bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Gender on the Choice of Radiology as a Specialty Among Medical Students in Saudi Arabia: Cross-Sectional Study (Preprint)
Authors: Abduljabbar Ahmed H , Alnajjar Sara F , Alshamrani Hussein , Bashamakh Lujain F , Alshehri Hisham Z , Alqulayti Waleed M , Wazzan Mohammad A
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

Medical undergraduates are the future doctors of the country. Therefore, determining how medical students choose their areas of specialty is essential to obtain a balanced distribution of physicians among all specialties. Although gender is a significant factor that affects specialty choice, the factors underlying gender differences in radiology are not fully elucidated.

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the factors that attracted medical students to and discouraged them from selecting diagnostic radiology and analyzed whether these factors differed between female and male medical students.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study conducted at King Abdulaziz University Hospital in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, used an electronic questionnaire sent to medical students from all medical years during February 2018. Subgroup analyses for gender and radiology interest were performed using the chi-square test and Cramér’s V test.

RESULTS

In total, 539 students (276 women; 263 men) responded. The most common factor preventing students from choosing radiology as a career was the lack of direct patient contact, which deterred approximately 47% who decided against considering this specialty. Negative perceptions by other physicians (P<.001), lack of acknowledgment by patients (P=.004), and lack of structured radiology rotations (P=.007) dissuaded significantly more male students than female students. Among those interested in radiology, more female students were attracted by job flexibility (P=.01), while more male students were attracted by focused patient interactions with minimal paperwork (P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

No significant difference was found between the genders in terms of considering radiology as a specialty. Misconception plays a central role in students’ judgment regarding radiology. Hence, early exposure to radiology, assuming a new teaching method, and using a curriculum that supports the active participation of students in a radiology rotation are needed to overcome this misconception.
App Technology to Support Physical Activity and Intake of Vitamins and Minerals After Bariatric Surgery (the PromMera Study): Protocol of a Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Bonn Stephanie Erika , Hult Mari , Spetz Kristina , Löf Marie , Andersson Ellen , Wiren Mikael , Trolle Lagerros Ylva
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

To optimize postoperative outcomes after bariatric surgery, lifestyle changes including increased physical activity are needed. Micronutrient deficiency after surgery is also common and daily supplementation is recommended.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the PromMera study is to evaluate the effects of a 12-week smartphone app intervention on promotion of physical activity (primary outcome) and adherence to postsurgery vitamin and mineral supplementation, as well as on other lifestyle factors and overall health in patients undergoing bariatric surgery.

METHODS

The PromMera study is a two-arm, randomized controlled trial comprising patients undergoing bariatric surgery. Participants are randomized postsurgery 1:1 to either the intervention group (ie, use of the PromMera app for 12 weeks) or the control group receiving only standard care. Clinical and lifestyle variables are assessed pre- and postsurgery after 18 weeks (postintervention assessment), 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years. Assessments include body composition using Tanita or BOD POD analyzers, muscle function using handgrip, biomarkers in blood, and an extensive questionnaire on lifestyle factors. Physical activity is objectively measured using the ActiGraph wGT3X-BT triaxial accelerometer.

RESULTS

A total of 154 participants have been enrolled in the study. The last study participant was recruited in May 2019. Data collection will be complete in May 2021.

CONCLUSIONS

Implementing lifestyle changes are crucial after bariatric surgery and new ways to reach patients and support such changes are needed. An app-based intervention is easily delivered at any time and can be a key factor in the adoption of healthier behavioral patterns in this rapidly growing group of patients.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03480464; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03480464

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/19624
Kidney Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Change in eGFR in Individuals with CKD
Authors: Srivastava Anand , Cai Xuan , Lee Jungwha , Li Wei , Larive Brett , Kendrick Cynthia , Gassman Jennifer J. , Middleton John P. , Carr James , Raphael Kalani L. , Cheung Alfred K. , Raj Dominic S. , Chonchol Michel B. , Fried Linda F. , Block Geoffrey A. , Sprague Stuart M. , Wolf Myles , Ix Joachim H. , Prasad Pottumarthi V. , Isakova Tamara
Published: April 2020

Background and objectives

Kidney functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) requires further investigation to enhance the noninvasive identification of patients at high risk of CKD progression.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

In this exploratory study, we obtained baseline diffusion-weighted and blood oxygen level–dependent MRI in 122 participants of the CKD Optimal Management with Binders and Nicotinamide trial, which was a multicenter, randomized, double-blinded, 12-month, four-group parallel trial of nicotinamide and lanthanum carbonate versus placebo conducted in individuals with eGFR 20–45 ml/min per 1.73 m2. Lower values of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) on diffusion-weighted MRI may indicate increased fibrosis, and higher values of relaxation rate (R2*) on blood oxygen level–dependent MRI may represent decreased oxygenation. Because there was no effect of active treatment on eGFR over 12 months, we tested whether baseline kidney functional MRI biomarkers were associated with eGFR decline in all 122 participants. In a subset of 87 participants with 12-month follow-up MRI data, we evaluated whether kidney functional MRI biomarkers change over time.

