bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Herpesvirus Infections and Alzheimer’s Disease: A Mendelian Randomization Study 
Authors: Huang Shu-Yi , Yang Yu-Xiang , Kuo Kevin , Li Hong-Qi , Shen Xue-Ning , Chen Shi-Dong , Cui Mei , Tan Lan , Dong Qiang , Yu Jin-Tai
Published: March 2021

BackgroundObservational studies have suggested that herpesvirus infection increased the risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), but it is unclear whether the association is causal. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the causal relationship between four herpesvirus infections and AD. MethodsWe performed a two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis to investigate association of four active herpesvirus infections with AD using summary statistics from genome-wide association studies. The four herpesvirus infections (i.e., chickenpox, shingles, cold sores, mononucleosis) are caused by varicella-zoster virus, herpes simplex virus type 1, and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), respectively. A large summary statistics data from International Genomics of Alzheimer’s Project was used in primary analysis, including 21,982 AD cases and 41,944 controls. Validation was further performed using family history of AD data from UK Biobank (27,696 cases of maternal AD, 14,338 cases of paternal AD and 272,244 controls).ResultsWe found evidence of a suggestive association between mononucleosis (caused by EBV) and risk of AD (odds ratio [OR] = 1.634, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.092-2.446, P = 0.017) after Bonferroni correction. It has been verified in validation analysis that mononucleosis is also associated with family history of AD (OR [95% CI] = 1.392 [1.061, 1.826], P=0.017). Genetically predicted shingles were associated with AD risk (OR [95% CI] = 0.867 [0.784, 0.958], P = 0.005). While genetically predicted chickenpox was suggestively associated with increased family history of AD (OR [95% CI] = 1.147 [1.007, 1.307], P = 0.039).ConclusionsOur findings provided evidence supporting a positive relationship between mononucleosis and AD, indicating a causal link between EBV infection and AD. Further elucidations of this association and underlying mechanisms are likely to identify feasible interventions to promote AD prevention.
Influence of InP Coupling Cavity on Fano Resonance of Sub Wavelength MIM Waveguide
Authors: Ban Shihao , Liu Huangqing , Xiao Shifang , Mao Jingjing , Luo Jie
Published: March 2021

In this paper, influence of InP coupling cavity (height H2) on Fano resonance of sub wavelength MIM waveguide was studied by FDTD. It was observed redshift of the resonance peaks of mode mj (j=1, 2, 3) with H2 increase and the resonant wavelengths of mode mj (j=1, 2, 3) were a function of the height H2. Before and after the addition of air cavity, the relative farfield intensities I was a function of height H2. Therefore, InP as discrete state would be used as the filling dielectrics of Fano resonance in the MIM waveguide.
Atypical Pantothenate Kinase-Associated Neurodegeneration with Variable Phenotypes in an Egyptian Family
Authors: Shalash Ali , Rösler Thomas , Abdelrahman Ibrahim , Abulmakarem Hatem , Müller Stefanie , Hopfner Franziska , Kuhlenbäumer Gregor , Höglinger Günter , Salama Mohamed
Published: March 2021

Pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration (PKAN) is a rare hereditary neurodegenerative disease characterized by an accumulation of iron within the brain. In the present report, we describe a family with 4 affected siblings presenting with variable clinical manifestations, e.g., parkinsonian features, dystonia and slow disease progression over 5 years. Exome sequencing revealed a causative variant in the pantothenate kinase 2 gene (PANK2). Variant NM_024960.6:c.710C > T was homozygous in all affected subjects. Our report describes the first genetically confirmed cases of PKAN in the Egyptian population. Studying genetics of neurodegenerative diseases in different ethnicities is very important for determining clinical phenotypes and understanding pathomechanisms of these diseases.
Vaccination strategy and anti - SARS-CoV-2 S titers in healthcare workers of the INT – IRCCS “Fondazione Pascale” Cancer Center (Naples, Italy)
Authors: Cavalcanti Ernesta , Isgrò Maria Antonietta , Rea Domenica , Capua Lucia Di , Trillò Giusy , Russo Luigi , Botti Gerardo , Miscio Leonardo , Buonaguro Franco Maria , Bianchi Attilio Antonio Montano
Published: March 2021

Background: Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and the resulting disease, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), have spread to millions of people globally, requiring the development of billions of different vaccine doses. The SARS-CoV-2 spike mRNA vaccine (named BNT162b2/Pfizer), authorized by the FDA, has shown high efficacy in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection after administration of two doses in individuals 16 years of age and older. In the present study, we retrospectively evaluated the differences in the SARS-CoV-2 humoral immune response after vaccine administration in the two different cohorts of workers at the INT - IRCCS “Fondazione Pascale” Cancer Center (Naples, Italy): previously exposed to SARS-CoV-2 subjects and not exposed to SARS-CoV-2 subjects.Methods: We determined specific anti-RBD (receptor-binding domain) titers against trimeric spike glycoprotein (S) of SARS-CoV-2 by Roche Elecsys Anti-SARS-CoV-2 S immunoassay in serum samples of 35 healthcare workers with a previous documented history of SARS-CoV-2 infection and 158 healthcare workers without, after 1 and 2 doses of vaccine, respectively. Moreover, geometric mean titers and relative fold changes (FC) were calculated.Results: Both previously exposed and not exposed to SARS-CoV-2 subjects developed significant immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 after the administration of 1 and 2 doses of vaccine, respectively. Anti-S antibody responses to the first dose of vaccine were significantly higher in previously SARS-CoV-2-exposed subjects in comparison to titers of not exposed subjects after the first as well as the second dose of vaccine. Fold changes for subjects previously exposed to SARS-CoV-2 was very modest, given the high basal antibody titer, as well as the upper limit of 2500.0 BAU/mL imposed by the Roche methods. Conversely, for naïve subjects, mean fold change following the first dose was low ( =1.6), reaching 3.8 FC in 72 subjects (45.6%) following the second dose.Conclusions: The results showed that, as early as the first dose, SARS-CoV-2-exposed individuals developed a remarkable and statistically significant immune response in comparison to those who did not contract the virus previously, suggesting the possibility of administering only one dose in previously SARS-CoV-2-exposed subjects. FC for previously exposed subjects should not be taken into account for the generally high pre-vaccination values. Conversely, FC for not exposed subjects, after the second dose, were = 3.8 in >45.0% of vaccinees, and ≤3.1 in 19.0%, the latter showing a potential susceptibility to further SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) Practices in the Helicopter Emergency Medical Services in Europe
Authors: Hilbert-Carius Peter , Struck Manuel F , Rudolph Marcus , Knapp Jürgen , Rognås Leif , Adler Jörn , Slagt Cor , Jacobsen Lars , Pich Henryk , Christian Michael D , Dandrifosse Didier , Abu-Zidan Fikri
Published: March 2021

