bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Benefit of Inevitably Delayed Surgical Intervention Following High-Velocity Maxillofacial War Injuries
Authors: Oren Daniel , Dror Amiel A , Zoabi Adeeb , Kasem Adi , Tzadok Lior , Kablan Fares , Safory Enssaf , Sela Eyal , Sro Samer
Published: July 2020

Background: Over 3200 Syrian patients were admitted and treated at Galilee Medical Center (GMC) over a five-year period (May 2013 - May 2018) since the beginning of the Syrian civil war in 2011. This study compares the number of postoperative complications of patients admitted to the GMC immediately after injury or two to three weeks after initial high-velocity maxillofacial injuries and the potential mechanisms for the variation in complication rates. We describe our experiences, strategies, and resultant treatment approach.Methods: Retrospective case studies in which the incidence of complications including infection, rejection of hardware, bone or soft tissue grafts, tissue dehiscence, oroantral fistula formation, excessive scarring, and unplanned return to the operating theater were investigated. Patients arriving at the GMC within 24 hours following maxillofacial injury were considered “early” while patients arriving to the GMC within 14-28 days following initial trauma without treatment prior to arrival were considered “late” or “delayed.” Both groups of patients received definitive surgical treatment within 48 hours of admission to our hospital. Results: Sixty patients suffering from "high-velocity" maxillofacial Syrian civil war-related battlefield injuries were included in this study. The mean age was 26±8 years (range: 9-50) and all except one were male. Post-operative complications in the early group were found to be significantly higher compared to the delayed group (p = 0.006).Conclusions: We discovered that the delayed group of patients, characterized by progressive neovascularization of injured tissue, had better surgical success from rich blood supply that enhances tissue survival. Sustained tissue perfusion to the tissue supports efficient systemic antibiotic delivery, a favorable condition in lowering infection rate and complication. We found that the unintendedly delayed treatment contributed to a critical revascularization period resulting in improved healing and decreased postoperative morbidity and complications.
Analysis of risk factors of Leishmania infection in dogs in Gansu Province, China
Authors: Yu Dawei , Li Fan , Feng Yu , Yang Chengming , Yang Junke , Liu Linlin , Guan Zhenping , Zhang Yongfu
Published: July 2020

Background

Gansu is a province with the most serious prevalence of canine Leishmaniasis in China, ranked the first in the number of new cases occurring each year. In order to understand the risk factors of visceral Leishmaniasis in dogs in endemic areas of Gansu province, we conducted an investigation on the risk factors of canine Leishmaniasis in 2 endemic counties from 2018 to 2019, and analyzed the related factors of local CVL infection, so as to provide a basis for exploring new prevention and control methods suitable for Leishmaniasis in China.

Methods

Leishmaniasis of canine origin was detected in Diebu county and Wenxian County, Gansu province. The risk factors of Leishmania infection in dogs were analyzed by USING IBM SPSS23.0 Pearsonχ2 test and multiple Logistic regression.

Results

a total of 537 domestic dogs were investigated in the endemic area. The positive rate of Leishmania protozoa nested PCR was 41.15% (221/537). Univariate analysis showed that there were statistically significant differences in age, height, weight, breed, kennel presence, hair length, custody style, physical condition, exercise status, nail symptoms and other variables with the positive rate of nested PCR (P < 0.05).The results of multivariate analysis showed that there was a significant correlation between dog ownership [OR=3.051; 95%CI =(0.965 ~ 9.645), dog ownership [OR=1.974; 95%CI =(1.199 ~ 3.252), dog breed [OR=1.819; 95%CI =(0.999 ~ 3.311)] and hair length [0.053 ~ 0.203].

Conclusions

there are a large number of asymptomatic infected dogs in Diebu county and Wenxian County of Gansu Province. The infection rate of local short-haired and pure-bred dogs is high. In order to reduce the risk of canine infection, the publicity and education on prevention of canine Leishmaniasis should be strengthened, so as to reduce the risk of human and animal co-contracting visceral Leishmaniasis.
A multi-kinase inhibitor APG-2449 enhances the antitumor effect of Ibrutinib in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma via EGFR/FAK pathway inhibition
Authors: Luo Qiu-Yun , Zhou Su-Na , Pan Wen-Tao , Sun Jian , Yang Li-Qiong , Zhang Lin , Qiu Miao-Zhen , Yang Da-Jun
Published: July 2020

Background

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most common types of cancer in China, with poor prognosis and lack of effective targeted therapy. It has been reported that ibrutinib possesses anticancer activity in ESCC with MYC and/or ERBB2 amplified. Here we explored the synergistic antitumor effect of a novel multi-kinase inhibitor APG-2449 with ibrutinib in ESCC and clarified the mechanism of the combination effect.

Methods

Cancer cells viability was determined by CCK-8 assay. Western blot was used to detect the expression of related proteins. Xenograft models in nude mice were established to explore the roles of APG-2449 and ibrutinib.

Results

We found that APG-2449 exerted antitumor effect in ESCC through FAK blocking. APG-2449 combined with ibrutinib showed synergistic inhibition of cell viability in ESCC cell lines. APG-2449 combined with ibrutinib dramatically inhibited the proliferation and migration of ESCC cells. Furthermore, we observed that ibrutinib combined with APG-2449 could induce more cancer cells arrested in the G1/S phase and apoptosis. In terms of mechanism, ibrutinib alone could inactive EGFR and its downstream signaling of MEK/ERK. The combination therapy of APG-2449 and ibrutinib could significantly down-regulate the phosphorylation level of MEK / ERK and AKT. In ESCC xenotransplantation models, single therapy with either ibrutinib or APG-2449 was equivalent in delaying tumor growth, while the combination therapy suppressed tumor growth more significantly.

