bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of miRNA-mRNA Interaction Network Reveals Gap Junction Beta 2 as a Potential Candidate Gene Involved in Psoriatic Hearing Loss Pathogenesis
Authors: Liu Queping , Wu Lisha , Lu Chuanjian , Wu Dinghong
Published: November 2020

Background:

Recent studies have shown that patients with psoriasis, a chronic
inflammatory skin disorder that may accompany the serious systemic disease, are at risk of
developing sudden sensorineural hearing loss. The pathogenesis remains unclear, and the
mechanisms of this disorder are difficult to explore in the clinical setting due to psoriasis hearing
loss’s infrequent incidence. Here, we aimed to identify key candidate genes that may be involved
in the pathogenesis of psoriatic hearing loss.

Method:

In the present study, through online database and literature review, we utilized microRNA-mRNA network analysis
and gene ontology annotation analysis, coupled with experimental data from clinical samples, to investigate the relationship
between psoriasis and hearing loss.

Results:

We identified nine miRNAs implicated in both psoriasis and the auditory system. By using bioinformatics techniques,
12 target genes were identified. Finally, the gap junction beta-2 protein (GJB2) was found to be relevant to both psoriasis
and hearing loss. In addition, the expression of connexin 26 (Cx26), encoded by GJB2, was significantly downregulated
in psoriatic patients’ plasma (p < 0.0001) and was negatively correlated with psoriasis area and severity index (PASI)
clinical score (r, −0.286; p = 0.036).

Conclusion:

GJB2 is a potential candidate gene for hearing loss in psoriasis.
Quinoline-3-Carboxylic Acids: A Step Toward Highly Selective Antiproliferative Agent
Authors: Mittal Ravi K. , Purohit Priyank
Published: November 2020

Background:

The 2-styrylquinoline-3-carboxylate derivatives have been reported as antiproliferative
agents.

Objective:

The aim of the study was to enhance the selectivity of the drug to the cancer cells. The change in pKa
value can be the boost point to enhance the selectivity. The selectivity of the drug will enhance concentration in
the cancer cells and will reduce the absorption in the non-cancerous cells.

Methods:

The designed hydrolysis of the ester group was obtained through the reported method to change the
physiological properties, which was correlated with the in silico and in vitro selectivity studies. The compounds
were characterized through important analytical techniques, moreover, the biological results of all compounds
were obtained through in vitro cancer (MCF-7 and K562) and non-cancerous (HFK293) cell line.

Results:

The synthesized compounds exhibited micromolar inhibition with a higher selectivity than their ester parent
compounds, however, the compound showed better activity to the cancer cell, because of the minimal distribution of
the drug in the non-cancerous cells. The compound 2f and 2l were found more selective and potent.

Conclusion:

The designed 2, 4-disubstituted quinoline-3-carboxylic acid derivatives were evaluated in in vitro
cancer (MCF-7 and K562) and non-cancerous (HEK293) cell lines. The most concern issue was resolved by
changing the pKa value of compounds, which was calculated by the software base study. The selectivity was
correlated with the previously reported ester molecules. The synthesized compounds were characterized by
important analytical techniques. The unionized/nonpolar form in the acidic cancer tissue environment, which
enhances the drug absorption ion in an acidic medium, was also proved through the in vitro results; hence the
compound showed better activity to the cancer cells because of the minimal distribution of the drug in the noncancerous
cells. The more selective or less toxic anti-cancer compounds 2f and 2l were reported with all relevant
experimental results as in silico Quantitative Estimation of Drug-Likeness (QED) and Absorption, Distribution,
Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity (ADMET).
Leadership Style and its Impact on Employee Performance at Indonesian National Electricity Company
Authors: Fakhri Mahendra , Pradana Mahir , Syarifuddin Syarifuddin , Suhendra Yozi
Published: November 2020

This research was conducted to determine the effect of transformational and transactional leadership styles on employee performance at the Indonesian National Electricity Company (PT PLN) main office. This research uses a quantitative method with a descriptive-causality research type. Sampling was done by a non-probability sampling method of saturated sample type, with the number of respondents being 73 people. The data analysis techniques used are descriptive analysis and multiple linear regression analysis. Our result shows that the transformational leadership style is influential and significant to performance, while the style of transactional leadership has no effect and no significance to the performance of employees.
Youth Reproductive Health Problems, Service Preference and Associated Factors among Female Secondary School Students in Lay Gayint District of Amhara Region, Ethiopia, 2019
Authors: Mekie Maru , Taklual Wubet , Tesfaw Aragaw
Published: November 2020

Background:

More than one million youth population is reported to die annually from preventable causes of death. Young people, particularly females are highly affected by an unwanted pregnancy, HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), and other reproductive ill health due to lack of awareness about risky sexual behaviors. This study aimed to assess youth reproductive health problems, service preference, and associated factors among female secondary school students in the Lay Gayint district of Amhara Region, Ethiopia.