Background: The extent to which Point-of-care of ultrasound (POCUS) is used in different European helicopter EMS (HEMS) is unknown. We aimed to study the availability, perception, and future aspects of POCUS in the European HEMS. Methods: A survey about the use of POCUS in HEMS was conducted by a multinational steering expert committee and was carried out from November 30, 2020 to December 30, 2020 via an online web portal. Invitations for participation were sent via email to the medical directors of the European HEMS organizations including two reminders. Results: During the study period, 69 participants from 25 countries and 41 different HEMS providers took part in the survey. 96% (n=66) completed the survey. POCUS was available in 75% of the responding HEMS organizations when needed (56% always, and 19% occasionally). 17% were planning to establish POCUS in the near future. Responders who provided POCUS used it in approximately 15% of the patients. Participants thought that POCUS is important in both trauma and non-trauma-patients (73%, n=46). The extended focused assessment sonography for trauma (eFAST) protocol (77%) was the most common used protocol. A POCUS credentialing process including documented examinations was requested in less than one third of the HEMS organizations.Conclusions: The majority of the HEMS organizations in Europe are able to provide different POCUS protocols in their services. The most used POCUS protocols were eFAST, FATE and RUSH. Despite the enthusiasm for POCUS, comprehensive training and clear credentialing processes are lacking in about two thirds of the European HEMS organizations.
Beneficial effects of traditional Chinese medicine Wuzhi Capsule on tacrolimus dose requirements in liver transplant patients with different donor-recipient CYP3A5 genotypes
Authors: Kou Kai , Sun Xiaodong , Li Mingqian , Li Ting , Hu Yuelei , Li Shuxuan , Lv Guoyue
Published: March 2021

Background/Aims: Tacrolimus (Tac) is an immunosuppressant that is widely used to prevent allograft rejection in patients after liver transplantation. Recently, a Chinese herbal medicine known as Wuzhi Capsule (WZC) was shown to increase Tac blood concentrations by inhibiting the activity of CYP3A5 in animal studies in rats. To date, it remains unexplored whether WZC can be used to reduce the dose requirement for Tac in liver transplant patients with different donor-recipient CYP3A5 genotypes. Materials and Methods: A total of 185 liver transplant patients were enrolled and were divided into four groups according to the combinations of donor-recipient CYP3A5 phenotypes. WZC was given to patients who had C0/D of Tac ≤ 1 ng/ml per mg and required a dose of Tac ≥ 4 mg. Results: The R+/D+ group had the lowest C0, C0/D, and C0/D/W among the four groups. Furthermore, a larger proportion of patients in the CYP3A5 expression groups required Tac dose adjustment to achieve a therapeutic effect and were given Tac with WZC. Notably, the use of WZC significantly increased the blood concentrations of Tac in the CYP3A5 expression groups. Conclusion: WZC significantly increased the C0, C0/D, and C0/D/W in the CYP3A5 expression groups.
Long Follow-up Surgical Results in 284 Cases of Clival Chordomas: The Risk Factors for Outcome and Tumor Recurrence
Authors: bai jiwei , Li Mingxuan , Shi Jianxin , Jing Liwei , Zhai Yixuan , Zhang Shuheng , Wang Junmei , Zhao Peng , Li Chuzhong , Gui Songbai , Zhang Yazhuo
Published: March 2021

