bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
PREVALENCE AND EFFECT OF IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA IN CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE
Authors: Mahwi Taha , Aziz Blnd 
Published: January 2021

Background
Anemia is progressively recognized as significant comorbidity in the context of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Objectives
To determine the extent of iron deficiency anemia in both exacerbation of COPD and stable COPD.
Patients and Methods
A prospective, multicenter, cross-sectional study was conducted between April 2017 and January 2018. Two groups of patients were enrolled, group A included those patients admitted in the emergency rooms for the management of acute exacerbation of COPD and group B comprised of those patients with stable COPD visited the consultatory medical department. Inclusion criteria included those patients known cases of COPD and categorized according to the GOLD criteria.
Results
The study included 150 patients. Group A contained 100 patients. Seventy-nine (79%) were male with a mean age and standard deviation of 66.77 years ± 12.07 years. While the other groups (group B) comprised of 50 patients, 39 (78%) were male with a mean age of 59.86 years ± 9.87 years. The inflammatory marker was significantly more positive in group A (89, 89%) compared to group B (6, 12%), P-value 0.0001. Overall, the low iron profile was found in 15 (15%) patients in group A, and in 2 (4%) patients in group B (P-value 0.0559). Both iron and non-iron deficiency anemia were more prevalent among the exacerbation group (group A).
Conclusion
Anemia is a relatively common finding among COPD patients (both IDA and non-IDA). It is more prevalent among those patients developing frequent exacerbations.
SAFETY AND EFFECTIVENESS OF FRACTIONAL ERBIUM-YAG (2940NM) LASER IN THE TREATMENT OF MELASMA IN SULAIMANIA CITY
Authors: Tofiq Kazhan 
Published: January 2021

Background
Melasma is acquired pigmentary disorder, characterized by brownish symmetrical patches, mostly in the sun-exposed areas of the skin. Many treatment modalities have been used, one of the advanced technologies attempted is Lasers.
Objectives
To assess the safety and effectiveness of Fractional Erbium(Er) -Yag laser treatment for Melasma, in addition to, determining the demographic and clinical criteria of the study group.
Patients and Methods
Thirty (30) patients diagnosed as Melasma, were included in our study. All patients interviewed and treated by Fractional Er-Yag Laser, which ranged from 1to 4 sessions. The demographic and clinical data, degree of patients’ satisfaction, and side effects were recorded and analyzed.
Results
Out of 30 patients, included in our study, 28 were females, their mean age was 33.7 years, 17 women were housewives, parity ranged between 0-4 children, only 3 patients were outdoor workers. Twenty (66.7%) patients were married, 9 were single. Daily sun exposure was more than 4hrs in 5 patients. Illness duration ranged from 6moths to 16 (mean 5.15) years. About 60% were previously treated. Two-thirds of the cases had one or more associated conditions like polycystic ovarian disease PCOD, Anemia, thyroid diseases, or were on oral contraceptive pills OCP. Areas affected were in 50% of all the three: Centro-facial, malar and mandibular. Fitzpatrick skin type of patients was type III in 18 (60%), 11 patients were type IV, and one was type II. One or more immediate side effects reported in all 30 (100%) patients. Long term side effects like hyperpigmentation happened only in one patient. Patients’ satisfaction about laser treatment was very good in 8 (26.7%) patients, good in 12 (40%), seven patients mentioned little improvement and one patient said that laser made his condition worse.
Conclusion
Fractional Erbium-Yag Laser in the treatment of Melasma is a safe and effective therapeutic approach.
HIS BUNDLE PACING, THE FIRST EXPERIENCE USING A CONVENTIONAL PACEMAKER LEADS
Authors: Alhamdi Ammar 
Published: January 2021

