bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of A 4-Week Vegan Diet on Adipokine Levels in Healthy Male and Female Participants: A Randomized-Controlled Trial
Authors: Lederer Ann-Kathrin , Hettich Manuel , Huber Roman , Hannibal Luciana , Neumann Elena
Published: December 2020

Background Vegan diet (VD) is reported to show beneficial health effects including cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory protection, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We hypothesized that adipokines, a special type of cytokine produced by the white adipose tissue with known effects on metabolism and the immune system, may contribute to the observed anti-inflammatory effects of VD. Methods A parallel group interventional trial was designed to evaluate the effect of VD compared to meat-rich diet (MD) on serum levels of two central adipokines, leptin and adiponectin. Fifty-three healthy, omnivore participants (62% female, average age 31 years and BMI 23.1 kg/m2) were randomly assigned to VD or MD for 4 weeks. Results End value comparison between VD group and MD group showed a significantly lower level of adiponectin in the MD group (11.6 vs. 15.5 µg/mL, p = 0.025) indicating a moderate effect size (Cohen’s d = 0.524). Participants’ sex affected adipokine levels requiring a separate analysis of male and female participants. Leptin was increased by MD only in male participants (p = 0.019) whereas adiponectin remained stable. Female participants in VD group showed higher adiponectin levels at the end of trial (compared to VD-baseline, p = 0.023, as well as compared to MD group, p = 0.015). The end concentration of adiponectin depended on diet in female participants (p = 0.010). Conclusion The results of our trial suggest that plasma concentration of leptin and adiponectin do not explain the immunomodulatory potential of VD in healthy participants, but it appears that diet modifies adipokine levels in a sex-specific manner.Trial registration: German Clinical Trial register (DRKS00011963), registered 30 March 2017, https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00011963.
Discovery of ABCG2/VEGFR2 Dual-Target Inhibitor With Anti-Drug Resistance Activity Based on the ATP Binding Site
Authors: Liang Jing-wei , Dai Ao-lun , Li Shi-long , Li Wan-qiu , Nian Qing-yang , Meng Fan-hao
Published: December 2020

Background: ABCG2 plays a critical role in multi-drug resistance in a variety of cancers. Its activity is influenced by ATP hydrolysis and substrate transport, which are synergistic processes but in two independent sites. However, there was no QSAR study of the ABCG2 inhibitors for the two binding sites respectively. Methods: in current study, a QSAR model of ATP binding site was built using DCG scoring strategy, it was used to optimize the structure of a tyrosine kinase inhibitor to avoid the potential drug resistance. Results: a series of novel dual target compounds with arylamide skeleton were obtained, which showed notable activity in enzyme activity test. Compound 7c and 7i showed significant inhibitory activity against drug-resistant cells. Conclusions: the QSAR of ATP binding site of ABCG2 was first discussed, the dual-target compound 7c proposed a new strategy to reverse drug resistance.
Impact of Tenofovir/Lamivudine/Dolutegravir (Tld) on the Health-Related Quality of Life and Clinical Outcomes of HIV/AIDS Patients at a Tertiary Health Facility in Niger State
Authors: Umar Danjuma , Waziri Bala , Ndagi Umar , Mohammed Shafiu , Usman Ndagi , Abubakar-Muhammad Hauwa
Published: December 2020

Background: Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV) remains a major global public health issue. However, it is now considered a chronic infection which can be managed with new, well-tolerated and efficacious ARVs. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of Tenofovir/Lamivudine/Dolutrgravir (TLD) on the HRQoL and viral suppression over a short period.Method: The study was prospective, with a time frame of three (3) months. HRQoL was measured using a disease specific HIV/AID Targeted Quality of Life (HAT-QoL) tool and the clinical outcomes focused on viral load using structured data collection tool.Results: Most of the participants were female (62.1%), currently married 63.2% and no co-morbidity, mean age 43±SD (range 21-77years). There was a statistically significant improvement in HRQoL scores across all domain after 3months of transitioning to TLD. While 8 of the 9 domains namely; overall functions, life satisfaction, health worries, financial worries, medication worries, HIV mastery, Disclosure worries, Provider trust, (p <0.001) sexual function (p =0.015). Improvement was also seen in viral suppression (p <0.001).Using multiple linear regression analysis, predictors for overall HRQol scores include female gender (ᵝ= 3.59, 95%CI 1.30-5.78, p=0.002), older age, >65years (ᵝ= 4.12, 95%CI -1.42,9.67 p=0.08), living with family (ᵝ= -5.80, 95%CI -9.60,-2.00, p=0.003), higher family income, >N100,000 (ᵝ= 6.09, 95%CI 1.75,10.44, p=0.006) and duration on ART (ᵝ=0.52, 95%CI 0.12, 0.91, p=0.01). While determinants of viral suppression using multi-variant logistic regression analysis revealed living with family (AOR=18.03, 95%CI 3.32-97.85, p<0.001), Primary education (AOR= 0.16, 965%CI 0.029,0.93, P=0.041), being employed (AOR=0.16, 95%CI 0.028,0.91, P=0.008), income and baseline viral load (AOR= 0.53, 95%CI 0.44,0.69, p<0.001). However, living with family is major determinant of viral suppression.Conclusion: TLD help improved health related quality of life among HIV infected individual and essential in rapid viral suppression.
Effects of Ecological Water Conveyance Project on the Structure, Species Diversity and Stability of Desert Riparian Forest in the Lower Reaches of Tarim River, Northwest China
Authors: Wang Xiyi , Ma Tingting , Ling Hongbo , Peng Shuzhen
Published: December 2020

