguiar , Sobrinha Flora Maia Viga , Castro Ana Caroline Santos , Brito Rafael Oliveira , Mota Adolfo José , Gonçalves Marilda de Souza , Moura Neto Jose Pereira
Published: January 2021

Background: Alpha Thalassemia (a-thal) is a heterogeneous group of hereditary alterations caused by deletions that affect alpha regulatory genes and the 3.7Kb deletion is the most frequent worldwide. In Brazil, the prevalence ranges from 20% and 35%, depending mainly on race, being more predominant in Afro-descendants. Purpose: The aim was to determine ?-thal -?3.7Kb and -?4.2Kb deletions, estimating their frequency in individuals from five regions of Amazon. Methods: Volunteers (individuals >18 years old, of both genders) blood samples (n=1809) were collected from march 2014 to september 2017, at hospitals and/or health centers of each participant city. Alpha Thalassemia 3.7Kb genotyping was performed by GAP-PCR, while 4.2Kb deletion by Multiplex-PCR. The studied population included: Manaus (capital), 356 (19.7%) samples; Iranduba 232 (12.8%); Manacapuru, 287 (15.9%); Presidente Figueiredo, 370 (20.5%); Itacoatiara, 301 (16.6%); and Coari, 263 (14.5%). Results: The average age among males was 35.3±14.8, while for females it was 36.7±14.9 years old. Alpha Thalassemia was diagnosed in 143 individuals (7.9%) and all of these individuals carried the 3.7Kb deletion, 5.95% in heterozygosis and 1.95% in homozygosis. The associations analyses to the a-thal genotypes were statistically significant for all hematological parameters (p<.001), except serum iron and serum ferritin analyses among carriers ?-thal. Microcytosis (MCV <80fL) was found in 158 individuals (8,46%). Conclusion: The alfa-thal prevalence corroborates with other Brazilians studies. Molecular diagnosis is important to prevent the most severe forms of the disease, thus epidemiological studies using molecular tools become extremely important in regions where the disease is underestimated. In this context, this is the first study that reports ?-thalassemia deletion in the population from State of Amazonas. Our findings are relevant because they have impact in the clinical therapeutic choice and also demonstrate the importance of differential diagnosis between genetic anemia and iron deficiency anemia.
PREVALENCE OF SERIOUS BACTERIAL INFECTIONS IN CHILDREN WITH SICKLE CELL DISEASE AT KING ABDULAZIZ HOSPITAL, AL AHSA
Authors: Alsaif Manal , Robinson Joan , Abdulbaqi Moshtag , Aghbari Mustafa , Al Noaim Khalid , Alabdulqader Muneera
Published: January 2021

Aim: The main aim was to report the prevalence and severity of serious bacterial infections (SBI) in children with sickle cell disease at King Abdulaziz Hospital, Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia to aid in determining whether outpatient management of such cases is appropriate.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review of febrile children less than 14 years of age admitted with sickle cell disease 2005 through 2015.

Results: During 320 admissions, 25 children had SBIs (8%) including pneumonia (n=11), osteomyelitis (n=8), bacteremia (n=3, all with Salmonella species) and UTI (n=3). All recovered uneventfully.

Conclusion: It appears that in the current era, less than 10% of febrile children with sickle cell disease in our center are diagnosed with a SBI. Over an 11-year period, there were no sequelae or deaths from SBI. Given these excellent outcomes, outpatient ceftriaxone should be considered for febrile well appearing children with sickle cell disease if they have no apparent source and parents are judged to be reliable.
Thalassemia carrier detection among pregnant women
Authors: Sahiratmadja Edhyana , Seu Merry M.V. , Nainggolan Ita M. , Mose Johanes C. , Panigoro Ramdan
Published: January 2021