Methods:

Institution-based cross-sectional study design was employed for 374 female secondary school students from March 10-25, 2019 who were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Descriptive statistics using frequency and other statistical summary measures were performed to describe the characteristics of youths, while binary and multivariable analyses were used to identify factors associated with youth reproductive health problems. An adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was used to measure the association and statistical significance was taken at p-value ≤ 0.05.

Results:

The magnitude of youth reproductive health problems was 28.3% (95%, CI (24.2%, 32.6%)). The risk of developing reproductive health problems was found to be higher among participants less than 20 years of age (AOR=3.25, 95% CI (1.38, 7.65)), those who ashamed to discuss sexual issues (AOR=8.42, 95% CI (3.80, 18.67)), those who had multiple sexual partners (AOR=11.05, 95% CI (4.29, 28.50)), and those who had peer influence (AOR=23.00, 95% CI (8.02, 65.98)) compared with counterparts. While study participants who reported to attend a class every day (AOR=0.30, 95% CI (0.12, 0.74)) and those who believe in the convenience of youth services (AOR=0.04, 95%, CI (0.02, 0.12)) were less likely to develop a reproductive health problem.

Conclusion:

The magnitude of youth reproductive health problems was found to be high. Being young, failing to discuss sexual issues, having multiple sexual partners, and peer influence were found to be the contributing factors for youth reproductive health problems. Therefore, emphasis should be given on the prevention of youth reproductive health problems through avoidance of risk factors and the establishment of convenient youth-friendly services.
PENGARUH STATUS KAMPUNG PARIWISATA TERHADAP PERSEPSI KEBAHAGIAAN MASYARAKAT DI KAMPUNG JODIPAN, BLIMBING, KOTA MALANG
Authors:   Pusat MPK Univeristas Brawijaya, Malang, Rahman Khalid , Fiaji Noveria Anggraeni , Putra Surya D. E.
Published: November 2020

The focus of this experiment is the perception of happiness among residents in the Jodipan tourism village. The basic assumption behind this experiment is that changes in the status of slum settlements in the Jodipan village which later turned into a colorful tourist villageof Jodipan are very likely to affect the level of happiness of the people who live there. This study aims to describe (a) the most influential variables in determining the level of happiness in Jodipan Village and (b) whether there is a relationship between the change in status of Kampung Jodipan (from slums to tourism villages) to the perception of happiness of the community. To test these assumptions, this study uses a quantitative-descriptive approach. The data in this study were obtained through questionnaires adjusted for indicators in measuring perceptions of happiness such as: utilization of time and life balance, speech culture and the value of religiosity, physical and mental health, and community solidarity. The data were then validated and analyzed to examine the relationship between independent variables (X), namely the status of tourist village with the dependent variable (Y), which is the perception of happiness. Furthermore, this study also aims to examine the relationship between sub-variable attitudes and sub-variables of perception of happiness as indicators.
Predictors of professional quality of life among nurses–A cross sectional study
Authors:   Department of Nursing, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Majmaah, 11952, Saudi Arabia, Adolfo Cris S.
Published: November 2020

A good practice environment is a vital aspect of the staffing and retention of health care workers, especially of nurses affecting patient care. This study investigates the predictors of nurses’ Professional Quality of Life working in public hospitals and private hospitals. A cross-sectional design was utilized, including 374 nurses conveniently sampling selected in two public hospitals and two private hospitals in the Philippines using a Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index and Professional Quality of Life scale having a good psychometric property, respectively. The overall mean score for practice environment for Nurses is at a low level, whereas the mean Professional Quality of Life score was at a moderate level. Age is significantly associated with the burnout subscale (r=-0.119, p<0.021) and with secondary traumatic stress (r=-0.193, p<0.001). Monthly salary is significantly associated with the compassion satisfaction subscale (r=-0.140, p=0.007) and STS (r=0.107, p=0.038). Meanwhile, the working hours' figure is significantly associated with compassion satisfaction subscale (r=-0.133, p=0.010). Finally, the practice environment of nurses shown is significantly associated with compassion satisfaction subscale (r=-0.426, p=0.007) and secondary traumatic stress (r=0.524, p<0.001). Filipino nurses have a lower practice environment and moderate professional quality of life. The predictors of the professional quality of life of nurses were age, monthly salary, working hours, and their practice environment. Specifically, the higher the salary and the shorter the working hours, the better their professional quality of life. Additionally, the poorer the practice environment, the lower the professional quality of life.
Efecto de diferentes sustratos en la aclimatación y costos de plantas micropropagadas de caña flecha (Gynerium sagitatum Aubl)
Authors: Isidro E. Suarez  , José E. Yépez  , Claudia M. López
Published: November 2020