Background: The lower reaches of the Tarim River is an arid region of inland China. In this area, vegetation is sparse and the environment is fragile. Therefore, it is of great significance to study the structure and stability of the plant community and ecosystem in the lower reaches of the Tarim River. It is valuable to increase the understanding of ecological protection and restoration in arid areas. Methods: In this study, four sections, Yingsu, Karday, Alakan, and Yiganbjm, were selected as research sites, and 96 arbor and shrub quadrats and 288 herb quadrats were delimited in these sites. The ecological characteristics of all species in the quadrats were investigated. We selected the surveyed data from 2000, 2004, 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2019. Based on the data, we analyzed the variations in species composition. We also determined Shannon-Wiener indexes, Alatalo indexes, and ecological dominance to discuss the species diversity and uniformity of plant community. Plant community stability were also evaluated. Results: There were 17 species in 2000 and 31 species in 2019. The proportion of arbor and shrub species decreased, while the understory herbaceous species gradually increased; all of the species become balanced. The stability of the plant community gradually increased; however, it remained unstable. Conclusions: In general, water conveyance in an ecosystem plays a positive role in promoting the restoration of vegetation and ecological stability. This study provides a new method for the evaluation of ecological protection and restoration benefits in arid areas. Our findings can be a good reference for similar studies.
Mitochondrial Import of Malat1 Regulates Cardiac Mitochondrial Function in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus through Interaction with MicroRNA-23b
Authors: Hathaway Quincy A. , Taylor Andrew D. , Kunovac Amina , Pinti Mark V. , Newman Mackenzie S. , Cook Chris C. , Winters Michael T. , Westemeier Emily , Fink Garrett K. , Durr Andrya J. , Shepherd Danielle L. , Robart Aaron R. , Martinez Ivan , Hollander John M.
Published: December 2020

Background: The pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus is known to alter cardiac mitochondrial bioenergetics, but the role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in regulating this process remains poorly understood, specifically within the mitochondrion. Here we characterized the mitochondrial localization of nuclear-encoded lncRNAs in the heart in an effort to understand how import of lncRNAs can modify mitochondrial function during diabetes mellitus.Methods: Human patient and FVB/NJ mouse cardiac tissues were collected from type 2 diabetics and non-diabetics. Immunoblotting was used to validate purity of mitochondrial fractionation. NcRNA from subcellular compartments (cytoplasmic and mitochondrial) were sequenced through the Illumina 2500 HiSeq. LncRNA mitochondrial targeting sequences were acquired through crosslinking immunoprecipitation (CLIP) with Polynucleotide Phosphorylase (PNPase) and secondary structures were analyzed using supervised and unsupervised machine learning algorithms. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) allowed for visualization of Malat1 localization. Mitochondrial function was assessed through oxygen consumption rate.Results: 2448 LncRNAs were discovered in human cardiac mitochondria. Malat1 and microRNA-23b abundance were significantly reduced in human and mouse diabetic mitochondria. Modification of the import protein PNPase in HL-1 cells decreased binding affinity (~80%) of transcript variant 4 of Malat1 (Malat1-204), with machine learning (AUC 0.75) identifying stem-loops as shared secondary structures of lncRNAs bound to PNPase. Knockdown of Malat1-204 and microRNA-23b in mitochondria decreased protein expression of mt-Nd4 (~55%), though showed little/no binding homology to the mt-Nd4 mRNA transcript. Malat1-204 and microRNA-23b were identified bound to mt-Rnr1 rRNA, which could influence translation of mt-Nd4 through the mitochondrial 12S rRNA pathway.Conclusions: Malat1-204 and microRNA-23b, decreased in cardiac diabetic mitochondria, likely stabilize the mitochondrial ribosomal complexes through binding of mt-Rnr1. The significant decrease in total abundance of lncRNAs in diabetic mitochondria could suggest maladaptation for regulating bioenergetics and managing future insults.
Impact of High-Risk Fertility Behaviour on Under-five Mortality in Asia and Africa: Evidence from Demographic and Health Surveys
Authors: Amir-ud-Din Rafi , Naz Lubna , Rubi Anila , Usman Muhammad , Ghimire Umesh
Published: December 2020

