bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive Factors for Differentiating Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors from Leiomyomas Based on Endoscopic Ultrasonography Findings in Patients with Gastric Subepithelial Tumors: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Kim Sun Moon , Kim Eun Young , Cho Jin Woong , Jeon Seong Woo , Kim Ji Hyun , Kim Tae Hyeon , Moon Jeong Seop , Kim Jin-Oh ,   the Research Group for Endoscopic Ultrasound of the Korean Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Published: November 2021

Background/Aims: The utility of endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) for differentiating gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) and leiomyomas of the stomach is not well known. We aimed to evaluate the ability of EUS for differentiating gastric GISTs and leiomyomas.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with histopathologically proven GISTs (n=274) and leiomyomas (n=87). In two consensus meetings, the inter-observer variability in the EUS image analysis was reduced. Using logistic regression analyses, we selected predictive factors and constructed a predictive model and nomogram for differentiating GISTs from leiomyomas. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to measure the discrimination performance in the development and internal validation sets.Results: Multivariate analysis identified heterogeneity (odds ratio [OR], 9.48), non-cardia (OR, 19.11), and older age (OR, 1.06) as independent predictors of GISTs. The areas under the ROC curve of the predictive model using age, sex, and four EUS factors (homogeneity, location, anechoic spaces, and dimpling or ulcer) were 0.916 (sensitivity, 0.908; specificity, 0.793) and 0.904 (sensitivity, 0.908; specificity, 0.782) in the development and internal validation sets, respectively.Conclusions: The predictive model and nomogram using age, sex and homogeneity, tumor location, presence of anechoic spaces, and presence of dimpling or ulcer on EUS may facilitate differentiation between GISTs and leiomyomas.
TEHNOLOŠKE INOVACIJE, NOVI MEDIJI I MEĐUNARODNA SURADNJA IZVJEŠTAJNIH SLUŽBI U BORBI PROTIV TERORIZMA: OD RAZMJENE INFORMACIJA DO ZAJEDNIČKIH OPERACIJA
Authors: Boban Marija , Tomas Matko
Published: November 2021

U okruženju rasta broja terorističkih napada i brojnih globalnih sigurnosnih prijetnji otvara se pitanje uporabe novih medija i tehnoloških inovacija s naglaskom na međunarodnoj suradnji izvještajnih agencija s ciljem borbe protiv terorizma kao i drugih oblika sigurnosnih ugroza s ciljem postizanja više razine sigurnosti. Autori u prvom dijelu rada donose prikaz rada izvještajnih službi te novih medija i tehnoloških inovacija s kojima se koriste pri svom radu. Detaljnije su opisani i izvještajni sustav Republike Hrvatske te neki od najrazvijenijih izvještajnih sustava svijeta poput onog u SAD, Velikoj Britaniji, Njemačkoj ili Francuskoj. U drugom dijelu rada autori istražuju suradnju u pogledu razmjene informacija između pojedinih službi koja postaje ključ borbe protiv terorizma s naglaskom na važnost (i nužnost) korištenja novih medija kao oblika razmjene (i prikupljanja) informacija kao i detaljan prikaz problema koji se pojavljuju uz samu razmjenu. Također, autori predstavljaju i još jedan oblik suradnje između izvještajnih službi, a to je organiziranje zajedničkih operacija koje su uistinu rjeđe te je na njih stavljen poseban naglasak u ovom radu kroz njihov prikaz na primjerima.
REKLAMA, PROPAGANDA I DEZINFORMACIJA KAO VID MANIPULATIVNE PRAKSE
Authors: Manić Mihajlo P. , Aleksić Aleksandar
Published: November 2021

Manipulacija medijskim sadržajem može se pojaviti kroz forme reklame, propagande i dezinformacije. Reklama predstavlja jedan od veoma zanimljivih kulturnih fenomena koji nam svakodnevno zaokuplja živote. Mediji kroz reklamu prikazuju svoj uticaj na čovekovu svakodnevicu, karakter, razvijenost i strukturu tržišta. Kroz reklamni prostor i funkcionisanje marketing službi može se veoma lako utvrditi nivo i način funkcionisanja masovnih medija. To je slučaj sa radio i TV sadržajima jer upravo preko njih reklama dobija na prostoru za najjače delovanje. Dezinformacija je najdinamičniji način prezentovanja medijskog sadržaja. Ona predstavlja laž – laž koja nije očigledna, ali prisutna i latentna. Za neistinu zna komunikator, ali ne, barem u početku, i recipijent. Dezinformacija se prezentuje kao pouzdana i plasirana informacija, čiji je cilj da zavara ili skrene pažnju primaoca sa istine. Efekat je veći ukoliko prerušavanje istine u laž kod recipijenta izaziva nekritičko apsolutno verovanje i iniciranje ponašanja korisnika kakvo komunikator u tom slučaju očekuje. Plasiranje dezinformacija ne zavisi samo od želje, volje i umešnosti komunikatora, već i od tehničkih uslova i mogućnosti sredstava masovnog komuniciranja. Posebno je važna vremenska i prostorna distanca, odnosno, (ne)mogućnost provere tačnosti informacije. Osnovu propagande čine propagandne poruke koje su posredstvom masovnih medija produkt propagandne kampanje. Propagandne kampanje podrazumevaju različite aktivnosti koje pojedinac, grupe, organizacije ili institucije preduzimaju sa ciljem direktnog ili indirektnog nametanja vrednosne konotacije sadržaja koji utiče na promenu ponašanja, stavova i vrednosnog sistema recipijenata. Praktično na delu, propagandom se persuazivno deluje na primaoce medijskog sadržaja posredstvom sredstava masovnog komuniciranja.
MIGRANTI I MEDIJI (pregled istraživanja u Njemačkoj)
Authors: Milošević Sanda
Published: November 2021

