bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sleep–wake rhythm and its association with lifestyle, health-related quality of life and academic performance among Japanese nursing students: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kayaba Momoko , Matsushita Toshiko , Katayama Noriko , Inoue Yuichi , Sasai-Sakuma Taeko
Published: November 2021

Background

Young adults are likely to have activities and go to bed late at night due to their age-dependent delayed endogenous circadian clock. The purpose of the present study was to clarify sleep–wake rhythm and its association with lifestyle, health-related quality of life, and academic performance among nursing students.

Methods

Self-reported questionnaires were distributed to undergraduate nursing students at six universities in Japan. Sleep–wake rhythm was assessed using the morningness-eveningness questionnaire. A quantitative design using the generalized linear mixed effect model was utilized to identify the factors related to the evening type among female nursing students (n = 447).

Results

About 18% of the participants were identified as the evening type. Evening type was associated with living alone, part-time job, and club activity. Sleep duration on weekdays was shorter, meal time duration was the shortest, and the percentages of students who skipped meals and those who gained body weight were higher in the evening type than in the morning type and intermediate type. Mental health-related quality of life was lower in the intermediate type and evening type than in the morning type, while there was no difference in physical health-related quality of life among these groups. The percentages of the nursing students who have experienced absence, tardiness, falling asleep during class, and/or interference with academic achievement were higher in the evening type than in other groups.

Conclusions

The present study has important implications for nursing students’ biological characteristics and lifestyle, which are associated with their health-related quality of life and academic performance.
Cancer cell-derived exosomal circUSP7 induces CD8+ T cell dysfunction and anti-PD1 resistance by regulating the miR-934/SHP2 axis in NSCLC
Authors: Chen Shi-Wei , Zhu Shu-Qiang , Pei Xu , Qiu Bai-Quan , Xiong Dian , Long Xiang , Lin Kun , Lu Feng , Xu Jian-Jun , Wu Yong-Bing
Published: November 2021

Background

CD8+ T cells play a critical role in the innate antitumour immune response. Recently, CD8+ T cell dysfunction has been verified in various malignant cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the molecular biological mechanisms of CD8+ T cell dysfunction in human NSCLC are still unclear.

Methods

The expression of circular ubiquitin-specific protease-7 (circUSP7) in NSCLC tissues, exosomes, and cell lines was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Exosomes were isolated from the culture medium of NSCLC cells and the plasma of NSCLC patients using an ultracentrifugation method and the ExoQuick Exosome Precipitation Solution kit. The exosomes were then characterized by transmission electronic microscopy (TEM), NanoSight and western blotting. The role of circUSP7 in CD8+ T cell dysfunction was assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In vivo circular RNA (circRNA) precipitation (circRIP), RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), and luciferase reporter assays were performed to explore the molecular mechanisms of circUSP7 in CD8+ T cells. In a retrospective study, the clinical characteristics and prognostic significance of circUSP7 in NSCLC tissues were determined.

Results

The expression levels of circUSP7 were higher in human NSCLC tissues than in matched adjacent nontumour tissues. Increased levels of circUSP7 indicate poor clinical prognosis and CD8+ T cell dysfunction in patients with NSCLC. The circUSP7 found in NSCLC patient plasma is predominantly secreted by NSCLC cells in an exosomal manner, and circUSP7 inhibits IFN-γ, TNF-α, Granzyme-B and Perforin secretion by CD8+ T cells. Furthermore, circUSP7 inhibits CD8+ T cell function by upregulating the expression of Src homology region 2 (SH2)-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase 2 (SHP2) via sponging miR-934. Finally, we show that circUSP7 may promote resistance to anti-PD1 immunotherapy in NSCLC patients.

Conclusions

Exosomal circUSP7 is predominantly secreted by NSCLC cells and contributes to immunosuppression by promoting CD8+ T cell dysfunction in NSCLC. CircUSP7 induces resistance to anti-PD1 immunotherapy, providing a potential therapeutic strategy for NSCLC patients.
Mammary collagen architecture and its association with mammographic density and lesion severity among women undergoing image-guided breast biopsy
Authors: Bodelon Clara , Mullooly Maeve , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Fan Shaoqi , Abubakar Mustapha , Lenz Petra , Vacek Pamela M. , Weaver Donald L. , Herschorn Sally D. , Johnson Jason M. , Sprague Brian L. , Hewitt Stephen , Shepherd John , Malkov Serghei , Keely Patricia J. , Eliceiri Kevin W. , Sherman Mark E. , Conklin Matthew W. , Gierach Gretchen L.
Published: November 2021

Background

Elevated mammographic breast density is a strong breast cancer risk factor with poorly understood etiology. Increased deposition of collagen, one of the main fibrous proteins present in breast stroma, has been associated with increased mammographic density. Collagen fiber architecture has been linked to poor outcomes in breast cancer. However, relationships of quantitative collagen fiber features assessed in diagnostic biopsies with mammographic density and lesion severity are not well-established.