Con el fin de reducir los costos de adaptación ex vitro de plantas micropropagadas de caña flecha (Gynerium sagitatum Aubl.) cultivar “Criolla”, el efecto de tres sustratos (Turba, turba + arena y turba + cascarilla de arroz) sobre la supervivencia, el crecimiento y el costo de las plantas asociado al sustrato fueron evaluados. Las plantas fueron micropropagadas en medio MS semisólido adicionado con 0,5 mg L-1 de BAP. Después de remover el medio de cultivo, las plantas fueron transferidas en bandejas plásticas de 72 alveolos dispensadas con la mezcla de sustrato respectiva. Las bandejas fueron cubiertas con tapas plásticas transparentes durante 3 días. Las plantas fueron mantenidas en una casa malla con polisombra del 50% de luminosidad y dos riegos diarios de 1 minuto cada uno por nebulización durante 8 semanas. El diseño utilizado fue el de bloques al azar, los datos fueron analizados con ANOVA y los promedios separados con la prueba de separación de medias de Tukey. Los resultados permitieron evidenciar que la mezcla de sustrato formada por turba + arena resultó en incrementos significativos en el porcentaje de supervivencia, altura de planta  y redujo en >35% el costo final de las plantas asociado al uso de sustrato durante la adaptación a las condiciones ex vitro.
A Co-Designed Active Video Game for Physical Activity Promotion in People With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Pilot Trial
Authors: Simmich Joshua , Mandrusiak Allison , Smith Stuart Trevor , Hartley Nicole , Russell Trevor Glen
Published: November 2020

Background

People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who are less active have lower quality of life, greater risk of exacerbations, and greater mortality than those who are more active. The effectiveness of physical activity interventions may facilitate the addition of game elements to improve engagement. The use of a co-design approach with people with COPD and clinicians as co-designers may also improve the effectiveness of the intervention.

Objective

The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of a co-designed mobile game by examining the usage of the game, subjective measures of game engagement, and adherence to wearing activity trackers. The secondary aim of this study is to estimate the effect of the game on daily steps and daily moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA).

Methods

Participants with COPD who were taking part in the co-design of the active video game (n=9) acted as the experiment group, spending 3 weeks testing the game they helped to develop. Daily steps and MVPA were compared with a control group (n=9) of participants who did not co-design or test the game.

Results

Most participants (8/9, 89%) engaged with the game after downloading it. Participants used the game to record physical activity on 58.6% (82/141) of the days the game was available. The highest scores on the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory were seen for the value and usefulness subscale, with a mean of 6.38 (SD 0.6). Adherence to wearing Fitbit was high, with participants in both groups recording steps on >80% of days. Usage of the game was positively correlated with changes in daily steps but not with MVPA.

Conclusions

The co-designed mobile app shows promise as an intervention and should be evaluated in a larger-scale trial in this population.
Food Allergy Symptom Self-Management With Technology (FASST) mHealth Intervention to Address Psychosocial Outcomes in Caregivers of Children With Newly Diagnosed Food Allergy: Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Broome Brantlee , Madisetti Mohan , Prentice Margaret , Williams Kelli Wong , Kelechi Teresa
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Approximately 2.4 million children in the United States suffer from food-induced anaphylaxis, a condition that is annually responsible for over 200 deaths and 200,000 emergency room visits. As a result, caregivers of children newly diagnosed with severe and life-threatening food allergic reactions experience clinically significant symptoms of psychological distress, including fatigue, anxiety, depressed mood, social isolation, and substantially reduced quality of life. Despite this recognition, there is a lack of caregiver-centered self-management interventions to address these concerns.

OBJECTIVE

In this protocol, we propose to develop and conduct feasibility testing of a technology-enhanced, self-management, mobile health, smartphone app intervention called Food Allergy Symptom Self-Management with Technology for Caregivers (FASST) designed to meet the psychosocial health needs of caregivers of children with a new diagnosis of food allergy.

METHODS

This pilot study uses qualitative work (Phase I) to inform a 4-week longitudinal randomized controlled trial (Phase II). In Phase I, 10 caregivers of children (≤18 years old) with established food allergy (≥1 year from diagnosis) will participate in semistructured interviews to inform the development of the FASST app. In Phase II, 30 caregivers of children (≤18 years old) with a newly diagnosed food allergy (≤90 days from diagnosis) will be randomized 2:1 to receive the FASST intervention (n=20) or control condition (basic app with educational resources; n=10). Process measures include feasibility, caregiver acceptability, adherence, and satisfaction. Outcome measures include caregiver fatigue, anxiety, depression, sleep, self-efficacy, and quality of life measured at baseline, week 4, and 3 months post study completion.

RESULTS

Phase I study activities have been completed, and Phase II participant enrollment into the randomized controlled trial is expected to commence in 2021.