Background: Younger or older maternal age, short inter-pregnancy birth interval, and higher birth order of the child are considered to be high-risk fertility behaviour (HRFB). Under-five mortality being disproportionately concentrated in Asia and Africa, this study analyses the association between HRFB and under-five mortality in selected Asian and African countries.Methods: This study used Integrated Public Microdata Series-Demographic and Health Surveys (IPUMS-DHS) data from 32 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia from 1986 to 2017 (N=1,467,728). Previous evidence hints at four markers of HRFB: women’s age at the birth of index child <18 years or >34 years, short preceding birth interval (PBI) <24 months, and child’s birth order >3. Using logistic regression, we analysed the change in the odds of under-five mortality as a result of i) exposure to HRFB individually, ii) exposure to any single HRFB risk factor, iii) exposure to multiple HRFB risk factors, and iv) exposure to specific combinations of HRFB risk factors. Results: Mother’s age at the birth of index child <18 years and preceding birth interval (PBI) <24 months were significant risk factors of under-five mortality, while a child’s birth order >3 was a protective factor against under-five mortality. Presence of any single HRFB was associated with 1.067 times higher risk of under-five mortality (OR = 1.067; 95% CI: 1.042 - 1.090; P < 0.001). Presence of multiple HRFBs was associated with 1.392 times higher risk of under-five mortality (OR = 1.392; 95% CI: 1.355 - 1.431; P < 0.001). Some specific combinations of risky fertility behaviour such as younger maternal age (<18 years) and short preceding birth interval (PBI <24) significantly increased the odds of under-five mortality.Conclusion: Younger maternal age and short preceding birth interval significantly increase the risk of under-five mortality. This highlights the need for effective legislation to curb child marriages and increased public investment in reproductive healthcare with a focus on higher contraceptive use for an optimal interpregnancy interval.
WITHDRAWN: Knowledge, Preventative Practices and Depression of Chinese university students in Korea and China During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Online Cross-sectional Study
Authors: ‍Zhao Bo , Kong Fanlei , Nam Eun Woo
Published: December 2020

Background: To investigate the knowledge, preventative practices, and depression of Chinese university students living in South Korea (‘International Group’) and Mainland China (‘Mainland Group’) during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, and furtherly explore the determinants of depression among these students; Methods: The study was conducted using an online questionnaire tool designed by the Yonsei Global Health Center, with preventative knowledge and practice questions on COVID-19, as well as PHQ-9 (used to diagnose depression for patients). 420 Chinese college students were finally included in the analysis (171 students in South Korea and 249 students in mainland China). This data was collected from March 23 to April 12, 2020; Results: Majority of these students had a good level of knowledge of COVID-19. The ‘International Group’ did better than the ‘Mainland Group’ students regarding preventative practices, but the percentage with moderate-to-severe depression was higher among the ‘International Group’. Highly concerned about family members, highly concerned about getting COVID-19, and having a suspicion of contact with patients increased the depression state among the respondents. Meanwhile, taking preventative behaviors more comprehensively decreased the depression state of both groups; Conclusions: During the pandemic of COVID-19, the depression status of ‘International Group’ students was significantly severer than that in ‘Mainland Group’ (χ2 = 5.50, p < 0.05). While the high-level of depression status of these two groups’ students was affected by highly concerning family members and getting COVID-19 and having a suspicion of contact with patients. Therefore, psychological counseling and education programs are needed in order to support and improve the mental health of ‘International Group’ students.
Building Information Modelling in Indonesia: Knowledge, Implementation and Barriers
Authors: Roy Andreas F Van , Firdaus Adrian
Published: December 2020

This article aims to identify the status of construction industry practitioners in Indonesia in terms of their knowledge and current practices as well as the barriers for implementing Building Information Modelling (BIM). This study utilises a questionnaire survey, aimed at the construction industry practitioners in Indonesia. The result shows that BIM is still a novelty for the construction practitioners in Indonesia. This is backed with the finding that more than 60% of the respondents was not familiar with BIM terminology or did not have proper knowledge of BIM terminology. More than 70% of the respondents' projects have implemented BIM Level 1, mostly in transportation service, energy production and distribution, roads and bridges, and the building infrastructure category. The five highest ranks of barriers to BIM implementation are lack of BIM training, lack of BIM experience and capability, no client demand, high cost in software and hardware acquisition, and inadequate information technology (IT) facilities. The recommended strategy should be initiated by the government, by conducting a comprehensive familiarisation programme covering BIM knowledge, BIM advantages and BIM implementation in the industry. At the same time, the government should prepare regulations and standards as guidance to BIM implementation in Indonesia.
ANALYSIS OF THE ROLE OF ACTORS IN IMPLEMENTATION ISLAMIZATION OF EDUCATION (STUDY ON BASIC EDUCATION POLICY IN NORTH ACEH DISTRICT)
Authors:   PhD Student, Department of Public Administration, UniversitasDiponegoro Semarang, Indonesia., Hafni Nur , Suwitri Sri ,   Professor, Department of Public Administration, UniversitasTidarMagelang, Indonesia., Larasati Endang ,   Professor, Department of Public Administration, UniversitasDiponegoro Semarang, Indonesia., a Kismartini ,   Lecturer, Department of Public Administration, UniversitasDiponegoro Semarang, Indonesia.
Published: December 2020