Methods

Clinically indicated breast biopsies from 65 in situ or invasive breast cancer cases and 73 frequency matched-controls with a benign biopsy result were used to measure collagen fiber features (length, straightness, width, alignment, orientation and density (fibers/µm2)) using second harmonic generation microscopy in up to three regions of interest (ROIs) per biopsy: normal, benign breast disease, and cancer. Local and global mammographic density volumes were quantified in the ipsilateral breast in pre-biopsy full-field digital mammograms. Associations of fibrillar collagen features with mammographic density and severity of biopsy diagnosis were evaluated using generalized estimating equation models with an independent correlation structure to account for multiple ROIs within each biopsy section.

Results

Collagen fiber density was positively associated with the proportion of stroma on the biopsy slide (p < 0.001) and with local percent mammographic density volume at both the biopsy target (p = 0.035) and within a 2 mm perilesional ring (p = 0.02), but not with global mammographic density measures. As severity of the breast biopsy diagnosis increased at the ROI level, collagen fibers tended to be less dense, shorter, straighter, thinner, and more aligned with one another (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Collagen fiber density was positively associated with local, but not global, mammographic density, suggesting that collagen microarchitecture may not translate into macroscopic mammographic features. However, collagen fiber features may be markers of cancer risk and/or progression among women referred for biopsy based on abnormal breast imaging.
A chelicerate Wnt gene expression atlas: novel insights into the complexity of arthropod Wnt-patterning
Authors: Janssen Ralf , Pechmann Matthias , Turetzek Natascha
Published: November 2021

The Wnt genes represent a large family of secreted glycoprotein ligands that date back to early animal evolution. Multiple duplication events generated a set of 13 Wnt families of which 12 are preserved in protostomes. Embryonic Wnt expression patterns (Wnt-patterning) are complex, representing the plentitude of functions these genes play during development. Here, we comprehensively investigated the embryonic expression patterns of Wnt genes from three species of spiders covering both main groups of true spiders, Haplogynae and Entelegynae, a mygalomorph species (tarantula), as well as a distantly related chelicerate outgroup species, the harvestman Phalangium opilio. All spiders possess the same ten classes of Wnt genes, but retained partially different sets of duplicated Wnt genes after whole genome duplication, some of which representing impressive examples of sub- and neo-functionalization. The harvestman, however, possesses a more complete set of 11 Wnt genes but with no duplicates. Our comprehensive data-analysis suggests a high degree of complexity and evolutionary flexibility of Wnt-patterning likely providing a firm network of mutational protection. We discuss the new data on Wnt gene expression in terms of their potential function in segmentation, posterior elongation, and appendage development and critically review previous research on these topics. We conclude that earlier research may have suffered from the absence of comprehensive gene expression data leading to partial misconceptions about the roles of Wnt genes in development and evolution.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: A comparative study of different acceleration sensors in measuring energy consumption of human martial arts
Authors: Jia Qixia , Yan Zengyin , Wang Yongyong
Published: November 2021

At present, there are many acceleration sensors for measuring human martial arts in the market. However, due to the inaccurate measurement of some acceleration sensors, people who love martial arts are deeply troubled and unable to find an excellent acceleration sensor specifically for energy consumption detection of human martial arts. The development of this sensor is imminent, which is of great significance for the comparative study of energy consumption measurement of human martial arts in our country. In this study, 160 students aged 11–14 years were selected, and the subjects were divided into normal body mass group and abnormal body mass group. Of the 96 male adolescents, 32 were obese body mass, which was determined as male abnormal body mass Group; 64 male adolescents were normal body weight and male normal body weight group; female 64 adolescents were normal body weight and set as female normal body mass group. Using a built-in accelerometer and a mobile phone three-dimensional accelerometer, the subjects were subjected to a 3–8 km/h human martial arts exercise load test (each speed is continuously performed for 5 min). The two acceleration sensors collectively assess the accuracy of the prediction of the use of force in human martial arts experiments. The average power consumption of human art exercises uses a frequency of 60 times/min, 90 times/min and 120 times/min compared to two acceleration sensors. Test results show that the data points for the mobile accelerator eraser are scattered, and the distance between the data varies. The data points of the three-dimensional acceleration sensor are more concentrated and present a certain trend. The use of three-dimensional acceleration sensors to measure martial arts can fully reflect the energy consumption of human activities, and achieve an energy consumption measurement accuracy of more than 94%.
Clinical outcomes of dental implants placed in the same region where previous implants failed due to peri-implantitis: a retrospective study
Authors: Anitua Eduardo , Montalvillo Adriana , Eguia Asier , Alkhraisat Mohammad Hamdan
Published: November 2021

Purpose

There is paucity in the studies that assess dental implants replacing failed dental implants due to peri-implantitis. This study aims to evaluate the clinical outcomes of these implants in terms of implant survival and marginal bone loss.