OBJECTIVE: Skull-base chordoma (SBC) is rare and one of the most challenging diseases to treat. We aimed to assess the optimal timing of adjuvant radiation therapy (RT) and evaluate the factors that influence resection and long-term outcomes.METHODS: In total, 284 patients with 382 surgeries were enrolled in this retrospective study. Postsurgically, 64 patients underwent RT before recurrence (pre-recurrence RT), and 47 patients underwent RT after recurrence. During the first attempt to achieve gross-total resection (GTR), when the entire tumor was resected, 268 patients were treated with an endoscopic midline approach, and 16 patients were treated with microscopic lateral approaches. Factors associated with the success of GTR were identified using c2 and logistic regression analyses. Risk factors associated with chordoma-specific survival (CSS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were evaluated with the Cox proportional hazards model.RESULTS: In total, 74.6% of tumors were marginally resected [GTR (40.1%); near-total resection (34.5%)]. History of surgery, large tumor volumes and tumor locations in the lower clivus were associated with a lower GTR rate. The mean follow-up period was 43.9 months. At last follow-up, 181 (63.7%) patients were alive. RT history, histologic subtype (dedifferentiated and sarcomatoid), non-GTR, no postsurgical RT, and the presence of metastasis were associated with poorer CSS. Patients with pre-recurrence RT had the longest PFS and CSS, while patients without postsurgical RT had the worst outcome.CONCLUSION: GTR is the goal of initial surgical treatment. Pre-recurrence RT would improve outcome regardless of GTR.
Poly (N-vinyl Imidazole)/Nitrogen-Doped Graphene Quantum Dot Hydrogel Adsorbent With Remarkable Capability for Metal Ion Removal From Aqueous Systems
Authors: Massoudi Solmaz , Bagheri Massoumeh , Hosseini Maryam
Published: March 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Influence of Nordic Walking Training on Vitamin D Level in the Blood and Quality of Life Among Women Aged 65-74
Authors: Podsiadło Szymon , Skiba Agnieszka , Kałuża Anna , Ptaszek Bartłomiej , Stożek Joanna , Marchewka Anna
Published: March 2021

Introduction. Demographic forecasts indicate the progressive aging process of societies in all countries worldwide. The extension of life span may be accompanied by deterioration of its quality resulting from a decrease in physical activity, mental or even social performance, and a deficit in certain chemical compounds responsible for proper functioning of the body. Aim. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of a 12-week Nordic walking (NW) training intervention on the level of vitamin D in the blood and quality of life among women aged 65-74 years.Materials and methods. The study comprised 37 women aged 65-74 (x=68.08, SD=4.2). The subjects were randomly assigned to 2 groups: experimental group (NW), which consisted of 20 women who underwent an intervention in the form of Nordic walking training for 12 weeks, and the control group (C), including 17 women who underwent observation. In the experimental group, training sessions were held 3 times a week for 1 hour. At that time, the C group was not subject to any intervention. The SF-36 questionnaire was used to measure quality of life. Vitamin D was assessed based on the results of biochemical blood tests. The analysed parameters were assessed twice - before and after the completed intervention or observation.Results. Comparison of the results regarding trials 1 and 2 allowed to note statistically significant improvement in quality of life for all health components and factors in the NW group. Analysis of vitamin D levels demonstrated a statistically significant increase in the NW group. In group C, no significant changes in the analysed parameters were observed.Conclusions. Regularly undertaking Nordic walking training significantly influences the improvement of self-evaluation regarding the components of physical and mental health, as well as the concentration of vitamin D in women aged 65-74 years.
Identification of LOC338963 and AP3B2 as Potential Biomarkers for Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome
Authors: Yang Fei , Jing Feng , Li Yang , Kong Shanshan , Zhang Shimin , Huo Yunyun , Huang Xusheng , Yu Shengyuan
Published: March 2021

Background: Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) is a rare neuromuscular junction disorder associated with muscle weakness and small-cell lung cancer. Here, we used microarray analysis to identify long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) that might serve as biomarkers for LEMS.Methods: Plasma lncRNA and mRNA expression profiles of three patients with paraneoplastic LEMS and three healthy controls were analyzed using Arraystar Human lncRNA Microarray v4.0. Differentially expressed lncRNAs and adjacent mRNAs were analyzed jointly, and candidates were verified in individual samples by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The identified lncRNAs and mRNAs were evaluated in nine patients with paraneoplastic LEMS, eight patients with non-tumor LEMS, and four patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Results: A total of 320 lncRNAs were differentially expressed in patients with paraneoplastic LEMS compared to healthy controls (fold change >1.5, P < 0.05), and nine were further evaluated. One of the identified lncRNAS, LOC338963 (NR_031439), is known to regulated the expression of the mRNA AP3B2, and both were upregulated more than 2-fold in patients with paraneoplastic LEMS compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, qRT-PCR analysis revealed significant upregulation of LOC338963 (NR_031439) and AP3B2 expression in patients with paraneoplastic LEMS compared to those with either non-tumor LEMS (2.37- and 5.06-fold, respectively) or SCLC (4.36- and 14.97-fold, respectively).Conclusions: Plasma LOC338963 (NR_031439) and AP3B2 were found to be upregulated in LEMS and might be used as diagnostic biomarkers for this disease.
Prognostic analysis of neutralizing antibody levels in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Liu Xu , Xian Loo Jun , Yang Bo , Zhang Rong , Zhou Juan , Chen Chen , Zheng Yang , Jing Zhang , Men Dong , Huang Lvshuai , Chen Yinghong , Daohai Lu , xiaohua chen
Published: March 2021

Background

In the high incidence period of COVID-19, it is very important to quickly classify and evaluate the prognosis of patients through limited clinical antibody data.
Methods

Chemiluminescence immunoassay was used to detect serum IgM and IgG concentrations in 1951 patients diagnosed with COVID-19, and R language was used to analyze the influence of factors such as antibody, age, gender and concomitant diseases on the prognosis of SARS-CoV-2 patients.
Results

The results showed that the incidence of COVID-19 was consistent with the characteristics of the elderly, and patients with hypertension, diabetes, stroke, hypoalbuminemia and anemia were at increased risk of critical illness (p < 0.05). The analysis of antibodies results showed that there were no significant difference in antibodies concentration between COVID-19 patients of different ages. While there were no significant difference in antibodies concentration between mild and severe patients, the expression levels of serum IgM and IgG in critically ill patients decreased (p = 0.000 and 0.013), and high IgM and IgG concentration could reduce the incidence of critical illness (p = 0.003 and 0.015). Except in the 41–60 and 91–100 age groups, the simultaneous low expression of IgM and IgG in COVID-19 patients was significantly positively correlated with the severity of illness (p = 0.000).
Conclusions