Conclusion

Our data strongly suggest that the combination therapy of APG-2449 and ibrutinib can provide an effective therapeutic strategy for treating ESCC, which deserved further clinical investigation.
Spatial Distribution of Various forms of Malnutrition Among Reproductive Age Women in Nepal: A Bayesian Geoadditive Quantile Regression Approach
Authors: Vatsa Richa , Ghimire Umesh
Published: July 2020

Background: Confronting the poor nutritional status of women is a major challenge for a developing country like Nepal. This paper presented a critical analysis of factors associated with malnutrition using a Bayesian geoadditive quantile regression approach and assessed spatial variations of malnutrition among Nepalese women. Methods: Data drawn from the 2016 Nepal Demographic and Health Survey was used to assess the spatial distributions of four forms of malnutrition at the provincial level. Spatial and nonlinear components were estimated using Markov random ﬁelds and Bayesian P-splines, respectively. Results: Analysis of 6,159 reproductive age-group women suggests the existence of severe thinness and underweight in rural and among women residing in provinces 2, 5, and Sudurpashchim. Similarly, the likelihood of being obese was prominently high in urban residents and women in Bagmati, and Gandaki. Richest quintile women, followed by women in richer households, were more likely to be obese and overweight. Consistent findings were reported for underweight (e.g., women from poorer households, and women from households without improved toilet facility). Accessibility of mass media (e.g. newspaper, radio, TV) had inconsistent association with the forms of malnutrition. As women aged, likelihood of being overweight and obese became higher. Conclusion: Inconsistent distribution of various forms of malnutrition existed across provinces in Nepal, revealing dissimilar inﬂuence of other socio-economic variables. Health policy precisely addressing province- and location-specific under- and over-nutrition is, therefore, recommended. Elements of hygiene using mass media could be helpful to reach younger and the most impoverished sect of population.
Midwives’ Integration of Post-Abortion Manual Vacuum Aspiration in the Democratic Republic of Congo: A Mixed Methods Case Study & Positive Deviance Assessment
Authors: Bourret Kirsty Marie , Larocque Sylvie , Hien Amélie , Hogue Carol , Muray Kalum , Lukusa Aurélie Thethe , Ngabo Abel Minani
Published: July 2020

Scientific AbstractBackground: This collaborative research with the Professional Association of Congolese midwives (SCOSAF) in the province of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo sought to understand how midwives have integrated manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) for post abortion care.Methods: A positive deviant approach to Creswell’s mixed method comparative case study design was used to identify midwives who have integrated MVA post training and to explore enabling factors. Case group comparisons of positive and non-positive deviant midwives provided further interpretations.Results: All 102 midwives invited to be surveyed were recruited. They included 34% who reported practicing MVA post training. No statistical significance was found between the two groups’ demographics and facility type. Overall, groups had positive attitudes regarding midwifery, MVA, and legalization of abortion. Positive deviant midwives demonstrated and described more confidence and competence to practice and teach MVA. They were more likely to identify as teachers and overcome interprofessional barriers by teaching MVA to physicians, medical students and other midwives and position themselves as experts during post abortion emergencies.Conclusion: Results provided important insight to midwives’ integration of post abortion care in Kinshasa. Strategies used by positive deviant midwives in emergencies allowed them to navigate challenging contexts in order to practice MVA, while simultaneously increasing the credibility of their profession and the dissemination of evidenced-based MVA practice. Programs designed to work with and promote positive deviant midwives as knowledge brokers could be tested for its overall impact on the diffusion of midwifery led MVA to improve access to safe respectful reproductive care.
The Pain Prevalence, Characteristics and Related Factors of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) Referral to Palliative Care Service
Authors: Gu Xiaoli , Gao Huifeng , Chen Menglei , Liu Minghui , Zhang Zhe , Cheng Wenwu
Published: July 2020

Background：This study is to analyze the occurrence and clinical characteristics of cancer pain in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients who referral to palliative care treatment, as well as correlation between pain performance and clinical characteristics, laboratory indicators, and previous treatment.Methods ：Advanced NSCLC patients referred to the Palliative Care Unit (PCU) from January of 2016 to December of 2018 were included in our study. The Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) was used to evaluate cancer pain (CP). Results: Of 54 (56.7%) patients reported with pain, there were 23 patients (42.6%) who suffered from severe pain (score >=7) at the admission. There was a significant difference in the frequency of pain between patients with and without bone metastasis (p= 0.006), between patients with more than two sites and non-more than two sites metastasis (p=0.032). Patients received epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKI) had lower pain prevalence (p=0.033). Patients with bone metastases (p=0.005), with more than two metastases (p=0.022) and those with higer C-reactive protein (CRP) index (p= 0.012) had higher mean scores of pain, with significant differences. Conclusions:Our study showed the general characteristics, pain performance and related factors of advanced NSCLC patients who referral to palliative care service. This study confirmed that these patents’ clinical manifestations of pain were correlated with bone metastasis, metastasis with more than two sites, elevated CRP, and the EGFR-TKI usage. Whether there is a certain potential connection between these factors deserves further study.
Probing afterslip and viscoelastic relaxation following the 2015 Mw 7.8 Gorkha earthquake based on the 3-D Finite Element Model
Authors: Su Lina , Shi Fuqiang , Gan Weijun , Su Xiaoning , Yan Junyi
Published: July 2020

