bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute Low-intensity Treadmill Running Induces Intestinal Glucose Transporters via GLP-2 in Mice
Authors: Aoki Kai , Suzuki Takuji , Hui Fang , Nakano Takuro , Yanazawa Koki , Yonamine Masato , Fujita Shinichiro , Sugasawa Takehito , Yoshida Yasuko , Omi Naomi , Kawakami Yasushi , Takekoshi Kazuhiro
Published: April 2021

Exercise affects various organs. However, its effects on nutrient digestion and absorption in the intestinal tract are not well understood. A few studies have reported that exercise training in-creases the expression of carbohydrate digestion and absorption molecules. Exercise was also shown to increase the concentration of blood glucagon like peptide-2(GLP-2), which regulates carbohydrate digestion and absorption in small intestinal epithelium. Therefore, we investigated the effects of exercise on intestinal digestion and absorption molecules and the levels of GLP-2. 6-wk-old of male mice were divided into 2 groups; sedentary (SED) and low-intensity exercise (LEx). LEx mice were required to run on a treadmill (12.5 m/min, 60 min), whereas SED mice rested. All mice were euthanized 1 h after exercise or rest and plasma, jejunum, ileum, and colon were sampled. Samples were analyzed using EIA and immunoblotting. The levels of plasma GLP-2 and the expression of the GLP-2 receptor, sucrase-isomaltase (SI), and glucose transporter (GLUT2) in the jejunum were increased in LEx group. We showed that acute low-intensity exer-cise affects the intestinal carbohydrate digestion and absorption molecules via GLP-2. Our results suggest that exercise might provide new benefits to the small intestine for people with intestinal frailty.
Exacerbating Factors Eating Disorder Risk in Bodybuilding Athletes
Authors: Efthymiou Dimitris , Kokokiris Lampros , Mesiari Christina , Vassilopoulou Emilia
Published: April 2021

The passion of bodybuilding athletes for a symmetric, lean, heavily muscled body leads them to carry out exhausting exercise programs and restrictive eating regimens, sometimes resulting in disordered eating behaviors. This study investigates potential exacerbators on the development of disordered eating in bodybuilding and strength athletes. The study involved 103 Cypriot bodybuilding athletes of both sexes, performing at three levels: professional, recreational and strength athletes. The Eating Attitude Test 26 (EAT-26) and The Three Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ-R21) were used to evaluate disordered eating and eating behaviors respectively. The current study was performed under the auspices of the Hellenic Center of Education & Treatment of Eating Disorders (KEADD). The degree of deviation between the perceived ideal body weight and the actual body weight was associated with increased risk of eating disorder. Athletes who desired a lower body weight recorded higher scores on EAT-26 overall, and the subscales of dieting and bulimia. Cognitive restraint and emotional eating scales of TFEQ-R21 were more pronounced in the non-professional athletes. The emotional eating score was higher in women. There is a need for appropriate sport-specific, gender-specific preventive intervention to deescalate the risk of eating disorder, in both professional and non-professional bodybuilding athletes.
Students’ Perception towards COVID-19 Vaccination Program in Bangladesh: A Study on University Students
Authors: Biswas Bikram , Nur Ullah Mohammad , Roy Sajib Kumar , Roy Falguni
Published: April 2021

After a long waited span, the whole world could see the ray of covid-19 vaccine to resist the planet to watch the death procession. But some country people especially the people of Bangladesh keep them aside to take the vaccination. This study aims to understand the perception towards the COVID-19 vaccination program in Bangladesh and the targeted subject is the university student as they are suffering highly depression nowadays. Higher education has been affected globally as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic in 223 countries. Moreover, for this pandemic situation, the university students can not complete their graduation which binds them to enter their professional career. Alike all of the developed countries, as well as developing countries, Bangladesh, also considered vaccination as an effective measure to protect the peoples from the Covid-19 virus. This study targeted three psychological factors of the university students and surveyed 322 students from the different universities in Bangladesh to understand their perception regarding vaccines. Moreover, it is seen that most of the students doubt the effectiveness of the vaccine which interrupts them from taking the vaccine willingly.
Increased Neurotoxicity Due to Activated Immune-Inflammatory and Nitro-Oxidative Stress Pathways in Patients with Suicide Attempts: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Vasupanrajit Asara , Jirakran Ketsupar , Tunvirachaisakul Chavit , Maes Michael
Published: April 2021