Korišćenje medija od strane ljudi sa migrantskim porijeklom početkom devedesetih godina dospijeva u fokus otvorenih diskusija. Do tada nije bilo posebnih interesovanja o tome kako ljudi sa stranim porijeklom sastavljaju svoj lični „medijski meni“. Koriste li (ako su naučili jezik) njemačke medije ili gledaju, čitaju, slušaju i dalje televizijske programe, novine i radio-programe iz svojih domovina? Od tada slijedi sprovođenje čitavog niza studija. One za različite etničke grupe pokazuju da naročito kod druge generacije, koja je u većini, postoji kombinacija dva medijska svijeta. Tako oni ostaju povezani sa jedne strane sa rođacima i poznanicima u domovini, a sa druge strane preko svakodnevnog života u Njemačkoj upućeni u dnevne događaje. Jak priliv izbjeglica iz Sirije, Avganistana, Iraka i afričkih zemalja u 2015. i 2016. godini još je svjež i rano je za temeljna naučna saznanja - naučnicima treba vremena. Ali već sada se kod izbjeglih pokazuje otvorenost i interesovanje za sadržaje iz medija.
OWNERSHIP STRUCTURE AND MEDIA CONTROL IN SERBIA
Authors: Stankov Sanja , Rakić Aleksandar , Bajić Jasmina
Published: November 2021

Who are the media owners in Serbia? It could be a rewarding question in various quizzes of knowledge. Because the ownership of many public media in the country is not a public matter. Corruption in the media itself prevents objective information and public oversight of social activities. But without the media, there is no effective fight against corruption. When government control over the media is stronger than the capacity of the media to control the government, when the interests of the hidden media owners do not coincide with the interests of citizens, when the interests of individuals are realized at the expense of the public interest, which is supposed to protect the state, then the relativization of the problem of corruption in Society.
МЕДИЈСКА ПИСМЕНОСТ СРЕДЊОШКОЛАЦА У РЕПУБЛИЦИ СРПСКОЈ
Authors: Ишаретовић Славица
Published: November 2021

Медијска писменост се заснива на претпоставци да се све медијске поруке праве уз кориштење креативног језика са својим властитим правилима, да различити људи различито доживљавају исте медије, да медији примарно представљају комерцијални посао са намјером да се оствари профит, да медији имају своје усађене вриједности и гледишта. Резултати истраживања спроведеног међу средњошколцима у шест градова Републике Српске, на узорку од 732 испитаника, у шеснаест средњих школа, показује висок ниво изложености медијима, „зависности“ од мобилних телефона, захваљујући којима су свакодневно „онлајн“, као и непознавање медијске регулативе и недостатак вјештина у управљању приватношћу и самозаштити од нежељених утицаја. Због тога што су свакодневно изложени медијима, а ускраћени за образовање које им је потребно да се лакше сналазе у мноштву информација којима су изложени, средњошколци не успијевају да препознају медијске садржаје као конструкте стварности, а себе као друштвену групу под снажним утицајем медија и хиперреалности. Такође, не знају да сваки медиј има свој језик и кодификује реалност на свој посебан начин, као ни то да медији садрже идеолошке и вриједносне поруке и да сви медијски садржаји подразумијевају одређену интернационалност. Објединити свијет образовања са свијетом медијске комуникације захтијева заједнички напор свих: од наставника, ученика, родитеља, медијских професионалаца и доносилаца политичких одлука.
MOGUĆNOSTI DRUŠTVENIH MEDIJA U OSTVARIVANJU MARKETINŠKIH CILJEVA PREDUZEĆA
Authors: Dašić Goran , Stojanović Ivana
Published: November 2021

Zadovoljni i lojalni potrošači cilj su svakog preduzeća. Međutim, taj cilj u savremenim uslovima poslovanja, koje karakterišu dinamične promene u okruženju, globalizacija i tehnološki razvoj, veoma je teško ostvariti. Svi navedeni faktori utiču na povećanje konkurentnosti i veću informisanost potrošača, što rezultira instinktivnim kupovnim ponašanjem i odsustvom lojalnosti. Internet, kao mreža svih mreža, za relativno kratko vreme je napravila pravu revoluciju koja ima veliki uticaj kako na pojedinca, tako i na poslovni svet, odnosno način poslovanja preduzeća. Faza u razvoju interneta poznatija kao Web 2.0 izbacila je u prvi plan društvene mreže koje vrlo brzo ovladavaju virtuelnim svetom o čemu svedoči veliki broj aktivnih korisnika. U ovom radu će upravo biti reči o društvenim mrežama kao mediju koji ima višestruki uticaj na marketinške ciljeve preduzeća.
UTJECAJ MEDIJA I MEDIJSKE TEHNIKE MANIPULACIJE JAVNIM ZNANJEM U INFORMACIJSKOM DRUŠTVU– POSTANAK I RAZVOJ
Authors: Boban Marija , Vrbat Ines
Published: November 2021