Methods

Patients in this retrospective study were selected if having one or more implants removed due to peri-implantitis and the placement and loading of dental implants in the same region from April 2010 to December 2019. Information was collected about the patient's demographic data, implant dimensions, surgical and prosthetic variables. Changes in peri-implant bone level, cumulative implant survival rate and technical complications were assessed.

Results

Three hundred and eighty one dental implants in 146 patients that were placed in the same position or one-tooth position mesially/distally to the site of explantation were included. The patients' mean age was 63 ± 10 years. Ninety seven patients were females and 49 were males. After a mean follow-up of 34 ± 17 months, two implants failed. The cumulative survival rate was 99%. The marginal bone loss was −0.1 ± 0.6. Immediate or delay replacement of the failed implant did not affect implant survival or marginal bone stability. All the prostheses were screw-retained and presented the following complications: ceramic chipping (3 events), resin tooth fracture (1 event) and prosthetic screw loosening (1 event).

Conclusions

Dental implants replacing failed implants due to peri-implantitis would be an option in the management of peri-implantitis. They showed high survival rate and marginal bone stability.
Non-attitudinal and non-knowledge based factors constrain households from translating good nutritional knowledge and attitude to achieve the WHO recommended minimum intake level for fruits and vegetables in a developing country setting: evidence from Gulu district, Uganda
Authors: Lomira Benjamin Kenyi Bendere , Nassanga Prossy , Okello Daniel Micheal , Ongeng Duncan
Published: November 2021

Background

The high level of incidence of mortality attributed to non-communicable diseases such as cancer, diabetes and hypertension being experienced in developing countries requires concerted effort on investment in strategies that can reduce the risks of development of such diseases. Fruits and vegetables (FV) contain natural bioactive compounds, and if consumed at or above 400 g per day (RDMIL) as recommended by World Health Organization (WHO) is believed to contribute to reduced risk of development of such diseases. The objective of this study was to determine in a developing country set-up, the extent to which rural and urban households conform to RDMIL, the status of nutritional attitude (NA) and knowledge (NK) associated with consumption of FV, and to delineate non-attitudinal and non-knowledge-based factors (NANK) that hinder achievement of RDMIL.

Method

A cross-sectional survey of 400 randomly selected households and 16 focus group discussions (FGD) were conducted using Gulu district of Uganda as a microcosm for a developing country setting. Level of consumption of FV was assessed using 24-h dietary recall and compared to RDMIL as a fraction (%). The status of NK and NA were determined using sets of closed-ended questions anchored on a three-point Likert scale. Further quantitative statistical analyses were conducted using t-test, chi-square, Pearson’s correlation and multiple linear regression. FGD provided data on NANK factors and were analysed using qualitative content analysis procedure.

Results

Urban and rural inhabitants met up to 72.0 and 62.4% of the RMDIL, respectively, with absolute intake being higher among urban than rural households by 37.54 g. NK and NA were good but the intensity of NK was higher among urban respondents by 11%. RDMIL was positively correlated with NA while socio-demographic predictors of RDMIL varied with household location. FGD revealed that primary agricultural production constraints, market limitations, postharvest management limitations, health concerns, social discomfort and environmental policy restrictions were the major NANK factors that hindered achievement of the RDMIL.

Conclusions

These results indicate that NANK factors constrain households from translating good NA and NK to achieve the RMDIL.
Social remittances during COVID-19: on the “new normality” negotiated by transnational families
Authors: Galstyan Nare , Galstyan Mihran
Published: November 2021

Social remittances- the transfer of ideas, practices, and codes of behaviors- are a well-documented subject in migrant transnationalism literature and transnational family studies. However, the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak has generated unprecedented regulations around the world which require widening the conceptual basis of social remittances in a state of emergency. As the pandemic progresses, most countries require civilians to follow a number of norms deemed as the “new normality,” while other countries continue to operate under their “old normality,” with minor or no restrictions. As national pandemic policy responses vary across countries, transnational families live under different regimes of “normality.” In these settings, the study of transnational families offers a valuable opportunity to examine a special type of social remittances practiced during global crises, and analyze whether the exchange of rules, practices, and ideas across national borders has any impact on re-shaping and renegotiating pandemic-coping “new normality” practices for both migrants and their families. The paper is based on 13 in-depth interviews conducted with representatives from Armenian transnational families with migrant members in Russia, the Czech Republic, or Belarus. These countries provide a backdrop for an examination of social remittances among transnational families that we term “pandemic transnationalism.” The study shows that the circulation of safety rules and “good practices” actively shapes the everyday behavior of migrants and their families, their level of perceived danger towards the coronavirus, and their practical knowledge of safety measures. The latter are often harnessed in informal collective settings despite being in conflict with the obligations and regulations of their home society.
Twenty years of integrated disease surveillance and response in Sub-Saharan Africa: challenges and opportunities for effective management of infectious disease epidemics
Authors: Mremi Irene R. , George Janeth , Rumisha Susan F. , Sindato Calvin , Kimera Sharadhuli I. , Mboera Leonard E. G.
Published: November 2021

Introduction

This systematic review aimed to analyse the performance of the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) strategy in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and how its implementation has embraced advancement in information technology, big data analytics techniques and wealth of data sources.