Background: Suicide attempts (SA) frequently occur in patients with mood disorders and schizophrenia, which are both accompanied by activated immune-inflammatory and nitro-oxidative (IO&NS) pathways. Methods: We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science, for articles published from inception until February 1, 2021. We included studies that compared blood biomarkers in psychiatric patients with (SA+) and without SA (SA-) and heathy controls and we combined different IO&NS biomarkers into immune, inflammatory, and neurotoxic profiles and used meta-analysis (random-effect model with restricted maximum-likelihood) to delineate effect sizes with 95% confidence interval (CI).Findings: Our search included 51 studies comprising 4.945 SA+ patients and 24.148 controls. We stratified the control group into healthy controls and SA- patients. SA+ patients showed significantly (p<0.001) increased immune activation (SMD: 1.044; CI: 0.599-1.489), inflammation (SMD: 1.109; CI: 0.505, 1.714), neurotoxicity (SMD: 0.879; CI: 0.465, 1.293), and lowered neuroprotection (SMD: 0.648; CI: 0.354, 0.941) as compared with healthy controls. When compared with SA- patients, those with SA+ showed significant (p<0.001) immune activation (SMD: 0.290; CI: 0.183, 0.397), inflammation (SMD: 0.311; CI: 0.191, 0.432), and neurotoxicity (SMD: 0.315; CI: 0.198, 0.432), and lowered neuroprotection (SMD: 0.341; CI: 0.167, 0.515). Patients with current, but not lifetime, SA showed significant (p<0.001) levels of inflammation and neurotoxicity as compared with controls. Conclusions: Patients with immune activation are at a higher risk of SA which may be explained by increased neurotoxicity due to inflammation and nitro-oxidative stress. This meta-analysis discovered new biomarkers of SA and therapeutic targets to treat individuals with SA.
Community Nursing in Coastal Tourism through the Establishment of Coastal Health Center (POSKESPAN)
Authors: Achjar Komang , Pandin Moses Glorino Rumambo
Published: April 2021

Coastal tourist nursing is intended for coastal tourists related to the risk of accidents that may occur during the coastal activity. The risk of accidents in tourists can occur due to bad weather, lack of rescue equipment, and the limited ability of the coast guard to perform first aid and emergency treatment. This study described the relationship between coastal tourist nursing with the prevention of injuries and the first aid of coastal accidents, as well as the working procedures and obstacles that might occur during the rescue. The research was conducted by the qualitative method through in-depth interviews with respondents consisting of tourists, Balawista, and health workers. The data is analyzed with qualitative descriptive analysis. The interview generates 14 themes related to activities on coastal such as the duties of Balawista, warning signs, means of communication, improvement of ability, accident cases, accident treatment, referral of cases, needs of infrastructure facilities, human resources needs, health care needs, infrastructure factors, human factors, situation factors, and how to cope with the problem. Those themes can be used as a reflection in following up the safety service efforts to coastal tourists.
Factors Influencing Initiation and Discontinuation of Vitamin D Supplementation Among Infants
Authors: HURMUZLU KOZLER Selen , SAYLI Tulin Revide
Published: April 2021

Background: To determine vitamin D supplementation frequency among infants, factors that influence adherence, and reasons for discontinuation of initiated vitamin D.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted using a questionnaire administered to the mothers via a face-to-face interview on 560 infants aged from 1 to 24 months admitted to outpatient clinics from June to December 2017.
Results: A total of 351 infants were administered vitamin D, and the rate of supplementation in the first year of life was 83%, while it was only 28% between 13 and 24 months. The rate of vitamin D supplementation was higher among infants who were exclusively formula-fed (p<.05). When the data were analyzed using logistic regression analysis, only visit family physicians seems to be a statistically significant independent variable in increasing supplementation (p<.05).
Compared with family refusal, the rate of discontinuation of vitamin D by the healthcare providers was higher after the first year of life (p<.05). The rates of vitamin D discontinuation by healthcare providers, especially by nurses who considered the duration of supplementation adequate, were statistically significantly higher when compared with the fontanel closure and other reasons (p<0.05).
Conclusions: The rate of vitamin D supplementation was higher among families who visited family physicians, which suggests the importance of well-baby visits. Since vitamin D supplementation was less common among exclusively breastfed infants, mothers should be educated. Healthcare professionals need further education about the importance of vitamin D supplementation and indications for discontinuation.
Monetary Health Co-benefits and GHG Emissions Reduction Benefits: Contribution from Private on-the-road Transport
Authors: Liou Je-Liang , Wu Pei-Ing
Published: April 2021

This is the first study to provide a systematic monetary benefit matrix, including greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction benefits and air pollution reduction health co-benefits, for a change in on-the-road transport to low-carbon types. The benefit transfer method is employed to estimate the social cost of carbon and the health co-benefits via impact pathway analysis in Taiwan. Specifically, the total emissions reduction benefits from changing all internal combustion vehicles to either hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, or electric vehicles would generate an average of US$760 million from GHG emissions reduction and US$2,091 million from health co-benefits based on air pollution reduction, for a total benefit of US$2,851 million annually. For a change from combustion scooters to light- or heavy-duty electric scooters, the average GHG emissions reduction benefits would be US$96.02 million, and the health co-benefits from air pollution reduction would be US$1,008.83 million, for total benefits of US$1,104.85 million annually.
Integral Order Photonic RF Signal Processors Based on Kerr Micro-combs
Authors: Tan Mengxi , Xu Xingyuan , Moss David
Published: April 2021