We analyzed GPS coordinate time series from 34 continuous GPS stations in Nepal and 5 continuous GPS stations in South Tibet of China, and extracted the first 4.8 years postseismic displacements after the 2015 Mw7.8 Gorkha earthquake. With the longer duration GPS observations, we found that postseismic displacements mainly exhibit the southward and uplift movement at the epcientral area. To study the postseismic afterslip and viscoelastic relaxation, we then built 3-D spherical finite element model (FEM) with heterogeneous material properties and surface topography across the Himalayan range, accounting for the strong variations of material properties and surface elevation along central Himalayan arc. The sophisticated FEM is more realistic and perform better than the flat layered earth model. On the basis of it, we reveal that the predicted viscoelastic relaxation of cm level is opposite to the observed postseismic deformation; the postseismic deformation with viscoelastic relaxation deducted is well explained by afterslip downdip of coseismic rupture, which indicates the afterslip is still dominant during 4.8 years postseismic deformation after the 2015 Mw7.8 Gorkha earthquake; The lack of slip on a shallow portion and western segment of the MHT during and after the 2015 Gorkha earthquake implies continued seismic hazard in the future.
Multiple dural arteriovenous fistulas in the superior sagittal sinus region with reversible parkinsonism and urinary incontinence as rare presentations: a case report
Authors: Yu Weiwei , Jin Haiqiang , You Qian , Zhang Haoran , Huang Yining
Published: July 2020

Background: Dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF), characterized by abnormally direct connections between meningeal arteries and meningeal veins or dural venous sinuses, is a rare subtype among the intracranial arteriovenous malformations. Although the clinical manifestations of DAVF are very variable depending on the locations and size of venous drainage, parkinsonism and urinary incontinence are rarely reported. Here, we present a rare case with parkinsonism and urinary incontinence secondary to DAVF. Case presentation: A 50-year-old man was admitted for a progressively worsening weakness of his left lower limb over a year with urinary incontinence for four months. Neurological examination revealed rigidity and bradykinesia of the left upper limb without an obvious tremor. Magnetic resonance imaging exhibited diffuse white matter hyperintensities in bilateral centrum semiovale. Cranial magnetic resonance venography revealed extensive tortuous venous malformations. Digital subtraction angiography exhibited multiple bilaterally distributed DAVF in the superior sagittal sinus, supplied by bilateral occipital arteries and superficial temporal arteries. In the one year follow-up, the patient with multiple DAVF bilaterally distributed was completely cured after endovascular treatment according to the symptoms and the follow-up imaging results. Conclusion: this report enriches the clinical presentations of DAVF with parkinsonism and urinary incontinence, which is a crucial diagnostic clue to be aware of the possibility. Moreover, these rare symptoms can be relieved by timely endovascular treatment.
Fabrication of Al2O3-coated BiFeO3 particles and fine-grained ceramics with improved electric properties
Authors: Bai Peijia , Li Yutong , Wang Gang , Han Jiao , Wei Yongxing , Li Mingwei , Mao Duan , Zeng Yiming
Published: July 2020

(1-x)BiFeO3@xAl2O3 ceramics with x = 0, 2.5, 5, and 7.5 mol% were prepared via the Stöber coating method. The effects of Al2O3 coating on microstructure, dielectric, and ferroelectric properties had been investigated. At x = 5 and 7.5, the samples had a great Al2O3 coating effect. XRD results indicated that excessive Al2O3 coating increased the formation of secondary phases (Bi2Fe4O9 and Bi24A12O39). After the coating of Al2O3, the samples had higher relative density and decreased loss tangent. Compared with the pure BiFeO3 sample, the Al2O3-coated samples had improved Bi-O strength, less oxygen vacancy, and the reduction of Fe3+ was decreased. The leakage current density decreased gradually. At x = 5, the sample had the highest Pr value (1.53 μC/cm2). These electric properties changes were ascribed to the generation of secondary phases, the fine grains, and the fewer vacancies.
Phenotypic Diversity for Root Traits and Identification of Superior Germplasm for Root Breeding in Watermelon
Authors: Katuuramu Dennis N. , Wechter W. Patrick , Washington Marcellus L. , Horry Matthew , Cutulle Matthew A. , Jarret Robert L. , Levi Amnon
Published: July 2020

Root traits are an important component for productive plant performance. Roots offer immediate absorptive surfaces for water and nutrient acquisition and are thus critical to crop growth and response to biotic and abiotic stresses. In addition, roots can provide the first line of defense against soilborne pathogens. Watermelon crop performance is often challenged by inclement weather and environmental factors. A resilient root system can support the watermelon crop’s performance across a diverse range of production conditions. In this study, 335 four-day-old watermelon (Citrullus spp.) seedlings were evaluated for total root length, average root diameter, total root surface area, and total root volume. Total root length varied from 8.78 to 181 cm (20.6-fold variation), total surface area varied from 2 to 35.5 cm2, and average root diameter and total root volume had an 8- and 29.5-fold variation, respectively. Genotypes PI 195927 (Citrullus colocynthis) and PI 674448 (Citrullus amarus) had the largest total root length values. Accessions PI 674448 and PI 494817 (C. amarus) had the largest total root surface area means. Watermelon cultivars (Citrullus lanatus) had a relatively smaller root system and significantly fewer fibrous roots when compared with the roots of the other Citrullus spp. Positive genetic correlations were identified among total root length, total root surface area, and total root volume. This genetic information will be useful in future breeding efforts to select for multiple root architecture traits in watermelon. Germplasm identified in this study that exhibit superior root traits can be used as parental choices to improve watermelon for root traits.
Establishment of Leaf Tissue Nutrient Sufficiency Ranges of Two Perovskia Selections by Chronological Age
Authors: Owen W. Garrett
Published: July 2020