The role actors in implementation support the effort of Islamization of Education by integrating Islamic education concept into regular basic education in North Aceh district. This study investigates how this coalition network plays their roles in succeeding the implementation of the Islamization education concept at the school level through advocating cross-sectorial actors within the regency so that the integration concept can be generated into district regulation and can be implemented at the lower level by implementing agencies including schools. Besides, the current study also seeks some issues and challenges the coalition face during the process of concept integration and advocacy. The findings show that there are some constraints on both contexts of policy and practical level, especially, regarding the resource sharing availability. Responding to this situation, Dayah Education Office, Scholars Consultative Assembly, North Aceh Representative Council (DPRK), Mass media, and other education stakeholders suggest the integration can be performed by adopting models and curriculum implemented in Dayah education since Aceh province has special right to implement education system respectfully to the local characteristics and local wisdom in Aceh.
ASYMPTOMATIC COVID-19 CARRIERS: A QUANDARY FOR FAMILY PHYSICIAN
Authors:   General Directorate of Health Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia., Q. Al-Naami Awaji , A. Khan Liaqat ,   General Directorate of Health Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia., I. Zaidan Faisal ,   General Directorate of Health Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia., A. Dohal Salwa ,   General Directorate of Health Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia., M. Daghriri Yahya ,   General Directorate of Health Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia., I. Sumayli Mohammed ,   General Directorate of Health Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia., B. Koriri Hussain ,   General Directorate of Health Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia., M. Tohary Mohsen ,   General Directorate of Health Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia., A. Kariri Mohammed ,   General Directorate of Health Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia., A. Al-Neami Ibrahim ,   General Directorate of Health Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Published: December 2020

The current COVID-19 pandemic that started in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, infect millions globally so far. The disease is caused by an RNA virus called severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus-2 (SARS CoV-2).The common presenting symptoms include dry cough, fever, sore throat, and malaise. A proportion of patients remain asymptomatic throughout infection. Likewise, pre-symptomatic, asymptomatic patients act as carriers that can infect others.These patients pose a management challenge for family physicians working at the primary care level.Herein we report an asymptomatic carrier of COVID-19 who presented to the primary care center for routine follow-upthat confirmed by RT-PCR test.
EFFECTS OF COLLATERAL REQUIREMENT ON LOANS PROVISIONS: CASE STUDY OF SACCOS IN KENYA
Authors:   Bomet University College, Bomet Business School, P. O. Box 701 - 20400,Bomet, Kenya., Chelangat Mutai Nelly
Published: December 2020

The study sort to establish the relationship between collateral requirement and loan provision in SACCOs in Kenya. Descriptive survey research design and stratified random sampling method was used. The sample size used was 84 respondents comprising of three operation managers, four credit officers, three customer service officers and seventy-four registered saccos members. The study was guided by Classical interest, Keynesian Liquidity and Time preference theories. Results indicated that collateral requirements had great influence on loans provisions in SACCOs. The study recommended that SACCOsshould ensure collateral requirements policies are put in place in order to improve their loan portfolios and also consider using credit policy documents from other successful similar organizationsas a benchmark for best practices. The findings contributed to new knowledge to literature and theory.
MISMANAGEMENT OF COUNTY RESOURCES: A CASE OF TRANS NZOIA COUNTY
Authors:   MPA (Masters of Public Administration and Management), Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences North Western Christian University America Florida Mount Dora., Konzolo Rispah , Maside John ,   MPA (Masters of Public Administration and Management), Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences North Western Christian University America Florida Mount Dora., Pchumba Andrew ,   MPA (Masters of Public Administration and Management), Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences North Western Christian University America Florida Mount Dora., Loeseps David ,   MPA (Masters of Public Administration and Management), Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences North Western Christian University America Florida Mount Dora., Mukubuyi Wanyama ,   MPA (Masters of Public Administration and Management), Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences North Western Christian University America Florida Mount Dora., Barasa Patrick ,   MPA (Masters of Public Administration and Management), Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences North Western Christian University America Florida Mount Dora., Olutwati Patrick ,   MPA (Masters of Public Administration and Management), Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences North Western Christian University America Florida Mount Dora., Barsa Japheth ,   MPA (Masters of Public Administration and Management), Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences North Western Christian University America Florida Mount Dora., Imbuye Ruth ,   MPA (Masters of Public Administration and Management), Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences North Western Christian University America Florida Mount Dora.
Published: December 2020

The purpose of the study was to investigate mismanagement of county resources in Trans Nzoia County. The objective of the study is to determine the causes of mismanagement of resources for service delivery in Trans Nzoia County, establish the effects of redundancy in growth and development in county government on service delivery. Organization and management theory (Fredrick Taylor, 1961), was applied by researcher. The theory states that resources are to be managed effectively and efficiently. The researcher employed mixed research method that included qualitative and quantitative methods that led to triangulation design. The target population was 3000 people which gave a sample size of 900 people after the application of Greg and Morgan 1979 formula. The researcher employed purposive sampling technique and simple random sampling technique. Data collection was done by use of questionnaires and document analysis. The researcher also applied purposive sampling technique where data was collected from the people who had knowledge on what the researcher was conducting the study on. The researcher conducted a pre test and a post test of the research instruments to establish the validity and reliability of the instrument in the collection of data. Data was collected using questionnaires and document analysis. The findings indicated that the county resources were not well utilized and recommended that the people to handle finances should have the right qualifications and experiences.
EFFECTIVENESS OF ANDROID-BASED SCIENCE LEARNING MEDIA FOR CRITICAL THINKING ABILITY OF JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
Authors:   Universitasof Jember, Jember, Indonesia 68182., Fanana A Khoironi , Waluyo Joko ,   Universitasof Jember, Jember, Indonesia 68182., a Supeno ,   Universitasof Jember, Jember, Indonesia 68182.
Published: December 2020