Soliton crystal micro-combs are powerful tools as sources of multiple wavelength channels for radio frequency (RF) signal processing. They offer a compact device footprint, large numbers of wavelengths, very high versatility, and wide Nyquist bandwidths. Here, we demonstrate integral order RF signal processing functions based on a soliton crystal micro-comb, including a Hilbert transformer and first- to third-order differentiators. We compare and contrast results achieved and the tradeoffs involved with varying comb spacing, tap design methods, as well as shaping methods.
Movement Analysis to Predict Broiler Walking Ability
Authors: Pereira Danilo Florentino , Nääs Irenilza de Alencar , Lima Nilsa Duarte da Silva
Published: April 2021

The genetic development of commercial broiler led to body misconfiguration and consequent walking disabilities, mainly at the slaughter age. The present study aimed to identify broiler locomotion ability using image analysis automatically. A total of 40 broiler 40 d-old were placed to walk on a specially built runway, and their locomotion was recorded. An image segmentation algorithm was developed, and the coordinates of the bird's center of mass were extracted from the segmented images for each frame analyzed, and the Unrest Index (UI) was applied. We calculated the center of mass's movement of the broiler walking's lateral images, therefore, capturing the bird's displacement speed in the onward direction. Results indicated that broiler speed on the runway tends to decrease with the increase of the gait score. The locomotion did not differ between males or females. The proposed algorithm was efficient if predicting the broiler gait score based on their displacement speed.
An Adaptive Early Fault Detection Model of Induced Draft Fans Based on Multivariate State Estimation Technique
Authors: Guo Ruijun , Zhang Guobin , Zhang Qian , Zhou Lei , Yu Haicun , Li Meng , Lv You
Published: April 2021

The induced draft (ID) fan is important auxiliary equipment in the thermal power plant. It is of great significance to monitor the operation of the ID fan for safe and efficient production. In this paper, an adaptive warning model is proposed to detect early faults of ID fans. First, a non-parametric monitoring model is constructed to describe the normal operation states with the multivariate state estimation technique (MSET). Then, an early warning approach is presented to identify abnormal behaviors based on the results of the MSET model. As the performance of the MSET model is heavily influenced by the normal operation data in the historic memory matrix, an adaptive strategy is proposed by using the samples with a high data quality index (DQI) to manage the memory matrix and update the model. The proposed method is applied to a 300 MW coal-fired power plant for early fault detection, and it is compared with the model without an update. Results show that the proposed method can detect the fault earlier and more accurately.
Development of a Remote-Controlled Drone System by Using Only Eye Movements: Design of a Control Screen Considering Operability and Microsaccades
Authors: Kogawa Atsunori ,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tokai University 4-1-1 Kitakaname, Hiratsuka, Kanagawa 259-1292, Japan, Onda Moeko , Kai Yoshihiro
Published: April 2021

In recent years, the number of bedridden patients, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients, has been increasing with the aging of the population, owing to advances in medical and long-term care technology. Eye movements are physical functions that are relatively difficult to be affected, even if the symptoms of ALS progress. Focusing on this point, in this paper, in order to improve the quality of life (QOL) of bedridden patients, including ALS patients, we propose a drone system connected to the Internet that can be remotely controlled using only their eyes. In order to control the drone by using only their eyes, a control screen and an eye-tracking device were used in this system. By using this system, for example, the patients in New York can operate the drone in Kyoto using only their eyes, enjoy the scenery, and talk with people in Kyoto. In this drone system, since a time delay could occur depending on the Internet usage environment, agile operation is required for remotely controlling the drone. Therefore, we introduce the design of the control screen focused on remote control operability and human eye movements (microsaccades). Furthermore, considering the widespread future use of this system, it is desirable to use a commercial drone. Accordingly, we describe the design of a joystick control device to physically control the joysticks of various drone controllers. Finally, we present experimental results to verify the effectiveness of this system, including the control screen and the joystick control device.
FPGA Implementation of a Binarized Dual Stream Convolutional Neural Network for Service Robots
Authors: Yoshimoto Yuma , Tamukoh Hakaru ,   Graduate School of Life Science and Systems Engineering, Kyushu Institute of Technology 2-4 Hibikino, Wakamatsu-ku, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 808-0196, Japan,   Research Center for Neuromorphic AI Hardware, Kyushu Institute of Technology 2-4 Hibikino, Wakamatsu-ku, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 808-0196, Japan
Published: April 2021