Mediji danas predstavljaju temeljni izvor informiranja, a razvoj tehnologije je omogućio njihovu integraciju u svakodnevno funkcioniranje čovjeka. Od samih početaka, mediji su bili sredstvo kojim se utjecalo na javno mišljenje i poticalo na društvene promjene, zbog čega je težnja za njihovom kontrolom od strane interesnih skupina i vladajućih prisutna i do današnjih dana. Povijest je prepuna primjera zlouporabe medija i njihovog korištenja za manipulaciju javnim znanjem, a u suvremenom globalno umreženom društvu kojeg karakterizira medijska sveprisutnost i dostupnost, takva djelovanja mogu imati kobne posljedice. Posebno važna funkcija medija je prezentiranje informacija o radu vlasti i njihov doprinos demokraciji. U tom smislu, moguću opasnost za zlouporabu predstavlja direktno ili indirektno manipuliranje javnim mnijenjem putem medijske kontrole, odnosno medijska sprega s političarima. Mediji su posrednici između vlasti i javnosti, te kao čuvari demokracije trebaju osigurati objektivan i istinit prikaz svih informacija kako bi educirali javnost o pitanjima od javnog interesa. U ovom radu autorica otvara istražuje utjecaj medija na korpus javnog znanja te medijske tehnike kojima se direktno utječe na stvaranje javnog mišljenja. U radu je dan prikaz medijskih tehnika manipulacija javnim znanjem kako bi se ukazalo na važnost osvješćivanja negativnih posljedica medijske zlouporabe, prvenstveno od strane politike i odnosa s javnošću.
KOMUNIKACIJSKE SPRETNOSTI SODOBNEGA MENEDŽERJA ZA KORPORATIVNO ODGOVORNOST
Authors: Starc Jasmina , Grivec Malči
Published: November 2021

Avtorici v prvem delu prispevka izpostavita vlogo in funkcije menedžerjev, ki morajo uresničevati vse naloge v organizaciji. Imeti morajo določene ključne zmožnosti oz. kompetence, kot so: zmožnost podajanja in pridobivanja informacij, oblikovanje koncepta, konceptualna fleksibilnost, medsebojno razumevanje, ravnanje s timi, samozavest, aktivnost in naravnanost k stalnemu izboljševanju, s katerimi lahko vplivajo na sodelavce, lastnike in poslovne partnerje. Zaradi kompleksnosti svojih dejavnosti in funkcij, ki jih opravljajo, morajo biti vešči komuniciranja in suvereno opravljati svojo informacijsko funkcijo, s katero informirajo, nadzorujejo in delujejo kot predstavniki svoje organizacije v zunanje okolje. Vsak menedžer mora biti sposoben aktivnega in objektivnega verbalnega komuniciranja, informiranja in prepričevanja sodelavcev, ustreznega neverbalnega komuniciranja in poslušanja. Obvladovanje komunikacijskih spretnosti je danes v poslovnem svetu bistvenega pomena, zato mnogo avtorjev meni, da bi komunikacija morala biti še ena od osnovnih funkcija menedžmenta, vezana na prejemanje in pravilno interpretiranje informacij in s tem sprejemanje pravih poslovnih odločitev. V drugem delu avtorici predstavita rezultate empirične raziskave, ki daje vpogled v razmišljanje 274 menedžerjev o tem, kakšno je njihovo komuniciranje v poslovnem okolju. Rezultati kažejo, da znajo poslušati mnenja, pripombe in predloge svojih sodelavcev, iščejo vzroke za konflikte in jih poskušajo odpravljati ter spodbujajo redno in odkrito komunikacijo na vseh hierarhičnih ravneh.
EKOLOŠKI MENADŽMENT I DRUŠTVENA ODGOVORNOST: FAKTOR POVEĆANJA EFIKASNOSTI ILI PREPREKA U POSLOVANJU SAVREMENIH PREDUZEĆA?
Authors: Rastoka Jelica
Published: November 2021

Društvena odgovornost i ekološki menadžment predmet su rasprave brojih teoretičara i kritičara. Sa jedne strane, društvena odgovornost se javlja kao zakonska i moralna obaveza preduzeća, čije nepoštovanje, preduzeću vodi ka zakonskim i tržišnim sankcijama. Sa druge strane postoje argumenti koji dovode u konflikt ekonomske ciljeve sa društvenom odgovornošću, te time sugerišu da se preduzeće kao poslovni entitet ne bi trebalo baviti pitanjima iste. Ekološki menadžment u razvijenijim zemljama svijeta dobija sve veći značaj, dok je u Bosni i Hercegovini i zemljama okruženja, gotovo nepoznanica koja se čak i slučaju upotrebe pojma, interpretira na pogrešan način, poistovjećujući pojam sa prosječnim aktivističkim pokretima za zaštitu životne sredine. U ovom radu objašnjena je okolina preduzeća kao uporište potrebe za društvenom odgovornošću, održivim razvojem i ekološkim menadžmentom. Objašnjena je konstantna interkacija koja se odvija između preduzeća i okoline, te zavisnost preduzeća od okoline kao glavni argument za društvenu odgovornost, zatim načini na koji ekološki menadžmenti društvena odgovornost, racionalizacijom troškova, optimizacijom upotrebe resursa i povećavanjem produktivnosti preduzeća, povećavaju efikasnost poslovanja savremenih preduzeća. Kao zaključak, društvena odgovornost, ekološki menadžment i održivi razvoj se predlažu kao imperativi u savremenom poslovanju upravo zbog brojnih pogodnosti koje preduzeće stiče njihovom primjenom u poslovanju.
Toxicity of clothianidin to common Eastern North American fireflies
Authors: Pearsons Kirsten Ann , Lower Sarah E. , Tooker John F.
Published: November 2021

Background

Previous research suggests that fireflies (Coleoptera: Lampyridae) are susceptible to commonly used insecticides. In the United States, there has been a rapid and widespread adoption of neonicotinoid insecticides, predominantly used as seed coatings on large-acreage crops like corn, soy, and cotton. Neonicotinoid insecticides are persistent in soil yet mobile in water, so they have potential to contaminate firefly habitats both in and adjacent to application sites. As a result, fireflies may be at high risk of exposure to neonicotinoids, possibly jeopardizing this already at-risk group of charismatic insects.