Methods

HINARI, PubMed, and advanced Google Scholar databases were searched for eligible articles. The review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols.

Results

A total of 1,809 articles were identified and screened at two stages. Forty-five studies met the inclusion criteria, of which 35 were country-specific, seven covered the SSA region, and three covered 3–4 countries. Twenty-six studies assessed the IDSR core functions, 43 the support functions, while 24 addressed both functions. Most of the studies involved Tanzania (9), Ghana (6) and Uganda (5). The routine Health Management Information System (HMIS), which collects data from health care facilities, has remained the primary source of IDSR data. However, the system is characterised by inadequate data completeness, timeliness, quality, analysis and utilisation, and lack of integration of data from other sources. Under-use of advanced and big data analytical technologies in performing disease surveillance and relating multiple indicators minimises the optimisation of clinical and practice evidence-based decision-making.

Conclusions

This review indicates that most countries in SSA rely mainly on traditional indicator-based disease surveillance utilising data from healthcare facilities with limited use of data from other sources. It is high time that SSA countries consider and adopt multi-sectoral, multi-disease and multi-indicator platforms that integrate other sources of health information to provide support to effective detection and prompt response to public health threats.
PTPN22 gene and IL2RA rs11594656, rs2104286 gene variants: additional insights of polygenic single-nucleotide polymorphisms’ pattern among Egyptian children with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Abou El Ella Soheir S. , Tawfik Maha A. , Mohammed Zeinab Sabri , Barseem Naglaa Fathy
Published: November 2021

Background

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) results from environmental and genetic factors.

We aimed to investigate the distribution of PTPN22, IL2RA rs11594656, and rs2104286 variants and its association with T1D in children.

A case-control study conducted on 100 diabetic patients and 100 control children. PTPN22 gene, IL2RA rs11594656, and rs2104286 polymorphisms study were done by PCR followed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) assay.

Results

T allele of PTPN22 gene was presented more frequently 47% in patient group versus 30% in controls, while C allele was 53% in the diabetic group versus 70% in controls showing a statistically significant difference between patient and control groups. Similarly, TT 1858 genotype was found in higher frequency with a statistically significant difference in favor of T1D patients (p = 0.038), OR (CI 95% 3.16 (1.28–7.09).

For IL2RA rs11594656 polymorphism, the frequency of TT, TA, and AA in patients at percentages of 20%, 60%, and 20% versus 4%, 60%, and 36% in controls respectively showed significant difference (p = 0.045). Also, T allele was detected more in patients group as evidenced by p = 0.059, OR (95% CI) of 2.38(1.49–6.12). Whereas, IL2RA rs2104286 polymorphism revealed a difference of otherwise non-statistical significance (p = 0.091). Those who harbored homozygous pattern of both IL2RA polymorphisms frequently had DKA and high mean HbA1C values.

Conclusion

PTPN22 (C1858T) and IL2RA rs11594656 polymorphisms increased the risk of T1DM development, while IL2RA rs2104286 polymorphism did not display any significant association among children with T1D. Having more than one risk allele could affect progression and control of T1D.
Leydig cell tumor of the testis: an incidental finding at 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging
Authors: Yassir Almalki
Published: November 2021

Background

Leydig cell tumors (LCTs) represent the most common form of stromal tumors. We reported the 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) findings of a patient with testicular LCT.

Case presentation

A 50-year-old man with a history of end-stage renal disease and renal transplantation 19 years ago. One year earlier, he started to have a chronic rejection. During the investigation to determine the cause of chronic rejection, a suspicious lesion in the graft with a collection around it was seen on ultrasound (US) images, raising the possibility of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD). The patient was referred for further evaluation by whole body 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging. The image finding revealed an incidental hypermetabolic focal lesion in the right testicle—no other specific findings in the remaining parts of the body nor definitive FDG avid lymphadenopathy to suggest PTLD. Testicular US was requested and showed a well-defined right-sided heterogeneous hypoechoic intratesticular focal mass at the upper pole of the right testis with significant internal vascularity on the color Doppler imaging. The patient underwent a right radical orchidectomy, and the tumor was pathologically confirmed as an LCT.

Conclusion

In our case, 18F-FDG-PET/CT has been helpful in incidentally detecting this rare testicular tumor in a patient with suspected PTLD.
The role of thoracoscopic lung biopsy in the management of children with solid organ malignancies and suspected lung metastases in a developing country
Authors: Wagener Mark , Peer Nasheeta , Sheik-Gafoor Mahomed Hoosen
Published: November 2021

Background

Accurate diagnosis of lung lesions appearing on computed tomographic (CT) imaging in children with solid organ malignancies can be difficult. Therefore, this study aimed to determine, in a developing country setting, (1) the utility of thoracoscopic lung biopsy for assessment of suspected lung metastases in solid organ malignancies, and (2) the pathology of biopsied lesions suspected to be malignancies. The electronic records of all patients with solid organ malignancies who underwent thoracoscopic lung biopsies for suspected metastases at a tertiary hospital in South Africa between January 2012 and December 2017 were analysed retrospectively.