In this study, with the aim of installing an object recognition algorithm on the hardware device of a service robot, we propose a Binarized Dual Stream VGG-16 (BDS-VGG16) network model to realize high-speed computations and low power consumption. The BDS-VGG16 model has improved in terms of the object recognition accuracy by using not only RGB images but also depth images. It achieved a 99.3% accuracy in tests using an RGB-D Object Dataset. We have also confirmed that the proposed model can be installed in a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). We have further installed BDS-VGG16 Tiny, a small BDS-VGG16 model in XCZU9EG, a system on a chip with a CPU and a middle-scale FPGA on a single chip that can be installed in robots. We have also integrated the BDS-VGG16 Tiny with a robot operating system. As a result, the BDS-VGG16 Tiny installed in the XCZU9EG FPGA realizes approximately 1.9-times more computations than the one installed in the graphics processing unit (GPU) with a power efficiency approximately 8-times higher than that installed in the GPU.
Development of a Fish-Like Robot with a Continuous and High Frequency Snap-Through Buckling Mechanism Using a Triangular Cam
Authors: Nakanishi Daisuke , Kobayashi Shoya , Obara Kiichi , Matsumura Shotaro , Sueoka Yuichiro ,   Department of Control Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Matsue College 14-4 Nishi-ikuma, Matsue, Shimane 690-8518, Japan,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
Published: April 2021

This study focuses on the high maneuverability of fish in water to design a fish-like robot via snap-through buckling. The aim of this study is to improve swimming speed by increasing the frequency at which snap-through buckling occurs. Here, we propose a novel drive mechanism using a triangular cam that can continuously generate snap-through buckling at a high frequency. In addition, we developed a fish-like robot via the proposed mechanism and analyzed the influence of the frequency of snap-through buckling on swimming speed. The results obtained indicate that swimming speed is improved and that the relationship between frequency and swimming speed exhibits a single peak. In other words, the swimming speed is reduced when the frequency is significantly increased. We also determined that swimming speed was improved using a wide elastic thin plate as the driving mechanism.
Effect of Visualised Case-Based Learning Strategy On Students’ Academic Performance in Chemistry in Ibadan Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Idika Mabel Ihuoma
Published: April 2021

This study investigated the effect of the use of visualized case-based learning (VCBL) strategy on chemistry students’ academic achievement. The theoretical framework for this study is based on Thorndike’s idea of transfer of learning. A sample of one hundred and forty-five (145) senior secondary school II chemistry students drawn from four intact classes in two local government areas of Ibadan metropolis, were used for the research. Three well validated instruments were used to collect data. The VCBL package was developed following the Smith and Ragan Instructional System Design (ISD) Model (1999). This model comprises four stages: namely, Analysis, Design, Development and Implementation/Evaluation. Data were analysed by means of inferential statistics (ANCOVA, EMM and Tukey’s post-hoc). Results showed that there is significant main effect of treatment on students’ achievement in Chemistry (F (2, 248) =17.539; p<0.05; η2=0.124); implying that the posttest scores of students’ achievement in achievement significantly differ between the treatment and conventional groups. It was concluded that VCBL strategy has the potential to enable students understand chemistry better by way of promoting transfer of learning. In light of this, implications were discussed and relevant suggestions made.
Postsecondary Entrance Examinations in Nigeria: A Critical Analysis of the Design and Predictive Validity of the Tripartite Assessment System
Authors: Raji Monsurat Omobola
Published: April 2021

Admission into post-secondary education requires the fulfillment of specific standards or criteria by prospective candidates. Criteria include, but are not limited to, standardized examinations, resumes, intent statements, tests, interviews, etc. In Nigeria, prospective students must pass three examinations as part of the admission process into post-secondary programs. Reports suggest these examinations lack the best design features and have very low predictive validity in student success in post-secondary programs and their job roles after graduation. This paper critically evaluates the design features of SSCE, UTME, and PUTME in the context of Nigeria and their predictive validity towards student learning and success as graduates. Implications of the Nigerian post-secondary entrance assessment system are discussed. Recommendations are offered from two jurisdictional models to improve the current status of the tripartite post-secondary entrance assessment system in Nigeria.
Inclusive Education Status through the Lenses of Teachers in Zambia
Authors: Muzata Kenneth Kapalu , Simui Francis , Mahlo Dikeledi , Ng’uni Phydes
Published: April 2021

This study was conducted to examine the status of inclusive education in Zambia, learning from teachers’ perspectives about how inclusive education is being implemented and the whether teachers receive adequate support to implement inclusive education to learners with disabilities. The study employed a concurrent mixed design approach in which both quantitative and qualitative data were generated and applied. Open and closed ended questionnaires were used to collect data from teachers that were upgrading their qualifications via distance education at Kwame Nkrumah University, University of Zambia and Chalimbana University. Findings indicated that Zambia practices partial inclusion in which only the mild and moderate learners with disabilities are included in classrooms. Inclusive education is understood by teachers in the context of disability and teachers reported that they did not receive adequate support to implement inclusive education effectively. It is recommended that the Government of the Republic of Zambia through the Ministry of General Education should focus on training teachers in inclusive education and its methodologies to meet the learning needs of learners from different circumstances
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF ISLAMIC SOCIAL FINANCE IN STABILISING INCOME FOR MICRO-ENTREPRENEURS DURING THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK
Authors: Nik Azman Nik Hadiyan , Masron Tajul Ariffin , Ibrahim Haslindar
Published: April 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has heavily impacted micro-entrepreneurs worldwide. Some need to remain open to survive; some need to shift employees to remote work, and some need to shut down to save cost. Although there is an incentive and assisting funds given by the government, the fund might only last for three months. The funds might be accessed through Islamic Social Finance tools (Zakat, Waqf, Baytulmal, Ar-Rahnu). ISF is assisting and supporting micro-entrepreneurs to survive. Although ISF mitigates the risk by providing fund assistance to micro-entrepreneurs, it is essential to know how far this assistance can further backing them to survive in doing business. Therefore, this study intends to investigate the significance of social finance in Islamic ways to stabilize micro-entrepreneurs' income during the COVID-19 pandemic. A survey consists of 200 questionnaires distributed to micro-entrepreneurs in three states in Malaysia between June to August 2020. The finding shows that ISF plays an essential role in stabilizing income among micro-entrepreneurs during pandemic COVID-19.
THE ASYMMETRIC VOLATILITY OF THE ISLAMIC CAPITAL MARKET DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Nurdany Achmad , Ibrahim Muhammad Hanif , Romadoni Muhammad Fathul
Published: April 2021