Background
The classical pacing site at the right ventricular apex has been noticed to induce left ventricular function deterioration and heart failure over long pacing periods. Trials of right ventricular outflow tract pacing have been reported to reduce this problem in a few patients.
Objectives
His bundle pacing has been lately found to minimize pacing-induced cardiomyopathy significantly.
Materials and Methods
Patients included are those with high degree heart block, who needed conventional pacing and those with an indication for cardiac resynchronization therapy, where His bundle pacing was done as a substitute to a failed coronary sinus lead positioning for left ventricular epicardial pacing. His Bundle Pacing was done by blind His pacing site assessment through continuous ventricular pacing at the presumed His bundle site under fluoroscopy views. The leads used are conventional pacing leads. His bundle pacing was indicated by almost normal width paced QRS.
Results
His bundle pacing was successful in 30 patients from a total of 45 referred patients (67%). Fifteen patients with second or third-degree heart block who needed conventional pacing and 15 patients with an indication for cardiac resynchronization therapy, where His bundle pacing was done as a substitute to a failed coronary sinus lead positioning for left ventricular epicardial pacing. The 15 patients with high grades atrioventricular block did not show evidence of heart failure and dilated cardiomyopathy. The 15 patients with cardiac resynchronization therapy indication showed marked narrowing of the paced QRS, improvement in NYHA functional class, significant improvement of left ventricular ejection fraction, and reduction of cardiac size.
Conclusion
His bundle pacing is more physiological than right ventricular apical pacing and right ventricular outflow pacing as far as narrowing of the paced QRS, left ventricular function stability, and reduced incidence of pacing-induced cardiomyopathy. It is recommended in all conventional pacing indication. Whether patients with atrioventricular block or in cardiac resynchronization therapy indication when coronary sinus/left ventricular lead failed. Future availability of special leads and delivery system, improvement in leads, the design and positioning techniques at the His site may well improve the success rate of His bundle pacing and may replace left ventricular epicardial pacing in cardiac re synchronization therapy.
INCIDENCE OF CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE AMONG INFANTS OF DIABETIC MOTHERS IN SULAIMANI
Authors: Ahmed Mohammed , Hassan Adnan , Abdulrahman Alan 
Published: January 2021

Background
Infant of diabetic mother (IDM) is those infants born to mothers who suffered diabetes mellitus. There are two types of IDM, Gestational diabetes and Pregestaional diabetes. Both have the effects on morphogenesis of infants’ cardiovascular system and increase the risk of congenital heart disease.
Objectives
To find out the incidence of congenital heart disease among infants of pregestational diabetic mothers.
Patients and Methods
In a prospective study that included 32 infants of pregestational diabetic mother (PGDM) age less than 7 days at the neonatal intensive care unit NICU of Sulaimani-Shar hospital and NICU of Sulaimani-Maternity hospital during the period April 1st, 2018 to March 31st, 2019.Echocardiography and abdominal ultrasound were done for all babies.
Results
There were 32 infants of PGDM during the study period. Mean mothers’ age was 35.43±6.49, Last hemoglobin A1C (mean±SD) 7.23±1.17. Males and females were 17(53.1%) and 15(46.9%) respectively. Gestational age; 21 (65.6%) were term and 11 (34.4%) were preterm. Birth weight (mean±SD) 3.45±0.69. Twenty-eight (87.5%) were delivered by caesarian section C/S and 4 (12.5%) by normal vaginal delivery NVD. Echocardiography finding revealed 24 (75%) infants had CH, most common CHD were hypertrophic cardiomyopathy HCMP (40.5%), PDA (28%), ASD (18.9%). Most cases of CHD are term, male, delivered by caesarian section, mothers’ body mass index between 25 to 29.9, type 2 diabetic and less than 5 years diagnosed. Abdominal ultrasound showed 26(84.4%) were normal 5 (15.6%) were abnormal.
Conclusion
According to our study, most of the newborn of PGDM had congenital heart disease. Most common CHDs were hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, PDA and septal defects.
Komposisi Kimia Baby Fish Nila Larasati (Oreochromis niloticus) Pada Berbagai Umur Panen dalam Sistem Akuaponik
Authors: Nadia La Ode Abdul Rajab , Nadia Laode Muhamad Hazairin , Rosmawati Rosmawati , Piliana Wa Ode 
Published: January 2021