Thalassemia major becomes the fifth catastrophic disease in Indonesia, however, national wide screening program is not mandatory. This study aimed to re-assess the validity of the various erythrocyte indices in determining ?-thalalssemia carrier among pregnant women in a low resource setting area. An analytic study was performed, comparing conventional cut-off various erythrocyte indices with new modified cut-offs by Kumar et al. The concordance analysis was calculated with Mentzer Index (MI) as reference. The validity of erythrocyte indices against hemoglobin (Hb) A2 were analysed, confirmed by molecular examination for ?- and common ?-Globin South East Asia population. Of 102 pregnant women, 34% was still anemic after completion of 90 iron pills. The concordance of conventional cut-off Shine & Lal index (<1530) was none to slight in agreement (kappa 0.097) to conventional cut-off MI (<13). The concordance of SLI increased significantly to substantial agreement when both used modified cut-offs (kappa 0.729). However, both SLI and MI had missed most of HbE carriers and ?-thalassemia carriers which seemed to be prevalent in this population as shown by DNA examination. In contrary, simple MCV<80fl and MCH<27pg had covered those carriers. This is the first study from Nusa Tenggara Timur, a low resource area in Indonesia in attempt to mass screen thalassemia carriers in this area where a simple MCV<80 fL and MCH<27pg have been used for preliminary screening rather than other indices. Since the population in eastern part of Indonesia has different genetic background compared to the west, DNA analysis is of great interest to map the spectrum of globin mutations.
SOCIAL AND FINANCIAL BARRIERS TO OPTIMUM TKI TREATMENT IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC MYELOID LEUKEMIA- A KNOWLEDGE-ATTITUDES-PRACTICES STUDY FROM INDIA
Authors: Gupta Naveen , Mahapatra Manoranjan , Seth Tulika , Tyagi Seema , Sazawal Sudha , Saxena Renu
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Outcomes in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) have vastly improved after the introduction of tyrosine kinase inhibitors. However, patients in low and middle income countries face many challenges due to social and financial barriers.

Objective: This study was conducted with the aim of understanding socio-economic hindrances and knowledge-attitudes-practices of patients of chronic phase CML who are taking imatinib.

Materials and Methods: Patients of chronic phase CML, aged 15 and above, taking imatinib for 6 months or more were included in the study. A questionnaire (in Hindi language) was administered, enquiring about perceptions of nature of disease and its treatment, how imatinib was obtained, drug-taking behaviour, economic and social burden of the treatment.

Results: Four hundred patients were recruited (median age 37 years, median duration on imatinib 63 months). Patients hailed from 16 different Indian states and 29.75% patients had to travel more than 500 kilometres for their hospital visit. Scheduled visits were missed by 14.75%. One third of the patients were unaware of the lifelong duration of treatment and 41.75% were unaware of the risks of discontinuing treatment. Treatment was financed by three different means- 61.75% received imatinib free of cost via the Glivec International Patient Assistance Program (GIPAP), 14.25% had treatment costs reimbursed by their employer, and 24% bore the cost of treatment themselves. Patients felt financially burdened due to cost of drugs (self-paying patients), cost of investigations, expenditure of the commute and stay for hospital visit, and loss of working days due to hospital visits.

Conclusion: Cost of treatment, lack of widespread availability of hematology services and poor patient awareness are significant barriers to optimum treatment of CML in low and middle income countries.
SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS IS GLOBALLY A PROGNOSTIC FACTOR FOR OVERALL SURVIVAL OF MULTIPLE MYELOMA PATIENTS; SYNTHESIS OF STUDIES AND REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE
Authors: Intzes Stergios , Symeonidou Marianthi , Zagoridis Konstantinos , Pentidou Aikaterini , Emmanouil Spanoudakis
Published: January 2021

Socioeconomic status (SES) is reflecting differences in sociodemographic factors affecting cancer survivorship. Deprived, low SES populations has a higher prevalence of multiple myeloma and worst survival, a gap that widens over time.
Methods: We performed a meta-analysis of 16 studies (registries and cohorts) reporting survival data of myeloma patients according to SES. Ten studies reported Hazzard Ratio (HR) (95 % CI) and 16 studies reported p values. We combined the HR from 10 studies and by using the Mosteller-Bush formula we performed the synthesis of p values according to the area of the globe.
Results: A combination of HR from 10 studies including 85198 myeloma patients weighted to sample size of each study and adopting the hypothesis of random effect returned a combined HR: 1,26 (1,13-1,31) in favor of high SES patients.
USA: Synthesis of p values coming from  6 studies (n=89807 pts) by using the Mosteller and Bush formula extracted a p-value of <0.0001 favoring high SES patients
Oceania: Synthesis of p values in two cohorts from Australia and New Zealand (n= 10196 pts) returned a p-value of 0,022 favoring high SES patients
Europe: The synthesis of p values from UK and Greece studies (n=18533 pts) returned a p-value of <0,0001 favoring high SES patients
Asia: Synthesis of 2 studies from Asia (n=915 pts) returned a p-value of <0,0001 favoring high SES patients
Conclusions: Across the globe and widening over decades socioeconomic status remains a gap for equality in myeloma care
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) severity in patients with thalassemias: A Nationwide Iranian Experience
Authors: Karimi Mehran , Haghpanah Sezaneh , Azarkeivan Azita , Matin Sara , Safaei Arash , De Sanctis Vincenzo
Published: January 2021