IgM and IgG were important prognostic factors for COVID-19 patients. It was hence vital to carry out special clinical classification for the management and early intervention for patients with low IgM/IgG concentrations and with concomitant diseases.
Knowledge, Practices and Factors Affecting Exclusive Breastfeeding among Lactating Mothers with Babies aged 6 months to 1 year attending Magomeni Reproductive and Child Health Clinic, Kinondoni, Dar es Salaam: Descriptive Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Bernard Anacletus , Musa Frank M. , Peter Dedius E.
Published: March 2021

Background: Exclusive Breastfeeding defined as the infant has to receive only breast milk from his/her mother with the exception of other kinds of food for six months. Exclusive Breastfeeding helps to prevent diseases to infants and it reduces risk of ovarian cancer to mother. Methodology: Descriptive cross sectional study was conducted among 124 lactating mothers with infants aged 6 months to one year attending Magomeni RCH Clinic in Kinondoni, Dar es Salaam. Simple random sampling procedure was used to obtain 124 lactating mothers. Data was collected from mothers who agreed to participate and signed the consent form by the use of close ended Swahili version questionnaire on assessing knowledge, practices and factors affecting Exclusive Breastfeeding among Lactating Mothers with Babies aged 6 months to 1 year attending Magomeni Reproductive and Child Health Clinic in Kinondoni district, Dar es Salaam.Result: About 74 (59.7%) respondents had high knowledge on EBF and 92 (74.2%) respondents initiated breastfeeding within one hour after delivery while 77 (62.1%) practiced exclusive breastfeeding. Findings show that 64(51.6%) respondents denied that exclusive breastfeeding causes loss of shape of their breasts while 48 (38.7%) respondents accepted that exclusive breastfeeding causes loss of shape of their breasts. Only 12 (9.7%) respondents didn’t know if EBF causes loss of breasts shape or not. Moreover, 19 (15.3%) respondents had physical difficulties/problems like cracking of nipples, inadequate milk, while 105(84.7%) didn’t get any physical difficult. Therefore there is significant association between mothers belief of losing shapes of their breasts and EBF (p=0.05). Physical difficulties/problems to lactating mothers study is significantly associated with EBF (p = 0.000).Conclusion: The overall knowledge among the lactating mothers with babies aged six months to one year was high and had good exclusive breast feeding practice. Although majority of the respondents are knowledgeable about EBF, the results show a gap between knowledge and actual practice within six months which is a recommended duration for Exclusive Breast feeding.
Hospital case-volume and mortality after ovarian cancer surgery: a population-based retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kim Bo Rim , Kim Heewon , Joo Se-gyeong , Jang Eun Jin , Jo Junwoo , Lee Hannah , Ryu Ho Geol
Published: March 2021

Background

The goal of ovarian cancer surgery has recently shifted from optimal cytoreduction to more complete resection. This study attempted to reassess and update the association between surgical case-volume and both in-hospital and long-term mortality after ovarian cancer surgery using recent data.
Methods

Data from all adult patients who underwent ovarian cancer surgery in Korea between 2004 and 2017 were obtained from the database of Korean National Health Insurance Service. Hospitals were categorized by average annual number of surgeries considering overall distribution of case-volume. Postoperative in-hospital and 1, 3, 5-year mortality were analyzed using logistic regression.
Results

During the study period, 23,487 ovarian cancer surgeries were performed in 354 hospitals. High-, medium-, and low-volume centers were defined as > 100 cases/year, 30–100 cases/year, and < 30 cases/year, respectively. In-hospital mortality was significantly higher in medium-volume (1.63%; adjusted odds ratio, 2.28; confidence interval, 1.64–3.17; P < 0.001) and low-volume (1.62%; adjusted odds ratio; 2.12; confidence interval, 1.55–2.90; P < 0.001) centers compared to high-volume centers (1.13%). In addition, 1-year mortality after ovarian cancer surgery was 6.26%, 7.07%, and 8.06% for high-volume, medium-volume, and low-volume centers, respectively, and the differences among the groups were significant. However, case-volume effect was not apparent in 3- and 5-year mortality after ovarian cancer surgery.
Conclusions

Case-volume effect was observed for in-hospital and 1-year mortality after ovarian cancer surgery while no clear association was found between the case-volume and 3- or 5-year mortality.
Testing the Contextual Interaction Theory in a UHC pilot district in South Africa
Authors: Michel Janet , Mohlakoana Nthabiseng , Bärnighausen Till , Tediosi Fabrizio , Evans David , McIntyre Di , Bressers Hans T.A , Tanner Marcel
Published: March 2021

