bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation on Cultural Characterization and Parasexual Recombination in Pyricularia Grisea, Causal Agent of Blast of Rice
Authors: BOYAPATI RAVI TEJA NAIDU , Barnwal Manoj Kumar , KUMAR RISHIKESH , KUDADA N. , PRASAD KRISHNA
Published: May 2021

Blast of rice caused by Pyricularia grisea is one of the most devastating diseases of rice. Because of importance of the disease and the fact that pyricularia grisea is considered to be notorious and model species. The variability in cultural characteristics of fifty isolates of P. grisea were taken from different regions of Jharkhand state. Out of fifty isolates of P. grisea, colony color of six isolates were found to be as greyish white color, three isolates were blackish grey, six isolates as white color, three isolates as whitish grey color, five isolates were whitish black and twenty seven isolates were recorded as blackish white in color. The growth pattern of 47 isolates of P. grisea showed circular growth pattern and three isolates have irregular growth pattern but elevation of the mycelium differs from flat to raised. Out of fifty isolates of P. grisea, sector formation was observed in seventeen isolates and no sector formation was observed in rest isolates. The radial growth of fifty isolates of P. grisea were ranged from 76.0 mm to 90.0 mm. Out of fifty isolates, group I included six isolates, group II and III included eleven and thirty three isolates, respectively. Parasexual recombination rarely causes genetic and phenotypic variation through hyphal anastomosis in India. Parasexual recombination is the principle cause in rice blast fungus and cause infection of resistant rice variety (IR-64) in India .
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Central Obesity Among Adults With Normal Bmi in Shaanxi, China: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Li Qiang , Feng Wen-yu , Li Xiang-dong , Li Juan , Shen Yuan , Zeng Ling-xia , Dang Shao-nong
Published: May 2021

Background: Defined by normal body mass index (BMI) and higher waist-to-height ratio, normal weight with central obesity (NWCO) has been recognised as a risk factor for cardio-metabolic diseases. The study aims to estimate the prevalence of NWCO and to examine the relationship between NWCO and cardiovascular disease risk factors in adults of Shaanxi Province.Methods: A population-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among residents who were aged 18–80 years and had been living in Zhenba County, Shaanxi Province, for over six months in 2018. The multistage stratified cluster sampling method was used to enroll the study participants. Six towns (districts) in Zhenba County, Shaanxi Province, were randomly selected, and then six villages (communities) were randomly selected from each town (district). All residents in the villages (communities) were face-to-face interviewed. Descriptive data analysis and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of prevalence/frequency were conducted. Logistic regression analyses were used to detect the corresponding factors associated with central obesity. Results: A total of 2312 participants (936 men and 1376 women) were analyzed. The prevalence of NWCO was 58.3%. NWCO was significantly associated with hypertension and dyslipidemia. Compared with normal weight non-central obesity (NWNO), the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for hypertension were 1.47, (95% CI 1.10–1.98) in men and 1.55(1.14–2.10) in women, and the corresponding ones for dyslipidemia were 2.71 (1.77–4.13) in men and 1.84 (1.29–2.61) in women. Female sex, age over 58 years, and lower education level were also significantly predictors of abdominal obesity. In males, comparison with no cigarette smoking, daily cigarette smoking was less likely to lead to normal weight central obesity. Conclusion: In people with normal BMI, the prevalence of central obesity was 58.3%. Female, age over 58 years, hypertension and dyslipidemia indicate a higher risk. Body mass index alone as a measure of obesity is not enough to assess health risks. Central obesity index should be used together for clinical assessment.
Association of Multiple Tumor Markers With Gastric Cancer Patients
Authors: Li Xiaoyang , Li Sifeng , Zhang Zhenqi , Huang Dandan
Published: May 2021

Background: To explore the correlation between multiple tumor markers and gastric cancer.Methods: We selected 268 newly-treated patients with gastric cancer and 209 healthy subjects for correlation research. The detection of multiple tumor markers was based on protein chip, and then the results were statistically analyzed by SPSS.Results: (1)We concluded that gastric cancer was significantly related to gender, age, AFP, CEA, CA125, CA199, and CA242 (P＜0.001). After CA199 and CA242 were stratified by gender, the OR of the male was 30.400 and 31.242 respectively, while the OR of the female was 3.424. After CA125 was stratified by age, among patients with gastric cancer over 54 years old, The risk of occurrence in the CA125-positive population was 16.673 times that in CA125-negative patient; and among patients less than or equal to 54 years old, CA125-positive was not a risk factor for gastric cancer(P=0.082); (2)AFP, CEA, CA125, CA199, CA242 in M1 stage were statistically significant compared with M0 stage and control group (P<0.001), but AFP (P=0.045) and CA125 (P=0.752) were not statistically significant compared with M0 stage and control group; (3)The combined detection sensitivity of multiple tumor markers were 41.79%.Conclusions: Our research shows that gastric cancer is associated with age, gender, and the positive of AFP, CEA, CA125, CA199, and CA242. The positive of AFP and CA125 is related to the distant metastasis of gastric cancer; The combined detection of multiple tumor markers can be used for initial screening of gastric cancer to a certain extent.
Analysis of systemic epigenetic alterations in inflammatory bowel disease: defining geographical, genetic, and immune-inflammatory influences on the circulating methylome
Authors: Kalla Rahul , Adams Alex , Nowak Jan , Bergemalm Daniel , Vatn Simen , Ventham Nicholas , Kennedy Nicholas , Ricanek Petr , Lindstrom Jonas , Consortium IBD Character , Söderholm Johan , Pierik Marieke ,   Mauro D'Amato, Gomollon Fernando , Olbjørn Christine , Richmond Rebecca , Relton Caroline , Jahnsen Jorgen , Vatn Morten , Halfvarson Jonas , Satsangi Jack
Published: May 2021