The objective of this study was to determine optimum fertilizer concentrations, identify leaf tissue nutrient sufficiency ranges by chronological age, and establish leaf tissue nutrient standards of containerized Russian sage (Perovskia sp.). Common Russian sage (P. atriplicifolia Benth.) and ‘Crazy Blue’ Russian sage were greenhouse-grown in a soilless substrate under one of six constant liquid fertilizer concentrations [50, 75, 100, 200, 300, or 400 mg·L−1 nitrogen (N)] with a constant level of a water-soluble micronutrient blend. Fertilizer concentrations sufficient for optimal plant growth and development were determined by analyzing plant height, diameter, growth index, primary shoot caliper, axillary shoot number, and total dry mass; they were found to be 100 to 200 mg·L−1 N after a 6-week crop cycle. Recently, mature leaf tissue samples were collected from plants fertilized with 100 to 200 mg·L−1 N and analyzed for elemental contents of 11 nutrients at 2, 4, and 6 weeks after transplant (WAT). An overall trend of increasing foliar nutrient concentrations over time was observed for all elemental nutrients. For instance, at 2 WAT, the total N concentrations of common Russian sage and ‘Crazy Blue’ Russian sage ranged between 3.68% and 5.10% and between 3.92% and 5.12%, respectively, and increased to ranges of 5.94% to 5.98% and 5.20% to 5.86% at 6 WAT, respectively. Before this study, no leaf tissue concentration standards have been reported; therefore, this study established leaf tissue concentration sufficiency ranges for the trialed Perovskia selections.
THE VALUE OF CYTOREDUCTIVE SURGERY FOR ISOLATED LYMPH NODE RECURRENCE OF OVARIAN CANCER
Authors: Mamajonov H. I. , Nikoghosyan S. O. , Shevchuk A. S.
Published: July 2020

The purpose of the study was to undertake a systematic literature review regarding the role of cytoreductive surgery in treatment of recurrent ovarian cancer, as well as to summarize available data on various current studies and estimate indications for secondary cytoreduction in recurrent ovarian cancer with isolated lymph node involvement.

Material and Methods. The search for relevant sources was carried out in PubMed, Gynecol Oncol, Medline, NCCN, Elibrary systems; publications were included from January 2006 up to March 2019. Of the 87 studies found, 26 were used to write a systematic review.

Results. Ovarian cancer (OC) remains the leading cause of death from gynecological cancer. The initial treatment for IC-IV stages of OC includes surgical cytoreduction followed by platinum-containing chemotherapy. The best outcomes are observed in patients, in whom complete cytoreduction has been achieved. Despite this fact, most patients develop relapses and the 5-year survival rate is about 30 %. The frequency of lymph node involvement in patients with recurrent OC is not reliably known; isolated lymph node recurrence is reported to occur in 5–32 % of patients. To date, the problem regarding the extent of lymph node dissection in treatment of OC recurrence is still unsolved. In our paper we review the available data concerning the role of secondary cytoreductive surgery for isolated lymph node recurrence of ovarian cancer.

Conclusion. Isolated lymph node recurrence of ovarian cancer may indicate a more favorable prognosis and has a less aggressive pattern of OC relapse. The role of secondary cytoreduction in this context is not fully understood, but this category of patients may be one of the most suitable for surgical treatment of ovarian cancer recurrence.
GENETIC POLYMORPHISM OF RETROPERITONEAL MYXOID LIPOSARCOMA
Authors: Volkov A. Yu. , Safronova V. M. , Nered S. N. , Lyubchenko L. N. , Stilidi I. S.
Published: July 2020

Objective: to detect new molecular genetic markers and therapeutic targets in retroperitoneal myxoid liposarcoma.

Material and Methods. DNA samples isolated from tumor tissue and obtained from formalinfixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) slides were used. DNA was extracted using the GeneRead DNA FFPE Kit (50) (Qiagen). High-throughput next generation sequencing (NGS) using the GeneReader Actionable Insights Tumor Panel (GRTP – 101X) on the QCI Analyzer version 1.1 platform (Qiagen) was used for molecular genetic analysis of 12 genes involved in carcinogenesis: KRAS, NRAS, KIT, BRAF, PDGFRA, ALK, EGFR, ERBB2, PIK3CA, ERBB3, ESR1, RAF1.

Results. Targeted sequencing of retroperitoneal extra-organ myxoid liposarcoma demonstrated genetic heterogeneity. Our study was the first to describe mutations and polymorphic variants in genes, such as EGFR, PIK3CA, ALK, BRAF, ERBB2 / 3, ESR1, KIT, PDGFRA in myxoid liposarcoma.