Background: World-wide, there is growing universal health coverage (UHC) enthusiasm. The South African government began piloting policies aimed at achieving UHC in 2012. These UHC policies have been and are being rolled out in the ten selected pilot districts. Our study explored policy implementation experiences of 71 actors involved in UHC policy implementation, in one South African pilot district using the Contextual Interaction Theory (CIT) lens.Method: Our study applied a two-actor deductive theory of implementation, Contextual Interaction Theory (CIT) to analyse 71 key informant interviews from one National Health Insurance (NHI) pilot district in South Africa. The theory uses motivation, information, power, resources and the interaction of these to explain implementation experiences and outcomes. The research question centred on the utility of CIT tenets in explaining the observed implementation experiences of actors and outcomes particularly policy- practice gaps. Results: All CIT central tenets (information, motivation, power, resources and interactions) were alluded to by actors in their policy implementation experiences, a lack or presence of these tenets were explained as either a facilitator or barrier to policy implementation. This theory was found as very useful in explaining policy implementation experiences of both policy makers and facilitators.Conclusion: A central tenet that was present in this context but not fully captured by CIT was leadership. Leadership interactions were revealed as critical for policy implementation, hence we propose the inclusion of leadership interactions to the current CIT central tenets, to become motivation, information, power, resources, leadership and interactions of all these.
Aspiration of dental prosthesis fragment during a seizure: a case report
Authors: Figueira Jéssica Araújo , Tomo Saygo , De Castro Tamara Fernandes , Bernabé Daniel Galera , Miyahara Glauco Issamu , Biasoli Éder Ricardo
Published: March 2021

The presence of foreign body inside the tissues, via air or digestive is the frequent accident, mainly in children, that led to obit. The diagnosis may be confirmed by radiograph, endoscopy, broncospy and nasofaringoscopy. The clinical case refers to aspiration of dental prosthesis after facial traumatism during convulsive crisis. The gravity and rareness of this fact demonstrates odontologic interest, before this picture, the dentist must do the diagnostic and refer the patient refer the patient primarily to treatment.
Mn3+ and the pink color of gem-quality euclase from northeast Brazil
Authors: Gilles-Guéry Lætitia , Galoisy Laurence , Schnellrath Jurgen , Baptiste Benoit , Calas Georges
Published: March 2021

Pink euclase of gem quality and centimeter size, presenting an unusual pink-orange coloration and a pink to orange pleochroism, was discovered near Livramento de Nossa Senhora, in Bahia State, Brazil. The origin of the pink coloration has been investigated using several spectroscopic techniques: UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), luminescence, and X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES). The coloration is mainly due to the presence of Mn3+ substituted to octahedral Al3+ that causes an intense split band at about 18 500 and 21 000 cm−1. The crystal field splitting Dq, crystal field stabilization energy (CFSE), and Racah parameter B for Mn3+ are 2055.5 cm−1, 147 kJ/mol, and 886 cm−1, respectively. The Mn3+ molar extinction coefficient varies as a function of polarization, between 23 and 55 L.mol−1·cm−1. An additional absorption band, near 24 000 cm−1, together with the rising background toward the UV, tentatively assigned to the O → Fe3+ OMCT, contributes to the pink-orange hue. The in-situ UV-Vis-NIR spectra on heating up to 500 °C show a color change toward an intense, stable pink color. CIE colorimetric parameters demonstrate that the color of the investigated euclase remains in the pink domain before and after heat treatment. In the absence of Mn2+, shown by EPR and luminescence, the presence of Mn3+ evidences oxidative formation conditions due to contamination of the hydrothermal fluids by the surrounding host rock.
Diagnóstico histopatológico de lesiones orales de la mesorregión agreste del estado de Pernambuco
Authors: Carvalho de Moraes Bergson , Leal da Silva Leonel Augusto César , Elias da Cruz Pérez Danyel , Freire Lisboa de Castro Jurema , De Amorim Carvalho Elaine Judite
Published: March 2021

Introducción y objetivo: Los laboratorios de patología oral de las universidades han tratado de caracterizar y cuantificar la prevalencia de las lesiones que se obtienen en las biopsias, de modo que sea posible establecer el perfil de los casos a partir de la recopilación de estos servicios. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo analizar los diagnósticos histológicos de biopsias solicitados por profesionales y servicios establecidos ubicados en la región agreste del estado de Pernambuco al laboratorio de patología oral de la UFPE. Materiales y métodos: Este fue un estudio retrospectivo que analizó todos los archivos de solicitud de exámenes patológicos y sus respectivos informes emitidos por el Laboratorio de Patología Oral de la Universidad Federal de Pernambuco de 17 años, del marzo de 2000 al marzo de 2017. Resultados: De los 6000 registros clínicos, el 11,4% provino de la mesorregión agreste de Pernambucano. El 42% de estas piezas provienen de la ciudad de Caruaru, siendo los procesos proliferativos no neoplásicos el grupo de lesiones más frecuente (43,9%), seguido por el grupo de patología inflamatoria de las glándulas salivales (12%) y el grupo de lesiones com potencial de cancerización (7,3%). Las mujeres fueron las más afectadas en el 64,7% de los casos, con una edad media de 45 años. Conclusión: La mesorregión agreste de Pernambuco carece de laboratorios especializados en el diagnóstico histológico de lesiones orales. En la muestra estudiada, las mujeres y los procesos proliferativos no neoplásicos fueron los más prevalentes.
The X-Efficiency of Shariah and Conventional Banking’s in Indonesia
Authors: Yumna Aimatul
Published: March 2021