Baby fish nila larasati digemari oleh masyarakat dalam bentuk goreng dan crispy, tetapi informasi komposisi gizi mengenai baby fish nila larasati segar masih sedikit. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menentukan komposisi kimia dan asam lemak baby fish nila larasati pada umur panen yang berbeda dalam sistem akuaponik. Metode yang digunakan pola faktorial dengan satu faktor yaitu perlakuan perbedaan umur panen (14 hari, 21 hari, 28 hari, dan 35 hari). Parameter yang diamati yaitu morfometrik (bobot tubuh, panjang total, dan tinggi badan), komposisi kimia, dan asam lemak. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pertambahan bobot ikan memengaruhi komposisi kimia. Hasil analisis statistik proksimat baby fish nila larasati menunjukkan perbedaan yang signifikan terhadap umur panen (p<0,05). Saturated fatty acid (SAFA) dan polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) tertinggi yaitu palmitat (C6:0) dan linoleat (C18:2n6) pada umur panen 14 hari.
Ciencia ciudadana y herramientas de comunicación en la Red Sismológica Nacional de la Universidad de Costa Rica
Authors: Linkimer Abarca Lepolt , Arroyo Hidalgo Ivonne 
Published: January 2021

Costa Rica se ubica en el límite entre varias placas tectónicas, por lo que los sismos son comunes y parte de la vida cotidiana de sus habitantes. La Red Sismológica Nacional (RSN), con sede en la Universidad de Costa Rica (UCR), ha incursionado en la ciencia ciudadana empleando Tecnologías de la Información y la Comunicación para notificar y recolectar datos sobre los sismos. En este artículo, se describen diversos mecanismos usados por la RSN para difundir rápidamente información, creados en el marco de un proyecto de Acción Social inscrito en la UCR, que incluyen dos herramientas para el cálculo rápido de la intensidad sísmica llamadas Escenario de intensidades esperadas y ¿Lo sentiste? Estas herramientas están basadas en regresiones matemáticas y en el aporte voluntario de los ciudadanos, respectivamente.
Además, se presentan los resultados para el terremoto de Armuelles, de junio de 2019 (magnitud 6,4), construidos con una alta participación ciudadana. Los mapas de intensidades elaborados en pocos minutos por las dos herramientas concuerdan y muestran las zonas en donde el sismo provocó daños. La difusión de temas sismológicos por diferentes vías tiene un alto alcance. Especialmente, en redes sociales como Facebook, en donde una publicación puede alcanzar hasta 275 mil usuarios, lo cual demuestra su capacidad para informar y educar masivamente. El abordaje de la comunicación de la RSN apunta hacia un ambiente de colaboración y de participación social que tiene el potencial de impactar positivamente la percepción de la amenaza sísmica en Costa Rica.
Preface: INTERCULTURALITY IN EDUCATIONAL CENTERS, INTERCULTURAL EDUCATION, RESOURCES AND TOOLS
Authors: Epelde-LarraÃ±aga Amaya 
Published: January 2021

ESJ Special Edition
10 years European Scientific Journal, ESJ

Topic: Interculturality in educational centers, intercultural education, resources and tools