CONCLUSIONS

With limited readily available resources at their disposal, the results from this study have the potential to provide caregivers of children with a newly diagnosed food allergy a tool to help them self-manage and mitigate negative psychosocial factors during a critical time period in the caregiving/condition trajectory.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT04512924: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04512924

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/25805
Education Leaders’ Perspectives on Special Education Research: A Priority Setting Study
Authors: Baumbusch Jennifer , Lloyd Jennifer E.V. , Liou Yu Chyi David , Zou Danjie
Published: November 2020

Research priority setting, an element of knowledge mobilization, makes knowledge users integral to the development of research agendas. To date, the use of research priority setting in educational research has been minimal. The purpose of this study was to explore educational leaders’ perspectives on research priorities in special education. We conducted a cross-sectional research priority setting survey with educational leaders from 60 public school districts in British Columbia, Canada. Seventy-one participants completed the survey. Results of a pre-set list of questions indicated that the top three research priorities were: grade-to-grade transitions, high school graduation, and time to designation. In terms of designation, or student categorization, participants were most interested in “Intensive Behaviour Interventions/Severe Mental Illness.” When asked about other priorities, participants identified research on types of support/interventions. These results have implications for developing a research agenda that can support informed decision-making around policy-development and programming for students with special needs.
Pemanfaatan Limbah Cangkang Rajungan Sebagai Bahan Kitin Dan Kitosan Di Purchasing Crap Unit Eretan “Atul Gemilang”, Indramayu
Authors: Azizi Aqil , Fairus Sirin , Jamilah Mihardja Eli
Published: November 2020

Indramayu terkenal sebagai salah satu sentra produk kelautan dengan adanya pusat pemprosesan dan pengolahan rajungan. Salah satu perusahaan pengolahan rajungan bernama Purchasing Crap Unit Eretan “Atul Cemerlang” yang dalam proses pengolahan dan pengambilan dagingnya menghasilkan limbah kulit (cangkang) hingga mencapai sekitar 40-60% dari total berat rajungan. Limbah cangkang rajungan tersebut belum dimanfaatkan secara baik, bahkan sebagian besar merupakan buangan yang juga berpotensi ikut andil dalam mencemari lingkungan. Melalui program kemitraan bagi masyarakat (PkM) Universitas Bakrie telah melakukan abdimas dengan Purchasing Crap Unit Eretan “Atul Cemerlang” yang bertujuan memanfaatan cangkang rajungan dengan mengolah menjadi kitin dan kitosan yang kemudian diperuntukan untuk berbagai kebutuhan seperti nutrisi pangan, farmasi dan biomedis, kosmetik, lingkungan dan pertanian. Tim abdimas bertindak sebagai fasilitator dan instruktur dalam kegiatan pelatihan yang meliputi kegiatan (a) pembuatan kitin dan kitosan skala laboratorium, (b) pelatihan dan diseminasi teknologi pembuatan kitin dan kitosan serta aplikasinya dalam berbagai bidang. Hasil dari pelatihan diketahui dapat meningkatkan pemahaman dan keterampilan mitra dalam (a) mengolah limbah cangkang menjadi kitin dan kitosan (b) aplikasi kitin dan kitosan dalam berbagai bidang industri. Harapan kedepannya adalah meningkatnya pendapatan mitra dan juga kesejahteraan masyarakat nelayan secara luas.
Perception of danger by law enforcement officers with different levels of professional victimization
Authors:   Cherepovets State University, KRASAVTSEVA EKATERINA M.
Published: November 2020

The relevance of the study regarding the peculiarities of the attitude to danger of law enforcement officers is due to the need to create a complex of protection for law enforcement officials, which is an integral part of regulating public order and maintaining public safety, including preserving the identity of the employee himself. The author reveals the relationship between the degree of professional victimization and the level of sensitivity to threats among law enforcement officials. The peculiarities of the relationship between professional victimization and the attitude to danger of law enforcement officers with a tendency to risk and direction of aggression were studied: self-aggression and aggression towards people. Professional victimization is considered as a psychologically negative professional and personal formation, which creates the threat of accidents, injuries or death of an employee during actions in criminally dangerous and other critical situations. Victim mental states (anxiety, fear, stress) and victim qualities (high achievement motivation, exaggerated employee self-esteem, impulsiveness, arrogance, aggression) determine the structure of professional victimization, which creates a tendency to the unjustified risk. The practical application and use of knowledge in this field by psychologists of law enforcement agencies will prevent possible accidents among law enforcement officers.
International legal immunities and privileges of the Рrosecutor amicus curiae
Authors:   Embassy of the Russian Federation in the French Republic and Principality of Monaco, KOPYLOVA EKATERINA A.
Published: November 2020

The article considers the international legal regime of immunities and privileges of amicus curiae prosecutors of international criminal courts which are intended to ensure independent and unhindered performance of their functions in prosecuting crimes against the administration of justice. Due to the lack of doctrinal research in this field, whether in the domestic or foreign science of international law, the study is characterized by scientific novelty. Its empirical basis is constituted of the provisions of international treaties governing the immunities and privileges of staff of the ad hoc international criminal tribunals and the International Criminal Court. It is noted that today the state of international legal regulation of immunities and privileges of amicus curiae prosecutors is not quite satisfactory as it contains significant gaps. Two possible approaches to determining the scope of the immunities and privileges of amicus curiae prosecutors are identified: the first based on their status and the second – on the functions they perform. Their critical analysis leads to the conclusion that the functional approach is more in line with the principle of equality of arms in international criminal proceedings. As a result of its application, the scope of the immunities and privileges of amicus curiae prosecutors coincides with the scope of the immunities and privileges granted to staff of the Offices of Prosecutors at the international criminal tribunals.
Certain issues of the formation of the administrative and legal status of the Judicial Department at the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation
Authors:   Institute of Economics, Management and Law, Russian State University for the Humanities, LESNYKH ELENA A.
Published: November 2020