This paper investigates the X-efficiency of fifteen commercial banks in Indonesia consisting of seven Shariah banks and eight conventional banks. This study uses three stages of data analysis: non-parametric data envelopment analysis (DEA) approach, t-test, and multiple regression method. The results show that in the period of this study, both Shariah and conventional banks in Indonesia have not reached the optimal level of efficiency. However, conventional banks obtain a higher level of allocative and total efficiency compared to Shariah banks. The inefficiency of Islamic banks is stemed from allocative inefficiency rather than technical problems. The bank’s X-efficiency is significantly influenced by size, rather than number of banking channels and staff costs. This study provides important implications for Shariah banking in order to improve X- efficiency and compete in the banking industry in Indonesia by focusing on the improvement of the combination of quality assets.
StrukturKepemilikan Institusional, Koneksi Politik dan Kebijakan Dividen Perusahaan di Bursa Efek Indonesia
Authors:   Sekolah Bisnis dan Ekonomi -Universitas Prasetiya Mulya BSD City Kavling Edutown I.1 , Jl. BSD Raya Utama, BSD City, Tangerang 15339, Nursyahbandarmahdi Novia , Sarah Siti ,   Sekolah Bisnis dan Ekonomi -Universitas Prasetiya Mulya BSD City Kavling Edutown I.1 , Jl. BSD Raya Utama, BSD City, Tangerang 15339, Haryono Luciana ,   Sekolah Bisnis dan Ekonomi -Universitas Prasetiya Mulya BSD City Kavling Edutown I.1 , Jl. BSD Raya Utama, BSD City, Tangerang 15339
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine whether institutional ownership, political connections, and institutional ownership on political connected companies affects the dividend policy of Indonesian companies listed on the Indonesian Stock Exchange from 2012 - 2017. The sample used in this study were totaled to 255 non-financial companies in Indonesia with total observations of 1530. The model used on this study was the Tobit regression model. The results show that institutional ownership has the tendency to not pay dividends, whereas political connections on companies tends to support the payment of dividends to the shareholders. Furthermore, this study found that when there is the presence of interactions between political connections and institutional ownership in the company, political connections tends to have a positive impact towards dividend policy, yet institutional ownership has an increasingly significant negative effect on dividend policy.
Analisis Kecurangan pada Pengelolaan Dana Desa dalam Perspektif Fraud Hexagon
Authors:   Program Studi Akuntansi, Fakultas Ekonomi dan Bisnis, Universitas RiauKampus Bina Widya KM. 12,5, Simpang Baru, Kec. Tampan, Kota Pekanbaru, Riau 28293, Desviana Desviana , Basri Yesi Mutia ,   Program Studi Akuntansi, Fakultas Ekonomi dan Bisnis, Universitas RiauKampus Bina Widya KM. 12,5, Simpang Baru, Kec. Tampan, Kota Pekanbaru, Riau 28293, Nasrizal Nasrizal ,   Program Studi Akuntansi, Fakultas Ekonomi dan Bisnis, Universitas RiauKampus Bina Widya KM. 12,5, Simpang Baru, Kec. Tampan, Kota Pekanbaru, Riau 28293
Published: March 2021

This research aims to examine and analyze the factors that influence fraud in the management of village funds from the perspective of hexagon theory in the Rokan Hulu Regency in Riau Province. The population in this study were all village officials in Rokan Hulu Regency, Riau Province. This study uses a probability sampling method with a simple random sampling technique. The research hypothesis testing was carried out with a Partial Least Square (PLS) based Structural Equation Model (SEM) approach. Based on the results of research, only stimulus (obedience pressure), capability (competence), collusion (unethical act), opportunity ( Internal control) affect fraud.Meanwhile, razionalitation (organizational culture) and ego (leadership style) do not affect fraud. This research was only carried out within the scope of the local government of the Rokan Hulu district, so the results of this study were more representative of the situation locally.The results of this study confirm that several factors can cause fraud to occur, and therefore village officials should jointly improve the quality of village fund management.
An ethical decision-making framework with serious gaming: a smart water case study on flooding
Authors: Ewing Gregory , Demir Ibrahim
Published: March 2021

Sensors and control technologies are being deployed at unprecedented levels in both urban and rural water environments. Because sensor networks and control allow for higher-resolution monitoring and decision making in both time and space, greater discretization of control will allow for an unprecedented precision of impacts, both positive and negative. Likewise, humans will continue to cede direct decision-making powers to decision-support technologies, e.g. data algorithms. Systems will have ever-greater potential to effect human lives, and yet, humans will be distanced from decisions. Combined these trends challenge water resources management decision-support tools to incorporate the concepts of ethical and normative expectations. Toward this aim, we propose the Water Ethics Web Engine (WE)2, an integrated and generalized web framework to incorporate voting-based ethical and normative preferences into water resources decision support. We demonstrate this framework with a ‘proof-of-concept’ use case where decision models are learned and deployed to respond to flooding scenarios. Findings indicate that the framework can capture group ‘wisdom’ within learned models to use in decision making. The methodology and ‘proof-of-concept’ system presented here are a step toward building a framework to engage people with algorithmic decision making in cases where ethical preferences are considered. We share our framework and its cyber components openly with the research community.
Risk analysis for groundwater intake in an old mining shaft with increased chloride content, Upper Silesia, Southern Poland
Authors: Kończak Beata , Janson Ewa
Published: March 2021

Water from underground intakes is the main source of potable water for people in Poland, hence the protection of its resources is of great importance for the functioning of society and the economy. A new regulation in Polish Water Law imposes the obligation of performing risk analysis for water intakes, including the assessment of health hazards, factors negatively affecting water quality which are identified on the basis of hydrogeological and geological analyses. The main objective of the study was to determine the health risk for chlorides and to present an innovative approach to the health risk for non-toxic substances. In Upper Silesia, which is the most industrialized and urbanized area in Poland, old mining shafts are often used as deep wells in the water supply chain, and higher mineralization is the key feature of abstracted water which does not quite eliminate them as a source of drinking water supply. This paper proposes a new method of health risk determination as hazard index (HI). We present analysis of the health risks with increased concentration of chlorides in water which cause health effects for water consumers, especially for men, children aged 4–8, pregnant women and women during lactation.
Calculating groundwater mixing ratios in multi-aquifers based on statistical methods: a case study
Authors: Chen Song , Gui Herong
Published: March 2021