Results

Mean baseline eGFR was 32±9 ml/min per 1.73 m2, and mean annual eGFR slope was −2.3 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], −3.4 to −1.1) ml/min per 1.73 m2 per year. After adjustment for baseline covariates, baseline ADC was associated with change in eGFR over time (difference in annual eGFR slope per 1 SD increase in ADC: 1.3 [95% CI, 0.1 to 2.5] ml/min per 1.73 m2 per year, ADC×time interaction P=0.04). This association was no longer significant after further adjustment for albuminuria (difference in annual eGFR slope per 1 SD increase in ADC: 1.0 (95% CI, −0.1 to 2.2) ml/min per 1.73 m2 per year, ADC×time interaction P=0.08). There was no significant association between baseline R2* and change in eGFR over time. In 87 participants with follow-up functional MRI, ADC and R2* values remained stable over 12 months (intraclass correlation: 0.71 and 0.68, respectively).

Conclusions

Baseline cortical ADC was associated with change in eGFR over time, but this association was not independent of albuminuria. Kidney functional MRI biomarkers remained stable over 1 year.

Clinical Trial registry name and registration number

CKD Optimal Management with Binders and Nicotinamide (COMBINE), NCT02258074.
Benefits and challenges of assessing real-world genomics data with Bogi Eliasen
Authors: Eliasen Bogi
Published: April 2020

In this video Bogi Eliasen, Copenhagen Institute for Futures Studies, discusses various issues relating to studying population genomics as well as the applications and management of person centric data. As co-initiator of the FarGen project, the first nationwide genome sequencing and implementation project, as well as author of a recently published white paper, the Nordic Way,  Bogi provides his thoughts on the wider implications of these projects from European and global healthcare perspectives. Bogi also outlines the aim of the Futureproofing Healthcare Sustainability Index as a platform to help healthcare decision makers use data from a range of healthcare issues to understand the challenges of healthcare provision across Europe.
Outcomes of first-line pembrolizumab monotherapy for PD-L1–positive (TPS ≥50%) metastatic NSCLC at US oncology practices
Authors: Velcheti Vamsidhar
Published: April 2020

In this Publication Perspective, lead author Vamsidhar Velcheti, New York University, provides a summary of article 'Outcomes of first-line pembrolizumab monotherapy for PD-L1-positive (TPS ≥50%) metastatic NSCLC at US oncology practices' published in Immunotherapy that looks at real-world outcomes with first-line pembrolizumab monotherapy for metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer with PD-L1 tumor expression ≥50%.
Analizyng The Lingual Elements of Sampoerna Hijau Advertisement Published on Youtube
Authors: Oktaviyanti Sara
Published: April 2020

The research aims to find any lingual elements and meanings used by advertisers in “Sampoerna Hijau” Cigarette advertisements on Youtube. There are 5 editions of advertisements that are analized, “Edisi Dateng Kondangan”, “Edisi Selfie di Kondangan”, “Edisi Minum Es Kacang Ijo”, “Edisi Punyaku Lebih Nikmat” and the last is “Edisi Hijau Panas”. Seven Types of Meaning theory by Leech is used on this research. This study is design in a qualitative research. Researcher collected the data using observation methods. Then in the analysis of research data using Agih method with the basic technique that is Bagi Unsur Langsung or BUL techniques. The BUL method and technique are used by researcher to analyze the signs and forms found in Sampoerna Hijau cigarette advertisements so that they can easily classify these lingual signs and forms. The researcher found that the lingual form in the five editions of Sampoerna Hijau Cigarette Advertisements, namely: 10 interrogative sentences, 13 imperative sentences, 13 declarative sentences, 14 exclamation sentences, 2 nouns and 1 adjective. The meanings found in each lingual form are 5 meanings, with the following description: sentences that contain reflections as many as 12 sentences, sentences containing affective meanings of 22 sentences, sentences containing conceptual meanings of 15 sentences, sentences that contains a colloquial meaning of 2 sentences and the last sentence that contains connotative meaning of 1 sentence.
Overcoming Implicit Meaning in Indonesian-English Translation
Authors: Susini Made
Published: April 2020

Implicit meaning is one of the language phenomena which need overcoming in translation. This present study aims to investigate in what construction the implicit meaning is realized in Indonesian and how implicit meaning is handled when it is rendered into English. This study applied a descriptive qualitative approach. The data were taken from a book of Indonesian short stories entitled Mandi Api (Soethama, 2006) and its translation in English entitled Ordeal by Fire (Cork, 2008). The results of the research showed that implicit meaning in Indonesian texts is conveyed into English in two ways. Firstly, the implicit meaning is kept implicit. Secondly, it is realized in explicit construction. The implicit information of the source texts is made explicit in target texts for some reasons which include grammatical reason, semantic reason, and stylistic reason. In conclusion, although the source and the target texts have different constructions in the translation under study, the source meanings are successfully conveyed into English.
Principal Influence: A Catalyst for Positive School Climate
Authors: Smith Page A. , Escobedo Patty , Kearney Wowek Sean
Published: April 2020

This investigation explores the relationships between principal influence and four facets of organizational climate: institutional vulnerability, collegial leadership, achievement press, and professional teacher behavior. Data were collected from 2,033 teachers at 112 elementary schools in two states from the Southern and Midwestern United States. The results of multiple linear regression analyses show that the independent variables of principal influence, SES, and school size combinedto form a significant portion of the variance in organizational climate. The four facets of organizational climate explored in this study provide insight into specific mechanisms through which influential principals can positively affect schools.
Quantification of plasma levels of antiviral drug sofosbuvir and its metabolite GS331007 in patients of chronic hepatitis C with chronic kidney disease using UPLC-MS/MS method
Authors: Singhala Ruchi , Tiwaria Pramil , Dusejab Ajay , Ramachandranc Raja , Patiald Ajay , Attrid Savita
Published: April 2020