Methods

To assess the sensitivity of fireflies to neonicotinoids, we exposed larvae of Photuris versicolor complex and Photinus pyralis to multiple levels of clothianidin-treated soil and monitored feeding behavior, protective soil chamber formation, intoxication, and mortality.

Results

Pt. versicolor and Pn. pyralis larvae exhibited long-term intoxication and mortality at concentrations above 1,000 ng g−1 soil (1 ppm). Under sub-lethal clothianidin exposure, firefly larvae fed less and spent less time in protective soil chambers, two behavioral changes that could decrease larval survival in the wild.

Discussion

Both firefly species demonstrated sub-lethal responses in the lab to clothianidin exposure at field-realistic concentrations, although Pt. versicolor and Pn. pyralis appeared to tolerate higher clothianidin exposure relative to other soil invertebrates and beetle species. While these two firefly species, which are relatively widespread in North America, appear somewhat tolerant of neonicotinoid exposure in a laboratory setting, further work is needed to extend this conclusion to wild populations, especially in rare or declining taxa.
DEVELOPMENT OF LIGHTWEIGHT CONCRETE FROM EXPANDED CLAY MODIFIED WITH TIRE RUBBER WASTE
Authors: Alves Oliveira Herbet
Published: November 2021

Lightweight concrete has as main characteristic its low density due to the incorporation of light materials such as expanded clay, or even the incorporation of air whose function is to reduce the density, characteristic of cellular concrete. In Aracaju city, there are companies that promote tire reconditioning, generating large amounts of waste dust. The aim of this work is to study the reuse of tire rubber waste in light concrete from expanded clay. An experimental program was developed for the analysis of these concretes, varying the percentage of 1%, 2.5% and 5% of the tire rubber waste to replace the natural fine aggregate and 100% replacing the natural coarse aggregate by expanded clay (50% of expanded clay C1506 and 50% of C2215). The materials (cement, sand, expanded clays and tire rubber waste) were characterized through tests of particle size analysis and unit mass. The hardened concrete was evaluated through mechanical tests of axial compression strength, modulus of elasticity and tensile strength by diametrical compression, physical tests of water absorption and specific mass, in addition to image analysis by scanning electron microscopy. The use of expanded clay with incorporation of 1% of tire rubber waste guaranteed better results in mechanical resistance, lower water absorption and greater specific mass than the mixtures with 2.5 and 5%, reaching values close to the reference concrete. Thus, the residue can be an alternative for reuse, avoiding disposal.
Subalternização de mulheres brasileiras em contextos de turismo
Authors: Chedid Yasmin D’Almeida , Hemais Marcus Wilcox
Published: November 2021

O imaginário feminino de beleza e sexualidade ainda se faz presente dentro do setor de turismo. Todavia, ao colocar a mulher brasileira como centro deste imaginário, verifica-se que há um processo de silenciamento desse sujeito, impossibilitando-o de se autorrepresentar. Tal silenciamento é visto por autoras pós-coloniais, particularmente Gayatri Spivak, como uma dupla subalternização desse sujeito: pelo patriarcado e pelo colonialismo. O presente estudo buscou, então, analisar, por meio da teoria pós-colonial de Spivak, como mulheres brasileiras, em um contexto de turismo no Norte Global, são subalternizadas por estrangeiros. Para isso, foram realizadas 14 entrevistas em profundidade com mulheres brasileiras, que viajaram a turismo para tais países. A análise mostra três reações diferentes de estrangeiros frente às entrevistadas após descobrirem as suas nacionalidades, além de discutir como a subalternidade de tais mulheres ocorre por meio de representações irreais da figura feminina brasileira; das violências psicológica e física sofridas por elas enquanto no exterior; e da figura masculina brasileira como seu salvador contra os estrangeiros. Não há espaço, portanto, para as entrevistadas serem mulheres no sentido Eurocêntrico do que vem a ser uma mulher, pois sua nacionalidade as coloca em uma posição de inferioridade e objetificação.
Efficacy of Ascitic Fluid Dipstick Leukocyte Esterase Activity in Early Diagnosis of Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis
Authors: Gupta Sanjay , Singh Heerak
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Spontaneously occurring ascitic fluid infections {Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis (SBP)} are the most common and recurring complications in patients with decompensated cirrhosis with ascitis. Unlike other infections, ascitic fluid infections usually present with non specific symptoms and may be asymptomatic in a large number of patients. They not only accelerate hepatic decompensation, but may also lead to, or exacerbate other complications like hepatic encephalopathy, hematemesis, renal failure and death. The existing protocol of diagnosis of SBP includes ascitic fluid total and differential leukocyte counts, and ascitic fluid cultures, by inoculating the ascitic fluid in blood culture vials, which are not only cumbersome, but also costly, time consuming and cannot be followed in all patients presenting for outpatient treatment for therapeutic peracentesis. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of testing ascitic fluid pH, protein and Leucocyte Esterase (LERS) activity, by using Siemens Multistix 10SG Reagent Strips (SMRS) for early screening of patients for SBP. Materials and Methods: The observational study was conducted at SGRR Institute of Medical and Health Sciences Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India, from January 2018 to March 2019. The study included 329 patients with cirrhosis and ascites presenting in either the Outpatient Department (OPD) or Emergency Room for therapeutic paracentesis or with cirrhotic complications were evaluated for SBP using SMRS for ascitic fluid pH, Leukocyte Esterase (LERS) activity and ascitic fluid protein, for early detection of SBP. The standard diagnostic criteria i.e., ascitic fluid Polymorphonuclear Counts (PNM) more than 250 cells/mm3, by Chamber Counting Method or positive ascitic fluid culture after 48 hours incubation were used as gold standard for diagnosis of SBP. Chi-square test was applied to find out significant association between independent and dependent variables. A p-value of <0.05 was considered significant. Results: Among total 329 patients with cirrhotic ascitic, 81 were diagnosed to have SBP. At a cut-off of 2+, SMRS correctly detected SBP in 77/81 patients, was negative in 4/81 patients and falsely positive in 7/248 NSBP patients, thereby having a sensitivity, specificity, Positive Predictive Value (PPV) and Negative Predictive Value (NPV) of 95%, 97.33%, 98.96% and 96.69%. At a cut-off of 3+, SMRS was able to detect SBP in 53/81 patients, and was falsely positive in 1/248 patients, thereby, although decreasing the sensitivity to 64%, but improving the specificity and PPV to 99.6% and 98.11%, respectively. Conclusion: During diagnostic paracentesis, ascitic fluid LERS activity using SMRS are highly sensitive markers for early detection of SBP, especially in the presence of fever, vomiting and shock.
Current Practice of Branched Chain Amino Acids Administration in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis: A Physician Survey
Authors: Bhargava Vaishali , Sarda Kushal , Das Srirupa
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM) is prevalent in about 65-90% of patients with liver disorders. PEM is usually associated with poor quality of life, high risk of complications, morbidity and mortality, and longer duration of hospital stays. PEM is also associated with decreased skeletal muscle mass and reduced levels of serum albumin and Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs). Therefore, BCAAs are recommended as nutritional therapy in various liver disorders. Aim: To understand the current practice of BCAA use in patients with liver cirrhosis in India. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey was conducted pan India involving 100 gastroenterologists over a period of four months from September 2019 to December 2019. Each physician participated in the survey after verbal consent. Ample time was given for completion of the questionnaires. Results: Out of 83 participating physicians, nearly 3/4th considered liver cirrhosis as the most common Gastrointestinal (GI) disorder where nutrition is important in patient management. Malnutrition was commonly observed in patients with cirrhosis by nearly over 80% physicians and was most common in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Weight loss and loss of appetite can be early signs of sarcopenia as these were common profiles observed in patients with malnutrition. Total 51.8% physicians considered BCAA administration in all Child-Pugh class patients. The practice of BCAA treatment with regards to its dose and duration highly varied for patients with cirrhosis, Hepatic Encephalopathy (HE), and Liver Transplantation (LT). Proteins from vegetarian source (50.6%) and BCAA supplementation (96.4%) were considered as major treatments for HE patients. Majority of the physicians reported that BCAA administration improved quality of life (52.4%), reduced HE episodes (49.4%), improved muscle mass (50%), and reduced hospitalisation rates (49.4%) in 20-40% of their patients. In all, 92.8% of physicians suggested that early administration of oral BCAA can prolong the waiting period for LT. Conclusion: Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAA) is an integral part of nutritional management in patients with liver cirrhosis in India. Further studies are required to guide the decision on dose and duration of BCAA treatment in the management of cirrhosis.
The Relationship of Vitamin D Level with Renal Prognosis in Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis Patients- A Retrospective Study
Authors: Kucukerdogan Cagdas , Oguz Ebru Gok , Okyay Gulay Ulusal , Sahin Hatice , Selen Tamer , AylI Mehmet Deniz
Published: November 2021