Conclusion. This study demonstrated a wide range of molecular genetic rearrangements in retroperitoneal extra-organ myxoid liposarcoma. Synonymous mutations in the EGFR (Q787Q) and PDGFRA (P567P) genes were detected in all cases (100 %). Missense mutations in the ERBB2 gene (P1170A) and synonymous mutations in the ALK (G845G) and BRAF genes were identified in 75 % of cases. Missense mutation in the PIK3CA gene (I391M) was detected in 25 % of cases. The gene polymorphisms presented in this paper are most likely involved in the carcinogenesis of retroperitoneal myxoid liposarcoma. Further studies with larger patient groups and multivariate analysis of long-term treatment results are required.
The 1990s on the RTS Screens: Analysis of the Domestic Television Series and the Audience Attitudes
Authors: Simeunović-Bajić Nataša , Vujović Marija , Pavlović Dragana
Published: July 2020

In the cultural memory of peoples or individual groups, there is always a certain temporal point around which complex socio-political discourses develop. In Serbia, it was the 1990s. Many studies analyzed this period from different and opposite perspectives, but research on TV programs from that era has been rather neglected. This paper focuses on TV series and audience attitudes in order to determine their role in this period. The methodology is based on secondary data from previously conducted research since it is difficult to determine the audience's attitudes towards a serial program that was broadcasted in the 1990s from this temporal distance. The reports from the RTS (Radio Television of Serbia) Research Center were used, and a brief analysis of individual achievements from that period was made to define a more general picture of the television series offered. The methods used were: historical analysis, content analysis and comparative analysis, therefore, the qualitative approach dominates.

Ideology has long been identified as an increasingly common component of popular content, so particular attention was paid in this paper to detailed analysis and „reading between the lines.“ Although at first glance it was expected that clear ideological representational matrices would be recognized in TV series broadcasted in the 1990s, our research shows that this is not the case. Detailed analysis provided answers to the newly discovered meanings of a complex and never-completed process of cultural formation within the peculiarities of everyday life in a territory that was largely isolated and at a time pressed by various phenomenological and axiological categories. That everyday life was human, lively and inevitable, and its representation in the series does not cover the semantic paradigm of the most difficult of all times in contemporary Serbian history. In a deeper reading of the attitudes and thinking of the audience, it is noticed that the perception of the socio-political crisis of the time was projected on the wishes of the audience, as it pleaded for more fun, optimism and humanity, which became part of the basic viewing preferences. More than that, viewers have expressed a need for much more love content in future recorded series, which shows a certain measure of saturation, on the one hand, and a culmination of optimism and relaxation regarding the expectations of the serial content, on the other. The audience's desires were turned toward distraction from reality, wars, sanctions and dark topics.
The Qeleshe and the Drone. Models of Political Expression at the Albania National Football Team’s Games in Belgrade
Authors: Kovačević Ivan
Published: July 2020

In the space of 47 years the Albania national football team played two games at the JNA stadium in Belgrade. At both games, events with a clear political content took place. At the 1967 game, a group of about 5,000 fans supported the Albania national team, some of whom wore qeleshes as a possible marker of Albanian ethnicity. The 2014 game, which was also a European Championship qualifier, was marked by the appearance of a drone carrying the Greater Albania flag, which descended towards the pitch. As players tried to get hold of the flag, a scuffle broke out and supporters invaded the pitch, with the result that the match was suspended. In this paper, both events are interpreted within the context of other political events in the region immediately preceding and following the matches. The events at the 1967 game are compared to the demonstrations in Pristina a year later. The comparison highlights differences in the political attitudes of the masses and the elites. While the masses had clear aspirations towards the unification of all Albanians, regardless of the situation in Albania at the time and Enver Hoxha’s Stalinist regime, the elite perceived the danger of these ideas and channeled the strategy toward solutions that appeared feasible, namely, the establishment of a republic within Yugoslavia. Again, at the game 47 years later, the drone with the message of Greater Albania was not the expression of the political will of the elite, who were aware that Albania’s and Kosovo’s current political positions do not allow for the abolishing of borders. In both cases, the political elites did not explicitly reject the idea of unification, as it would be politically inopportune to reject an idea that is prevalent in the cultural intimacy of the broad masses of the people, but it was sidelined and modified into unity within the broader context of integrations and breaking down of barriers in the region and in Europe.
Family businesses and predictability of financial strength: a Hungarian study
Authors: Sági Judit , Chandler Nick , Lentner Csaba
Published: July 2020

The aim of this study is to examine how bankruptcy prediction models forecast financial strength for family businesses. Three predictive tests are used to study financial strength for three consecutive years (2016, 2017 and 2018) for a sample of 462,200 active Hungarian companies using the Amadeus database and expert data. Complex statistical model tests for credit assessment (bankruptcy predictions) are performed by size and ownership of the companies. It is found that the revised Altman model is impeded by a superfluous high weighting on net working capital; therefore, IN05 Quick Test predicted better chances for businesses in generating cash flows in a small emerging economy. By re-formulating the Bankruptcy Index of Karas and Režňáková and refining its coefficients, the modified Bankruptcy Index is more robust for predicting the financial health of family businesses on a cash flow basis. The test results of this modified Bankruptcy Index confirm the relative advance of family businesses in creating added value for owners. Practical implications arise from a management perspective: family businesses work better with predictability of survival in accordance with the model; therefore, their ability to adapt to financial constraints caused by crises is also more promising.
Yenilenebilir Enerji Kaynaklarında Sürekliliği Sağlamak için Optimum Enerji Karışımının Belirlenmesi: Kahramanmaraş Bölgesinde Bir Uygulama
Authors: KARADÖL İsrafil , YILDIZ Ceyhun , AÇIKGÖZ Hakan , ŞEKKELİ Mustafa
Published: July 2020