Samples of river water and groundwater from Quaternary (QA), sandstone (SA), Taiyuan formation (TA), and Ordovician limestone (OA) aquifers in the Suxian coal-mining district, Anhui Province, China were collected. Their physicochemical properties, and major ion and isotopic compositions were determined. The samples were alkaline, with pH values exceeding 8, and the total dissolved solids concentrations depended on the water source. The δD and δ18O contents were highest in the river water samples and lowest in the SA groundwater. The isotopic characteristics of the QA and OA groundwaters suggest recharge by rainfall and surface water. The isotopic characteristics of river water were controlled mainly by evaporation. Water–rock interactions, the flow rate, and the main water sources were the most important influences on groundwaters in QA, OA, and TA, but the properties of SA groundwater were controlled by static reserves. Two discriminant functions, explaining more than 98.2% of the total variances, indicated that QA, TA, and OA were hydraulically connected. Three groundwater sources were identified as end-members, and a conceptual model was established to calculate water mixing ratios.
Database Concept, Relevance and Expert Systems
Authors: Guliamova Malokhat Kamilovna , Aliev Ravshan Maratovich
Published: March 2021

The article examines the main functions of the database, considers and describes the step-by-step design of the database.
Reduction of Aromatic Dimethyl Ene-Dicarboxylates to Dimethyl Succinates with Titanium Ylides
Authors: Fallahpour Reza-Ali
Published: March 2021

Background:

Generally, it was assumed that Tebbe- and Takai-reagents are useful for methenylation
reactions.

Objective:

Applying these reagents to aromatic ene dicarboxylates, unexpectedly the reduction of double
bonds was achieved. There is, however, a different behaviour of both reagents. Takai-reagent yields
reduction while Tebbe-reagent prefers isomerisation.

Methods:

A selective and unique method has been shown to reduce a double bond of ene-dicarboxylates
while both carboxylic groups are not affected at all. In addition, this method is easy and very cheap
using Takai-reagent.

Results:

If isomerisation is to be carried out, without any reduction of a double bond, Tebbe-reagent can
be applied. To our knowledge, such reactions have not been published yet.

Conclusion:

We have shown a selective methodology to reduce aromatic ene-dicarboxylates with titanium
ylides.
KEANEKARAGAMAN ARTHROPODA PADA PERTANAMAN MENTIMUN (Cucumis sativus L.) DENGAN SISTEM PHT DAN KONVENSIONAL DI KECAMATAN MANTUP, LAMONGAN
Authors: Harmana Syahrullah Bagus , Rahardjo Bambang Tri
Published: March 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh pengelolaan lahan mentimun dengan PHT dan konvensional terhadap keanekaragaman arthropoda dan intensitas serangan hama Aulacophora similis, serta mengetahui kelayakan usahatani dari dua sistem tersebut. Penelitian dilakukan di Desa Mantup, Kecamatan Mantup, Kabupaten Lamongan, Jawa Timur. Pengamatan arthropoda dilakukan dengan 3 metode (visual, yellow sticky trap, dan yellow pan trap) dan hasilnya dianalisis menggunakan uji T, kemudian dilakukan perhitungan Indeks keragaman (H’), Indeks Kekayaan Jenis (R), Indeks Kemerataan Jenis (e’) dan Indeks Dominansi (C). Kelayakan usahatani dihitung menggunakan parameter R/C Ratio dan BEP Harga. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan tidak ada perbedaan yang signifikan antara jumlah spesies arthropoda yang ditemukan di kedua sistem. Nilai H' pada sistem PHT dan konvensional berada pada kategori sedang. R dan e' memiliki kategori serupa, tinggi pada PHT, tetapi sedang pada sistem konvensional. Pada saat yang sama, nilai C pada kedua sistem tidak menunjukkan dominasi. Hasil intensitas serangan A. similis terdapat perbedaan yang signifikan antara PHT dan sistem konvensional. R / C Ratio masing-masing menunjukkan 1,38 dan 1,37 pada sistem PHT dan konvensional, sehingga kedua sistem tersebut layak untuk dijalankan. Berdasarkan nilai BEP, harga minimum mentimun kg-1 pada sistem PHT adalah Rp 3.615,97 sedangkan pada sistem konvensional adalah Rp 3.644,94.
PENGARUH AIR CUCIAN BERAS SEBAGAI BIOAKTIVASI PERTUMBUHAN MIKROBA HASIL EKSPLORASI DARI TANAH TERCEMAR PESTISIDA
Authors: Maranditya Berliananda , Alislami Tia C.K. , Nisa’ Nikmatul C. , Kusuma Restu R.
Published: March 2021