Sofosbuvir based regimens are the only treatment available in India and some other Asian countries for curing hepatitis C viral (HCV) infection. The main excretion route of sofosbuvir is renal so treatment of HCV infection is challenging in patients on hemodialysis. A simple and sensitive UPLC-MS/MS method was developed and validated according to USFDA guidelines on Linear Ion trap Quadrupole tandem mass spectrometer (QTRAP4500) which was applied to estimate the drug concentration of sofosbuvir and its metabolite GS331007 in patients of chronic kidney disease with HCV infection. Clopidogrel was used as internal standard (IS) for this study. All analytes and IS were separated on UPLC C18-HSS column (2.1mmX50mm, 1.7μm) with retention time of 2.07, 0.29 and 1.58 min, respectively, by using mobile phases of 5mM ammonium acetate in 0.2% formic acid in water (A) and 5mM ammonium acetate in 0.2% formic acid in methanol (B) on gradient elution mode at a flow rate of 0.6 mL/min. Calibration curve was plotted over the range of 10-200 μg/mL for both of the analytes and equation was calculated by applying linear regression method. Detections of daughter ions (sofosbuvir-530 to 243m/z, GS331007-261 to 112.1m/z and clopidogrel- 322 to 154.9m/z) were done in multiple reactions monitoring (MRM) mode and weights were analyzed by using Linear ion trap quadrupole mass spectrometer with turbo spray ion source. The developed method has been successfully used for quantification of drug concentration of sofosbuvir and GS331007 to see the safety of sofosbuvir in patients of HCV infection with renal failures.
Antibacterial Activity of Ethanolic Extract of Kitolod (Hippobromalongiflora) Leaf Against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi
Authors: Anjelina Simanjuntak Helen
Published: April 2020

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine at what concentration of ethanol extract of kitolod leaves is active against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi.

Methods: Ethanolic extract of Kitolod leaves was tested for phytochemical screening by using standard protocol. Antibacterial testing was using the diffusion disc method to measure the inhibition zone against the Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi with various concentration of Kitolod leaves extract (6.25%, 12.5%, 25%, 50%, and 75%).

Results: Phytochemical screening showed that ethanolic extract of Kitolod leaves contain alkaloids, flavonoids and saponins. The antibacterial inhibition of ethanol extract of kitolod leaves against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi bacteria at a concentration of 75% had a diameter of 11.3 mm and 12.16 mm with a strong category.

Conclusions: Kitolod leaf could be use as a novel antibacterial agent.
A Review on Herbal Drug Interaction
Authors: Chhabra Anshu , Singh Gurvinder , Upadhyay Yash
Published: April 2020

Herbal medicines are becoming popular worldwide, despite their mechanisms of action being generally unknown, the lack of evidence of efficacy, and inadequate toxicological data. An estimated one third of adults in developed nations and more than 80% of the population in many developing countries use herbal medicines in the hope of promoting health and to manage common maladies such as colds, inflammation, heart disease, diabetes and central nervous system diseases. To date, there are more than 11 000 species of herbal plants that are in use medicinally and, of these, about 500 species are commonly used in Asian and other countries. These herbs are often co-administered with therapeutic drugs raising the potential of drug–herb interactions, which may have important clinical significance based on an increasing number of clinical reports of such interactions.The interaction of drugs with herbal medicines is a significant safety concern, especially for drugs with narrow therapeutic indices (e.g. warfarin and digoxin). Because the pharmacokinetics and/or pharmacodynamics of the drug may be altered by combination with herbal remedies, potentially severe and perhaps even life-threatening adverse reactions may occur. Because of the clinical significance of drug interactions with herbs, it is important to identify drugs and compounds in development that may interact with herbal medicines. Timely identification of such drugs using proper in vitro and in vivo approaches may have important implications for drug development.
Distribution of Vascular Bundles and Physical Properties Analysis of Variety DxP Oil Palm Trunk Based on Various Zones and Trunk Heights
Authors: Wulandari Ayu , Erwinsyah Erwinsyah
Published: April 2020

In an attempt to obtain a homogenous board density from the palm trunk, this research was carried out to analyze the distribution of vascular bundles and the physical properties of the oil palm trunk (moisture content, density, and specific gravity) in various zones and trunk heights. Oil palm trunk samples were used from 29 years old palm (Planted on 1991) which acquired from Aek Pancur Experimental plantation, Indonesian Oil Palm Research Institute (IOPRI). The oil palm trunk sample was cut based on the trunk zones (peripheral, central, and inner), and trunk heights (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 m). The observed parameters were vascular bundles, moisture content, density, and specific gravity. The results showed that the highest number of vascular bundles in the peripheral zone (73.66 vb/cm2). In addition that, the highest density and specific gravity also found in peripheral zone with an average 0,73 gram/cm3  and 0.53, whereas the highest moisture content was found in the inner zone with an average value 141%(w/w). Furthermore, the statistical analysis ((ANOVA and regression test (R2)) in this study showed that the trunk zone factor was more significant than the trunk height for all observed parameters (distribution of vascular bundles, moisture content, density and specific gravity).
Pengaruh Waktu Paparan Zat Pengatur Tumbuh Terhadap Tingkat Abnormalitas Klon Kelapa Sawit
Authors: Pratiwi Dian Rahma , Wening Sri , Nazri Erwin
Published: April 2020