Gene-environment interactions play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Using the IBD Character inception cohort (295 controls, 154 CD, 161 UC, 28 IBD-U) we confirm the presence of a highly characteristic DNA methylation profile in peripheral blood implicating 137 differentially methylated positions (DMP) in IBD, including VMP1/MIR21 (p = 9.11×10− 15) and RPS6KA2 (6.43×10− 13); with consistency seen across Scandinavia and UK. Cell of origin analysis preferentially implicated the monocyte lineage. Dysregulated loci demonstrate strong genetic influence, notably VMP1 (p = 1.53×10− 15). Age acceleration is seen in IBD (coefficient 0.94, p < 2.2x10− 16). Several immuno-active genes demonstrated highly significant correlations between methylation and gene expression in IBD, in particular OSM: IBD r -0.32, p 3.64×10− 7 vs. non-IBD r -0.14, p = 0.77). Multi-omic integration of methylome, genome and transcriptome also implicate specific pathways that associate with immune activation, response and regulation at disease inception. At follow up, a signature of 3 DMPs (TAP1, TESPA1, RPTOR) associated with treatment escalation to biological agents or surgery (hazard ratio of 5.19 (CI:2.14–12.56, logrank p = 9.70×10− 4).
Utility of the Korean Modified Early Warning Score (KMEWS) as a Triage Screening Tool in the Emergency Department in Patients with Infection
Authors: Oh Se kwang , Ryu Seung , Jeon So young , Lee Bong Kyu
Published: May 2021

Background: In patients with sepsis, early resuscitation and intensive care are associated with a lower mortality rate compared with late resuscitation. We evaluated the utility of the Korean Modified Early Warning Score (KMEWS), which combines the Modified Early Warning Score (MEWS) and the Korean Triage and Acuity Scale (KTAS), as a triage tool to screen for infection in patients visiting the emergency department (ED).Methods: We retrospectively reviewed data extracted from electronic medical records. Patients aged ≥18 years, with infection, who were admitted to hospital via the ED between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2019 were eligible for inclusion. The MEWS, quick Sepsis-related Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA), and Mortality in Emergency Department Sepsis (MEDS) of each patient were calculated. The KTAS score was 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1 point, for Levels 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, respectively. The KMEWS was calculate as the sum of the KTAS score and the MEWS. In addition, the participants were assigned to a septic shock group and a non-septic group for intergroup comparisons.Results: The area under the curve (AUC) values for predicting septic shock were: KMEWS, 0.910 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.902–0.918); MEWS, 0.896 (95% CI, 0.887–0.904); KTAS score, 0.809 (95% CI, 0.798–0.819); and the MEDS, 0.927 (95% CI, 0.919–0.934). The AUC values for predicting mortality were: KMEWS, 0.752 (95% CI, 0.740–0.764); MEWS, 0.717 (95% CI, 0.704–0.729); KTAS score, 0.764 (95% CI, 0.752–0.776); and the MEDS, 0.844 (95% CI, 0.834–0.854). The AUC values for predicting intensive care unit admission were: KMEWS, 0.826 (95% CI, 0.816–0.837); MEWS, 0.782 (95% CI, 0.770–0.793); KTAS score, 0.821 (95% CI, 0.810–0.831); and the MEDS, 0.839 (95% CI, 0.829–0.849).Conclusion: The KMEWS is a useful triage screening tool for determining clinical severity in ED patients with infection.
Cold agglutinin-mediated autoimmune hemolytic anemia associated with COVID-19 infection
Authors: Chang Chee Yik , Chin Huang Hin , Chin Pek Woon , Zaid Masliza
Published: May 2021

Cold agglutinin-mediated autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is a rare disorder associated with COVID-19 infection. Here, we present a case of COVID-19 pneumonia with concomitant cold agglutinin syndrome (CAS). On admission, the patient was anemic with reticulocytosis and the direct antiglobulin test showed the presence of anti-complement (C3d) antibodies. Peripheral blood film demonstrated red cell agglutination which was dispersible on blood warming. Chest radiography showed bilateral lower zone ground glass appearance. SARS-CoV-2 was detected in the nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swab samples by the RT-PCR method. Additional workup for malignancy, autoimmune disease, and other infections yielded negative results. Systemic corticosteroids and oxygen therapy were administered as she developed hypoxic respiratory failure. In addition, she received packed cell transfusion in view of hemolysis. Following corticosteroid and other supportive therapy, she recovered and was discharged well.
Corneal Nerve Loss in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Surrogate Marker for Poor Pial Collaterals
Authors: Khan Adnan , Menon Ajay , Akhtar Naveed , Kamran Saadat , Muhammad Ahmad , Ponirakis Georgios , Gad Hoda , Petropoulos Ioannis , Wadiwala Faisal , babu Blessy , Narangoli Adeeb , Bermejo Pablo , Hamad Hanadi Al , Ramadan Marwan , Woodruff Peter , Santos Mark , Saqqur Maher , Shuaib Ashfaq , Malik Rayaz A.
Published: May 2021