Results

A total of 29 thoracoscopic biopsies were taken from 25 patients. In eight biopsies (27.6%), viable metastatic tumour was identified; in one, a completely necrotic tumour was found. Seven patients (28.0%) were found to have infective aetiologies which required alternative therapies: of these, three patients had tuberculosis; three had bronchopneumonia and one had a fungal lung infection. Other findings included haemorrhagic infarction (n = 1); non-specific fibrosis (n = 1) and reactive lymph node (n = 1). In ten biopsies (34.5%), no lesion was found on thoracoscopy.

Conclusions

Thoracoscopy was found to improve the management of children with solid organ malignancies and suspected metastases. Thoracoscopy enabled many patients to avoid additional chemotherapy and radiotherapy and its negative consequences and enabled therapy for specific benign pathologies including infections.
Menstrual Dysfunction and Athletic Performance in a Transgender Runner: A Case Study
Authors: Holtzman Bryan , H. M. O'Brien Kimberly , Reece Laura M. , Ackerman Kathryn E.
Published: November 2021

A 16.5-year-old, distance runner, female gender-assigned at birth, who identifies as male, presented with menstrual dysfunction and impaired athletic performance. The cause of the menstrual dysfunction and decreased athletic performance was identified as inadequate energy availability, largely motivated by a desired avoidance of menstruation and further development of secondary sex characteristics. The patient achieved significant weight gain (4.75 kg) in the year after presentation and resumed normal menses. When evaluating and treating transgender athletes for menstrual dysfunction and inadequate energy availability, psychological motivators related to the complex interplay between gender identity, disordered eating, and athletic performance must be addressed.
ACSM Expert Consensus Statement: Injury Prevention and Exercise Performance during Cold-Weather Exercise
Authors: Castellani John W. , Eglin Clare M. , Ikäheimo Tiina M. , Montgomery Hugh , Paal Peter , Tipton Michael J.
Published: November 2021

Cold injury can result from exercising at low temperatures and can impair exercise performance or cause lifelong debility or death. This consensus statement provides up-to-date information on the pathogenesis, nature, impacts, prevention, and treatment of the most common cold injuries.
Using Genomic Techniques in Sports and Exercise Science: Current Status and Future Opportunities
Authors: Griswold Anthony J. , Correa Diego , Kaplan Lee D. , Best Thomas M.
Published: November 2021

The past two decades have built on the successes of the Human Genome Project identifying the impact of genetics and genomics on human traits. Given the importance of exercise in the physical and psychological health of individuals across the lifespan, using genomics to understand the impact of genes in the sports medicine field is an emerging field. Given the complexity of the systems involved, high-throughput genomics is required to understand genetic variants, their functions, and ultimately their effect on the body. Consequently, genomic studies have been performed across several domains of sports medicine with varying degrees of success. While the breadth of these is great, they focus largely on the following three areas: 1) performance; 2) injury susceptibility; and 3) sports associated chronic conditions, such as osteoarthritis. Herein, we review literature on genetics and genomics in sports medicine, offer suggestions to bolster existing studies, and suggest ways to ideally impact clinical care.
Improving data use for decision making by neglected tropical disease program teams: eight use cases
Authors: Grubin Liz , Balachandran Lakshmi , Bartlett Sarah , Biritwum Nana-Kwadwo , Brooker Simon , Fleming Fiona , Kollie Karsor , Matendechero Sultani , Mengistu Birhan , Muehleman TJ , Mwingira Upendo , Partridge Brooke , Pavluck Alex , Rebollo Polo Maria , Tezembong Modeste , Treatman Derek , Yeary Rosalyn , Zoerhoff Katie , Zoure Honorat
Published: November 2021

Background: The achievement of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) program goals depends on numerous factors, including the ability of national programs to use high-quality, timely data to inform their decision-making and program delivery. This paper presents a use case analysis of the routine data used by national NTD programs targeting lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis, soil-transmitted helminthiasis, and trachoma.

Methods: The use cases were developed through a combination of secondary and primary research focused on both global trends and deep dives into Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, and Tanzania. Results were refined through a stakeholder convening and the final eight use cases were determined through iteration and prioritization with stakeholders.

Results: Eight use cases were developed: improve treatment register data quality, strengthen supervision of drug distributors during mass drug administration (MDA), generate accurate community-level population data for MDAs, create and manage an accurate inventory of drugs, meet district coverage targets during MDA campaigns, feedback and performance to sub-district teams, feedback on performance to sub-national teams, and national-level program use of data for evaluation and decision making. Each use case identifies key actors and their data-related needs and critical challenges, defines the current and desired state, and articulates the profile of a solution (digital and non-digital) needed to complete the use case.