The subject of this article is the administrative and legal status of the Judicial Department under the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation. A critical analysis of some provisions of the Federal law ‘On the Judicial Department’, which are not quite successful, in the author’s opinion, reveals a trend in the development of the legal status of the Department, which does not go beyond the narrowly utilitarian implementation of the functions of financial, material, technical and personnel support for real access to justice. Based on the analysis of scientific and practical literature, normative material, the author reveals a contradiction between the recognized in the literature some uncertainty of legal status, on the one hand, and adequate and effective work that corresponds to the tasks facing the Department, on the other. There are obvious contradictions and gaps in the legal regulation of the Department’s activities that require correction. Thus, the definition of the Department ‘under’ the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation puts it formally and legally, in terms of literal interpretation of the law, in direct administrative subordination. To ensure full independence of the Judicial Department as ‘non-systemic’ beyond the branches of government, public authority proposed to withdraw it from the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court in personnel matters with the appointment of the Head of Department by the decree of the President of Russia on representation of the Council of judges.
Digital rights of man and citizen: constitutional dimension
Authors:   Saratov State Law Academy, LIPCHANSKAYA MARIA A.
Published: November 2020

The article examines the meaning of digital rights in the constitutional and legal aspects. The author criticizes the concept of digital rights as new objects of civil rights in domestic civil legislation since it contradicts the established world practice in understanding such a term as “digital rights”, as well erroneously ascribes certain powers of other subjective rights as independent ones, which can be realized through digital technologies. The article considers the incorrect assignment to digital rights of some constitutional rights, enshrined in the Russian constitution (rights to information, the right to privacy, freedom of the media). According to the author, digital rights in the constitutional and legal framework should be considered only those that either appeared along with the emergence of modern digital technologies, or acquired a significantly new meaning. The article gives some examples of such rights (the right to Internet access; the right to communication; the right to protection from machine processing of information) and states the conclusion on the formation of a constitutional and legal institution of digital rights at the present time.
Country ratings: today and tomorrow
Authors:   Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, MARGOLIN ANDREY M. , SPITSYNA TATIANA A. ,   Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration
Published: November 2020

Practical use of the most well-known country ratings does not always allow obtaining objective information about the real situation in various countries and assessing the prospects for their development. Popular wisdom expressed by the aphorism ‘We have not noticed how the truth has been replaced with ratings’ is becoming increasingly popular. The article proposes a tool for analyzing the relationship between the positions of different countries in the most popular ratings, based on the use of a matrix of paired correlation coefficients, assessing their significance according to the Pearson criterion and the strength of the correlation connection on the Cheddock scale. Based on the calculations, it was found that the dynamics of the countries advancement in the Doing Business ranking did not have statistically significant correlation with almost any ratings and macroeconomic indicators characterizing the real dynamics of socio-economic development. Shortcomings in the methods of ranking countries by prosperity, social development, rule of law index, level of perception of corruption, global happiness index are considered. Arguments are made that once the Coronavirus pandemic has been overcome, it is more likely that ratings will be more in demand to assess the quality of national security and the extent to which sustainable development goals have been achieved. It is proved that it is advisable to include the Global competitiveness rating, Human development index and SDG index as the most promising ratings that clearly demonstrate the country’s specific achievements in economic reforms and the growth of its international prestige.
“Pros” and “cons” of the draft Law on long-term programming of scientific research – a mechanism for long-term state regulation of R&D projects in France
Authors:   Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, PONOMARENKO ELENA V. , ODDO VIRGINIE ,   Université Côte d’Azur
Published: November 2020

There is a fierce competitive fight for innovation and talent all over the world. As we know, talented and competent personnel appear in higher education and scientific research. Now, the country’s competitiveness depends both on its ability to realize the innovative potential, and on the ability to respond to global challenges – environmental, social, epidemiological, etc. In this regard, the experience of France, associated with its ambitious goals, to take a leading position in the field of R&D, to update the formation mechanism within the country and attract talented researchers, to strengthen research potential, to develop institutional forms of support for innovation and to attract public and private investment, looks quite interesting. The most important thing for us is a specific toolkit for resolving the contradictions of accumulated problems in French society to develop the processes of research and innovation as a whole. At present, serious discussions are underway on the government’s draft Law on the long-term programming of scientific research, and in this article, we present the results of these disputes.
Administrative and legal aspects of productive longevity in the Russian Federation
Authors:   Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, SINYUGIN VYACHESLAV Y.
Published: November 2020