Background: In patients with ischemic stroke, pial collaterals play a key role in limiting neurological disability by maintaining blood flow to ischemic penumbra. We hypothesized that patient with poor pial collateral status will have greater corneal nerve and endothelial cell abnormalities.Method: 35 patients with acute ischemic stroke secondary to middle cerebral artery occlusion with poor (n=12) and moderate/good (n=23) pial collaterals and 35 healthy controls underwent corneal confocal microscopy and quantification of corneal nerve and endothelial cell morphology.Results: In patients with MCA stroke, corneal nerve fibre length (CNFL) (P=0.000), density (CNFD) (P=0.025) and branch density (CNBD) (P=0.002) were lower compared to controls. Age, BMI, cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, systolic blood pressure, NIHSS and endothelial cell parameters did not differ but mRS was higher (p=0.023) and CNFL (p=0.026) and CNBD (p=0.044) were lower in patients with poor compared to moderate-good collaterals. CNFL and CNBD distinguished subjects with poor from good pial collaterals with an AUC of 72% (95% CI: 53-92%) and 71% (95% CI: 53-90%), respectively. Conclusion: Corneal nerve loss is greater in patients with poor compared to good pial collaterals and may act as a surrogate marker for pial collateral status in patients with ischemic stroke.
Association of molecular biomarkers heterogeneity and treatment pattern, disease outcomes in multifocal or multicentric breast cancer patients
Authors: Li Shuai , Wu Jiayi , Huang Ou , He Jianrong , Zhu Li , Chen Weiguo , Li Yafen , Chen Xiaosong , Shen Kunwei
Published: May 2021

Purpose

To evaluate the rates of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), and Ki-67 heterogeneity in multifocal or multicentric breast cancer (MMBC) and its association with treatment pattern and disease outcomes.
Methods

MMBC patients with ER, PR, HER2, and Ki67 results for each tumor focus were retrospectively analyzed and categorized into the Homo group and the Hetero group. Chi-square test were performed to compare the treatment options between the groups. Disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were estimated from Kaplan-Meier curves and compared between two groups.
Results

A total of 330 patients were included and 53 (16.1%) were classified into the Hetero group. Adjuvant endocrine therapy was more frequently assigned for patients in the Hetero group than in the Homo group (84.9% vs. 71.7%, P = 0.046). There was no difference in terms of adjuvant anti-HER2 therapy (28.3% vs. 19.6%, P = 0.196) and chemotherapy (69.9% vs. 69.8%, P = 0.987) usage between two groups. At a median follow-up of 36 months, DFS rates were 81.2% for the Hetero group and 96.5% for the Homo group (HR = 2.81, 95% CI: 1.00-7.88, P = 0.041). The estimated 3-year OS rates for the groups were 95.8% and 99.5%, respectively (HR = 4.31, 95% CI: 0.83–22.46, P = 0.059).
Conclusion

Heterogeneity of ER, PR, HER2, or Ki67 was present in 16.1% patients with MMBC. Biomarkers heterogeneity influenced adjuvant endocrine therapy usage and was associated with worse disease outcomes, indicating further clinical evaluation.
MSA at 100 and why optical mineralogy still matters: The optical properties of talc
Authors: Gunter Mickey E.
Published: May 2021

MSA’s 100 years are memorialized herein with a combination of (1) events marking our centennial; (2) publications devoted to it; and (3) my series of six MSA president letters in Elements written specifically for this moment. In some of those letters, I stressed the importance of optical mineralogy and the role it played in areas outside of academics. As such, new optical data are presented herein on 20 well-characterized talc samples from other studies, as there appears to have been no thorough study of the optical properties of talc. Other than academic interest, these data will find use in the ongoing issue of the purported asbestos content of talc.
Strategic human resource management practices and human capital development: The role of employee commitment
Authors: Naser Alolayyan Main , Sharif Alyahya Mohammad , Ahmad Omari Dana
Published: May 2021

This paper studied the influence of strategic human resource management on human capital development through the mediation of employee commitment. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used to collect data from 514 participants (medical staff) from five hospitals in northern Jordan. The hospitals involved were from different sectors, including governmental, private, and university hospitals. Several analysis methods were used in the study: Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), discriminant validity, and composite reliability. Direct and indirect hypothesis testing was also utilized using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The study showed that the practice of strategic human resource management had a direct positive impact on employee commitment; the practice of strategic human resource management had a direct positive impact on human capital development; the impact of employee commitment on human capital development was positive and direct; employee commitment has a partial mediating effect between both of them. Accordingly, HR managers in hospitals should move from “softer” responsibilities and traditional HR activities to a more strategic level (i.e., developmental strategy), where HR strategies are aligned and reinforce the hospital’s vision and mission and link organizational strategy to HR strategies. Healthcare managers should invest more in human capital through formal education and training.
AcknowledgmentsThe Deanship of Research at Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST) in Jordan is acknowledged by authors for providing facilities through the research No. 488/2020 and research environment to accomplish the goals of this work. The authors thank Professor Fareed Nusair at the Department of Health Management & Policy, the Faculty of Medicine.
The Effect of Need for Achievement, Locus of Control and Attitudes towards Student Entrepreneurial Intentions in SMKN 1 Batanghari
Authors: Pranata Herry Sofyandy , Khairinal Khairinal , Denmar Denny
Published: May 2021