This study attempts to identify the existence of asymmetric volatility in the Islamic capital market in Indonesia during the Covid-19 pandemic. The paper employs the symmetric analysis of the GARCH (1,1) model and the asymmetric analysis of the TGARCH (1,1) model in order to identify Islamic capital market behaviour duringthe first 200 days after the first Covid-19 cases were confirmed. We used the daily closing prices of the Indonesia Sharia Stock Index (ISSI). The symmetric analysis of the GARCH (1,1) model revealed that the current value of return on the ISSI does not have a significant impact on its future value. On the other hand, the TGARCH (1,1) model showed that the asymmetric parameter coefficient was positive and statistically significant. Good news and bad news does not have the same level of impact on the volatility of returns on the ISSI. Furthermore, coefficients αi and γi in the variance equation indicate that good news has a higher volatility impact than bad news. The results indicate that investors should not to worry about the bad news effect of theCovid-19 pandemic, while the government should continue the mitigation of the spread of the coronavirus along with its economic recovery policy.
ISLAMIC, GREEN, AND CONVENTIONAL CRYPTOCURRENCY MARKET EFFICIENCY DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Mnif Emna , Jarboui Anis
Published: April 2021

Unlike conventional cryptocurrencies, Islamic ones are new technologies backed by tangible assets and are characterised by their fundamental values. After the COVID-19 outbreak, cryptocurrency responses have shown different behaviour to stock market reactions. However, there is a lack of studies on the efficiency of Islamic and green cryptocurrencies during the pandemic. This paper attempts to analyse the behaviour of three typical families of cryptocurrencies (conventional, Islamic, and green) extracted according to their availability in daily frequencies during COVID-19. For this purpose, their efficiency levels are studied before and after the outbreak by employing multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis (MFDFA) to make the best predictions and strategies. The inefficiency of the cryptocurrencies is assessed through a magnitude of long-memory (MLM) efficiency index, and the impact of COVID-19 on their efficiency is evaluated. The primary results show that HelloGold was the most efficient market before the COVID-19 outbreak and that subsequently Ethereum has been the mostefficient. In addition, the findings reveal that the cryptocurrency reactions are not similar and show more resilience in the Ethereum and Litecoin markets than in other cryptocurrency markets. The main contribution of this study is the evaluation of the impact of COVID-19 on the various classes of crypto money. This work has practical implications, as it provides new insights into trading opportunities and market reactions. Moreover,  he work has theoretical implications based on its evaluation of three distinct models from different doctrine viewpoints.
DETERMINANTS OF INDONESIAN CONVENTIONAL AND ISLAMIC BANK DEPOSITOR TRUST DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Cahyono Eko Fajar , Rani Lina Nugraha , Mardianto M Fariz Fadillah
Published: April 2021

Depositor trust plays an essential role in the banking sector. The main objective of this study is to test several factors that significantly affect depositors’ confidence in conventional and Islamic banks in Indonesia during the COVID-19 pandemic. We conducted qualitative research with a sample of 217 customers who had a minimum of two bank accounts, one conventional, and one Islamic. In a questionnaire, customers were asked their opinions related to indicators of the variables studied, such as depositor trust, and their perceptions of inflation, conventional bank interest, the equivalent yield rate of Islamic banks, and industry perception Productivity Index. The results of the questionnaire were analysed using the partial least squares (PLS) method. The PLS analysis results show that the indicators related to conventional bank interest and the equivalent yield rate of Islamic banks significantly affected depositors’ trust and hands. In other words, customers were influenced when making bank deposits by the factors related to conventional bank interest and the equivalent yield rate of Islamic banks. The external aspect of the industrial production index based on the PLS test had a significant effect on depositors’ trust in both types of bank. In contrast, the external factor of inflation did not significantly affect depositors’ trust in either conventional or Islamic banks. Therefore, based on the PLS-SEM results, conclusions can be drawn regarding the factors influencing depositor trust.
Impact of COVID-19 and Associated Preventive Measures on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in South Korea
Authors: Sohn Minji , Koo Bo Kyung , Yoon Ho Il , Song Kyoung-Ho , Kim Eu Suk , Kim Hong Bin , Lim Soo
Published: April 2021