Conclusion: The systematic strengthening of data use for decision-making in NTD programs is key for reaching the 2030 Roadmap goals. Integrated together, the presented use cases, when translated into action using appropriate and innovative solutions, can help to ensure that accurate and timely data are present at every step of a program and empower countries to use these data to make program decisions.
"A Year of Achievements and Challenges" at the First Regional Conference on the Digital Map of Arab Libraries and Information Centres
Authors: Elmasry Ahmed
Published: November 2021

"The article reviewed the first regional conference of the Digital Map of Arab Libraries and Information Centres, entitled A Year of Achievements and Challenges. The conference was held on (8-9 July 2019) at the headquarters of the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States in the Arab Republic of Egypt. The conference consisted of three sessions. The opening session featured the welcoming and opening speech delivered by Hala Gad, Director of Information, Documentation and Translation Department. The panel session included ten discussion contributions by the working group. The scientific session included fifteen scientific contributions. The workshops dealt with training workshops. The closing session reviewed the honouring of the participants and active members of the project. The conference recommended that librarians should be encouraged to work voluntarily within the team of the digital map of Arab libraries and information centres because of their knowledge of the libraries in their surroundings, and to educate workers and administrators in libraries and information centres about the importance of geographical information awareness. This abstract was written by System 2022"
Aircraft Deconfliction via Mathematical Programming: Review and Insights
Authors: Pelegrín Mercedes , D’Ambrosio Claudia
Published: November 2021

Computer-aided air traffic management has increasingly attracted the interest of the operations research community. This includes, among other tasks, the design of decision support tools for the detection and resolution of conflict situations during flight. Even if numerous optimization approaches have been proposed, there has been little debate toward homogenization. We synthesize the efforts made by the operations research community in the past few decades to provide mathematical models to aid conflict detection and resolution at a tactical level. Different mathematical representations of aircraft separation conditions are presented in a unifying analysis. The models, which hinge on these conditions, are then revisited, providing insight into their computational performance.
A Case of Intestinal Tuberculosis Mimicking Crohn’s Disease: A Clinical and Diagnostic Dilemma
Authors: Weinberg Sharon , Mughal Ahsan
Published: November 2021

This case highlights the importance of differentiating between Crohn’s disease and intestinal tuberculosis. The rates of misdiagnosis of Crohn’s disease and intestinal tuberculosis range from 50% to 70% because of their non-specific and clinically similar manifestations.If intestinal tuberculosis is misdiagnosed as Crohn’s disease, use of immunomodulatory drugs commonly used for Crohn’s disease can increase the risk of disseminated tuberculosis. Here we present a case highlighting the clinical similarity between these two distinct medical conditions and suggest how a similar scenario can be approached, which can help to differentiate between the two otherwise very similar conditions.
YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT IN EUROPE – BUSINESS CYCLES, CRISES, AND POLICY RESPONSES
Authors: Vutsova Albena , Arabadzhieva Martina , Yalamov Todor
Published: November 2021

Purpose: The goal of the paper is to analyse in which countries’ youth unemployment is statistically pro or countercyclical and how crises in the last decade have affected it. What would the plausible explanations for diverging patterns within the EU and other European countries be? In what terms is the young people’s labour market across Europe imbalanced?

Methodology: The paper builds on Gontkovicova et al.’s (2015) analysis of correlations between GDP growth and youth unemployment on an annual basis by adding more indicators and considering the quarterly basis as well. The quantitative approach is enriched by qualitative insights on Southeast European countries studied within the Erasmus+ YouthCap project (CRA, 2020).

Findings: Most of the countercyclical youth unemployment trends in the last 20 years are observed in Eastern European countries (Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland and Slovenia). From Western European countries Iceland, Denmark and Portugal are countercyclical. The most resilient countries in terms of COVID-19 are North Macedonia, Serbia, Turkey and Iceland, which were able to reduce youth unemployment during the coronavirus crisis (Q3 in 2019 and 2020). Plausible policy reactions have been identified based on the concept of learning societies and the need for continuous education.

Practical implications: The paper argues why localised policy responses could be more effective than a centralised solution. However, increased coordination and standardisation of secondary and higher education could lead to increased youth labour migration.