Salah satu komponen yang sering terdapat dalam media kultur jaringan tanaman adalah Zat Pengatur Tumbuh (ZPT), yang diperlukan untuk merangsang pertumbuhan kultur tanaman. Pemberian ZPT yang berlebihan dapat memberikan dampak abnormalitas pada tanaman klon hasil kultur jaringan. Diperlukan kajian untuk mengetahui pengaruh waktu paparan ZPT terhadap tingkat abnormalitas klon secara  komprehensif. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh total waktu paparan ZPT serta waktu paparan beberapa media dengan kandungan ZPT yang berbeda terhadap tingkat abnormalitas tanaman klon kelapa sawit di lapangan. Empat galur tanaman hasil kultur jaringan (klon) kelapa sawit yakni P, Q, R, dan S yang berumur 4 tahun digunakan untuk penelusuran waktu inkubasi kultur di laboratorium dan pengamatan tingkat abnormalitas di lapangan. Hubungan antara peubah dianalisis menggunakan analisis korelasi dan analisis regresi linier berganda serta analisis regresi linier sederhana. Hasil menunjukkan bahwa total waktu paparan kultur pada media yang mengandung ZPT berpengaruh secara nyata pada tingkat abnormalitas klon di lapangan. Semakin lama waktu paparan (lebih dari 171 hari), semakin tinggi tingkat abnormalitas klon. Dari ketiga jenis media kultur yang mengandung ZPT, media yang mengandung 2,4-D dan 2,4,5-TCPP memiliki pengaruh yang signifikan dan hubungan positif yang sangat erat terhadap kejadian abnormalitas klon dibandingkan media yang mengandung 2,4-D dan BAP. Lama waktu paparan dengan NAA tidak berpengaruh nyata terhadap tingkat abnormalitas klon di lapangan. Sebaliknya, total waktu inkubasi media kultur yang tidak mengandung ZPT tidak mempengaruhi tingkat abnormalitas klon di lapangan dan hubungannya negatif. Model linier dapat digunakan untuk memperkirakan tingkat abnormalitas klon yang dihasilkan berdasarkan waktu paparan ZPT pada proses in vitro.
Determination the Effectiveness of a selected formulations of Iranian Traditional Medicine â€œUshaq poulticeâ€ (ammoniacum gum ointment) on Wound Healing: an experimental study
Authors: Zaheri Abdevand Zeinab , Siahpoosh Amir , Malayeri Alireza , Salami Anayatollah , Khorsandi Layasadat
Published: April 2020

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic effects of ammonium gum ointment on wound healing in the animal model.

Method: 32 male Wistar rats were selected; then in non-infectious condition, two full-thickness wounds with 8 mm in diameter were created bilaterally on shaved skin in 1.5 cm from the dorsal midline and randomly divided into four groups, untreated group, phenytoin cream treated group, base ointment (sesame oil and wax) treated group and Ammonicuma Gum Ointment (AGO) treated group. The animals received these medicines once daily. On days 5, 7, 10, 12 and 14 wound area was measured. On days 7 and 14, blood samples were taken, and serum level of growth factors (EGF, PDGF, VEGF, and TGF-B) were measured. Skin samples used for hematoxylin-eosin and trichrome staining. Skin tensile strength and hydroxyproline content of skin tissues also measured.

Results: The percentage of wound healing after 14 days of treatment was significantly increased in the group receiving AGO (PË‚0.05). Hydroxyproline content of repaired tissue and tensile strength increased considerably in this group (PË‚0.001). Growth factors were significantly increased in animals treated with AGO compared to control groups (EGF PË‚0.05; PDGF PË‚0.001; VEGF PË‚0.001; TGF-B PË‚0.05). Histological data showed that the topical application of AGO compared to other groups resulted in positive effects on enhance neovascularization and granulation, increased wound healing rate, and decreased wound size.

Conclusion: The topical application of an ointment containing ammoniacum gum can help speed up the process of wound healing.
Administration of Thymoquinone Offer a Protective Effect through the Apoptogenic and Antioxidant Pathway in Acute Liver Failure induced by Taxol
Authors: Salahshoor Mohammad Reza , Roshankhah Shiva , Jalili Cyrus , Farmandeh Amir
Published: April 2020

Objectives Due to the increasing use of chemotherapy drug and herbs in medicine, this study was designed to assess the effects of Thymoquinone and Taxol on apoptogenic, oxidative and histomorphometric changes in liver.

Methods Sixty-four male rats were assigned to 8 groups including control groups (normal group and Taxol (20 mg/kg group), Thymoquinone groups (4.5, 9, 18 mg/kg) and Taxol + Thymoquinone (TT) treated groups. All experimental groups were treated intraperitoneally daily for two weeks. The relative expression level of apoptotic genes and hepatocyte apoptotic index were analyses. Also, Nitrite oxide (NO), lipid peroxidation (LP), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), hepatic enzymes and histomorphometric parameters were evaluated.