None
SIMPLE PERIPHERAL BLOOD SMEAR FINDINGS OF COVID-19 PATIENTS PROVIDE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SEVERITY OF THE DISEASE AND THE DURATION OF HOSPITAL STAY.
Authors: Berber Ilhami , Cagasar Ozlem , Sarıcı Ahmet , Kirici Berber Nurcan , Aydogdu Ismet , Yildirim Asli , Gocukara Bag Harika Gozde , Acun Delen Leman , Ulutas Ozkan
Published: January 2021

Backround

Data about the morphological changes of Covid-19 infection in peripheral blood smear are limited and association with clinical severity of the disease are not known yet. We aimed to examine the characteristics of the cells detected in the pathological rate and / or appearance and whether these findings are related to the clinical course by evaluating the peripheral blood smear at the time of diagnosis in Covid-19 patients.

Methods

Clinical features, laboratory data, peripheral blood smear of fifty patients diagnosed with Covid-19 by PCR was evaluated at diagnosis. Peripheral smear samples of the patients were compared with the age and sex matched 30 healthy controls. Pictures were taken from the paitients’peripheral blood smear. Patients were divided into two groups.  Early and advanced stage patient groups were compared in terms of laboratory data and peripheral smear findings. The relationship between the laboratory values of all patients and the duration of hospitalization was analyzed.

Results

Pseudo pelger-huet, atypical lymphocytes, vacuole monocytes and pycnotic neutrophils rates were high in the patient group. Increased pseudo pelger-huet anomaly, psodo-pelger huet/mature lymphocyte ratio, decreased number of mature lymphocytes, and eosinophils in peripheral blood smear were observed in the advanced stage patients (p <0.05). A negative correlation was observed between the duration of hospitalization and mature lymphocyte, and monocytes with vacuoles rates (p <0.05).

Conclusion

Peripheral smear is a cheap, easily performed, and rapid test. Increased pseudo-pelger huet anomaly/mature lymphocytes rate is suggesting advanced stage disease, while high initial monocytes with vacuoles and mature lymphocyte rates at the time of diagnosis may be an indicator of shortened duration of hospitalization.
HEMATOLOGY PATIENT PROTECTION DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC IN ITALY: A NATIONWIDE NURSING SURVEY
Authors: Botti Stefano , Serra Nicola , Castagnetti Fausto , Chiaretti Sabina , Mordini Nicola , Gargiulo Gianpaolo , Orlando Laura
Published: January 2021

Background: Italy has been one of the first European countries hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, with many patients dying from severe respiratory issues, especially frail subjects. Hematology patients are generally thought to be at high risk of developing severe COVID-19-associated complications. The aim of this work was to describe the infection control measures adopted in Italian hematology settings to protect patients and healthcare professionals.

Materials and Methods: On behalf of the Nursing Campus in Hematology Group, a nationwide nursing survey was conducted. Questionnaire items included general information, infection control measures, patient and healthcare professional protection, information management, and participants opinion on key issues. Data have been analyzed by center location (Northern, Central or Southern Italy) and by patient age (adult vs pediatric).

Results: Forty-four Italian hematology centers participated, representing 52.4% of those invited. Patients underwent nasopharyngeal swabs (93.2%) generally the day before admission (43.2%), though less frequently in southern centers (p = 0.0377). Visitor restrictions were implemented in all centers: 65.9% barred all visitors, while 25.0% allowed visitors only for patients with specific conditions, especially in central Italy. Deficiency of personal protective equipment, including masks (45.5%) and gloves (22.7%), was reported, although the nurses’ opinion was that the emergency was nevertheless well managed in terms of protecting patients and professionals. Almost all healthcare institutions (97.7%) provided recommendations on emergency management. No significant differences were found between adult and pediatric centers in terms of infection prevention and control.