Guest Editor: Amaya Epelde LarraÃ±aga, PhD
University of Granada, Spain
Outbreaks of Mumps Genotype G Viruses in the Netherlands Between October 2019 and March 2020: Clusters Associated With Multiple Introductions&nbsp;
Authors: Shah Anita , Bodewes Rogier , Reijnen Linda , Boelsums Timo , Weller Claudia , Fanoy Ewout , Veldhuijzen Irene 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background From October 2019–March 2020, several clusters of mumps cases were identified in the Netherlands. Our objective was to describe cluster-associated mumps virus transmission using epidemiological and molecular information in order to help future mumps prevention efforts. Methods An epidemiological cluster includes ≥2 mumps cases with at least an epidemiological-link to a laboratory-confirmed mumps case. A molecular group includes ≥2 mumps cases with identical mumps virus sequences. Cases with symptom onset date between 1 October 2019–31 March 2020 reported through the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System were included. We described epidemiological and clinical characteristics of mumps cases. Sequence data was obtained from selected regions of mumps virus genomes (2270 nucleotides). Correlations between epidemiological and molecular information were investigated. Results In total, 102 mumps cases were notified (90% laboratory-confirmed, 10% epidemiologically-linked). Fourteen epidemiological clusters were identified containing 46 (range 2–12) cases. Complete sequence data was obtained from 50 mumps genotype G viruses. Twelve molecular groups were identified containing 43 (range 2–13) cases, dispersed geographically and timewise. Combined information redefined 7 epidemiological clusters into 2 distinct molecular groups. The first lasting for 14 weeks, the other for 6. Additionally, one molecular group was detected, linked by geography and time but without an epidemiological-link. Conclusions Combined epidemiological and molecular information indicated ongoing mumps virus transmission from multiple introductions for extended time periods. Sequence analysis provided valuable insights into epidemiological clustering. If combined information is available real-time, this would improve outbreak detection, generate further insight into mumps transmission, and guide necessary control measures.
SIMBA: Using Kolb’s Learning Theory in Simulation-Based Learning to Improve Participants' Confidence
Authors: Davitadze Meri , Ooi Emma , Ng Cai Ying , Zhou Dengyi , Thomas Lucretia , Hanania Thia , Blaggan Parisha , Evans Nia , Chen Wentin , Melson Eka , Arlt Wiebke , Kempegowda Punith 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
BackgroundSimulation via Instant Messaging- Birmingham Advance (SIMBA) delivers simulation-based learning (SBL) through WhatsApp and Zoom based on Kolb’s experiential learning theory. This study aimed to implement Kolb’s theory in practice during SIMBA adrenal session. MethodsKolb’s 4-stage cycle: concrete experience—simulation, reflective observation—discussion following simulation, abstract conceptualisation and assimilation of new information—Q&A and MCQs, and active experimentation—reflect on the acquired knowledge. Participants’ self-reported confidence levels pre- and post-SIMBA were analysed using Wilcoxon Signed Rank test. Key takeaway and feedback were assessed quantitatively and qualitatively in a thematic analysis. ResultsParticipants’ self-reported confidence improved significantly post-SIMBA in their approach to Cushing’s syndrome (p<0.0001) and adrenocortical carcinoma (p<0.0001). 93.9% (n=31/33) and 84.8% (n=28/33) strongly agreed/agreed the topics were applicable to their clinical practice and accommodated their personal learning style, respectively. 81.8% (n=27/33) reported increase in knowledge on patient management, and 75.8% (n=25/33) anticipated implementing learning points in their practice. ConclusionsSIMBA effectively adopts Kolb’s theory to provide best possible experience to learners, highlighting the advantages of utilising social media platforms for SBL in medical education. The ability to conduct SIMBA sessions at a low cost with high fidelity internationally paves way to engage more healthcare professionals worldwide.
Denosumab Versus Romosozumab for Postmenopausal Treatment
Authors: Kobayakawa Tomonori , Miyazaki Akiko , Saito Makoto , Suzuki Takako , Nakamura Yukio , Takahashi Jun 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
INTRODUCTION Denosumab and romosozumab, the recently approved new drug, are effective and widely known molecular-targeted drugs for postmenopausal osteoporosis treatment. However, no studies have directly compared their therapeutic effects or safety in postmenopausal osteoporosis. We believe the data evaluating the efficacy of each drug might be strong ground for further osteoporosis treatment. METHODS This retrospective observational registry study compared the efficacy of 12-month denosumab or romosozumab treatment in postmenopausal osteoporosis patients. The primary outcome was the change in bone mineral density (BMD) at the lumbar spine. Secondary outcomes included BMD changes at the total hip and femoral neck, changes in bone turnover markers, and adverse events. Propensity score matching was employed to assemble patient groups with similar baseline characteristics. RESULTS Sixty-nine patients each received either denosumab or romosozumab for 12 months. The mean 12-month percentage change from baseline in lumbar spine BMD was 7.2% in the denosumab group and 12.5% in the romosozumab group, indicating a significant difference between the groups. The percentage changes in BMD at both the total hip and femoral neck were also significantly higher at 12 months in the romosozumab group than in the denosumab group. In denosumab patients, bone formation and bone resorption markers were significantly decreased at 6 and 12 months from baseline. In the romosozumab group, the bone formation marker was significantly increased at 6 months and then returned to baseline, while the bone resorption marker was significantly decreased at both time points. Adverse events were few and predominantly minor in both groups. CONCLUSION Romosozumab showed a higher potential for improving BMD than denosumab in this clinical study of postmenopausal osteoporosis patient treatment.