 Results In the Taxol control group (TCG) all parameters investigated in this study significantly increase except TAC level, which was decreased in compared to the normal control group (NCG) (P < 0.01). Additionally, all evaluated parameters were reduced in Thymoquinone and TT groups, except TAC level (which was increased) as compared to the TCG (P < 0.01).

Conclusion Our results discovered that Thymoquinone successfully moderate liver injury induced by Taxol through the activation of antioxidant pathways, reduce the apoptogenic and the regeneration of histopathological alterations.
Fishermen Social Movements in West Sumatra: Issues, Actors, and Tactics of the Movement
Authors: Hapsari Dwi Retno , Kinseng Rilus A , Sarwoprasodjo Sarwititi , Putri Simanjuntak Asnika , Anam Khairil , Sarifuddin Andri , Sulistiyowati Iin
Published: April 2020

The objectives of this study are to examine the main issue that provoke social movement of fishermen in West Sumatra, to identify the related actors, and to analyze the advocacy strategy carried out by fishermen. This research was conducted in July 2019 and took place in two locations, namely the City of Padang and West Pasaman Regency. The study used qualitative approach. From this study, it is revealed that the main issue that provoke social movements in West Sumatra was the issue of Regulation No. 71 of 2016 by the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries related to the prohibition of certain fishing gear. This regulation prohibits the use of 4 mm mesh size of the net and the use of lamps in operating the liftnet which reaches up to 25-30 thousand watts of power. This regulation has created a huge burden to fisherman’s work. The Other issue that is also triggering the movement was the arrestment of 6 fishing boats on June 11, 2016. Meanwhile, the main actors who are directly related to this movement are fishermen who are using liftnet (bagan). These actors can be divided into two main categories, namely movers and "participants". The main tactic used in social movements was demonstration.
(E)-4-(((2-amino-5-chlorophenyl)imino)methyl)-5-(hydroxy-methyl)-2-methylpyridin-3-ol and its Cu(II) complex: Synthesis, DFT calculations and AIM analysis
Authors: Yavari Morteza , Beyramabadi S. , Morsali Ali , Bozorgmehr Mohammad
Published: April 2020

Herein, (E)-4-{[(2-amino-5-chlorophenyl)imino]methyl}-5-(hydroxymethyl)- 2-methylpyridin-3-ol [HL] Schiff base and its [Cu(L)Cl] complex were newly synthesized and characterized by several spectroscopic methods. In addition, density functional theory (DFT) methods were used for investigation of the tautomerization of the HL Schiff base, structural parameters of HL and [Cu(L)Cl] species, assignment of the IR vibrational bands and the NMR chemical shifts as well as natural bond orbital (NBO) analyses. The most stable tautomer of the HL Schiff base is the enol form of the meta isomer. The optimized geometry of the free HL Schiff base is not planar. The L- acts as a N2O tridentate ligand, which is bonded to Cu2+ via the deprotonated phenolic oxygen, and the amine and azomethine nitrogens. The [Cu(L)Cl] has a square planar geometry in which the chloro ligand occupies the fourth coordination position. The DFT-computed values are in good consistency with the corresponding experimental values, confirming the suitability of the optimized geometries for HL and [Cu(L)Cl] species. According to the high-energy gaps, these compounds are stable. The atoms in molecule (AIM) analysis was used to evaluate strength of the bonding interactions and electron densities in structure of the compounds.
Contagious diseases in the Belgrade region
Authors: Kovacevic Marko , Djerkovic Veljko , Pokorni Dusan
Published: April 2020

Data from records on population affected by contagious diseases in the period
from 1991 to 1996 are entered in the computer data base and are managed by
the Epidemiology corps of the City Public Health Institute. These data are
used to serve the operative needs of the epidemiological corps in order to
control contagious diseases within the district. They are analysed to obtain
an insight into the problem of contagious diseases in general, and each
individual disease in particular, while monitoring the distribution of
diseases by gender, age and commune. In the period from 1991 to 1996 no
person in Belgrade was down with a particularly dangerous contagious
disease. The lowest number of the diseased was registered in 1991 (14788)
and the highest in 1994 (27368). In 1996, the number of the diseased was
higher by 33% than in 1991. Among the most widely spread contagious diseases
was chicken pox (its share ranging from 22.5% to 54.6%), contagious diarrhea
(from 7.4% to 17.3%), salmonellosis (from 2.9% to 6.1%), angina (from 2.6%
to 5.6%). In the period reviewed, the above four diseases were among the ten
most frequently incurred contagious diseases. In the course of 1993, measles
fell within the group of ten and acquired epidemic proportions. The disease
affected 3524 inhabitants of Belgrade (44. 7% children below 14 years of age
and 32% young people from 15 to 19 years of age). The epidemic was caused by
the discontinuation of regular vaccination of children against measles
caused by the shortage of imported vaccination and by population migration.
In the same year, the epidemic of rubella also broke out. The epidemic
extended to 1994 and 1995. A breakdown of the diseased by gender ranged from
51.0% to 52.9% for males and from 47.1 % to 49.0% for females. Majority of
the diseased were in the age groups 5-9 and 0-4 years while the least number
of the diseased were among the aged. The youngest population was most
frequently affected by chicken pox (from 35.6% to 69.4% of the overall
number of those stricken by the disease), contagious diarrhea (from 4.5% to
17.5%), salmonellosis (from 3.1% to 7.4% ), angina (from 3.4% to 9.7%) and
scarlet fever (from 3.1% to 7.3%). During the period reviewed, 69 people
died from contagious diseases. Mortality from contagious diseases was lowest
in 1992 and 1993 (3.1 and 3.4 per 1,000,000). It gradually rose to reach the
highest value in 1996 (12.6% per 1,000,000). The largest number of people
affected was reported in the communes of Novi Beograd, Zemun and Cukarica.
Ageing of the European populations and its causes. The case of France and Greece
Authors: Kotzamanis Byron , Sardon Jean-Paul
Published: April 2020