IPA learning media based on android is a tool to provide learning information about natural phenomena in the form of events and causes of environmental consequences contained in the android operating system. Android-based science learning media designed in the form of an application. This research development research with 4D model with stages of definition, design, development, and dissemination.Covid-19 pandemic period is difficult to do effective learning.This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of android-based and conventional learning media in measuring students critical thinking ability on environmental pollution materials.This research is a development research conducted in MTs Negeri 8 Banyuwangi. Based on the results of the research that has been implemented, the use of android-based science learning media in experimental classes and decimination classes is quite effective for students critical thinking skills.Whereas in control classes that use conventional means are not effective for students critical thinking skills.
Public servants’ perception of leadership style and its impact on organizational commitment
Authors: Harb Bissane , Hachem Boutheina , Hamdan Hassan
Published: December 2020

Lebanon is facing an unprecedented political and economic crisis. Consequently, the country now urgently needs more than ever committed public managers, more involved and more effective in their work responsibilities to enhance public sector performance and reduce the consequences of the crisis. Little research has been done on the role of leadership in promoting organizational commitment in the public sector in Lebanon. Thus, referring to the leadership full range theory, this study aims to investigate the association between leadership styles and organizational commitment with the mediating role of Leader-member exchange (LMX). It further aims to examine the relationships between gender, leadership style, LMX and organizational commitment in the Lebanese public context.Data were collected via an online survey on a sample composed of 132 middle managers working in six public administrations in Lebanon. Linear and multiple regression analyses were carried out to test the direct and indirect effect of leadership styles on organizational commitment. The results indicated that both two styles of Bass are positively correlated with organizational commitment. The results also revealed a significant relationship between public servant gender and the quality of his relationship with the leader. Moreover, results showed that LMX doesn’t mediate the relationship between transformational leadership and organizational commitment, although it partially mediates the relationship between transactional leadership and organizational commitment. This study contributes to understanding of the mechanisms of developing organizational commitment through leadership styles. It also has implications for public service recruitment and training policies.
Features of the phenotypic and genotypic lipid status of the indigenous ethnic group of the Arctic in the conditions of island living
Authors: Vorobyeva N. A. , Belova N. I. , Vorobyeva A. I.
Published: December 2020

Introduction. Dyslipidemia and obesity are interdisciplinary and “multi-metabolic” diseases, pathogenetically associated with the development of atherothrombosis, which creates practical health problems. The development of both dyslipidemia and obesity is influenced by socio-demographic, environmental, genetic and many physiological and behavioral factors, while the contribution of genetic factors is 40-70%. The goal is to identify the genetic characteristics oflipid status and fat metabolism in the indigenous ethnic group of the Arctic region of the Russian Federation under conditions of permanent islandliving.Methods. A cross-sectional population study of an indigenous ethnic group (n = 44) living on Vaygach Island (70 ° 01 ' Nlat 59 ° 33 ' E). The reported study was funded by RFBR according to the research project №18-00-00814-(18-00-00478). Serum cholesterol and triglycerides were determined as markers oflipid metabolism in blood serum. To analyze the genetic profile, the polymorphism of the FTO A23525T gene and the LPL Ser447Ter gene was determined by polymerase chain reaction.Results. In the sample of the indigenous ethnic group, BMI was 26.0 [21.5; 29.75] kg/m2. BMI for men is 23.0 [18.0; 28.0] kg/m2, for women - 25.0 [18.0; 29.25] kg / m2. Carriers of the unfavorable allele A had a higher BMI than carriers of the T allele. Analysis of the effect of rs9939609 genetic polymorphism on thelevel of total cholesterol did not show statistically significant differences between the FTO gene genotypes. A minimal triglyceride concentration was observed in carriers of the protective genotype Ter/Ter.Conclusion. Understanding the similarities and differences in genetic susceptibility among different ethnic groups can ultimately contribute to a more focused primary prevention and patient-oriented approach of cardiovascular pathology.
SALITRE: O PRODUTO QUÍMICO ESTRATÉGICO NO PASSADO DO BRASIL
Authors: Faria Luciano , Filgueiras Carlos
Published: December 2020

SALTPETER: THE STRATEGIC CHEMICAL PRODUCT IN THE PAST OF BRAZIL. Saltpeter demanded for a long-time strategic attention in view of its importance in the form of gunpowder by the governments of many nations. The sources of this mineral in Brazil were almost always associated to the soil in caves, which was extracted because of a limited amount of that precious salt. The first references pointed out that saltpeter was first discovered in the São Francisco basin in regions of the south of the Captaincy of Bahia and in the north of Minas Gerais. Some historical documents show that the Serra do Baldim was the object of intensive mining activities of saltpeter from its caves and the product became the focus of conflicts and left scars on the walls of some limestone caverns.
The role of Internet Financial Reporting (IFR) in mediating manufacturing firm value on Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX)
Authors: Fuad Khoirul , Ariyani Nurlita Dwi , Handayani Retno Tri
Published: December 2020