High unemployment rate, especially from SMK graduates, and the lack of entrepreneurship in Indonesia have prompted many parties to find out solutions. It is very important in fostering graduates who are ready to become entrepreneurs. The research aimed to investigate the influence of need for achievement, locus of control and attitudes toward entrepreneurial intentions of students of SMK Negeri 1 Batang Hari. Data analysis method used path analysis in which multiple regression models were tested with classical assumptions to determine the appropriate analysis model. The classical assumption test includes: normality test using the one-sample Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, homoscedasticity test using the Spearman’s Rho test, and linearity test using the lack of fit test and the multicollinearity test. With a sample of 175 class-XI students of all majors at SMKN 1 Batang Hari, the result shows that there is an influence of need for achievement, locus of control and attitudes toward students’ entrepreneurial intention at SMK Negeri 1 Batang Hari.
Absolute Configuration Reassignment of Natural Products: An Overview of the Last Decade
Authors: Batista Andrea , Angrisani Bianca , Lima Maria Emanuelle , da Silva Stephanie , Schettini Vitória , Chagas Higor , dos Santos Jr. Fernando , Batista Jr. João , Valverde Alessandra
Published: May 2021

The assignment of absolute configuration (AC) is a crucial step in the structural characterization of natural products, especially for those subjected to biological assays. Methods such as X-ray crystallography, stereocontrolled organic synthesis, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and chiroptical spectroscopies are commonly used to determine the AC of chiral natural compounds. Even with these well-established techniques, however, unambiguous stereochemical assignments of natural products remain a challenge, resulting in an increasing number of structural misassignments being reported every year. Herein, we will present the main techniques that have been used in AC reassignments of natural products over the last 10 years, along with some selected examples. Special attention will be paid to the strengths and weaknesses of each approach. With this, we expect to provide the readers with critical information to help them to choose the appropriate methods for correct AC determinations.
Damping determination by the half power bandwidth method for a rectangular flat plate with bitumen damping layer application
Authors: Treszkai Marcell Ferenc , Vehovszky Balázs , Feszty Dániel
Published: May 2021

Damping Loss Factor (DLF) is an important input parameter in Statistical Energy Analysis (SEA) simulations, therefore its accurate determination via measurement is crucial from simulation accuracy point of view. This paper presents a methodology for the accurate measurement of DLF via the Half Power Bandwidth Method (HPBM) for three test cases: a) a rectangular steel plate, b) the same plate with viscoelastic bitumen sheets imposed on the middle of plate and c) the same plate with the viscoelastic bitumen sheets placed randomly. The aim of the different bitumen layer applications was to develop a methodology for representing them in Statistical Energy Analysis, since this simulation technique takes into account only the coverage of the damping layers but not their distribution over a panel. Measurement of the DLF in random locations on the plate gave the appropriate parameters for the simulation. Measurement results were then applied in SEA simulations, which showed good agreement with the experimental results in all test cases, with the maximum difference of only 2 dB.
Parkinsonism-like Disease Induced by Rotenone in Rats: Treatment Role of Curcumin, Dopamine Agonist and Adenosine A2A Receptor Antagonist
Authors: Naser Asmaa Fathy Aboul , Aziz Wessam Magdi , Ahmed Yomna Rashad , Khalil Wagdy Khalil Bassaly , Hamed Manal Abdel Aziz
Published: May 2021

Background:

Parkinsonism is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects elderly people worldwide.

Methods:

Curcumin, adenosine A2AR antagonist (ZM241385) and Sinemet® (L-dopa) were evaluated against Parkinson’s disease (PD) induced by rotenone in rats, and the findings were compared to our previous study on mice model.

Results:

Rats injected with rotenone showed severe alterations in adenosine A2A receptor gene expression, oxidative stress markers, inflammatory mediator, energetic indices, apoptotic marker and DNA fragmentation levels as compared to the control group. Treatments with curcumin, ZM241385, and Sinemet® restored all the selected parameters. The brain histopathological features of cerebellum regions confirmed our results. By comparing our results with the previous results on mice, we noticed that mice respond to rotenone toxicity and treatments more than rats with regards to behavioral observation, A2AR gene expression, neurotransmitter levels, inflammatory mediator and apoptotic markers, while rats showed higher response to treatments regarding oxidative stress and energetic indices.

Conclusion:

Curcumin succeeded in attenuating the severe effects of Parkinson’s disease in the rat model and can be considered as a potential dietary supplement. Adenosine A2AR antagonist has almost the same pattern of improvement as Sinemet® and may be considered as a promising therapy against PD. To compare the role of animal species in response to PD symptoms and treatments, our previous report on mice explored the response of mice to rotenone toxicity in comparison with rats, where rats have shown a higher response to treatments. Therefore, no animal model can perfectly recapitulate all the pathologies of PD.
The Moderating Role of Parenting Styles in Adolescents’ Bullying and Depression
Authors: Klomek Anat Brunstein , Koren Kineret
Published: May 2021

Background:

Bullying others among school-aged youth is a worldwide
phenomenon that has a variety of adverse outcomes, depression being one of them.

Objective:

The objective of the current study was to examine whether perceived
parenting styles moderated the relationship between bullying others and depression
among adolescents. It was hypothesized that perceived authoritarian parenting
would increase the association between bullying others and depression than nonauthoritarian
parents.

Methods:

The sample included 116 adolescents aged 12-17, with a mean age of
13.87. The percentage of male participants was 47.41%. We used self-report
questionnaires, which measured the different variables in the study (bullying,
perceptions of parenting styles, and depression).