Demographic ageing (continuous increase of the percentage of old people of a
population) depends on the evolutions of fertility, mortality and migration
as well as on the age structure of the population which reflects the changes
of the three above mentioned components in the remote past. In this article
we examine the consequences of each of the three demographic components on
demographic ageing in two European countries (France and Greece); two
countries significantly differentiated as far as their trajectory is
concerned during the last two centuries. From the viewpoint of methodology,
in order to evaluate these consequences we adopted the simulation method and
more specifically, each time we kept one of the three components stable for
the level it is characterized at the beginning of the study period and we
estimated the amount and the percentage of the over-sixty-year old persons
which we would have in this case in the early 1990's (amount and percentage
we compared to the corresponding ones estimated around 1993). At the same
time we tried to estimate the specific weight of the early structures of
population in the two countries on the basis of today's demographic ageing:
thus, we proceeded to identical simulations with different population
structures at the starting point (stable populations corresponding to the
tables on mortality for 1950 in France and I960 in Greece). The basic
conclusions of this study allow us to see the significant specific weight of
the mortality change on demographic ageing (ageing from above), parallel to
the already known role of fertility (ageing from the basis of the pyramid).
On the contrary, the role of migration currents appears limited and their
influence has the opposite direction in these two countries of study; slight
acceleration of ageing in Greece, slight slowing down in France. At the same
time, demographic ageing in the early l 990's in both countries is smoother
than that expected if their populations were stable. Finally, in France as
well as in Greece the acceleration of ageing is inevitable as significant
changes in fertility are absent. Mortality is expected to play a more and
more significant role in the mid and remote future to such an extent that
the prolongation of the expected life at birth will be more and more due to
gains of life for the over-sixty-year-old persons.
Ageing of the electorate in Quebec
Authors: Martel Laurent , Parant Alain
Published: April 2020

Population ageing has many consequences on society; one of them is the ageing
of the electorate. The purpose of this article is to describe the past and
future evolution of the electorate in Quebec as well as some of its
consequences. Still today one of the youngest provinces in Canada, Quebec
will be ageing rapidly from 2011 because of the arrival of the baby-boomers
at age 65. According to the most recent projections of the Bureau de la
Statistique du Quebec, 25 to 30% of the population will be aged 65 or over
in 2041, so at least one person out of four. The electorate will aged
accordingly: from 16% today, the elderly will represent between 30 and 35%
of the population aged 18 or over in 2041. In 1951, there was 21 persons
aged 65 or over for 100 aged 18 to 34. In I 996, this ratio was more than
the double. In 2041, it could be 123 or even 168 depending on the scenario.
The ageing of the electorate will have many consequences, in particular on
States policies. The election on a majority basis in use in Quebec incites
the political parties to design their platform in accordance with the
interest of the median voter. Therefore, we can expect a reorientation of
the social choices in favour of the elderly in the near future. Better
educated, in better health and wealthiest, future senior citizens will
probably be able to get better organised to defend their interest on the
political scene. The linkage between individual and collective ageing bring
certain observers to think that their ageing of the electorate will lead to
a conservative society dominated by the absence of innovation, an attitude
typically associated to the elderly. We know that the individuals tend to
behave consistently, to keep their political opinions as they get older.
This second hypothesis suggests that population ageing might encourage the
pressure in favour of the independence of Quebec and not refrain it. In
2031, the vote of the baby-boomers, older but faithful to their convictions,
combined with the one of the younger generations, favourably disposed to
sovereignty, could lead to a "yes" in a referendum. The instability that
characterizes political behaviour as well as eventual period effects limit
the significance of our analysis.
Role of VIP and Sonic Hedgehog signaling pathways in mediating epithelial wound healing, sensory nerve regeneration and their defects in diabetic corneas
Authors: Admin Ada , Zhang Yangyang , Gao Nan , Wu Lin , Lee Patrick S. Y. , Me Rao , Dai Chenyang , Xie Lixin , Yu Fu-shin X.
Published: April 2020