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, people have been required to follow preventive measures such as government policy including the closure of exercise facilities and movement restriction, can lead to an unhealthy lifestyle. We investigated the effect of these preventive measures on metabolic parameters in individuals with cardiometabolic disorders.Methods: In the current retrospective observational study of patients who visited the hospital at least twice a year for the past 4 years, changes in cardiometabolic factors from the COVID-19 pandemic (2019–2020) were compared with changes in the same cohort at the same annual time points during the previous seasons of 2016–2019.Results: A total of 1,485 individuals with a mean age of 61.8 ± 11.7 years were included in the analysis. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of patients whose metabolic syndrome worsened increased significantly by 21% compared with the 2018–2019 season. The body mass index increased by 0.09 ± 1.16 kg/m2 in the 2019–2020 pandemic period, whereas it decreased by –0.39 ± 3.03 kg/m2 in 2018–2019 and by –0.34 ± 2.18 kg/m2 in 2017–2018 (both p < 0.05). Systolic blood pressure increased by 2.6 ± 18.2 mmHg in the COVID-19 pandemic period, while it decreased in the three antecedent seasons (all p < 0.05). The lipid profiles worsened in the pandemic period compared with the previous years. The Framingham coronary heart disease risk score also increased significantly.Conclusions: With preventive procedures during the contagious disease pandemic, nationwide strategies to maintain cardiometabolic health are necessary.
Access Limitation to Health Services in Palestine and Its Consequences on Palestinian Mental Health and Wellbeing: Literature Review
Authors: Marie Mohammad , Battat Maher
Published: April 2021

Background:
Accessing health care services system is a fundamental right for all people worldwide. The WHO has defined the obstruction of the availability, access, and delivery of therapeutic and/or preventive health services as a form of health attack. The Palestinian Authority faces significant challenges to ensure the sustainability of the delivery of its health services systems. The blockade of the Gaza Strip and the presence of Israeli settlements in oPt (occupied Palestinian territories) and the Separation Wall around Jerusalem all these obstacles affect the patient’s right to access health care services. Palestinian Patients need permit applications from Israeli authorities that require usually 7–10 days depending on the case condition and the appointment from the target hospital in which the permit may be approved or denied or delayed. It has become a complex process due to the need to cross barriers or border crossings and restrictions on the movement of Palestinian patients and ambulances imposed by the Israeli government. Therefore, barriers policy to accessing health care services are a serious and permanent condition that can lead to a very stressful atmosphere and result in developing mental problems. This paper aims to provide an overview of the literature and established studies on mental health consequences related to access limitations policy to health care services system in Palestine.
Methods
PubMed and Google Scholar were used to search for materials for the literature review study. The Data in this literature review was collected by searching in electronic databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar. The keywords used in the searching process are Mental Health AND consequences AND limited access OR Access Limitations AND health care services OR health care AND barrier AND Gaza strip OR West Bank AND Palestine. Full-text articles critically appraised were included while the duplicated papers were extracted. The papers in this review follow the IMRAD style (Introduction, method, results, and discussion section).
Results
More than 25 related materials founded including review studies, 3 WHO reports, and 2 Palestinian government statistical reports.
Conclusion
Evidences from this review show that there is a necessity to maintain justice and equality among the Palestinian population and their right to freedom. Limited access to health-care services for Palestinian patients living in Gaza Strip, West Bank ,and East Jerusalem affect negatively the patient’s quality of life and mental health mainly due to the Israeli Separation Wall besides road closures.
Genetic Analysis of colorectal carcinoma using high throughput SNP genotyping technique within the population of Jammu and Kashmir.
Authors: Sharma Bhanu , Angurana Shabab , Bhat Amrita , Verma Sonali , Bakshi Divya , Bhat Ghulam Rasool , Jamwal Rajeshwer Singh , Amin Asif , Qadri Raies Ahmed , Shah Ruchi , Kumar Rakesh
Published: April 2021