Introduction: The level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 is an independent predictor of disease progression and death in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients. However, there are insufficient data to evaluate the possible effects of plasma 25(OH)D3 levels on the prognosis of Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). Aim: To analyse the relationship between renal prognosis and serum 25(OH)D3 status in FSGS. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 56 patients, who were followed-up for at least one year and diagnosed with primary FSGS. Participants were grouped according to their baseline 25(OH)D3 levels (≤15 or >15 ng/mL) and treatment response at the end of one year (remission group or no remission group) was evaluated. Results: Mean age of the 56 participants was 44±13.92 years and 27 (48.2%) were male. Remission achievement in the first year was significantly higher and interstitial fibrosis was significantly lower for the group with a 25(OH)D3 above >15 ng/ mL (p<0.001, p=0.002, respectively). Basal serum 25(OH)D3 level was significantly lower and interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy percentages were higher for the ‘no remission’ group (p<0.001, p<0.001, p=0.005, respectively). Results of the binary logistic regression analysis revealed that low 25(OH)D3 level and higher interstitial fibrosis were independent predictive factors that increased the risk of no remission in the first year (p=0.036, p=0.004, respectively). Conclusion: In primary FSGS patients, low baseline 25(OH)D3 level at the time of biopsy and high interstitial fibrosis are independent predictors that reduce remission rates in the first year.
Clinical Profile, Need for Dialysis and Mortality of Community Acquired versus Hospital Acquired Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Dushyanth B , Dambal Archana , Siddaganga . , Vrushabhveer CP , Hithashree CS
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Occurrence of Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is high in hospitalised and critically ill patients. Most of the cases reported by the developed countries are Hospital Acquired Acute Kidney Injury (HA-AKI). AKI is a major medical complication in the developing world also and is due to predominantly community acquired causes, where the epidemiology differs from that in developed countries. Many studies have reported that Community Acquired Acute Kidney Injury (CA-AKI) and HA-AKI differ in mortality, need for renal replacement and residual renal injury. Aim: To know the difference in need for renal replacement therapy and in-hospital mortality between patients diagnosed with CA-AKI and HA-AKI using Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria. Materials and Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted from January 2018-December 2018 after obtaining Institutional Ethical Clearance by comparing 50 cases of CA-AKI and 50 cases of HA-AKI admitted by the General Medicine Department as per the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Serum Creatinine (S.Cr) at admission, after 48 hours and at the time of discharge were measured. Serial urine output measurements were done. Need for dialysis was noted in both the groups. Both groups were compared based on need for dialysis, difference in mortality and residual renal injury at the time of discharge. Chi-square and student t-tests were applied respectively and p-value ≤0.05 was considered as significant. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 17.0 was used for data entry and analysis. Results: the CA-AKI and HA-AKI groups were comparable in age and gender but differed in some co-morbidities. CA-AKI group had underlying hepatobiliary disorders and Non steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) abuse more often than HA- AKI group. There was a significant reduction in S.Cr over the duration of hospital stay in CA-AKI (mean S.Cr at admission was 4.85 mg/dL, at 48 hours 2.05 mg/dL and at discharge 1.20 mg/dL). S.Cr increased after 48 hours of admission from baseline and declined later in HA-AKI but did not reach baseline in many patients in comparison to CA-AKI group (mean S.Cr at admission was 1.10 mg/dL, at 48 hours 2.38 mg/dL, at discharge 1.57 mg/dL). The highest stage of AKI was stage 3 in CA-AKI group (22 vs 11 of HA-AKI). HA-AKI group had more number of patients in stage 2 AKI (26 vs 18 of CA-AKI). There was no significant difference in mortality and requirement of haemodialysis between CA-AKI and HA-AKI groups. Conclusion: There was no difference between the two groups in terms of mortality and need for renal replacement therapy but there was significant residual renal injury in HA-AKI group.
Effect of Serum Uric Acid Level on Acute Ischaemic Stroke Patients in South Indian Population: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Reddy Karri Vijaya Phani Vardhan , Murugesan Subramaniam , Prakash Thangavelu Arun , Narayanan Balasubramani Soorya
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Stroke is one of the most common causes of morbidity and mortality in the world. Various studies have shown the correlation between the uric acid levels and acute ischaemic stroke. There are several studies which project the cerebro-protective effect of uric acid in acute ischaemic stroke patients by its antioxidant effect. However, still it is a wide area of controversy. Aim: To assess the short term (14 days) clinical outcomes in acute ischaemic stroke patients with reference to their serum uric acid levels on day of admission day. Materials and Methods: This prospective cohort study, which included a total of 74 acute ischaemic stroke patients who presented to Emergency Department in a Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth University, Pondicherry (a tertiary care hospital in South India) within 48 hours from the month of April 2018 and June 2019. The severity of stroke was quantified in all patients using National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) during admission and serum uric acid levels and other routine investigations were measured in all cases. All patients were managed as per American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines and at the end of 14 days their outcome was reassessed by modified Rankin Scale (mRS). The correlation between severity of stroke and the clinical outcome on 14 days with reference to admission day serum uric acid was analysed. Results: A total of 74 patients were analysed, 51 were male and 23 were females and mean serum uric acid was 6.07±0.78 (mg/dL), and mean NIHSS score at admission was 18.32±3.8. Severity assessment by NIHSS scoring system showed majority percentage of population in elevated serum uric acid group were in moderate and severe categories (73.7%, 62.9%, respectively) in adjunct with normal uric acid group. Outcome assessment by mRS showed major percentage population in elevated uric acid group with score 2,3 (score 2-89.3%, score 3-80%) in relation to normal uric acid group. Conclusion: The present study supported the hypothesis that acute ischaemic stroke patients with elevated serum uric acid levels at the time of admission had reduced severity and favourable short term clinical outcome due to its neuroprotective effect secondary to antioxidant property.
Socio-Cultural and Economic Importance of Kete Weaving in Agortime Traditional Area, Ghana
Authors: Wemegah Ivy-Linda , Danso Daniel Kwabena , Adom Dickson
Published: November 2021