Purpose - This research aimed to determine the role of Internet Financial Reporting application for manufacturing companies on Indonesia stock exchange in the increase of firm value both directly and indirectly.Method - This research used a purposive sampling method. The number of data collected was 95 company samples. This research employed SPSS 25 for testing the data.  Result - The results of this study indicated that Internet Financial Reporting can mediate the relationship between institutional ownership and profitability on firm value.Implication - Internet Financial Reporting application for companies today attracts investors to invest their capital to the companies because of the ease in getting the information needed at any time.Originality - This study used Internet Financial Reporting as mediation and source of the data year 2018.
A Review on Biochemical and Immunological Biomarkers used for Laboratory Diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID -19)
Authors: Ranjbar Reza , Mahmoodzadeh Hosseini Hamideh , Safarpoor Dehkordi Farhad
Published: December 2020

COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 is considered an emerging disease that results in severe acute respiratory syndrome. Coronaviruses, as single-stranded RNA viruses, have envelope and positive-sense genome. Virion’s nucleocapsid contains genomic RNA and phosphorylated nucleocapsid protein, which is located within the phospholipid layers and is covered with spike proteins. Although considerable research improvements have occurred, the virus origin is yet obscure. There are several factors that contribute to the development of COVID-19, such as mutations, viral loads, and the survival of the virus in the laboratory, or related factors such as age, sex, and immune status. Proper diagnosis of changes in biochemical and immunological factors affecting COVID-19 leads to the rapid detection of this disease. Finding suitable biochemical and immunological biomarkers could help us in early diagnosis and reducing the casualties of this disease. However, further studies for finding a good solution to early diagnosis require a better understanding of the mechanism of action of this virus. In this review, we review the biochemical and immunological biomarkers used for laboratory diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID -19).
Prevalence and Factors Associated with Hepatic Steatosis and Fibrosis Using Fibroscan in HIV-positive Patients Treated with Anti-retroviral (ARV) Medicines Referred to the Biggest Hospital in Tehran, 2018 to 2019
Authors: Rasoulinejad Mehrnaz , Seyed Alinaghi Seyed Ahmad , Sohrabi Masoud Reza , Badie Banafsheh Moradmand , Manshadi Seyed Ali Dehghan , Nezhad Malihe Hassan , Khatami Seyedeh Rana
Published: December 2020

Background:

Liver injury is a characteristic feature of HIV infection, which is the second most common cause of mortality among HIV positive patients. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become a new concern in the management of people living with HIV (PLWH). The condition encompasses a spectrum of diseases from non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) to fibrosis and cirrhosis. The current study was to evaluate hepatic steatosis and fibrosis using fibroscan among PLWH treated with anti-retroviral (ARV) medicines.

Methods:

The present research was designed as a cross-sectional study and 100 HIV positive patients under antiretroviral treatment (ART) were enrolled in the study. All PLWH, including 49 men (49%) and 51 women (51%) (Mean age of 39.9 years), were evaluated by Transient Elastography (TE) in Imam Khomeini Hospital during 2018 and 2019.

Results:

The mean CD4 count was 610 cells/μl, 4% with CD4 < 200 cells/μl, 30% between 201 and 500cells/μl, and 66% with CD4 >500 cells/μl. Based on the TE result, 10% of patients had significant fibrosis (F2:6% and F3:4%) and most of the patients had mild fibrosis (F1:77%). A significant, direct relationship was found between HIV infection duration and fibrosis, especially in the duration of more than five years of the disease. There was no significant association between liver fibrosis and other factors (P>0.05).

Conclusion:

The presence of hepatic fibrosis and steatosis demonstrates the main health concern for PLWH mono-infection, and mainly transient elastography is recommended for HIV mono-infected patients, especially if their infection period is over five years.
DEMENTIA IN DR. SOETOMO GENERAL HOSPITAL SURABAYA: A SYNTHETIC REVIEW OF ITS CHARACTERISTICS
Authors: Hasna Imami Nabilah , Haryono Yudha , Dwi Sensusiati Anggraini , Hamdan Muhammad , Badriyah Hidayati Hanik
Published: December 2020