Background SNP genotyping has become increasingly more common place to understand the genetic basis of complex diseases like cancer. SNP-genotyping through massARRAY is a cost-effective method to quantitatively analyse the variation of gene expression in multiple samples, making it a potential tool to identify the underlying causes of colorectal carcinogenesis.Methods In the present study, SNP genotyping was carried out using Agena mass ARRAY, which is a cost-effective, robust, and sensitive method to analyse multiple SNPs simultaneously. We analysed 7 genes in 492 samples (100 cases and 392 controls) associated with CRC within the population of Jammu and Kashmir. These SNPs were selected based on their association with multiple cancers in literature.Results This is the first study to explore these SNPs with colorectal cancer within the J&K population.7 SNPs with a call rate of 90% were selected for the study. Out of these, one SNP i.e. rs2229080 of DCC was found to be significantly associated with the current study and 6 were non-significantly associated with CRC within the studied population. The allelic OR observed for the variant rs2229080 of DCC was 1.5 (1.1–2.3 at 95% CI), p value = 0.02.Conclusion This is the first study to find the relation of Genetic variants with the colorectal cancer within the studied population using high throughput mass ARRAY technology. It is further anticipated that the variants should be evaluated in other population groups that may aid in understanding the genetic complexity and bridge the missing heritability.
Psychological Effects on Healthcare Workers in Syria During COVID-19
Authors: Alhaffar MHD Bahaa Aldin , Alhaffar MHD Alaa Aldin , Kouchaji Chaza , Alsuliman Tamim
Published: April 2021

Background:Since the declaration of COVID-19 as a global pandemic, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of infected cases. Thus, the number of hospital admissions has peaked during a short period, which in return has created a huge burden on healthcare workers. The effect of this pandemic on HCWs can be more severe in war-torn countries. This research aims to explore the psychological effects of the current pandemic on healthcare providers in Syria and compare it with the situation of Syrian HCP outside Syria.Methods:660 has participated in this cross-sectional study using an online questionnaire during two phases (two months apart). The first sample included 76 participants which were used for comparison only, and the second sample consisted of 584 participants (118 outside Syria, 466 inside Syria). The study included demographic, social, and workplace-related questions, as well as three scoring systems including The Pittsburgh, Sleep quality index (PSQI), Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD 7).Results: 72.4% of the first sample had poor sleep quality compared to 80% for the second sample, while over 40% of the first sample had scored well on the Kessler scale and 17% scored severe stress disorder, the second sample scored 29.8% and 27.9% on the same index retrospectively. Over 70% of the two samples scored mild on the generalized stress disorder index.Both inside and outside Syria samples had very similar results on the three indices, and no significant difference was noticed between the sample inside Syria and the sample outside Syria for the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (P=0.900), and for the Generalized Anxiety Disorder score (P=0.798), and no significant difference was noticed between the two samples for the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (P=0.231).Conclusion: The current pandemic has imposed new concerns related to the preparedness of health systems worldwide but especially in countries with limited resources. Additionally, addressing mental health issues has become vital to ensure that healthcare systems are more effective.Regions of low income and those suffering from armed conflict may benefit from the conclusions of this study to ameliorate the medical practice conditions in the setting of such pandemics as COVID-19.
Equol effects on AGE skin products, visceral fat and climacteric symptoms in post-menopausal women: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yoshikata Remi , Myint Khin Zay Yar , Ohta Hiroaki , Ishigaki Yoko
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Equol, an isoflavone derivative whose chemical structure is similar to estrogen, is considered as a potentially effective agent for relieving climacteric symptoms, for the prevention of the lifestyle-related diseases, and for aging care in post-menopausal women. We investigated the effect of an equol-containing supplement on metabolism and aging, and climacteric symptoms, with respect to internally-produced equol in post-menopausal women.Methods: A single center, randomized controlled trial (registration number: UMIN000030975) on 57 post-menopausal Japanese women (mean age: 56±5.37 years), was conducted. Twenty-seven women received the equol supplement, while the remaining received Control. Metabolic and aging-related biomarkers were compared before and after the 3-month intervention. Climacteric symptoms were assessed every month using a validated self-administered questionnaire in Japanese post-menopausal women. Results: Three months post intervention, the treatment group showed significant improvement in climacteric symptoms, when compared to the Control group (81% vs. 53% respectively, p=0.045). We did not observe any beneficial effect on metabolic and aging-related biomarkers in the intervention group. However, in certain populations significant improvement in skin auto-fluorescence, which is a measurement of AGE skin products, and visceral fat area was observed, especially among equol producers. Conclusion: Women receiving equol supplement showed improved climacteric symptoms. This study offered a new hypothesis that there may be a synergy between supplemented equol and endogenously-produced equol to improve skin aging and visceral fat in certain populations.
A Model to Assess the Risk of Peripherally Inserted Central Venous Catheter-related Thrombosis in Patients with Breast Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Peng Si-yi , WEI Tao , LI Xu-ying , YUAN Zhong , LIN Qin
Published: April 2021