The article discusses the urgent problems of increasing life expectancy and involving older people in the active social space in accordance with the Decree of the President of the Russian Federation No.204 of May 7, 2018 “On national goals and strategic tasks for development of the Russian Federation for the period until 2024”. The article considers the term ‘productive longevity’ as a comprehensive idea of the tasks facing the authorities in this direction. It is noted that the regulatory framework provides the basis for the development and implementation of the program of systemic support and improvement of the quality of life of older citizens. The author proposes to consolidate the main signs of active longevity, which could be considered as criteria for the involvement and participation of various ministries and departments in fulfilling the tasks formulated by the Presidential Decree. In addition, the features of public administration by solving the problem of active longevity are considered. The need for interagency cooperation, as well as the creation of a federal portal on the Internet, is noted, where all available opportunities for the older generation will be laid out in the public domain: for the field of healthcare, education, and creative implementation. The need for targeted use of capital investments and systematic use of the resources laid down for the implementation of the program is emphasized.
Cryopreservation of human Wharton’s jelly multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells with reduced concentration of dimethyl sulfoxide
Authors:   National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Tsymbaliuk V. , Deryabina O. ,   State Institute of Genetic and Regenerative Medicine of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine; Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Shuvalova N. ,   State Institute of Genetic and Regenerative Medicine of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Verbovska S. ,   Romodanov State Institute of Neurosurgery of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Pichkur L. ,   Romodanov State Institute of Neurosurgery of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Olexenko N. ,   Romodanov State Institute of Neurosurgery of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Kordium V. ,   State Institute of Genetic and Regenerative Medicine of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine; Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: November 2020

The urgent problem of long-term storage of multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MMSCs) is to improve the protocol of their cryopreservation for further application maintaining the therapeutic properties and minimizing the risks of adverse effects on the health of the recipient. As a standard cryoprotectant, a mixture of 90 % fetal bovine serum (FBS) and 10 % dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is used, which, however, can cause a variety of adverse reactions. Therefore, it is important to study the possibility of reducing the concentration of potentially dangerous DMSO by adding other components to the mixture for cell cryopreservation. Purpose. To determine the efficiency of cryopreservation of human Wharton's jelly MMSCs using cryoprotectants of different composition by studying the proliferative activity, phenotype and features of cell morphology in culture in vitro. Materials and methods. The cryoprotective effect of various combinations of DMSO, ethylene glycol, sucrose and trehalose was studied. The efficacy was assessed by cell viability, their adhesive properties, expansion rate and monolayer formation, as well as the expression of main MMSCs markers. Results. It is shown that the most effective combination is 4 % DMSO with 6 % trehalose which provides the highest level of preservation of cell viability, as well as their adhesive and proliferative properties during thawing. Other combinations of the cryoprotectant components showed a much slower cell division, in some cases, the monolayer was not formed at all. For all investigated variants, the main surface markers of MMSCs were preserved. Conclusions. The obtained results indicate the possibility of reducing the concentration of DMSO to 4 % in the freezing medium for MMSCs cryopreservation while maintaining their viability, proliferative activity and common surface markers.
Cell death as part of Innate Immunity: cause or consequence?
Authors: Riera-Romo Mario
Published: November 2020

Regulated or programmed cell death play a critical role in development
and tissue organization and function. In addition, it is intrinsically
connected with immunity and host defense. Increasing cellular and
molecular findings are changing the concept of cell death, revealing an
expanding network of regulated cell death modalities and their
biochemical programs. Likewise, recent evidences are demonstrating the
interconnection between cell death pathways and how they are involved in
different immune mechanisms. This work provides an overview of the main
cell death programs and their implication in innate immunity not only as
an immunogenic/inflammatory process, but also as an active defense
strategy during immune response and at the same time, as a regulatory
mechanism.
A case of atrioventricular junction ablation and permanent left bundle branch pacing for patient with refractory atrial fibrillation and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Zhang Ning , Liu Shan , Zhang Shou , Wei Yan , Xie Le , Li Xin
Published: November 2020