Results:

A positive correlation between bullying others and depressive symptoms
was found. Bullying others and perceived authoritarian parenting style were also
correlated, and a positive correlation was found between perceived authoritarian
parenting style and depressive symptoms. The moderation effect of perceived
parenting style on the association between bullying others and depressive
symptoms was found significant. Among adolescents perceiving their parents as
authoritarian, the association between bullying others and depressive symptoms
was found to be stronger. In contrast, among adolescents perceiving their parents as
non-authoritarian, the association was low.

Conclusion:

Results of this study have important clinical implications by
understanding the parenting component in the association between bullying others
and depression. Our results suggest that the psychological outcomes for bullies may
depend, among other things, on their perception of parents' parenting style.
Cyberspace and Libel: A Dangerous Balance for Physicians
Authors: Chiruvella Varsha , Guddati Achuta Kumar
Published: May 2021

Freedom of speech and expression is one of the core tenets of modern societies. It was deemed to be so fundamentally essential to early American life that it was inscribed as the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. Over the past century, the rise of modern life also marked the rise of the digital era and age of social media. Freedom of speech thus transitioned from print to electronic media. Access to such content is almost instantaneous and available to a vast audience. From social media to online rating websites, online defamation may cause irreparable damage to a physician’s reputation and practice. It is especially relevant in these times of political turbulence where the battle to separate facts from misinformation has started a debate about the responsibility of social media. The historical context of libel and its applicability in the age of increasing online presence is important for physicians since they are also bound by duty to protect the privacy of their patients. The use of public rating sites and social media will continue to be important for physicians, as online presence and incidents of defamation impact the practice of medicine.
Improving the Usability and Safety of Digital Health Systems: The Role of Predictive Human-Computer Interaction Modeling
Authors: Paton Chris , Kushniruk Andre W , Borycki Elizabeth M , English Mike , Warren Jim
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we describe techniques for predictive modeling of human-computer interaction (HCI) and discuss how they could be used in the development and evaluation of user interfaces for digital health systems such as electronic health record systems. Predictive HCI modeling has the potential to improve the generalizability of usability evaluations of digital health interventions beyond specific contexts, especially when integrated with models of distributed cognition and higher-level sociotechnical frameworks. Evidence generated from building and testing HCI models of the user interface (UI) components for different types of digital health interventions could be valuable for informing evidence-based UI design guidelines to support the development of safer and more effective UIs for digital health interventions.
Virtual Reality for Sedation During Atrial Fibrillation Ablation in Clinical Practice: Observational Study
Authors: Roxburgh Thomas , Li Anthony , Guenancia Charles , Pernollet Patrice , Bouleti Claire , Alos Benjamin , Gras Matthieu , Kerforne Thomas , Frasca Denis , Le Gal François , Christiaens Luc , Degand Bruno , Garcia Rodrigue
Published: May 2021

Background

Connected devices are dramatically changing many aspects in health care. One such device, the virtual reality (VR) headset, has recently been shown to improve analgesia in a small sample of patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation.

Objective

We aimed to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of VR in patients undergoing atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation under conscious sedation.

Methods

All patients who underwent an AF ablation with VR from March to May 2020 were included. Patients were compared to a consecutive cohort of patients who underwent AF ablation in the 3 months prior to the study. Primary efficacy was assessed by using a visual analog scale, summarizing the overall pain experienced during the ablation.

Results

The AF cryoablation procedure with VR was performed for 48 patients (mean age 63.0, SD 10.9 years; n=16, 33.3% females). No patient refused to use the device, although 14.6% (n=7) terminated the VR session prematurely. Preparation of the VR headset took on average 78 (SD 13) seconds. Compared to the control group, the mean perceived pain, assessed with the visual analog scale, was lower in the VR group (3.5 [SD 1.5] vs 4.3 [SD 1.6]; P=.004), and comfort was higher in the VR group (7.5 [SD 1.6] vs 6.8 [SD 1.7]; P=.03). On the other hand, morphine consumption was not different between the groups. Lastly, complications, as well as procedure and fluoroscopy duration, were not different between the two groups.

Conclusions

We found that VR was associated with a reduction in the perception of pain in patients undergoing AF ablation under conscious sedation. Our findings demonstrate that VR can be easily incorporated into the standard ablation workflow.
An Exploration of e-Cigarette–Related Search Items on YouTube: Network Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Dashtian Hassan , Murthy Dhiraj , Kong Grace
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

e-Cigarette use among youth is high, which may be due in part to pro–e-cigarette content on social media such as YouTube. YouTube is also a valuable resource for learning about e-cigarette use, trends, marketing, and e-cigarette user perceptions. However, there is a lack of understanding on how similar e-cigarette–related search items result in similar or relatively mutually exclusive search results. This study uses novel methods to evaluate the relationship between e-cigarette–related search items and results.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to apply network modeling and rule-based classification to characterize the relationships between e-cigarette–related search items on YouTube and gauge the level of importance of each search item as part of an e-cigarette information network on YouTube.

METHODS

We used 16 fictitious YouTube profiles to retrieve 4201 distinct videos from 18 keywords related to e-cigarettes. We used network modeling to represent the relationships between the search items. Moreover, we developed a rule-based classification approach to classify videos. We used betweenness centrality (BC) and correlations between nodes (ie, search items) to help us gain knowledge of the underlying structure of the information network.