Purpose: Limited risk assessment tool to stratify the risk of PICC-related thrombosis (PICC-RVT) in breast cancer patients. This study developed a model to assess the risk of PICC-RVT in breast cancer patients. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 1284 breast cancer patients receiving PICC insertion during 1 January 2015 - 31 August 2019 at a cancer specialized hospital in Hunan province, China. The entire population is divided into two groups at a ratio of 3:1 which included a derivation sample (n=978), and a validation sample (n=284). PICC-RVT was confirmed by ultrasonography in the presence of clinical symptoms and signs. Results: PICC-RVT occurred in 40 (4.09%) of the derivation sample patients. Multivariable analysis identified 9 variables: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, prior central venous catheter placement, higher level of Platelets, higher level of D-dimer, lower level of Activated partial thromboplastin time, menopause, no prior breast surgery, upper extremity lymphedema, and endocrine therapy. Points were assigned to each variable according to regression coefficient. The model had an area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) of 0.850 (95% CI 0.776 to 0.924), The Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness of fit was 4.781 (p=0.572). At a cutoff value of 3.5, the sensitivity and specifcity were 75% and 83%, respectively.Conclusion: Several disease-specific factors of breast cancer (e.g., menopause, endocrine therapy and upper extremity lymphedema) play important roles in the development of PICC-RVT. Patients at higher PICC-RVT risk could be candidates for close post-insertion monitoring and interventions to prevent PICC-RVT.
Examination of Retinal and Choroidal Structural Changes in Children With Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Tosun Zeynep Sena , Ozec Ayse Vural , Erdogan Haydar , Bozali Erman , Yeter Duygu Yalınbas , Cıcek Ayla Uzun , Sarı Seda Aybuke
Published: April 2021

Objective

Examination of retinal nerve, ganglion cell layer thickness and choroidal thickness in patients with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder by optical coherence tomography (OCT).
Method

: 30 individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and 30 healthy individuals compatible in terms of age and gender who applied to the Ophthalmology outpatient clinic for control were included in the study. The right and left eye data of the participants were used in statistical analysis. In addition to full ophthalmological examination (best corrected visual acuity, biomicroscopy, fundus examination), retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), ganglion cell layer (GCL) and macular choroidal thickness (MCT) were measured by OCT. RNFL, GCL and MCT measurements were compared between the groups.
Conclusion

There was no significant difference between the RNFL and GCL thickness values of the individuals in both groups (p > 0.05). When compared in terms of choroidal thickness, left eye su bfoveal choroidal thickness (p = 0.036, p < 0.05) and 2 mm temporal choroidal thickness were significantly higher in the ADHD group than in the control group (p = 0.034, p < 0.05).
Discussion

The aim of this study was to determine the clinical features of the eyes of children with ADHD. Cross-sectional studies with larger participation are needed to determine RNFL, GCL and choroidal changes.
Steel slag quality control for road construction aggregates and its environmental impact: Case study of Vietnamese steel industry – Leaching of heavy metals from steel making slag
Authors: Nguyen Lan Huong , Nguyen Tien Dung , Tran Thi Viet Nga , Nguyen Duc Luong , Tran Hoai Son , Nguyen Thuy Lien , Nguyen Thi Huong , Nguyen Hoang Giang , Nguyen Tan Phong , Nguyen Ngoc Tuan , Isawa Tomoo , Ta Yasutaka , Sato Ryoichi
Published: April 2021

Steel slag is an industrial by product of steel manufacturing processes and has been widely used in countries like Japan, United States, and European Union nations. However, the current utilization of steel slag in Vietnam is very low mainly because of lack of quality control of slag treatment and chances for reuse of treated steel slag. This paper presents the current steel slag production status and its potential to use as road construction aggregates in consideration of environmental and quality control issues. The basic oxygen furnace (BOF) and electric arc furnace (EAF) slag samples were collected from the seven large steel making factories of Vietnam and brought back to evaluate leaching amount from the slags. The batch leaching test methods were performed at laboratory using the leaching test of steel slag roadbed material in Japan (JIS K 0058 − 1) and Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (EPA method 1311) widely adopted in Vietnam. The results show that pH level and parameters such as T-Cr, Ni, Cu, Pb, As, Mn differ from the two test methods. The EPA 1311 seems too harsh to evaluate the environmental impacts because in the operation condition of the road, acidic liquid is absent. It is concluded that JIS test, which uses fresh water with gentle mixing not to degradation in size while leaching, is suitable for the evaluation, for the environmental assessment in service of the slag aggregate for roadbed.
Analysis Model of the Value of Information Flow for Decision Making and Performance Improvement in Shop Floor of Developing Countries Using Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: MBAKOP André Marie , Voufo Joseph , Biyeme Florent , Djomi Rolland , Nanfack Pélagie Flore Temgoua , Meva'a Lucien
Published: April 2021

Performance improvement is a daily activity for Small and Medium Size companies in the manufacturing sector, which always depends on the good management of information flow for a better decision making to facilitate shop floor operations that will have a major impact on quality and timely product delivery to customers. The management of information flow is also conditioned by the characterization of the information flow. In this paper we used the characteristics of information flow to determine and predict an analysis model of the value of information flow that will facilitate decision making in shop floor operations by operators (machine, humans and computers ) through the means of machine learning. The outcome of our work proposes the Decision Trees Model as the better one to predict the value of information flow as long as the characteristics are binary data or scale data, it shows that a digital information can always has a good value of information flow if there is no disruptions and finally we can still have a good value of information flow if using papers, visual, electronic real-time information which are accessible, timely, none volatile, and that has a major concern which the shop floor operations.