Yenilenebilir enerji santral (YES) üretimleri, iklim koşullarına bağlı olarak sürekli değişmektedir. Bu sürekli değişim şebekenin güç-frekans dengesi üzerinde bozucu etkilere neden olmaktadır. YES üretim değişimlerinin etkilerini azaltmanın üç farklı yolu vardır: Şebeke sistemlerini birbirine bağlamak, enerjiyi depolamak ve enerji kaynakları arasındaki zamansal tamamlamadan faydalanmaktır. Yapılan bu çalışmada üç farklı yenilenebilir enerji kaynağı arasındaki zamansal tamamlamadan faydalanılarak daha kararlı bir enerji karışımı elde edilmiştir. Çalışma Kahramanmaraş ili için gerçekleştirilmiştir.
Hesaplamaların gerçeğe yakın olması amacıyla ilde işletilmekte olan üç farklı YES’ten (hidroelektrik santral (HES), güneş enerjisi santrali (GES) ve rüzgar e (RES)) gerçek üretim verileri alınmıştır. Yapılan hesaplamalar sonucunda incelenen HES, GES ve RES nerjisi santrali üretimlerinin optimum karışım oranları sırasıyla %14, %56 ve %30 olarak elde edilmiştir. Kahramanmaraş İli’nde bu oranlar dikkate alınarak tesisler kurulursa üretimin daha kararlı bir hale geleceği görülmüştür. Bu durumda YES üretimlerinin geleneksel şebeke sistemlerinin, güç-frekans dengesi üzerindeki bozucu etkisi de azalacaktır.
Yumurtalık Fayı’nın Holosen Aktivitesinin Araştırılması (Ceyhan-Adana)
Authors: KARA Meryem , ÜNLÜGENÇ Ulvi Can , ELMACI Hasan , DUMAN Tamer Y.
Published: July 2020

Bu çalışmada, İskenderun Körfezi’ni kuzeyden sınırlayan Yumurtalık Fayı’nın deprem aktivitesi araştırılmıştır. Yumurtalık Fayı’nın deprem üretme potansiyelinin belirlenmesi, etkili olduğu alanlarda tarım, sanayi ve yerleşimin yoğun olması nedeniyle çok önemlidir. Ayrıca Doğu Anadolu Fayı (DAF)’nın Akdeniz’e uzandığı güneybatı kesimini oluşturmasından dolayı DAF’ın depremselliğinin belirlenmesine de önemli katkılar sağlayacaktır. Çalışma kapsamında paleosismolojik hendek kazıları gerçekleştirilmiş ve hendeklerden elde edilen veriler ile fay üzerinde meydana gelmiş ve yüzey yırtılması ile sonuçlanmış en az üç adet deprem tespit edilmiştir. Aletsel dönem deprem kayıtları incelendiğinde, Yumurtalık Fayı ve çevresinde büyüklüğü M=4 ve üzerinde birçok depremin meydana geldiği görülmektedir. Fayın uzunluğu ve karakteri gibi fay parametreleri kullanılarak yapılan hesaplamalar sonucunda Yumurtalık Fayı üzerinde meydana gelebilecek en büyük depremin büyüklüğünün 6,9 olması beklenmektedir. Sonuç olarak Yumurtalık Fayı’nın Holosen aktivitesi net olarak ortaya konulmuş ve çalışılan bölgenin neotektonik süreçlerini karşılayan bir mekanizmada çalıştığı görülmüştür. Bu çalışma, Yumurtalık Fayı’nın geçtiği alanlardaki deprem tehlikesinin değerlendirilmesine yönelik çalışmalara önemli katkılar sağlayacak niteliktedir.
Historic hydraulic works: paradigms of traditional good water governance, integrity and sustainability
Authors: Megdiche-Kharrat Feirouz , Zheng Xiao Yun , Moussa Mohamed , Famin Zhang , Angelakis Andreas N.
Published: July 2020

The first Water Integrity Forum in Delft, The Netherlands (June 2013), defined the core of water integrity as ‘the integrity of people and institutions governing water resources, decision making that is fair and inclusive, honest and transparent, accountable and free of corruption’. Historic hydraulic structures are man-made ancestral water systems that helped sedentism and the emergence of cities where the resource is rare or partly available. The scope of the study is to present seven examples of historic hydraulic structures from different geographic contexts, as diverse as South America, Europe, the Middle East and the Far East, as paradigms of indigenous knowledge in water governance. They are traditional gravity-flow water supplying systems whose functioning is based on eco-friendly and sustainable techniques such as the exploitation of surface and runoff water with ensuring minimal water losses, community-based management by already set rules upon common agreements, the preservation of ecological landscapes and the practice of traditional agriculture. This paper highlights those systems and connects their specifications to economic, social, political and environmental dimensions for good water governance and to water integrity key principles, Transparency, Accountability, Participation and Anti-corruption, in a way to explore their potential to do so.
Synthesis, Evaluation of Biological Activity, Docking and Molecular Dynamic Studies of Pyrimidine Derivatives
Authors: Boumi Shahin , Moghimirad Jafar , Amanlou Massoud , Ostad Seyed Nasser , Tavajohi Shohreh , Amini Mohsen
Published: July 2020