Atrioventricular node ablation (AVNA) combined with His bundle pacing
(HBP) are feasible, safe, and effective in patients with refractory
atrial fibrillation (AF), however, the pacing parameters of sensing and
capture threshold maybe sometimes unsatisfactory. Left bundle branch
pacing (LBBP) provides obvious advantage in patients with conduction
diseases at the distal His bundle for its better sensing, a lower and
more stable capture threshold. Among hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
patients, AF is a common sustained arrhythmia, primarily caused by left
atrial dilatation and remodeling. Few is known about the feasibility of
electrophysiological performance, safety and clinical effectiveness of
atrioventricular junction ablation (AVJA) combined with LBBP in patient
with refractory AF and HCM. Here, we report a case of a 56-year-old
woman suffering from refractory AF and HCM, however HBP was failed for
its unsatisfactory sensing, a high and unstable capture threshold for
her, therefore, ablation and LBBB were accepted by her to achieve better
rate control. Improvement in symptoms, quality of life, and exercise
capacity has been observed during the 1.5-year follow-up. To our
knowledge, our case originally confirmed that the combination of AVJA
and LBBP, without the defect of AVNA combined with HBP, is a better
strategy with feasibility and safety for refractory AF patients with
comorbidity of HCM, additionally, it may make LBBP more applicable and
valuable among patients suffering from HCM meanwhile pace maker
treatments are essential.
Cryoballoon atrial fibrillation ablation: Single-center safety and efficacy data using a novel cryoballoon technology compared to a historical balloon platform.
Authors: Kochi Adriano , Moltrasio Massimo , Tundo Fabrizio , Riva Sfefania Isabella , Ascione Ciro , Dessanai Maria Antonietta , Pizzamiglio Francesca , Vettor Giulia , Cellucci Selene , Gasperetti Alessio , Tondo Claudio , Fassini Gaetano
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Catheter ablation is superior to drugs regarding atrial
fibrillation (AF) recurrence, symptoms improvement, and mortality
reduction in heart failure. POLARx™ is a novel cryoballoon, with
technical improvements seeking to improve outcomes. So far, its clinical
evidence is restricted to a case report. Methods: To compare the POLARx™
cryoballoon procedural safety and efficacy to the already established
Arctic Front Advance PRO™ (AFAP) in a single-center cohort study,
consecutive patients undergoing AF cryoablation with the POLARx™ were
enrolled. Data were prospectively gathered. POLARx™ patients were
compared to a historical cohort of patients submitted to AF cryoablation
with the AFAP. Results: Seventy patients were analyzed, 20 in POLARx™,
and 50 in the AFAP group. They all underwent first-time pulmonary vein
isolation, 77% were male, 94% had paroxysmal AF, median age was 62.5
years, median CHA2DS2-VASc 1, left-atrium size 34ml/m², and 65% were
receiving anticoagulation. The primary end-point, all pulmonary veins
isolation, was 100% in both groups. The complication rate was similar
(0% POLARx™ vs. 5.7% AFAP, p=0.39). The median total procedural time
was longer in the POLARx™ group (90min vs. 60min, p<0.001),
but the overall time-to-isolation (TTI) (44.8sec vs. 39sec, p=0.253) and
ablation time (15min vs. 13.7min, p=0.122) was similar between POLARx™
and AFAP groups, respectively. Despite equal TTI, the POLARx™ had a
lower minimal temperature reached (-57ºC vs -47ºC, p<0.001).
Conclusion: The novel POLARx™ cryoballoon had similar efficacy and
safety compared to the AFAP. It was also associated with longer
procedural times, similar TTI, and lower minimum temperature reached.
HOW TO SPOT COVID-19 PATIENTS: SPEECH & SOUND AUDIO ANALYSIS FOR PRELIMINARY DIAGNOSIS OF SARS-COV-2 CORONA PATIENTS
Authors: Sharma Amit , Baldi Ashish , Sharma Dinesh Kumar
Published: November 2020

Background: The global cases of Covid-19 increasing day by day. On Nov.
25, 2020, a total of 59,850,910 cases reported globally with a 1,411,216
global death. In India, total cases in the country now stand at
91,77,841 including 86,04,955 recoveries and 4,38,667 active cases as of
Nov. 24, 2020, as per data issued by ICMR. A new generation of
voice/audio analysis application which can tell whether the person is
suffering from COVID-19 or not. Aims: To describe how to establish a new
generation of voice/audio analysis applications to identify the
suspected covid-19 hidden cases in hotspot areas with the help of an
audio sample of the general public. Materials & Methods: The different
patents and data available as literature on the internet are evaluated
to make a new generation of voice/audio analysis application with the
help of an audio sample of the general public. Results: The collection
of the audio sample will be done from the already suffered covid-19
patients in (.Wave files) personally or through phone calls. The audio
samples like the sound of the cough, the pattern of breathing,
respiration rate, and way of speech will be recorded. The parameters
will be evaluated for loudness, articulation, tempo, rhythm, melody, and
timbre. The analysis and interpretation of the parameters can be made
through machine learning and artificial intelligence to detect corona
cases with an audio sample. Discussion: The voice/audio application
current project can be merged with a mobile App called “Aarogya Setu”
by Govt. of India. The project can be implemented in the high-risk area
of Covid-19 in the country. Conclusion: This new method of detecting
cases will decrease the workload in the covid-19 laboratory.
Impact of SARS-Cov-2 on ectopic pregnancies management in the United Kingdom: a multicentre paired observational study
Authors: Platts Sophie , Ranawakagedon Jeewantha , Oliver Reeba , Das Sayantana , Kotabagi Phalguni , Neophytou Christina , Shah Neha , Toal Matthew , Davison Amelia , Gbegbaje Mary , Rao Kalpanas , Rouabhi Schahrazed , Watson Sandra , Odejinmi Funlayo
Published: November 2020