Originality/value: The paper combines a more traditional quantitative approach to the most recent data series with the qualitative approach of identifying various micro-trends by looking at selected outlier countries.
USAGE OF ADVANCED DATA ANALYSIS IN AUSTRIAN INDUSTRIAL COMPANIES
Authors: Wallner Martin , Peráček Tomáš
Published: November 2021

Data has become one of the most valuable resources for companies. The large data volumes of Big Data projects allow institutions the application of various data analysis methods. Compared to older analysis methods, which mostly have an informative function, predictive and prescriptive analysis methods allow foresight and the prevention of future problems and errors. This paper evaluates the current state of advanced data analysis in Austrian industrial companies. Furthermore, it investigates if the advantages of complex data analyses can be monetarized and if cooperate figures such as the turnover or company size influence the answers of the survey. For that reason, a survey among industrial companies in Austria was performed to assess the usage of complex data analysis methods and Big Data. It is shown that small companies use descriptive and diagnostic analysis methods, while big companies use more advanced analytical methods. Companies with a high turnover are also more likely to perform Big Data projects. On an international comparison for most Austrian industrial companies, Big Data is not the main focus of their IT department. Also, modern data architectures are not as extensively implemented as in other countries of the DACH region. However, there is a clear perception by Austrian industrial companies that forward-looking data analysis methods will be predominant in five years.
DIFFICULTIES ENCOUNTERED BY NURSE STUDENTS WHEN WORKING WITH ELDERLY PEOPLE
Authors: Andonova Albena , Nikolova Mima , Kyuchukova Silviya , Ivanova Koni
Published: November 2021

During the training process, nurse students acquire knowledge, skills and competencies to work with different groups of patients. Working with elderly people has its difficulties and specificities. The acquisition of practical skills by students for planning and documenting individual health care for the elderly people is a process in which teachers and mentors have a leading role.

Objectives: To identify the factors which make it difficult for nurse students to work with elderly people.

Methods: The study involved 52 3rd year nurse students – from the Faculty of Medicine of Trakia University in Bulgaria.

A questionnaire was used, including open-ended and closed-ended questions, allowing more than one answer. The data was processed mathematically and graphically.

Results: The main difficulties for students in working with the elderly people are as follows: the process of communication (92.16%), difficult perception of new information (80.64%) and memory impairment in the elderly patient (61.44%); The main difficulties related to the organization of activity - insufficient experience in working with geriatric patients (92.16%); insufficient time for communication with patients (94.08%); lack of comfort in the patient's home (57.60%); a "Diary for tracking and self-monitoring of the condition" of an elderly person - it is very useful for 90.24% of students so that they can monitor the condition of the elderly person; It was found that 65.28% of students do not want to work with elderly people, as 46.09% of them indicate the motive for this as mental strain.

Conclusion: The teacher and the mentor are leading figures in preparing students to work with elderly people. The practical preparation for planning and documenting individual health care for elderly people is very important in the training process of nurse students.
PARANEOPLASTIC ECZEMA AS AN INITIAL MANIFESTATION OF A RENAL CELL CARCINOMA
Authors: B. Georgieva Vanya , V. Markova Tsvetelina
Published: November 2021

Paraneoplastic skin manifestations are well-known accompanying disorders in cases with a malignant tumor. If not treated, some may lead to serious disability. In fact, these conditions disappear after the tumor removal. Plantar hyperkeratosis as the first manifestation of clearcell renal cell carcinoma has not been reported. We present a patient with severe untreatable hyperkeratosis of the soles of the feet. The paraneoplastic etiology of the eczema was suggested, and a left kidney tumor was diagnosed and operated. Rapid improvement of the keratoderma eczema was observed within a week of the tumor removal. The patient has no local and distant metastases.

Paraneoplastic skin manifestations as initial syndromes of malignant disease can help in the early diagnosis of cancer at a stage that allows complete cure.
ASSESSMENT OF THE COMMUNICATIVE ABILITIES OF STUDENTS IN MEDICAL SPECIALTIES DURING THE ONLINE TRAINING PERIOD
Authors: Obreykova Monika
Published: November 2021

Purpose: Communication skills are very important in the medical profession. Challenging for the teachers to develop the communication skills of future medical specialists through online classes during Covid-19.
Aim: To study the opinion of students about the importance of communication skills and its development through online classes during Covid-19, as well as to know the factors hindering the development of the communication process.
Materials and methods: A survey was conducted among 81 students in the field of "Health Care" majoring in "Nursing", "Midwifery" and "Medical Assisting" through a questionnaire. The data has been analyzed with the help of SPSS.
Conclusion: 67% of the students indicated that online learning will hamper the development of their much-needed communication skills to communicate with the patients. The results show difficulties in the implementation of quality health care which must be overcome. There is a need to improve the communication skills of the health care students by conducting special courses to overcome the deficiencies of online learning during Covid-19.
Communication skills are extremely important in the medical profession. It is challenging for teachers to develop the communication skills of future medical professionals through online classes during Covid-19. In the present study, students' opinion about the importance of communication skills and their acquisition during the pandemic through online classes, as well as the factors hindering the development of communication skills were studied. The present study reveals that most students majoring in nursing, midwifery and medical assisting lack communication skills, particularly in their communication with patients with disabilities. This problem is related to the flaws in the educational system for medical professionals, which prepares them to work in the real world.
It is established that a need for approbation and introduction of educational programs to develop the communication skills and to overcome the deficiencies of the online training during Covid-19 in this regard.
THE EXPERIENCE OF A NEWLY IMPLEMENTED ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM FOR MEDICAL STUDENTS
Authors: Ruxandra Otelea Marina , Juganaru Elena , Maria Balan Ana , Viorel Vilceleanu Bogdan , Merlusca Elena , Rascu Agripina
Published: November 2021

INTRODUCTION: In the context of the current public health emergency, an adequate adjustment imposed a transition from a conservative approach to medical education to online teaching and interaction. E-learning also brought advantages to the students, which were assessed in this survey in order to learn how to keep and benefit from them in the future.