The microtubule is composed of αβ-tubulin heterodimers and is an attractive target for the
design of anticancer drugs. Over the years, various compounds have been developed and their effect on
tubulin polymerization has been studied. Despite great efforts to make an effective drug, no drug has
been introduced which inhibit colchicine binding site. In the current work, a series of pyrimidine derivatives
were designed and synthesized. Furthermore, their cytotoxic activities were evaluated and molecular
docking studies were performed. Twenty compounds of pyrimidine were synthesized in 2 different
groups. In the first group, 4,6-diaryl pyrimidine was connected to the third aryl group via thiomethylene
spacer. In the second group, this linker was substituted by S-CH2-triazole moiety. The cytotoxic
activity of these compounds was evaluated against 4 different cell lines (HT-29, MCF-7, T47D,
NIH3T3). Compounds 6d, 6m, 6p showed potent cytotoxic activity against MCF7 cancerous cell lines.
Between these compounds, compound 6p did not show cytotoxic activity against NIH- 3T3 (normal
cell) cell line. Docking studies show that these compounds occupy colchicine binding site in tubulin
protein and probably their anticancer mechanism is inhibition of tubulin polymerization. Altogether,
with respect to obtained results, it is attractive and beneficial to further investigation on pyrimidine
scaffold as antimitotic agents. Attention to the selectivity index of 6p on MCF7 cell line could be valuable
in design new chemical agents for the treatment of breast cancer.
Prevalence and Factors Associated with Lower Limb Amputation in Patients Hospitalized for Diabetic Foot: a Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Ndong Abdourahmane , Tendeng Jacques Noel , Diao Mohamed Lamine , Dia Diatou Gueye , Dia Amadou Diop , Ba Arona , Diallo Adja Coumba , Dia Diago Anta , Ngouamba Blaise Magloire , Ma Nyemb Philippe Manyacka , Konaté Ibrahima
Published: July 2020

Background:

Diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic amputation of the lower limb. Several factors
associated with amputation are described in the literature, but they remain not well studied in our context.

Objectives:

Our aim is to determine the prevalence and factors associated with amputation in patients hospitalized for
diabetic foot.

Methods:

This is a prospective cross-sectional study performed over the period from December 1, 2017 to June 30, 2018.
The patients included were those hospitalized for trophic disorders of the foot in patients with type 2 diabetes. The studied
parameters were: epidemiological, diagnostic, therapeutic and evolutionary data. An univariate analysis and then a binary
logistic regression identified the factors associated with lower limb amputation.

Results:

We included 53 patients. A lower limb amputation was performed in 8 patients (prevalence of 15.1%). Univariate
analysis found as factors associated with major amputation: advanced age (p = 0.031); male gender (p = 0.003); use of
traditional treatment (p = 0.036); non-compliance with the diabetic diet (p = 0.016); stage D of the University of Texas
(UT) Classification (p = 0.029); grade ≥ 2 of the UT Classification (p = 0.002). Logistic regression finds only the
following two variables as independent factor associated with amputation: male gender (p = 0.004, OR = 36.1 and CI =
3.2-402.9); stage D of the UT classification (p = 0.014, OR = 21.3 and CI = 1.8-244.2).

Conclusion:

Controlling these factors would allow better management of diabetes to avoid complications.
Seaweed Extract Improves Carbohydrate Metabolism in Overweight and Obese Adults
Authors: Elidottir Anita S. , Sveinsdottir Kolbrun , Ingadottir Bergros , Geirsdottir Olof G. , Jonsson Palmi V. , Rothenberg Elisabeth , Hardardottir Ingibjorg , Freysdottir Jona , Ramel Alfons
Published: July 2020

Background:

Background: Obesity is characterized by chronic low-grade inflammation and associated
with type 2 diabetes. Seaweed is one of the largest producers of biomass in the marine environment
and is a rich arsenal of functional ingredients that may possess the potential to prevent type 2 diabetes.

Objective:

The aim was to investigate the effects of seaweed extract on glucose metabolism and
markers of inflammation in overweight and obese individuals.

Methods:

Participants (N=76, ≥40 years, body mass index ≥25 kg/m2) who volunteered for this 10-
week randomized, controlled, doubly blinded intervention study, were randomized into an intervention
group (seaweed extract, 3 capsules=1200 mg/day) or a control group (placebo, 3 capsules/day).
The extract derived from the brown seaweed bladder wrack (Fucus vesiculosus). At baseline and
endpoint of the study, fasting samples were analysed for blood glucose, insulin, inflammation markers,
liver enzymes and creatinine (renal function).

Results:

Drop out was 11.8% and not significantly different between groups. Fasting blood glucose
and insulin were improved at the endpoint in the intervention group, but no changes were observed in
the control group (corrected endpoint differences between groups: glucose=0.61 mmol/L, P=0.038;
insulin=0.72 μU/L, P=0.038). Measures of inflammation, liver enzymes and renal function did not
change significantly during the study.

Conclusion:

Ingestion of seaweed extract over 10 weeks improves glucose metabolism without affecting
measures of inflammation, liver function or renal function.
Genome-wide Identification of Differently Expressed lncRNAs, mRNAs, and circRNAs in Patients with Osteoarthritis
Authors: Sun Yeqing , Chen Lei , Zhang Yingqi , Zhang Jincheng , Tiwari Shashi Ranjan
Published: July 2020

Background:

Osteoarthritis (OA), one of the most important causes leading to joint
disability, was considered as an untreatable disease. A series of genes were reported to regulate the
pathogenesis of OA, including microRNAs, Long non-coding RNAs and Circular RNA. So far, the
expression profiles and functions of lncRNAs, mRNAs, and circRNAs in OA are not fully
understood.

Objective:

The present study aimed to identify differentially expressed genes in OA.