Aims: The study investigated the socio-cultural and economic importance of Ewe Kete cloth to the people. It aimed at finding out how the Kete weaving developed as a vocation in the Agortime traditional area, the socio-cultural and economic significance of Kete weaving to the people and how the Kete weaving was incorporated into the teaching and learning processes in the various educational institutions in the Agortime traditional area.

Study Design: The study employed the quantitative approach using descriptive cross-sectional survey design.

Place and Duration of Study: Sample: This study was conducted among the weaving communities in the Agortime-Kpetoe traditional area from February 2019 to November 2019.

Methodology: The simple random sampling technique was used to sample the 100 male Kete weavers. Self-designed questionnaire was used as data collection instrument. Reliability analysis of the questionnaire showed high reliability with Cronbach’s alpha of 0.86. The quantitative data were descriptively analyzed and presented in tables as frequency counts and percentages using the Statistical Program for Social Sciences (SPSS).

Results: The study revealed that Kete weaving industry is a source of employment, income, clothing and socio-cultural identity to the people. The findings of this study revealed that Kete weaving and usage features prominently during lessons involving Basic Design and Technology, Religious and Moral Education as well as Social Studies in schools within Agortime-Kpetoe traditional area.

Conclusion: It was recommended, among others, that financial institutions in the North Dayi District should provide credit facilities and financial support services to Kete weavers and sellers to enable them expand their industry and business activities. Also, the North Dayi District Assembly in liaison with the Small Scale and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Commission should provide credit facilities and financial support services to Kete weavers and other rural crafts to pave way for sustainable rural development.
Virtual Screening through Molecular Docking Analysis to Identify Potential Natural Inhibitor(s) of Lyn Tyrosine Kinase- An In-silico Approach
Authors: Kulavi Sohini , Banerjee Soham , Sengupta Titav , Ghosh Chandreyi , Saha Moumita , Chatterjee Sirshendu
Published: November 2021