Background: Dementia is a clinical syndrome characterized by progressive loss of cognitive function in elderly people interferes the ability to function independently. The number of elderly patients increased so fast in worldwide. The prevalence of dementia rapidly increases due to increasing of population. Aging demographic transition is proceeding rapidly especially in China, India, and Latin America, where dementia is rapidly becoming the major public health problem. Demographic data of elderly patients of dementia in Indonesia is still a little. Dementia’s research data in Indonesia were only obtained from Bali and Yogyakarta, while data from Surabaya were not obtained. Our research data is taken from Dr. General Hospital Soetomo Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia. This study is important for dementia epidemiological data and baseline data for further treatment of dementia patients in Surabaya. Objective: The purpose of this study to determine the characteristics profile of elderly patients with dementia in Dr. Soetomo General Hospital Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia. Methods: Sampling was done with purposive sampling by observing the medical records of patients in the period of January 2017 to December 2017 based on inclusion and exclusion criterias that have been set. The data was taken from the patient's medical record which had been written and examined by neurologists from the neurology department in the neurobehaviour sub-department of Dr. Soetomo Surabaya. Results: The majority of dementia patients are men (51,7%); the age group which is most at risk for dementia is between age of 75-79 years; most of the patients are jobless; more than half of patients are high school graduates; and Vascular Dementia (VaD) is the type of dementia that most people suferred Conclusion: This characteristic’s data of dementia can be used for providing information about dementia to make public health care provides a better facillities and treatment for elderly patients to prevent dementia burden.
A CASE REPORT OF ACUTE NONTRAUMATIC SPONTANEOUS SUBDURAL HAEMATOMA DUE TO PSEUDOANEURYSM OF MIDDLE MENINGEAL ARTERY
Authors: Makkiyah Feda , Nida Nurrahmah Rahma
Published: December 2020

Acute subdural bleeding is blood collection in subdural space, usually caused by laceration of the bridging vein that runs from cortex to meningeal layer. On the other hand, the acute epidural hematoma is a collection of blood above the dura mater, usually caused by tearing of the middle meningeal artery. Subdural hematoma acute more likely happen in elderly than young adult. This case report discusses acute spontaneous subdural hematoma that was caused by a pseudoaneurysm of the middle meningeal artery. Seventeen years old boy came with symptoms of high intracranial pressure because of massive subdural bleeding. He was undergone craniotomy. After the clot removal operation, Digital Subtraction Angiography revealed vascular blush and pseudoaneurysm of the middle meningeal artery. Onyx embolization was delivered to proximal to a distal branch of the middle meningeal artery. The patient recovered in good condition, and no rebleeding in two years. Conclusion. Acute spontaneous subdural bleeding even though it is quite rare, but the chance of fatal rebleeding is high. As a result, one still has to look for the source of bleeding and manage comprehensively with embolization.
NUMERIC RATING SCALE ANALYSIS OF TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA PATIENTS BEFORE AND AFTER MICROVASCULAR DECOMPRESSION
Authors: Ghentilis Fitri Amelia Elena , Turchan Agus , Margarita Rehatta Nancy , Badriyah Hidayati Hanik
Published: December 2020

Background: Trigeminal Neuralgia is a common condition of facial pain and its significantly affect patients’ daily life. Microvascular decompression is one of the interventional pain management for trigeminal neuralgia. There is still a little data obtained on evaluation of facial pain after microvascular decompression in Indonesia. Objective: This research aimed to evaluate facial pain after microvascular decompression of trigeminal neuralgia patients in Dr. Soetomo General Hospital, PHC Hospital, and Bangil General Hospital, Indonesia. Methods: The research design was a pretest-posttest with total sampling. Data were obtained from medical records from January 2018 until June 2019. Researches used Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) as pain measurement. The data obtained were analyzed by descriptive statistical test, normality test, and paired t-test. Results: Trigeminal Neuralgia patients that has been treated with microvascular decompression have an average facial reduction from 7.33±2.29 to 1.89±3.41 with p = 0.001. This result showed that the microvascular decompression has significantly reduce facial pain in patients with trigeminal neuralgia. Conclusion: Microvascular decompression significantly reduce the facial pain of trigeminal neuralgia patients.
An examination of Tunisian fact-checking resources in the context of COVID-19
Authors: Zamit Fredj , Kooli Arwa , Toumi Ikram
Published: December 2020

The study examines the effect of COVID-19 on the fact-checking resources in Tunisia. Through developing monographies, we traced the trajectory of most fact-checking platforms in the Tunisian media and explored their teams and working strategies. We noticed a clear spike in the creation of fact-checking platforms during and after February 2020 and determined that the pandemic created a context in which these platforms emerged and flourished. However, many of these platforms, were a product of journalists' individual initiatives and lacked a clear editorial and strategic inclusion of fact-checking. Besides, we found a lack of prior training and an absence of fact-checkers specialized in science and health communication.
COVID-19 in Brazil: an analysis about the consumption of information on social networks
Authors: Massarani Luisa , Waltz Igor , Leal Tatiane
Published: December 2020

In this article, we analysed the 100 most engaging contents about COVID-19 on social networks in Brazil, in March 2020, when the disease officially arrived in the country. Within the infodemic context, we analysed the accuracy of the information and the reliability of the websites that guided the debate. Our results show that misinformation/disinformation accounted for 13.5% of the sample and that their average engagement was greater than the one for the information that could be verified in other sources and in accordance with scientific evidence. We also found that professional websites, especially journalistic ones, predominate among sources. The results point to the need to combine science communication strategies with network communication dynamics.
“Excited Snails”. Radicalism and apoliticalism in the novel “Smoke” by Ivan Turgenev
Authors: Andreeva Valeria G.
Published: December 2020