Methods:

The present study conducted RNA-seq to identify differentially expressed genes in OA.
Ontology (GO) analysis was used to analyze the Molecular Function and Biological Process. KEGG
pathway analysis was used to perform the differentially expressed lncRNAs in biological pathways.

Results:

Hierarchical clustering revealed a total of 943 mRNAs, 518 lncRNAs, and 300 circRNAs,
which were dysregulated in OA compared to normal samples. Furthermore, we constructed
differentially expressed mRNAs mediated protein-protein interaction network, differentially
expressed lncRNAs mediated trans-regulatory networks, and competitive endogenous RNA
(ceRNA) to reveal the interaction among these genes in OA. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that
these dysregulated genes were involved in regulating multiple biological processes, such as wound
healing, negative regulation of ossification, sister chromatid cohesion, positive regulation of
interleukin-1 alpha production, sodium ion transmembrane transport, positive regulation of cell
migration, and negative regulation of inflammatory response. To the best of our knowledge, this
study for the first time, revealed the expression pattern of mRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs in OA.

Conclusion:

This study provided novel information to validate these differentially expressed RNAs
may be as possible biomarkers and targets in OA.
Anti-Angiogenetic Agents from the Sea: A New Potential Preventive and Therapeutic Wave?
Authors: Gammone Maria A. , Danese Antonella , D’Orazio Nicolantonio
Published: July 2020

Angiogenesis, generation of novel blood vessels from pre-existing ones, is a prerequisite for the
physiological expansion, reparation, and functioning of body tissues and systems. However, it is also involved
in some pathological inflammatory situations, such as oncologic and chronic degenerative disorders. The correct
angiogenesis and neo-vascular response also accompanies wound healing, interaction with biocompatible
materials, and tissue regeneration.

In this respect, natural products deriving from terrestrial and marine plants/organisms may prevent and even
cure various angiogenesis-dependent disorders.

Bioactive natural compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities could concur to maintain
adequate vascularization and endothelial functions and inhibit angiogenesis, thus controlling tumor
development.

This review aims to illustrate the role of some marine-derived compounds as anti-angiogenetic agents.
Anticancer Active Heterocyclic Chalcones: Recent Developments
Authors: Dandawate Prasad , Ahmed Khursheed , Padhye Subhash , Ahmad Aamir , Biersack Bernhard
Published: July 2020

Background:

Chalcones are structurally simple compounds that are easily accessible by synthetic
methods. Heterocyclic chalcones have gained the interest of scientists due to their diverse biological activities.
The anti-tumor activities of heterocyclic chalcones are especially remarkable and the growing number of publications
dealing with this topic warrants an up-to-date compilation.

Methods:

Search for antitumor active heterocyclic chalcones was carried out using Pubmed and Scifinder as
common web-based literature searching tools. Pertinent and current literature was covered from 2015/2016 to
2019. Chemical structures, biological activities and modes of action of anti-tumor active heterocyclic chalcones
are summarized.

Results:

Simply prepared chalcones have emerged over the last years with promising antitumor activities.
Among them, there are a considerable number of tubulin polymerization inhibitors. But there are also new chalcones
targeting special enzymes such as histone deacetylases or with DNA-binding properties.

Conclusion:

This review provides a summary of recent heterocyclic chalcone derivatives with distinct antitumor
activities.
Fixed-Ratio Combinations of Basal Insulin and GLP-1RA in the Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Highlights from the Literature
Authors: Lisco Giuseppe , De Tullio Anna , Guastamacchia Edoardo , Triggiani Vincenzo
Published: July 2020

:

New pieces of evidence suggest that combining basal insulin with glucagone-like peptide 1
receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) in patients with type 2 diabetes could promptly ameliorate glucose control
and prevent both hypoglycemic events and unnecessary weight gain compared to more intensive
insulin regimens.

:

To review the efficacy/effectiveness and safety of fixed-ratio combinations of basal insulin and GLP-
1RA (FRCs).

:

Authors searched PubMed/MEDLINE, ClinicalTrials.gov, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar for
freely available original articles, randomized clinical trials (RCTs), clinical reviews, and meta-analysis
written in English until January 2020.

:

FRCs provide significative reductions in HbA1c levels in both insulin-naïve (-1.4% to -2%) and insulin-
experienced (-1.5% to -2%) type 2 diabetic patients with moderate glucose impairment. More patients
achieved the recommended glycemic targets on FRCs compared to those on mono-therapy with
basal insulin or GLP-1RAs. The intensification with FRCs results in better glycemic control compared
to basal insulin at fasting as well as during the postprandial state. The frequency of hypoglycemia is
similar or lower in patients treated with FRCs than in those on basal insulin alone at a similar dose.
Weight trend can be variable, ranging from -2.7 to +2 Kg for iDegLira and -0.7 to -1.3 Kg for iGlar-
Lixi. However, a lower weight gain is obtained with iDegLira compared to iDeg (-2.2 to -2.5 Kg),
iGlar (-1.7 to -3.2 Kg), and basal-bolus (-3.6 Kg) as well as with iGlarLixi compared to iGlar
(-1.4 Kg).

:

FRCs should be considered to safely improve the metabolic control in type 2 diabetic patients with
moderate glycemic impairment while on oral medications, basal oral regimen or GLP-1RAs. However,
a few but significative pieces of evidence suggest that FRCs could be a safe and effective treatment
instead of a low dose basal-bolus intensification for patients with mild or moderate glucose impairment
in order to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia and unnecessary weight gain, and for simplifying treatment
regimen as well.