METHODS: the data was collected through a questionnaire which included general data (gender, year of study) and the self-perceived progress. Specific questions addressed the quality of the teacher-student communication, or the advantages e-learning offered, while the platform's functionalities were analyzed through a five-point scale.

RESULTS: Among the 536 respondents, 99.81% mentioned at least one feature used specifically in the online training that would be valuable to retain in the future. Students perceiving progress better than expected had a higher appreciation of the e-learning tools. Gender differences in opinion were only correlated with the standardization of the studying process. While time management was accepted as a main advantage, 25% of the participants considered the overall communication better than before. A major disapproval regarding online communication was encountered in years 3, 4, and 5, while the desire to continue the communication through the existing platform was the highest in the first and last year of study.

CONCLUSION: Even in a blended learning process, the digital delivery of medical training needs further improvement and adaptation in order to align with the fast-developing society and its expectations.
A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE USABILITY OF DIFFERENT PRODUCTION SCHEDULING ALGORITHMS AND RULES
Authors: Jurík Pavol
Published: November 2021

Production scheduling optimization is a very important part of a production process. There are production systems with one service object and systems with multiple service objects. When using several service objects, there are systems with service objects arranged in a parallel or in a serial manner. We also distinguish between systems such as flow shop, job shop, open shop and mixed shop. Throughout the history of production planning, a number of algorithms and rules have been developed to calculate optimal production plans. These algorithms and rules differ from each other in the possibilities and conditions of their application. Since there are too many possible algorithms and rules it is not easy to select the proper algorithm or rule for solving a specific scheduling problem. In this article we analyzed the usability of 33 different algorithms and rules in total. Each algorithm or rule is suitable for a specific type of problem. The result of our analysis is a set of comparison tables that can serve as a basis for making the right decision in the production process decision-making process in order to select the proper algorithm or rule for solving a specific problem. We believe that these tables can be used for a quick and easy selection of the proper algorithm or rule for solving some of the typical production scheduling problems.
ONTOLOGY OF THE BULGARIAN CULTURAL HERITAGE. BULGARIAN FOLKLORE
Authors: Ivanova Tsvetomira , Nedeleva Iva
Published: November 2021

This article presents the creation of an ontology describing Bulgarian folklore. The ontology has been developed based on the CCO (Cataloging Cultural Objects) standard. CCO leads us to provide data content standards. The set of ontologies is a knowledge base used by intelligent agents. One of the main problems with systems and developments describing different cultural and/or historical sites is the difficulty in sharing information between individual societies or systems. The use of standards greatly facilitates the dissemination of data. The CCO standard provides clear and precise definitions of the individual attributes that an object must possess. The ontologies developed by Protégé are designed in such a way as to meet the requirements of the standard. The created ontologies describe 7 folklore areas with specific ones being: music, dances and musical instruments. The work on creating this ontology directs us to create web applications of the developed ontologies.
THE INTERNET AS A COMMUNICATIVE TECHNOLOGY AND ITS POLITICAL VALUE
Authors: S. Konstantinov Mikhail
Published: November 2021

The work presents some results obtained in the process of implementing two sociological studies of the consciousness of students in the South of Russia, conducted by the research team of the Southern Federal University in the period of 2014-2016 and 2018-2019. Methodologically, both studies included a series of free group interviews, questionnaires and focus groups. Analysis of the data obtained shows a significant shift in the sentiments of student youth towards greater opposition to the current government: if in 2015 less than two-thirds of the respondents (60.6%) believed that radical changes in Russia were impossible, then in 2019 more than two-thirds of respondents expected serious shocks (72.4%). Among the key reasons for the growing tension in Russian society, students name socio-economic (42.2%) and internal politics (50.0%). But the greatest resonance in the student mind is caused by the attempts of the Russian authorities to control the Internet. Thus, according to a survey conducted in 2019, 37.4% of respondents consider the Internet the most important source of information, and another third (29.5%) point to the anti-constitutional nature of these laws. Therefore, Internet restrictions may well become an annoying factor: 39.7% of those surveyed declared their readiness to take part in protests, if there are any. The analysis shows that the communicative value of the Internet is at a much deeper level of the cognitive structures of student consciousness than traditional political values. The value of Internet freedom turns out to be one of the most basic values for today's youth, comparable to fundamental values such as social connections, recognition, identity, etc.