Objective: to describe the impact of COVID-19 on the management of
patients with ectopic pregnancy. Design: a multicentre study comparing
outcomes from a prospective cohort during the pandemic [Covid-ectopic
pregnancy registry (CEPR)] compared to an historical pre-pandemic
cohort [non-Covid ectopic pregnancy registry (NCEPR)]. Setting: five
London university hospitals. Population and Methods: consecutive
patients diagnosed clinically and/or radiologically with ectopic
pregnancy (March/2020-Aug/2020) were entered into the CEPR and an
exploratory matched analysis was performed comparing results to NCEPR
patients (January/2019-June/2019). Main outcome measures: patient
demographics, management (expectant, medical and surgical), length of
treatment, number of hospital visits (non-surgical management), length
of stay (surgical management) and 30-day complications. Results: 341
patients met inclusion: 162 CEPR and 179 NCEPR. A significantly higher
percentage of women underwent non-surgical management versus surgical
management in the CEPR versus NCEPR (58.6% [95/162] vs 72.6%
[130/179]; p= 0.0084]. Amongst patients managed with expectant
management the CEPR had a significantly lower mean number of hospital
visits compared to NCEPR [3.6 [SD 1.4] vs 13.7 [SD 13.4], p=
0.0053]. Amongst patients managed with medical management, the CEPR
had a significantly lower mean number of hospital visits [NCEPR 6.4
[SD 2.3] vs 8.8 [SD 3.9], p= 0.0014]. There was no observed
difference in complication rates between cohorts. Conclusion: women were
found to undergo significantly higher rates of non-surgical management
during COVID-19 first wave vs NCEPR cohort. Women managed non-surgically
in CPER cohort were also managed with fewer hospital attendances. This
did not lead to an increase in observed complications rates.
Alcohol abuse as a risk factor for developing thyroid cancer
Authors: Kalezic Nevena , Karadzic-Kocica Milica , Dimic Nemanja , Kocica Mladen , Toskovic Anka , Jovanovic Milan , Dimitrijevic Ivan
Published: November 2020

Introduction/Objective. Alcohol abuse influence on developing thyroid cancer is controversial. While some studies consider it a protective factor, others deny any impact on thyroid cancer. The objective of the paper was to establish a possible link between alcohol abuse and certain types of thyroid cancers. Methods. The retrospective study included 502 patients with thyroid cancer and a control group of 600 patients with benign forms of thyroid diseases (e.g. nodular, multinodular, and toxic nodular goiter). Thyroid cancer patients were divided into four groups: I ? papillary, II ? medullary, III ? anaplastic, and IV ? follicular carcinoma, and grouped by sex, age (< 30 years; > 30 years) and alcohol abuse, as defined by the World Health Organization. Results. Thyroid cancer patients were predominantly male of younger age. This distribution difference was statistically significant in groups I and II (p < 0.001). Of total 10 (0.9%) patients with chronic alcohol abuse, eight (1.6%) had thyroid cancer, while two (0.3%) belonged to the control group (p < 0.001). In thyroid cancer patients, chronic alcohol abuse was absent from groups III and IV. Distribution in groups I and II was six (1.6%) and two (2%), respectively (p < 0.001). Conclusion. Alcohol abuse deserves to be considered as a risk factor for papillary and medullary forms of thyroid cancer, while it does not stay the same for anaplastic and follicular thyroid cancers.
A new general fractional derivative Goldstein-Kac-type telegraph equation
Authors: Cui Ping , Feng Yi-Ying , Liu Jian-Gen , Geng Lu-Lu
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we consider the Riemann-Liouville-type general fractional
derivatives of the non-singular kernel of the one-parametric
Lorenzo-Hartley function. A new general fractional-order-derivative
Goldstein-Kac-type telegraph equation is proposed for the first time. The
analytical solution of the considered model with the graphs is obtained with
the aid of the Laplace transform. The general fractional-order-derivative
formula is as a new mathematical tool proposed to model the anomalous
behaviors in complex and power-law phenomena.
Advanced visions and problem-solving strategies across energy water and environment systems
Authors: Raskovic Predrag , Vujanovic Milan , Schneider Daniel , Guzovic Zvonimir , Duic Neven
Published: November 2020

This editorial provides an overview of twenty scientific articles published
in the special issue of Thermal Science. The papers were selected from among
601 contributions presented at the 14th Conference on Sustainable
Development of Energy, Water and Environment Systems (SDEWES 2019), held
October 1-6, 2019 in the city of Dubrovnik, Croatia. The topics covered in
the special issue include: Energy savings in the building sector; Advanced
combustion techniques and fuels; Combined heat and mass transfer of
fluid-flow; and Sustainability issues in industrial and power plants:
challenges and viable solutions. The editorial also emphasised the papers
recently published in the Special Issues of leading scientific journals
dedicated to the series of SDEWES Conferences.