Discussion:. Low variability in patient protection strategies was observed, meaning that national recommendations were effective. However, some critical issues emerged regarding the management of infected healthcare professionals and their contacts.
REAL-WORLD OUTCOME IN THE PRE-CAR-T ERA OF MYELOMA PATIENTS QUALIFYING FOR CAR-T CELL THERAPY
Authors: Bacher Ulrike , Brechbühl Simon , Jeker Barbara , Pabst Thomas
Published: January 2021

Introduction: CAR-T cell therapy is likely to be introduced starting from 2021 in patients with relapsed/refractory myeloma (r/r MM) in Europe. In order to qualify for commercial CAR-T treatment, it is assumed that r/r MM patients will have to be exposed to at least three lines of previous treatments including lenalidomide, bortezomib and anti-CD38 treatment. However, the outcome of this particular subgroup of r/r MM patients is largely unknown whereas this knowledge is crucial to estimate the possible benefit of eventual CAR-T treatment.

Methods: In this non-interventional, retrospective single-center study, we analyzed all subsequent r/r MM patients treated between 01/2016 (when anti-CD38 treatment was commercially introduced in Switzerland) and 04/2020 at the University Hospital of Bern. Patients were eligible for the study if they had received at least three lines of treatment including one proteasome inhibitor (PI), one immunomodulatory drug (IMID) and one anti-CD38 antibody, and if they were in need of subsequent treatment and effectively received further lines of treatment.

Results: Among 56 patients fulfilling the criteria of at least three lines of treatment including PI, IMID and anti-CD38 treatment, only 34 (60%) effectively received subsequent further therapy. This suggests that 40% of r/r MM patients never receive additional treatment after at least three lines of treatment including PI, IMID and anti-CD38 treatment. For patients receiving further treatment, the median number of previous lines of treatment was 4.5 (range 2-12), including autologous stem cell transplantation in 31 (91%) patients. 13 (37%) patients were penta-refractory. The most frequently used treatment options were IMID/dexamethasone treatment in 11 (32%) patients, followed by PI/dexamethasone in 10 (29%) patients. 21 (62%) patients received two or more additional lines of therapy. The median PFS was 6.6 months (range 0–36.6 months), the median TTNT was 7.5 months (range 1.4-24.5 months) and the median OS was 13.5 months, (range 0.1-38 months) for the first subsequent treatment. The overall response rate (ORR) to the first subsequent treatment was 41%, with a median duration of the response of 5 months (range 1-37 months). 12% of the patients achieved VGPR or better, with a median duration of response of 8 months (range 3-37 months).

Conclusion: Myeloma patients refractory after at least three lines of anti-CD38/PI/IMID treatment have a poor prognosis with a PFS of 6.6 months and OS of 13.5 months. These data may serve as reference to compare the potential benefit of CAR-T treatment in this group of myeloma patients when available in the near future.
THE IMPORTANCE OF TARGETED NEXT-GENERATION SEQUENCING USAGE IN CYTOGENETICALLY NORMAL MYELOID MALIGNANCIES
Authors: Atli Emine , Gurkan Hakan , Atli Engin , Kirkizlar Hakki Onur , Yalcintepe Sinem , Demir Selma , Demirci Ufuk , Eker Damla , Mail Cisem , Kalkan Rasime , Demir Ahmet Muzaffer
Published: January 2021

Advanced diagnostic methods give an advantage for the identification of the abnormalities in myeloid malignancies. Various researchers have shown the potential importance of genetic tests both before the onset of the disease and during the remission. Large testing panels prevents false negative results in myeloid malignancies. But the important question is how the results of conventional cytogenetic and molecular cytogenetic techniques can be merged together with NGS technologies. In this paper, we drew an algorithm for evaluation of the myeloid malignancies. In order to evaluate genetic abnormalities, we performed cytogenetics, molecular cytogenetics and NGS testing in hematologic malignancies. In this study, we analyzed 100 patients who admitted to Medical Genetics Laboratory within different type of myeloid malignancies. We highlighted the possible diagnostic algorithm for cytogenetically normal cases. We applied NGS 141 gene panel for cytogenetically normal patients and we detected two or more pathogenic variations in 61 out of 100 patients (61%). The pathogenic variation detection rate of NGS varies in disease groups: AML were 85% and MDS were 23%. Here, we identified 24 novel variation out of total pathogenic variations in myeloid malignancies. A total 18 novel variation were identified in AML and 6 novel variation were identified in MDS. Despite of long turnaround time, conventional techniques are still golden standard for myeloid malignancies but sometimes cryptic gene fusions or complex abnormalities cannot be identified easily by conventional techniques. In these conditions, advanced technologies like NGS are highly recommended.
ELEVATED SERUM PENTRAXIN-3 LEVELS IS POSITIVELY CORRELATED TO DISEASE SEVERITY AND COAGULOPATHY IN COVID-19 PATIENTS
Authors: Tong Ming , Xiong Ying , Zhu Chen , Xu Hong , Zheng Qing , Hu Changping , Jiang Yu , Zou Lianhong , Xiao Xiaolin , Chen Fang , Zhu Yimin
Published: January 2021