RESULTS

By modeling search items and videos as a network, we observed that broad search items such as e-cig had the most connections to other search items, and specific search items such as cigalike had the least connections. Search items with similar words (eg, vape and vaping) and search items with similar meaning (eg, e-liquid and e-juice) yielded a high degree of connectedness. We also found that each node had 18 (SD 34.8) connections (common videos) on average. BC indicated that general search items such as electronic cigarette and vaping had high importance in the network (BC=0.00836). Our rule-based classification sorted videos into four categories: e-cigarette devices (34%-57%), cannabis vaping (16%-28%), e-liquid (14%-37%), and other (8%-22%).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that search items on YouTube have unique relationships that vary in strength and importance. Our methods can not only be used to successfully identify the important, overlapping, and unique e-cigarette–related search items but also help determine which search items are more likely to act as a gateway to e-cigarette–related content.

CLINICALTRIAL
Evaluasi Galur Harapan Padi Hitam (Oryza sativa L.) Berdaya Hasil Tinggi dan Berumur Genjah
Authors: Al Ghifari Sholeh Udin , Supriyanta Supriyanta , Kristamtini Kristamtini , Basunanda Panjisakti , Alam Taufan , Widyawan Muhammad Habib , Taryono Taryono
Published: May 2021

Padi merupakan komoditas pangan penting dunia. Salah satu jenis padi adalah padi hitam yang saat ini belum banyak direkayasa, sehingga daya hasilnya rendah dengan umur yang panjang. Penelitian ini bertujuan mengetahui karakter agronomi galur harapan padi hitam berdaya hasil tinggi dan berumur genjah. Percobaan dilaksanakan di Pusat Inovasi Agro Teknologi (PIAT) Universitas Gadjah Mada di Kalitirto, Berbah, Kabupaten Sleman, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta pada bulan Maret-Agustus 2018. Bahan penelitian yang digunakan adalah 17 galur harapan padi dan 1 kultivar unggul lokal. Rancangan percobaan lapangan yang digunakan adalah Kisi Sederhana (Simple Lattice Design) dengan 3 ulangan. Setiap galur harapan ditanam pada plot berukuran 5x1,2 m dengan jarak tanam 20×30 cm, secara inling (1 bibit perlubang tanam) dengan umur pindah tanam 21 hari. Variabel pengamatan berupa komponen agronomi, komponen hasil dan karakter fisik gabah dan beras. Analisis varians dilakukan untuk variabel kuantitatif dengan taraf nyata α = 5%. dilanjutkan dengan uji Scott Knott. Hasil penelitian menunjukan karakter agronomi galur harapan padi hitam secara umum serupa dengan karakter agronomi galur harapan padi putih dan padi merah terkait dengan variabel tinggi tanaman sedang (lebih dari 110 cm), anakan produktif sedang (10-20 buah), umur panen sedang (125-150 HSS), panjang malai (20-30 cm), jumlah gabah per malai kurang dari 250 biji. Daya hasil galur harapan padi hitam P2 (4,10±0.27 ton/hektare) dan XI (3,95±0.45 ton/hektare) lebih tinggi dari varietas unggul lokal Sleman Merah (3,84±0.50 ton/hektare. Galur harapan padi hitam W (116±0.33 HSS) memiliki kategori umur panen genjah.
Firm Ownership Characteristics and Long-run Return on Equity Issued: A Case of the Nairobi Securities Exchange
Authors: Odipo Martin K. , Olweny Tobias , Oluoch Oluoch
Published: May 2021

This investigation looked at the link between firm ownership characteristics and long-run return on firms that issued equity at the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) in Kenya. The study covered 12 firms that issued shares in the NSE market from 2006-2008. Ownership characteristics included (state ownership, institutional Ownership, foreign Ownership, big five shareholders, market capitalization, age of the firm and Leverage of the firm) in relation to the average return. The study tested whether each of the firm ownership characteristics influenced long-run performance. Annual return for these companies was based on market return for five years after the firm’s equity shares were issued. The long-run performance was compared with three benchmarks, namely, NSE index, CAPM and Matching firms. Seven hypotheses were developed for the study. Simple-liner and multi-linear regression analyses based on panel data were carried out to relate the extended run return on shares issued. The result of the survey showed that issuing firms performed better than non-issuing firms. These issuing firms also performed better in comparison to CAPM. However, the issuing firms performed worse than NSEI. In conclusion, the long-run performance of equity issued at the NSE does not necessarily underperform relative to non-issuing establishments.
Makanan dan Minuman yang Terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia Periode 2015-2018
Authors: Mulyana I Kadek Rubi , Datrini Luh Kade , Sastri I.D.A.M. Manik
Published: May 2021

Tujuan penelitian adalah untuk mengetahui Pengaruh Kinerja Keuangan Terhadap Return Saham Pada Perusahaan Makanan Dan Minuman Yang Terdaftar Di Bursa Efek Indonesia Periode 2015-2018. Jumlah sampel sebanyak 9 perusahaan selama periode 4 tahun, sehingga data berjumlah 36. Sumber data berasal dari data sekunder berupa laporan keuangan tahunan yang telah dikumpulkan dan dipublikasikan oleh website resmi Bursa Efek Indonesia (BEI).  Teknik analisis data dengan analisis regresi linier berganda. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Current Ratio tidak berpengaruh terhadap Return Saham yang ditunjukkan dengan nilai signifikansi sebesar 0,492 lebih besar dari 0,05, maka H1 ditolak. Debt to Equity Ratio tidak berpengaruh terhadap Return Saham yang ditunjukkan dengan nilai signifikansi sebesar 0,691 lebih besar dari 0,05, maka H2 ditolak. Earning Per Share berpengaruh terhadap Return Saham yang ditunjukkan dengan nilai signifikansi sebesar 0,000 lebih kecil dari 0,05, maka H3 diterima. Return On Assets berpengaruh terhadap Return Saham yang ditunjukkan dengan nilai signifikansi sebesar 0,019 lebih kecil dari 0,05, maka H4 diterima.
KHAZANAH EKOLEKSIKON KEDANAUAN DALAM GUYUB TUTUR BAHASA BATAK TOBA
Authors: Sinaga Johandi , I Wayan Simpen  , Made Sri Satyawati
Published: May 2021