Diabetic Keratopathy, a sight-threatening corneal disease, comprises
several symptomatic conditions including delayed
epithelial wound healing, recurrent erosions, and sensory nerve (SN) neuropathy. We
investigated the role of neuropeptides in mediating corneal wound healing,
including epithelial wound closure and SN regeneration. Denervation
by Resiniferatoxin severely impaired corneal wound healing and markedly
up-regulated pro-inflammatory gene expression. Exogenous neuropeptides CGRP,
SP, and VIP partially reversed Resiniferatoxin’s effects, with VIP specifically
inducing IL-10 expression. Hence, we focused on VIP and observed that wounding
induced VIP and VIPR1 expression in normal (NL), but not diabetic (DM) mouse corneas.
Targeting VIPR1 in NL corneas attenuated corneal
wound healing, dampened wound-induced expression of neurotrophic factors, and
exacerbated inflammatory responses while exogenous VIP had the opposite effects in
DM corneas. Remarkably, wounding and diabetes
also affected the expression of Sonic Hedgehog
(SHH) in a VIP-dependent manner. Downregulating SHH expression
in NL corneas decreased, while exogenous SHH in DM corneas
increased the rates of corneal wound healing.
Furthermore, inhibition of SHH signaling dampened VIP-promoted corneal
wound healing. We conclude that VIP regulates epithelial wound healing,
inflammatory response, and nerve regeneration in the corneas in a SHH-dependent manner, suggesting
a therapeutic potential for these molecules in treating diabetic keratopathy.
Impact of the thermally induced focus shift on the quality of a laser cutting edge
Authors: Tatzel Leonie , León Fernando Puente
Published: April 2020

The phenomenon of thermal focus shift in optical systems, mainly caused by thermal lensing, is well known. There are numerous publications dealing with this effect, but they do not answer the question of how relevant this problem is to the practical application of lasers in laser cutting machines. In this paper, we examine the effect of the thermally induced change of the focus position on the quality of the cut edge when laser cutting 3 mm thick stainless steel with an 8 kW disk laser. After measuring the magnitude of the focus shift, its impact on the quality of the resulting cutting edge was determined for three different scenarios: recommended process parameters, increased speed, and decreased gas pressure. Roughness and perpendicularity tolerance were used to quantify the quality of the cutting edges according to the ISO standard. It becomes clear that it is difficult to explain the effect of the change in the focus position on quality aspects in general, as this also depends on other process parameters. Nevertheless, it can be shown that the resulting cut edge quality decreases in all three scenarios as a result of the thermal focus shift. This problem cannot be avoided by simply changing the process parameter corresponding to the focal position in the opposed direction of the thermal behavior before starting. Even though the reduction of quality might not be severe today, the focus shift should be considered for all applications that require a very high cutting quality. Furthermore, this effect cannot be neglected anymore as laser power will continue to rise in the future.
Uji Performa Algoritma Naïve Bayes untuk Prediksi Masa Studi Mahasiswa
Authors: Saputro Irkham Widhi , Sari Bety Wulan
Published: April 2020

Universitas AMIKOM Yogyakarta adalah salah satu perguruan tinggi yang memiliki ribuan mahasiswa baru khususnya pada prodi Informatika. Pada tahun 2012 tercatat ada 1009 mahasiswa baru, dan pada tahun 2013 juga tercatat ada sebanyak 859 mahasiswa baru. Namun sayangnya, dari sekian banyak mahasiswa hanya sekitar 50% saja yang dapat lulus dengan tepat waktu. Data tersebut untuk membuat sistem klasifikasi menggunakan teknik data mining dengan metode Naïve Bayes. Dataset yang akan digunakan sebanyak 300 data yang bersumber dari data alumni angkatan 2012, dan 2013 dengan masing-masing data sebanyak 150. Data yang diperoleh memiliki 144 mahasiswa dengan keterangan lulus tepat waktu, dan 156 mahasiswa dengan keterangan lulus tidak tepat waktu. Proses pengujian akan dilakukan menggunakan metode 10-Fold Cross Validation, dan Confusion Matrix. Hasil pengujian menunjukkan bahwa rata-rata performa dari model Naïve Bayes mempunyai nilai akurasi sebesar 68%, nilai precision sebesar 61.3%, nilai recall sebesar 65.3%, dan nilai f1-score sebesar 61%. Nilai performa dari model dapat dipengaruhi oleh dataset yang digunakan untuk pembuatan model.Kata Kunci — data mining, Naïve Bayes, K-Fold Cross Validation, Confusion MatrixAMIKOM Yogyakarta University is one of the colleges that has thousands of new students, especially in the Informatics study program. In 2012 there were 1009 new students, and in 2013 there were 859 new students. But unfortunately, of the many students only around 50% can graduate on time. The data is to make the classification system using data mining techniques with the Naïve Bayes method. The dataset will be used as much as 300 data sourced from alumni data of 2012, and 2013 with each data as much as 150. The data obtained has 144 students with information passed on time, and 156 students with graduation information not on time. The testing process will be carried out using the 10-Fold Cross Validation, and Confusion Matrix method. The test results show that the average performance of the Naïve Bayes model has an accuracy value of 68%, precision value is 61.3%, recall value is 65.3%, and f1-score is 61%. The performance value of the model can be influenced by the dataset used for modeling.Keywords — data mining, classification, Naïve Bayes, graduation time
Penerapan Metode UEQ dan Cooperative Evaluation untuk Mengevaluasi User Experience Lapor Bantul
Authors: Putro Sewindu , Kusrini Kusrini , Kurniawan Mei Parwanto
Published: April 2020