The article is devoted to clarifying the problematics and genre originality of the novel
“Smoke” by Ivan Turgenev, revealing the universal opposition behind the heroes’ external
wars of words, particularly noticeable in the example of the opposition “life — deadness”. The author of the article argues that an important socio-political assessment of the heroes does not convey the entire intention of the writer, presenting the theory of the civilisational development of Russia. One of the main ideas in the civic novel “Smoke” is the idea of progress, which is considered both at the level of disputes between Westernisers and Slavophils, and at the level of ontological life foundations. In the fictional world of the novel, the denied positions of the Slavophils are greatly simplified, and the Westernisers’ views asserted in general are softened and corrected by figurative oppositions. The article demonstrates the connection between the idea of progress and the family theme, the role of the new hero-figure of the post-reform era in the fate of Russia. The novel “Smoke” is considered in the context of Ivan Turgenev’s late creative work, his intertextualities with the stories “Ghosts”, “Enough”, its connection with the subsequent epic novel “Virgin soil” are noted. Special attention is paid to the conflict between the creative hero and the environment, the high society, the path of the personality and the responsibility of a person for each of his actions. The characters of the central characters of the novel are considered, the change in the writer’s intention is shown, gradually reducing the image of Sozont Potugin, whom Ivan Turgenev endowed with thoughts and beliefs dear to him.
The concept of “Christian empire” in the historiosophy of Fyodor Tyutchev
Authors: Tarasov Boris N.
Published: December 2020

The article is devoted to Fyodor Tyutchev’s understanding of the special role of Russia
as a country that still retains true Christianity as its spiritual and historical basis. The
mission of Russia, according to the poet, is to maintain order on earth and the execution
of higher laws, to avoid the onset of the realm of lawlessness. The work shows the process of Fyodor Tyutchev’s comprehension of the inseparability of the destinies of the priesthood and the monarchy, the inseparability of ecclesiastic and imperial history of Russia. The poet believed that Orthodoxy gives meaning to the activities of the state — the denial of Christianity and the imperial-state building based on it legitimises the sinful state of human nature. Calling Russia the heiress of Byzantium, Fyodor Tyutchev comes to the conclusion that it has become the mouthpiece of the fate of one big tribe and of the best, intact and healthy half of the Christian Church. The poet and thinker noted that the fluctuations of the Christian foundations and the slipping from them of the individual, state, society, all mankind into pre-Christian paganism (characteristic for the time of Fyodor Tyutchev) can lead to dire consequences. The author of the article analyses Fyodor Tyutchev’s thoughts on the crisis of the 19th century civilisation, the spiritual essence of which lies in the rejection of the freedom represented by Christianity and in state of enslavement by the autonomous human self and by the undeified political power.
Benefit valuation for a Cost-Benefit Analysis in the context of developing nations
Authors: Loría Rebolledo Luis
Published: December 2020

Cost Benefit Analyses can be useful tools for the appraisal of infrastructure projects and policies. The literature and guidance documents on the application of the CBA methodology are extensive. Moreover, the vast majority of this literature is focused on applications in upper and upper-middle countries (developed nations). This paper adds to this literature by exploring the issues of undertaking a benefit valuation exercise, as part of a CBA, in the context of developing nations. It provides an overview of the different methodologies to value benefits and offers guidance on some of the issues that may arise when such methodologies are implemented in a developing nation. This paper also offers general guidance to ensure a benefit valuation exercise provides a helpful tool to appraise a project in the context of a developing nation.
Pull and push factors as determinant of foreign portfolio investment in the emerging market
Authors: Oke Michael Ojo , Adejayan Adeola Oluwakemi , Kolapo Funsho Tajudeen , Mokuolu Joseph Oluseye
Published: December 2020

The study investigates the pull and push factors as determinants of foreign portfolio investment flows in the emerging market from 1986 to 2018. The study employs autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) bound cointegration test and ARDL error correction model (ECM). This work is intended to explore the determinants of foreign portfolio investment (FPI) in Nigeria and compare the result explored by Kaur and Dhillon (2010) in India. The result revealed that of all the explanatory variables, only MCAP, DMINT, REER, USGS and USINFR have a positive effect on FPI while GDPGR, USGDPGR, USGS and USINFR are significant. From the result of the analysis, the study agrees with Kaur and Dhillon (2010) that the host country gross domestic product (GDP) growth rates and the United States of America (the U.S.A.) inflation rates are among the significant pull and push factors that determine FPI flows in the long run. Based on these findings, the study recommends that economic policymakers in the host country should be more committed to strengthening its economy by boosting its GDP in order to push foreign investors to the economy since the dwindling in economic growth, low rate of return and rise in inflation rates of the developed countries such as the U.S.A. could push foreign investors to the emerging markets.
Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Infections in a Cardiovascular Surgery Intensive Care Unit: Risk Factors and Outcome Predictors
Authors: Yagar Seyhan , ÇAVUŞ MİNE
Published: December 2020

Acinetobacter baumannii (AB) is a ubiquitous gram-negative coccobacillus
that has the ability to colonize and survive in a variety of
environments and develop various resistance mechanisms. In our study;
Between 2010 and 2012, 5400 patients were screened, 74 of them had MDR
AB infection. MDR AB infection is associated with high morbidity and
mortality.