This study aims to describe the ecolexicon treasures which represent the scope of Lake Toba. The ecolinguistic theory is used in this study. The data in this study are lexicons related to the scope of siltation. Data collection methods used are interview and observation methods. The analysis used a qualitative descriptive method. The results revealed 29 lexica related to the silt environment with three categories of ecolexicon entities namely flora ecolexicon, fauna ecolexicon, and fishing gear ecolexicon. The lexicon category consists of nouns and verbs. There are lexicon forms that are basic, derivative forms in the form of repeated words, and compound words.

Keywords: Fishing Gear; Lake Toba; Ekoleksikon; Fauna; Flora
Prosocial tendencies and subjective well-being: The mediating role of basic psychological needs satisfaction
Authors: Feng Linlin , Zhang Lelin
Published: May 2021

We linked self-determination theory and prosociality, and explored the mediating role of three dimensions of basic psychological needs satisfaction, namely, competence, autonomy, and relatedness, in the relationship between prosocial tendencies and subjective well-being. We explored
these relationships using a cross-sectional research design with 1,106 Chinese adults. Results show that the public prosocial tendencies of men (vs. women) were higher, and competence, autonomy, and relatedness mediated the positive relationship between prosocial tendencies and subjective
well-being. The indirect effect of relatedness was stronger than those of competence and autonomy, demonstrating the importance of relatedness in a collectivistic society like China. Our findings deepen understanding of the underlying mechanisms between prosociality and subjective well-being
as mediated by basic psychological needs satisfaction, and may encourage people to engage in prosocial behavior.
Some noteworthy plants record to the flora of Yavatmal district, Maharashtra, India
Authors:   Department of Botany, L.R. Bharti Arts, Commerce & S.S.R. Bharti Science, College, Arni, District Yavatmal, Maharashtra, India, Kakpure Manoj R.
Published: May 2021

The present paper deals with the addition of 05 new plant species i.e. Tephrosia pumila, Striga asiatica, Tecomella undulata, Orobanche cernua and Sauromatum venosum belonging to 05 different families; from this 01 additional family i.e. Orobanchaceae is reported for the first time to the flora of Yavatmal district. This study provides the correct and updated detail information about morphology, phenology and occurrence of these new additional plant species for the future work.
Estimating soil nutrient index vis-a-vis mango orchard productivity of Lucknow region, Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors:   ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Rehmankhera, Lucknow-226101, Uttar Pradesh, India, Adak Tarun , Pandey G. ,   ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Rehmankhera, Lucknow-226101, Uttar Pradesh, India
Published: May 2021

Soil nutrient index was developed in mango orchard soils for which a sum of 88 soil samples were recently collected from the root zone depth (0–30 cm) of 22 fixed mango orchards of Lucknow region of Uttar Pradesh, India. Analysis of data indicated orchards had wider contents in nutrients in soil and foliar parts. Developed soil nutrient index concluded that mango orchard soils were categorized as low SOC, N and K, whereas P designated in medium rating. In case of available micronutrients, Zn, Fe and Mn falls under medium rating while Cu in low rating. Productivity analysis showed 4.92 to 8.68 t ha-1 with majority of the orchards had production from 6 to ≤8.0 t ha-1. Such lower productivity is linked to low to medium soil nutrients. The study showed for ensuring better productivity, proper nutrition management systems should be adopted by the growers.
A new record and an updated key of lichen genus Dibaeis (Icmadophilaceae, Ascomycota) from India
Authors:   Forest Research Centre for Bamboo and Rattan, Bethlehem Vengthlang, Aizawl-796008, Mizoram, India, Yadav Sandeep
Published: May 2021

The lichen genus Dibaeis is currently represented in India by two species, viz., Dibaeis baeomyces and Dibaeis pulogensis reported from the states of Meghalaya, Sikkim and Western Bengal. The present study describes the occurrence of a new record Dibaeis absoluta from the Eastern Himalayan hill tracts of Mizoram, North-East India which is situated in the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. The addition of present new record of Dibaeis species further increased the number to three in India. A revised key is also provided.
Altitudinal variation of soil organic carbon stock in tropical forest of Courtallam hills, Southern Western Ghats of India
Authors:   Department of Plant Science, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli-627012, Tamil Nadu, India, Pandian E. , Ravichandran P. ,   Department of Plant Science, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli-627012, Tamil Nadu, India
Published: May 2021