Breast cancer on becoming one of the leading cancer types, emerged as an important barrier in increasing life expectancy of the overall population. In the current study, some compounds were screened based on literature survey for the identification of natural bioactive compounds as potential inhibitors of Lyn tyrosine kinase. Therefore, a multi-step molecular docking was carried out using AutoDock embedded in the MGL Tools. After initial screening, molecules having a higher docking score and binding free energy compared to Tamoxifen were considered for further assessment. Some already known synthetic lyn tyrosine kinase inhibitor have been used for better understanding of the comparative study. Based on in silico Lipinski filter analysis, toxicity prediction, pharmacokinetic analysis, four compounds were proposed to be promising inhibitors of Lyn tyrosine kinase. Furthermore, the binding interactions of all proposed inhibitors of Lyn showed strong ligand efficiency in terms of energy score obtained with the help of molecular modelling analyses. Hence, the proposed compounds out of which three are bioactive compounds might be taken forward as potential next-generation Lyn kinase inhibitors for managing Lyn associated breast cancer after experimental authentication.
PLANEJAMENTO URBANO E PARTICIPAÇÃO – o cenário espanhol e o caso brasileiro
Authors: Goulart Jefferson Oliveira
Published: November 2021

Este artigo analisa o ideal participativo no âmbito do planejamento urbano, examinando especialmente como o tema figura no marco institucional da política urbana da Espanha no período contemporâneo. Adota-se o parâmetro analítico de que normas institucionais condicionam os mecanismos participativos. A participação em processos de formulação e implantação de políticas públicas remete ao debate sobre as teorias democráticas e é abordada nos limites de seus enunciados normativos e de suas regras correspondentes. O marco institucional da participação, no caso espanhol, é identificado nos princípios constitucionais, na legislação ordinária e na Ley de Suelo, nos quais se constata baixo grau de institucionalização. Na sequência, são formulados alguns apontamentos sobre o caso brasileiro, no qual, a despeito dos retrocessos mais recentes, ainda vigora um grau superior de institucionalização participativa na política urbana. Metodologicamente, o artigo baseia-se em revisão bibliográfica interdisciplinar e em pesquisa documental de fontes institucionais.
As brincadeiras infantis em comunidade periférica da cidade de Maceió-AL: as relações de gênero em questão
Authors: Barboza Alana Madeiro de Melo , Miura Paula Orchiucci , Oliveira Adélia Augusta Souto de , Leitão Heliane de Almeida Lins
Published: November 2021

Conhecer a experiência de brincar e as brincadeiras das crianças, assim como as redes de sociabilidade que (re)produzem as relações de gênero, são relevantes para estudos sobre infância e gênero. Diante disso, objetivou-se analisar os estereótipos e as relações de gênero, através de momentos lúdicos com crianças na pré-escola. Trata-se de uma pesquisa-ação de abordagem qualitativa desenvolvida por meio de oficinas lúdicas com 20 crianças entre 5 e 6 anos em comunidade periférica da cidade de maceió. Foi utilizada a análise de conteúdo dos dados advindos dos diários de campo e das produções infantis. Foram criadas quatro categorias temáticas: “bela, recatada e do lar?”; “o direito da expressão da agressividade é somente dos meninos?”; “contradições às imposições de gênero”; e “a dimensão social do brinquedo”. Conclui-se que o ato de brincar, reproduz papéis esteriotipados de gênero, os quais são estruturados, por meio de significados culturais compartilhados entre os grupos em que as crianças pertencem e perpassam por um repertório daquilo que lhes é ofertado como possibilidade de brinquedos. Porém, apesar da pré-existência de significados impostos nas relações de gênero, o processo criativo da brincadeira tem a potencialidade de superação dessas desigualdades cristalizadas.
Relation of MRI‐Detected Features of Patellofemoral Osteoarthritis to Pain, Performance‐Based Function, and Daily Walking: The Multicenter Osteoarthritis Study
Authors: Maxwell J. L. , Neogi T. , Crossley Kay M. , Macri Erin M. , White Dan , Guermazi A. , Roemer F. W. , Nevitt M. C. , Lewis C. E. , Torner J. C. , Stefanik J. J.
Published: November 2021

Objective

The study objective was to determine the relationship of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐detected features of patellofemoral joint osteoarthritis to pain and functional outcomes.

Methods

We sampled 1,099 participants from the 60‐month visit of the Multicenter Osteoarthritis Study (mean ± SD age: 66.8 ± 7.5 years; body mass index: 29.6 ± 4.8; 65% female). We determined the prevalence of MRI‐detected features of patellofemoral joint osteoarthritis (eg, cartilage damage, bone marrow lesions, and osteophytes) and assessed the relationship between these features and knee pain severity, knee pain on stairs, chair stand time, and walking less than 6,000 steps per day. We evaluated the relationship of MRI features to each outcome using logistic and linear regression, adjusting for potential covariates.

Results

Participants with cartilage damage in 3‐4 subregions had the highest mean pain severity (22.0/100; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 17.6‐26.4 mm). They also showed higher odds of having at least mild pain on stairs (odds ratio [OR]: 3.3; 95% CI: 1.7‐6.5) and of walking less than 6,000 steps per day (OR: 2.3; 95% CI: 1.1‐4.4) compared with those without cartilage damage. Participants with bone marrow lesions in 3‐4 subregions had higher odds of at least mild pain on stairs than those without (OR: 3.3; 95% CI: 2.2‐5.2). Participants with osteophytes in 3‐4 subregions also had higher odds of walking less than 6,000 steps/day (OR 2.1, 95% CI: 1.3‐3.5, respectively).