Lapor Bantul adalah sebuah aplikasi yang dibuat oleh Pemerintah Kabupaten Bantul yang berfungsi untuk menangani segala permasalahan dan keluhan-keluhan di sekitar kabupaten Bantul. Berdasarkan seluruh data review dan rating dari pengguna Lapor Bantul yang sudah di dikumpulkan dan kemudian diklasifikasikan antara review positif dan negatif, mayoritas review yang diberikan pengguna berisi ungkapan kekecewaan dan keluhan terhadap aplikasi tersebut. Dalam penelitian ini metode yang akan digunakan adalah User Experience Questionnaire (UEQ) dengan menggunakan 6 skala pengukuran pengalaman pengguna dan metode evaluasi kooperatif untuk menentukan masalah yang dihadapi oleh pengguna saat menggunakan aplikasi Lapor Bantul. Tujuan evaluasi ini adalah mengukur pengalaman pengguna dan hasil rekomendasi user experience yang digunakan untuk membangun prototipe. Hasil pengukuran pengalaman pengguna aplikasi Lapor Bantul mengalami peningkatan dalam setiap skala kuesioner pengalaman pengguna, termasuk daya tarik dengan peningkatan 0,89, perspektif 1,23, efisiensi 0,63, keandalan 0,81, stimulasi 0,74 dan kebaruan 0,78. Kemudian, di benchmark UEQ perbandingan desain sebelum dievaluasi dan sesudah dievluasi juga mengalami peningkatan pengalaman pengguna, yang sebelumnya kategorikan dalam kategori below average (di bawah rata-rata) menjadi good (baik). Kata Kunci — Lapor Bantul, User Experience, User Interface, UEQ, Cooperative Evaluation Lapor Bantul is an application made by the district government of Bantul which functions to handle all problems and complaints around Bantul district. Based on all the reviewand rating data from Lapor Bantul users that has been collected and then classified between positive and negative reviews, the majority of reviews given by users contain expressions of disappointment and complaints about the application. In this study the method to be used is User Experience Questionnaire (UEQ) using 6 scales of user experience measurement and cooperative evaluation methods to determine the problems faced by users when using the application to Lapor Bantul. The purpose of this evaluation is to measure user experience and the user experience recommendations used to build prototypes. The results of measuring user experience in the Lapor Bantul experienced an increase in each scale of the user experience questionnaire, including attraction with an increase of 0.89, perspective 1.23, efficiency 0.63, reliability 0.81, stimulation 0.74 and novelty 0.78. Then, in the UEQ benchmark the comparison of designs before being evaluated and after being evaluated also experienced an increase in user experience, which previously categorized the below average category to be good. Keywords — Lapor Bantul, User Experience, User Interface, UEQ, Cooperative Evaluation
Criminological Analysis of Crimes Against Justice
Authors:   Penza State University, Yashin Andrei Vladimirovich
Published: April 2020

This paper discusses the main criminological indica-tors of crimes that violate the interests of justice, as well as the characteristics of perpetrators of that. Based on this study, the increased social danger of such acts is substantiated. It is noted in the paper that in recent years in Russia there has been a steady increase in the level of reported crimes against justice, which is a negative trend and indi-cates gaps in the prevention of these criminal of-fenses. Official statistical information on crimes against justice is provided, their status in the Feder-al Districts of the Russian Federation is analyzed. The socio-demographic and legal characteristics of the personality of the offender committing crimes against justice are studied, on which basis his gen-eralized criminological profile is compiled. It is con-cluded that the results will be able to assist preven-tive actors in developing effective measures to counter crimes against justice.
Sino-Russian Relations on the North Korean Nuclear Issue
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Dayea Kim
Published: April 2020

As the second summit between United States and North Korea in Hanoi ended without any significant results on February 2019, the negotiating process to resolve the nuclear issue has come to a deadlock. In this situation, Russia and China continue to cooper-ate with each other regarding the policy toward North Korea and at the same time maintain bilateral relations with the DPRK. Russia and China have consolidated their strategic partnership in solving North Korean nuclear issue, opposing not only harsh sanctions, imposed by the UN Security Coun-cil on DPRK, but also against the denuclearization decision proposed by the United States, putting forward an alternative method. It is widely believed, not only in the Republic of Korea, but also in the international community, that Russia and China have the same, or at least a similar position on the North Korean nuclear issue. The article discusses the shared views of both states in the aspect of co-inciding interests and political orientation. The au-thor has made an attempt to analyze and summarize the policies and strategies, which the two countries adhere to.
Investment in the Social Sphere as a Modern Direction in the Russian Business
Authors:   Russian New University, Rybakov Victor Artemyevich
Published: April 2020

In recent years, leading Russian business organiza-tions consider investments in the social sphere as replenishment of their social capital. The study specifies the concept of “social capital of a business organization”. The concept refers to investments in socially significant projects, which contribute to social ties strengthening within the team and in the external environment, bringing fame to this organi-zation and creating more favorable social and psy-chological conditions for its activities. The specifics of business organizations social capital are exam-ined, based on cases from the practice of companies known for their corporate social responsibility. It’s concluded that these projects did not create addi-tional strains on the business, but instead became its development driver. The study of leading Russian companies’ social projects showed that investments in social capital were made on a deep analytical ba-sis. First, “problem areas” were outlined, and then selective financial and logistical injections were made in accordance with the company’s business strategy. In each case, it led to a positive result and increased social capital for the business organiza-tion.