Abstract

BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is highly contagious and deadly and is associated with coagulopathy. Pentraxin-3(PTX3) participates in innate resistance to infections and plays a role in thrombogenesis.

PURPOSE The present study aimed to investigate the role of PTX3 in coagulopathy in patients with COVID-19.

METHODS A retrospective study including thirty-nine COVID-19 patients enrolled in Hunan, China were performed. The patients were classified into the D-dimer_L (D-dimer?1mg/L) and D-dimer_H (D-dimer?1mg/L) groups basing on the plasma D-dimer levels on admission. Serum PTX3 levels were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and compared between those two groups, and then linear regression models were applied to analyze the association between PTX3 and D-dimer.

RESULTS Our results showed that serum PTX3 levels (median values, 10.21 vs 3.36, P < 0.001), chest computerized tomography scores (median values, 10.0 vs 9.0, P < 0.05), and length of stay (16.0±4.2 vs 10.7±3.6, P = 0.001) in the D-dimer_H group were significantly higher than that in D-dimer_L group. The coefficient of determination for PTX3 was 0.651 (P < 0.001) in the D-dimer_H group.

CONCLUSION Serum level of PTX3 was positively correlated with disease severity and coagulopathy. Detection of serum PTX3 level could assist to identify severer patients on admission and may be a potential therapeutic target for coagulopathy in patients with COVID-19.
Building A Living Memorial for Veterans
Authors: Alderman Chris
Published: January 2021

Veterans have served their nations and their people, and though some might argue that monuments and ceremonials may serve the glorification of war, it is important to separate political philosophies from the actions of those whose work allows national security decisions to be enacted.
What is indisputable is that, along with respect, recognition, and acknowledgement of the service of Veterans, we owe a debt of gratitude that must translate into action.
Treatment Approach and Modalities for Management of Depression in Older People
Authors: Marvanova Marketa , McGrane Ian R.
Published: January 2021

Depression is common in older people, and while the approach to treatment is similar to a younger population, there are several additional treatment considerations to make based on comorbidities and cognitive impairment. Evidence-based psychotherapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy,
interpersonal psychotherapy, and problem-solving therapy are recommended for mild-moderate depression in older people; however, the efficacy of these are limited in very old patients (older than 75 years of age) and those with cognitive impairment. Additionally, neuromodulation treatments
such as electroconvulsive therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation could prove beneficial for specific older people with depression. Use of pharmacotherapy that has demonstrated to be safe in older adults, as well as agents with adequate clinical experience in this population, should
be considered based on patient-specific characteristics. Because of generally more complex medication regimens, risks of pharmacotherapy should be minimized with careful dosing strategies and special attention to avoid significant drug-drug interactions. While some data are available, antidepressant
combination or augmentation strategies are less well studied in older people who fail to achieve remission or those with treatment-resistant depression, compared with younger populations.
AFGHAN STUDENTS’ SATISFACTION FROM ONLINE LEARNING DURING COVID-19 AT KANDAHAR UNIVERSITY, KANDAHAR, AFGHANISTAN
Authors: Himat Abdul Nafi , Takal Mohammad Hanif , Hakimi Mohammad Farooq
Published: January 2021