Penggunaan pestisida secara terus menerus menyebabkan kerusakan pada lahan dan penumpukan residu bahan aktif pada tanah. Tujuan penelitian ini yaitu mencari potensi bakteri bioremediator pada lahan tercemar pestisida diazinon dan menguji kemampuan pupuk cair cucian air beras dalam meningkatkan aktifitas mikroorganisme. Penelitian dilakukan pada bulan April sampai Juli 2018 di Desa Temas Kota Batu dan Laboratorium Mikrobiologi. Pengambilan data dilakukan dalam 5 tahap antara lain pengambilan sampel tanah, eksplorasi bakteri, isolasi bakteri, penumbuhan bakteri pada media air cucian beras, dan pengukuran kerapatan bakteri. Dari hasil eksplorasi ditemukan satu bakteri yang dapat tumbuh pada media selektif MSPY dengan konsentrasi zat aktif diazinon 50 ppm dan 100 ppm. Sedangkan hasil penghitungan kerapatan bakteri menggunakan spektrofotometer menunjukkan pertumbuhan terbaik pada media F2 dengan komposisi 325 ml air cucian beras, 1 liter aquades dan 100 ml molase. Secara singkat, temuan tersebut mengungkapkan bahwa isolat bakteri dalam pupuk cair pencucian beras tidak bersifat patogen pada tanaman.
Acquired Syphilis: epidemiological profile of cases in state of Pará from 2017 to 2019
Authors: Neves Bianca Sousa de Almeida , Amanajás Mariana Bastos , Pires Carla Andréa Avelar
Published: March 2021

Objective: To quantify patients diagnosed with acquired syphilis and the prevalence of the disease in the state of Pará, Brazil, from January 2017 to June 2019, in addition to characterizing the demographic aspects of patients included in the sample. Methods: observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study, conducted by reviewing the database of the Notifiable Diseases Information System made available by the State Health Department of Pará, of reported cases of acquired syphilis, in the defined period. This study included patients of both sexes, aged 18 years or older, who had acquired syphilis and were notified. Results: 5,620 cases of acquired syphilis were reported, of which the majority were male (n = 3,229; 57.45%), mixed race (n = 4,058; 72.2%), low education (n = 2,250; 40%) and in the young adult range (18–30 years; n = 2,514; 44.74%). The highest concentration of cases was observed in the metropolitan mesoregion of Belém and the Lower Amazon. Conclusions: Acquired syphilis is still prevalent and is characterized as a public health problem. Epidemiological surveillance needs to be constant, and more efficient public policies need to be employed in primary care to reduce the number of cases and make early diagnoses with appropriate treatment.
Evidencia de Leptospira spp. en sangre de perros de una comunidad rural de Yucatán, México.
Authors: Torres-Castro Marco , Díaz-Aceves Darío , Suárez-Galaz Alejandro , Reyes-Novelo Enrique , Rodríguez-Vivas Roger Iván
Published: March 2021

Objetivo. Describir la frecuencia de infección con Leptospira sp. en perros de una comunidad rural del estado de Yucatán, México. Materiales y métodos. Se recolectaron muestras sanguíneas en 120 perros de Maxcanú, Yucatán. Además, se registraron características como sexo, edad, raza y se preguntó a los dueños sobre el historial de vacunas. Las muestras se transportaron al laboratorio y mediante la prueba diagnóstica de reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR), se identificó la amplificación de dos fragmentos del gen 16S ribosomal perteneciente a Leptospira sp. Resultados. La frecuencia de infección encontrada fue de 1.7% (2/120; IC95%= 0.2 – 5.9%). Ambos perros positivos fueron machos, cachorros, mestizos (mezcla de razas) y sin historial de vacunación. Conclusiones. Se describe una frecuencia baja de infección en perros del sitio de estudio. Es necesaria más investigación epidemiológica para conocer las especies de Leptospira involucradas en la infección e identificar el riesgo de transmisión a los habitantes u otros animales domésticos del sitio de estudio.
A Digital Patient-Provider Communication Intervention (InvolveMe): Qualitative Study on the Implementation Preparation Based on Identified Facilitators and Barriers
Authors: Seljelid Berit , Varsi Cecilie , Solberg Nes Lise , Øystese Kristin Astrid , Børøsund Elin
Published: March 2021

Background

Chronic health conditions are affecting an increasing number of individuals, who experience various symptoms that decrease their quality of life. Digital communication interventions that enable patients to report their symptoms have been shown to positively impact chronic disease management by improving access to care, patient-provider communication, clinical outcomes, and health-related quality of life. These interventions have the potential to prepare patients and health care providers (HCPs) before visits and improve patient-provider communication. Despite the recent rapid development and increasing number of digital communication interventions that have shown positive research results, barriers to realizing the benefits offered through these types of interventions still exist.

Objective

The aim of this study is to prepare for the implementation of a digital patient-provider communication intervention in the daily workflow at 2 outpatient clinics by identifying potential determinants of implementation using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to tailor the use of digital communication intervention to the intended context and identify key aspects for an implementation plan.

Methods

A combination of focus groups, workshops, and project steering committee meetings was conducted with HCPs (n=14) and patients (n=2) from 2 outpatient clinics at a university hospital. The CFIR was used to guide data collection and analysis. Transcripts, written minutes, and notes were analyzed and coded into 5 CFIR domains using thematic analysis.

Results

Data were examined and analyzed into 18 CFIR constructs relevant to the study purpose. On the basis of the identified determinants, important intervention tailoring includes adjustments to the digital features and adjustments to fit the clinical workflow and a decision to conduct a future pilot study. Furthermore, it was decided to provide the intervention to patients as early as possible in their disease trajectory, with tailored information about its use. Key aspects for the implementation plan encompassed maintaining the identified engagement and positive attitude, involving key stakeholders in the implementation process, and providing the needed support and training.

Conclusions

This study offers insight into the involvement of stakeholders in the tailoring and implementation planning of a digital communication intervention in clinical practice. Stakeholder involvement in the identification of implementation facilitators and barriers can contribute to the tailoring of digital communication interventions and how they are used and can also inform systematic and targeted implementation planning.