The climate change and carbon mitigation through forest ecosystems play an important role in the global perspective. Soil is a huge carbon reservoir and its storage capacity varied greatly with forest type and altitude. The mountain ecosystem varies in soil organic carbon stock (SOC) due to variations in soil types, climatic conditions, vegetation patterns and elevational gradients. Soil organic carbon stockswere measured at three depths (0–10, 10–20, and 20–30 cm) in five different forest elevation (200, 400, 600, 800, and 1000 m asl) on Courtallam hills, Southern Western Ghats, India. SOC stocks increased significantly with the increase in altitude (P<0.05) at all the three layers (0–10, 10–20 and 20–30 cm). A total of SOC stocks ranged from 42.79 mg ha-1at 0–30 cm depth were observed in lower altitude (200 m) and the highest value of 50.25 mg ha-1 at 0–30 cm depth was observed in mid-elevation 600 m, while in other elevational showed 46.45, 48.49 and 45.05 mg ha-1 in 400, 800 and 1000 m respectively. SOC ranged from 17.89 to 22.37 mg ha-1 in soil surface layer (0–10 cm), 14.00 to 16.573 mg ha-1 in middle layer (10–20 cm) and 9.08 to 11.35 mg ha-1 in the bottom layer (20–30 cm). These results would also enhance our ability to assesses the role of these forest types in soil carbon sequestration and for developing and validating the SOC models for tropical forest ecosystems.
Governance and economic welfare: A BRICS panel analysis
Authors: Mazenda Adrino , Cheteni Priviledge
Published: May 2021

An effective governance structure is central to growth, sustainable development and equal income distribution (economic welfare) (Glass & Newig, 2020). Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa (BRICS) countries differ in governance structure with varying outcomes on economic welfare. This article explores the extent to which governance impacts economic welfare in BRICS countries viewed as an emerging powerhouse, with significant growth prospects — yet distinct in their governance systems, and income variability amongst its population. The article utilised panel static models (pooled ordinary least squares (OLS) and fixed effects (FEs) estimator) from 1996 to 2019 to investigate the effects of governance proxied by the World Bank World Governance Indicators (WGI) on economic welfare (proxied from two channels): quantitative (output stock/economic growth) and qualitative (reduced income inequality). The two channels combine the ordinary measure of welfare: gross domestic product (GDP), a proxy for economic growth, household and income distribution, and a proxy for income inequality drawing (Heys, 2019). The findings revealed that governance produced varying results on the economic welfare in BRICS. Democratic countries which practise good governance principles (South Africa and Brazil) had a negative economic welfare effect from both channels compared to one-party states, such as China and Russia. Therefore, the findings invalidate the null hypothesis that good governance is a catalyst for economic welfare. Sound policies, especially on structural change and equitable income distribution are necessary to enhance economic welfare in BRICS countries. The article is relevant and discloses iterations of the distinction between good governance and sound policy implications on developing nations’ economic welfare.
Economic gender gap: Which countries are falling behind?
Authors: Medina-Claros Samuel , García-Pardo Francisca , Pérez-Moreno Salvador , Bárcena-Martín Elena
Published: May 2021

Economic parity continues to be one of the main challenges to achieving
gender equality worldwide, even though disparities between countries in the
economic gender gap are frequently neglected. In this paper, we use a fuzzy
logic approach to measure the extent to which countries are narrowing this
gap. Specifically, we evaluate the degree to which 110 countries evolved
from 2006 to 2019 in each of the three dimensions of the World Economic
Forum?s Economic Participation and Opportunity Index (remuneration,
participation and advancement). We focus on which countries have been left
behind and to what extent they have pulled away from the rest. The findings
reveal that differences across countries in advancement gender gaps are more
evident than in the other dimensions. Moreover, while there are signs of
convergence in the closure of the gender gaps in remuneration, we do not
find such evidence for the advancement and participation gender gaps.
Quality of life assessment in patients treated due to chronic pancreatitis
Authors: Dragovic Sasa , Vulovic Maja , Stamenkovic Dusica , Rancic Nemanja , Mitrovic Miroslav , Bezmarevic Mihailo , Jovanovic Milan , Pantic Ivan , Rujanovski Zoran , Lepic Sanja , Milev Bosko
Published: May 2021

Background/Aim. Chronic pancreatitis (CP) causes inflammatory changes in the tissue of the pancreas, resulting in irreversible tissue damage. Pain, endocrine, and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency develop, thereby reducing the quality of life (QoL) of patients. The aim of the study was to determine the significance of surgical treatment in improving the QoL of patients with CP. Methods. QoL assessment of 50 patients diagnosed with CP was per-formed using a certified Euro Quality of Life-5 Dimension-5 Level (EuroQol-5D-5L) Questionnaire translated into Serbian. According to the method of treatment, patients completed the questionnaire. Patients were divided into two groups (conservatively treated ? CT and surgically treated ? ST), and all comparisons were made between groups. Results. Patients in stage B of CP were divided into two groups of 25 patients. The mean age in the ST group was 48.56 ? 11.91, and in the CT group was 51.08 ? 11.61 (p = 0.452). The male/female ratio in the ST group was 18/7, and in the CT group was 22/3 (p = 0.289). Pain in the ST group was present in 23 patients, and in the CT group was present in 18 patients (p = 0.141). Loss of appetite in the ST group was present in 7 patients and in the CT group in 10 patients (p = 0.256). Weight loss in both groups was equal (p = 1.000). Based on the EuroQol-5D-5L Questionnaire, significant differences were found (p < 0.001) between groups in Mobility and Pain/Discomfort, in Anxiety/Depression (p = 0.003), in Self-care (p = 0.004), and in Usual activities (p = 0.008). Conclusion. CP significantly reduces the QoL of patients treated either conservatively or by surgical approach. This study showed that surgical treatment is more beneficial for the QoL of patients with CP than the conservative approach.