Conclusion

MRI‐detected features of osteoarthritis of the patellofemoral joint are related to pain and functional performance. This knowledge highlights the need to develop treatments for those with patellofemoral joint osteoarthritis to improve pain and maximize function.
Efficiency of Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence Sensitized Triplet Upconversion Doubled in Three‐Component System
Authors: Yurash Brett , Dixon Alana , Espinoza Carolina , Mikhailovsky Alexander , Chae Sangmin , Nakanotani Hajime , Adachi Chihaya , Nguyen Thuc‐Quyen
Published: November 2021

As in many fields, the most exciting endeavors in photon upconversion research focus on increasing the efficiency (upconversion quantum yield) and performance (anti‐Stokes shift) while diminishing the cost of production. In this vein, studies employing metal‐free thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) sensitizers have garnered increased interest. Here, for the first time, the strategy of ternary photon upconversion is utilized with the TADF sensitizer 2,4,5,6‐tetrakis(carbazol‐9‐yl)isophthalonitrile (4CzIPN), resulting in a doubling of the upconversion quantum yield in comparison to the binary system employing p‐terphenyl as the emitter. In this ternary blend, the sensitizer 4CzIPN is paired with an intermediate acceptor, 1‐methylnaphthalene, in addition to the emitter molecule, p‐terphenyl, yielding a normalized upconversion quantum yield of 7.6% while maintaining the 0.83 eV anti‐Stokes shift. These results illustrate the potential benefits of utilizing this strategy of energy‐funneling, previously used only with heavy‐metal based sensitizers, to increase the performance of these photon upconversion systems.
Future Directions for Ureteral Stent Technology: From Bench to the Market
Authors: Domingues Beatriz , Pacheco Margarida , de la Cruz Julia E. , Carmagnola Irene , Teixeira‐Santos Rita , Laurenti Marco , Can Fusun , Bohinc Klemen , Moutinho Fabíola , Silva Joana M. , Aroso Ivo M. , Lima Estêvão , Reis Rui L. , Ciardelli Gianluca , Cauda Valentina , Mergulhão Filipe J. , Gálvez Federico S. , Barros Alexandre A.
Published: November 2021

Ureteral stents are broadly used for the treatment of a wide range of pathologies, with different complexities and characteristics. Despite being efficient, the morbidity associated with stents, such as bacterial infection and pain, limits their therapeutic action and often represents an increase in healthcare costs. As no single solution fits all problems, there is still a need to improve these medical devices. Throughout this review, the most recent innovations are outlined and suggestions regarding future directions for ureteral stent technology are formulated with respect to materials, coatings, and designs of these devices. As highlighted here, during the process of passing these innovations to the growing market of ureteral stents, one of the biggest challenges is to increase the predictive value of the in vitro assays and, consequently, reduce the number of in vivo tests needed. Thus, recommendations concerning in vitro standard testing of these devices are provided, with focus on medium, flow conditions, and microbiological parameters. Additionally, the reader is also presented with insights about a crucial but rarely discussed topic, the bureaucratic part of the bench to market process, particularly the product certification legislation in Europe.
High‐performance Stretchable Organic Thermoelectric Generator via Rational Thermal Interface Design for Wearable Electronics
Authors: Wang Yalong , Zhou Ziyang , Zhou Jianbang , Shao Lihua , Wang Yao , Deng Yuan
Published: November 2021

Compliant thermoelectric generators (TEGs) hold great promise in the field of self‐powered wearable electronics. Yet, the low heat transfer efficiency arising from large thermal resistance between elastic encapsulating materials and the contacted objects severely lowers the thermopower. This issue is much more challenging for organic TEG (oTEG) due to the high parasitic heat loss in the whole polymer system. Herein, guided by finite element analyses, a polydimethylsiloxane based composite coated with Cu is developed as a thermal interface without compromising the compliance of the oTEG, which possesses the merits of high thermal conductivity and significantly reduced thermal resistance, thus maximizing the temperature difference utilization ratio to 86%, which is 75.5% higher than for a routine oTEG. As a proof‐of‐concept, 50 pairs of p/n porous polyurethane/single‐wall carbon nanotube TE legs are integrated onto the designed substrate without further encapsulation. Both simulations and experiments on output performance under various thermal conditions are carried out, and show excellent agreement. The in situ output performance tests under various deformation conditions reveal the mechanical robustness of the oTEG. Finally, an oTEG functioning as a body heat harvester and an environment temperature sensor are demonstrated. The outstanding performances unambiguously demonstrate the success of the thermal interface design strategy for promoting oTEGs applied as wearable electronics.
Ligand‐Mediated Self‐Terminating Growth of Single‐Atom Pt on Au Nanocrystals for Improved Formic Acid Oxidation Activity
Authors: Liu Moxuan , Liu Zhaojun , Xie Miao , Zhang Zhixue , Zhang Shumeng , Cheng Tao , Gao Chuanbo
Published: November 2021

Decreasing the ensemble size of Pt to isolated single atoms is the key to enhance the electrocatalytic formic acid oxidation reaction (FAOR) by bypassing the indirect reaction path that involves the poisoning by the CO intermediate. However, it is challenging to construct isolated Pt single atoms on a foreign metal substrate, especially at high Pt loadings, because Pt tends to form large ensembles due to the high Pt–Pt bond energy. Herein, a ligand‐mediated self‐terminating growth strategy is reported for reliably controlling the ensemble size of Pt on an Au substrate. The key is to introduce a ligand of sulfite (SO32−) into the synthesis, which preferentially adsorbs at Pt sites, thus substantially increasing the kinetic barrier toward Pt–Pt bond formation. This strategy enables reliable formation of isolated Pt single atoms even at high Pt loadings (up to 26% coverage on Au), which is difficult to achieve by regular syntheses. The resulting catalyst exhibits a high FAOR activity of 38.6 A mgPt−1 in 0.5 m H2SO4+0.25 m HCOOH, 370 times greater than that of the commercial Pt/C. It is believed this strategy is general and potentially applicable to the fabrication of a wide range of noble metal catalysts with tailored ensemble sizes for energy conversion.