What Protects Us Against the COVID-19 Threat? Cultural Tightness Matters
Authors: Dong Dan , Chen Zhipeng , Zong Min , Zhang Peng , Gu Wen , Feng Yi , Qiao Zhihong 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: The only previous studies that formulated a theoretical model of epidemics for psychological response relative to cultural perspectives have focused on the role of individualism–collectivism and have omitted analysis of tightness–looseness. This study explored the role of cultural tightness in relation to psychological disorders during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.Methods: We recruited 1827 Chinese adolescents (Mage = 17.78 ± 1.94 years, 55.5% female) to participate a cross-sectional survey. Participants completed a series of questionnaires, including the scales of cultural tightness, risk perception of COVID-19 pandemic, perceived protection efficacy, anxiety and depression. A latent moderated structural equations model was used to analyse the mediating and moderating effects of risk perception regarding COVID-19, cultural tightness and perceived protection efficacy on psychological disorders. Results: The results showed that greater risk perception of COVID-19 predicted greater psychological disorders, however cultural tightness moderated this positive relationship. The increase in psychological disorders with risk perception regarding COVID-19 was less pronounced among people who lived in tighter cultural areas. In addition, this moderating effect of cultural tightness was further mediated by perceived protection efficacy; that is, tight culture protects against psychological disorders by enhancing perceived protection efficacy. Conclusion: This study enriched the theoretical framework of cultural tightness and indicated its importance in the field of mental health and health policies. It also emphasized the importance of tight culture as a protective factor against psychological disorders in case of COVID-19 outbreaks, providing valuable practical insight into psychological prevention for COVID-19 outbreaks.
Protected Area Networks Do Not Represent Unseen Diversity
Authors: Delso Angel , Muñoz Jesús , Fajardo Javier 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Most existing protected area networks are usually biased to protect charismatic species or showy landscapes. We hypothesized that conservation networks designed including unseen diversity –groups usually species-rich but consisting of inconspicuous taxa, or affected by knowledge gaps– would be more efficient than networks ignoring those groups. To test this hypothesis, we created species distribution models for 3,006 species of arthropods and determined which were represented in three networks of different size and biogeographic origin. We assessed the efficiency of each network using spatial prioritization to measure its completeness –increment needed to achieve conservation targets– and specificity –how much overlap the priority areas based on unseen diversity with existing networks. We find that representativeness of unseen diversity in existing protected areas –extrinsic representativeness– was low, as ~40% of unseen diversity species were unprotected. We also find that existing networks should be expanded by an additional ~26-46% of their current area to complete targets, and that specificity can be as low as 8.8%, meaning that existing networks are not efficient to conserve unseen diversity. We conclude that information on unseen diversity must be included in systematic conservation planning approaches to design more efficient and ecologically representative protected areas.
Disparity of Central-Peripheral Refraction Inheritance in Twins
Authors: Pusti Dibyendu , Benito Antonio , Madrid-Valero Juan J , Ordonana Juan R , Artal Pablo 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
The large incidence of myopia during the last decades is becoming a worldwide public health problem. Increasing myopia during childhood has been related to changing lifestyle and linked to larger eye growth, although the mechanism to explain how visual exposures affect ocular development is still unclear. The gene-environment interaction in myopia was investigated in a sample of 100 pairs of young twins with large prevalence of myopia. A classical twin’s study model was performed on objective refraction measured with an open-view peripheral wave-front sensor across a wide range of horizontal retinal eccentricities. In this sample, variance of refractive errors at the area surrounding the line of sight was mainly related to variance in shared-environmental exposures. From there, while moving towards the retinal periphery, the environmental influence over peripheral refractive error variance decreased gradually towards a genetically-driven model. In conclusion, environmental exposures, responsible of the increase in myopia incidence, seems to be affecting mainly the central area of the retinal in young myopes.