This purpose of this study was to examine the satisfaction of Afghan students from online learning during COVID-19 at Kandahar University, Kandahar, Afghanistan. This research used a quantitative approach, and the learners were from several departments of Education Faculty as well as they were selected through random sample. Similarly, the questionnaire was the main instrument of this study. As well as, three hundred and forty students took participation. After collecting the data, it was analyzed by implementing IBM 24 version of (SPSS). Moreover, the findings of this research indicated that majority students were not satisfied from distance education because learners could not learn from online education compare to traditional classroom setting, learners did not have access to internet-based learning through computer or smartphone, students did not prefer web-based learning, and learners did not seek the same descriptions of lessons on online learning process compare to traditional method of classroom. Also, online learning did not able students to learn independently. However, they were somehow satisfied from the role of teachers who played their role as a facilitator during e-learning process.
JEL Classification Codes: A19, B10, B25, C10, C53
Sistema de actividades integradoras para contribuir al desarrollo de la acción de contar en los niños preescolares.
Authors: Araujo Suárez Yoenia , González Oliva Marelis
Published: January 2021

El proceso educativo de Nociones Elementales de Matemática permite la preparación de las niñas y los niños para el reconocimiento de cantidades y la acción de contar a través del trabajo con conjuntos, propiciando el desarrollo de las capacidades intelectuales y de la actividad cognoscitiva. En presente artículo muestra un sistema de actividades integradoras para contribuir al desarrollo de la acción de contar en las niñas y los niños del grado preescolar. Se considera novedosa por la manera de concebir el desarrollo de la acción de contar en estos preescolares.
El bagaje cultural y social de los estudiantes de movilidad internacional de tres universidades públicas del noroeste de México.
Authors: Félix Ibarra Ana Verónica , López Leyva Santos , Urrea Zazueta María Luisa
Published: January 2021

Este artículo estudia la influencia del capital cultural y social en la movilidad internacional de estudiantes de tres universidades públicas del Noroeste de México. Utiliza una metodología mixta con una muestra de 134 alumnos que realizaron estancia académica entre los años 2006 y 2016. Los hallazgos establecen que la transmisión de bienes culturales y sociales desarrollados desde la infancia ha sido una ventaja para participar en una estancia de movilidad internacional. Además, esta experiencia incrementó su capital teniendo un impacto positivo en su situación personal y profesional actual. Este estudio contribuye a la literatura sobre estudios cuantitativos-cualitativos en México en el tema de movilidad estudiantil internacional.
Indicadores de la tutoría integral desde la percepción de los estudiantes de universidades públicas de México.
Authors: Angulo Moreno Ángel de Jesús
Published: January 2021

El presente trabajo tiene el objetivo de identificar indicadores del funcionamiento de las tutorías universitarias desde la percepción de estudiantes de tres universidades públicas de México, por lo que se desarrolló una guía de entrevista semiestructurada aplicada a sesenta estudiantes, los discursos fueron codificados por dos expertos. Se detectaron 1064 unidades de análisis y se redujeron en 85 indicadores, estos se organizaron en cuatro factores que configuran las tutorías. Se encontraron diferencias en la estructura de la tutoría, los conocimientos de tutor, estrategia de enseñanza y aprendizaje logrado según sea orientada a lo académico, profesional o institucional. Los resultados permiten reflexionar en la importancia de los discursos de los estudiantes y en la estructura y calidad de la tutoría como programa y evento didáctico.
Fundamentos teóricos que sustentan el desarrollo de un protocolo de investigación para el abordaje de la desnutrición y la repercusión en el desarrollo del conocimiento, en niños de jardín de niños.
Authors: Uriostegui Santiaguillo Leonor Angélica
Published: January 2021

En este trabajo se presentan los fundamentos teóricos que dan sustento al abordaje de problemas de desnutrición y sus repercusión en el desarrollo del conocimiento en los niños de jardín de niños, así como también se aborda la perspectiva de distintos autores ante dicha problemática, por lo que se propone un protocolo de investigación que concibe una propuesta de diseño de una estrategia educativa para el abordaje de problemas de desnutrición y su repercusión en el desarrollo del conocimiento en los niños del jardín de niños “Niños Héroes” de la comunidad de Metlapa de Iguala Guerrero.
Fundamentos teóricos que sustentan el desarrollo de un protocolo de investigación dirigido al favorecimiento de una buena nutrición y su impacto en el rendimiento escolar de los alumnos del 2do grado de la escuela primaria Ignacio Ramírez de Cocula, Guerrero.
Authors: Mendoza Medina Alma Yuridia
Published: January 2021

En este trabajo se presentan los fundamentos teóricos que dan sustento a un protocolo de investigación en función de cómo favorecer una buena nutrición y su impacto en el rendimiento escolar de los alumnos así como conceptos de diversos autores y caracterización; también se plasma diversa información sobre la alimentación saludable y adecuada en las distintas etapas de la vida, dado a la necesidad que tienen de poner en práctica dichos conocimientos, también así se propone un protocolo de investigación que concibe el diseño de una estrategia educativa para el favorecimiento de una buena nutrición y su impacto en el rendimiento escolar de los alumnos del 2do grado de la escuela primaria Ignacio Ramírez de Cocula, Guerrero.
Metodología para contribuir a la formación experimental en los estudiantes de la carrera de Ingeniería Mecánica.
Authors: García Argüelles Luis Álvaro , López Medina Francisco , López Roque Francisco
Published: January 2021

La formación experimental ocupa un lugar destacado en el modelo de formación para la carrera Ingeniería Mecánica; sin embargo, no se utilizan en su totalidad las potencialidades de la disciplina Química General para lograr que este profesional adquiriera las habilidades prácticas necesarias que le permitan resolver problemas profesionales. Para la solución de esta problemática, se diseñó una metodología para la elaboración y utilización de actividades experimentales profesionalizadas. La metodología propuesta consta de cuatro etapas, cada una de ellas contiene acciones y recomendaciones para su concreción en la práctica. Su aplicación mediante un experimento pedagógico evidenció la factibilidad de su utilización para resolver la problemática abordada.
Los juegos didácticos en la clase de consolidación de Matemática en la secundaria básica cubana.
Authors: Bravo Lanzaque Silvia de la Caridad , Pérez Clemente Yamilet , González Barreto Marilyn , Campos Maura Eraida , Díaz Díaz Oliday
Published: January 2021

El estudio que se presenta aborda la fundamentación teórica y metodológica de la utilización de juegos didácticos en la consolidación de los contenidos matemáticos de la secundaria básica, con el fin de incentivar su empleo. El trabajo revela el juego como vía para el aprendizaje de la matemática de forma atrayente, lo que contribuye a motivar a los adolescentes en clases de consolidación. La investigación enriquece las Ciencias Pedagógicas en el orden teórico y ha sido el resultado de un proceso investigativo en la práctica educativa durante varios cursos escolares. Se define a los juegos didácticos que deben emplearse en el proceso enseñanza-aprendizaje de la Matemática en la secundaria básica cubana, haciéndose sugerencias para las diferentes clases de consolidación.
La educación ambiental a través de la contabilidad en la Universidad de Granma.
Authors: Rodríguez Sosa Sandy , Ramírez Pérez Yudelquis
Published: January 2021

La investigación aborda aspectos relacionados con la Educación Ambiental y Cultura Económica al proponer la asignatura Contabilidad Ambiental, como parte del currículo electivo para las carreras desarrolladas en la Universidad de Granma, con el fin de diseñar un programa de asignatura que combine conocimientos y valores sobre el uso eficiente de los recursos no renovables, así como los impactos de la actividad económico-social al medioambiente mediante la información ofrecida por la Contabilidad. Se emplearon los resultados obtenidos en el proceso de formación de la carrera Contabilidad y Finanzas, además de métodos teóricos y empíricos que permitieron arribar a conclusiones, y recomendar la generalización de la propuesta para egresar un profesional de la Educación Superior que conserve y proteja el medioambiente.
El impacto de los cursos de negocios a través de colaboración en línea para la internacionalización del Currículo.
Authors: Pantoja Aguilar Martin P. , Goodman Edward L.
Published: January 2021

El artículo presenta los resultados de la evaluación aplicada al proyecto conjunto México-Estados Unidos de América denominado “Colaboración en Línea para el Aprendizaje Internacional” (COIL- siglas en inglés) aplicado en un módulo de curso de negocios que fue integrado en dos unidades de aprendizaje de negocios diferentes, uno llevado a cabo en una Universidad Mexicana y el otro en una Universidad Estadounidense. Los resultados mostraron que un proyecto de Internacionalización a Distancia (IaD-siglas en inglés) a través de la metodología de COIL, como parte de una iniciativa más amplia de Internacionalización en Casa (IAH- siglas en inglés), puede construir las bases para que los estudiantes desarrollen una conciencia global, habilidades de comunicación intercultural y conocimientos disciplinarios actualizados.