bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Материально-техническая база в профессиональных образовательных организациях
Authors: Романова Ольга , Розенфельд Наталья
Published: January 2022

В информационном бюллетене рассматриваются наиболее острые дефициты ресурсов в сфере среднего профессионального образования, которые необходимо преодолеть для достижения целей государственной образовательной политики. Проведена оценка текущего состояния материально-технической базы до полномасштабной реализации планов по ее обновлению. В основу исследования положены результаты опроса преподавателей, мастеров производственного обучения и студентов организаций СПО, проведенного в 2020 г. в рамках проекта «Мониторинг экономики образования».
Testosteron Tedavisinin Hipogonad Hastalardaki Non-Alkolik Yağlı Karaciğer Hastalığı Üzerine Etkisinin Fibroscan ile Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: İSPİROĞLU Murat
Published: January 2022

Giriş: Hipogonadizm, metabolik sendrom ve non-alkolik yağlı karaciğer hastalığı (NAYKH) ile yakın ilişki içindedir. Çalışmamızda hipogonad hastalara uygulanan testesteron tedavisi ile non-alkolik yağlı karaciğer hastalığı ilişkisini Fibroscan ve laboratuar veriler ile incelemeyi amaçladık.
Materyal-Metod: Çalışmaya 18-60 yaş arasında, yeni tanı veya son 6 aydır androjen replasman tedavisi almayan 40 hipogonad erkek (hasta grubu) ve yaş, vücut kitle indeksi (VKİ) benzer 36 ögonad erkek (kontrol grubu) alındı. Tüm katılımcıların VKİ, bel çevresi ölçüldü. Laboratuvar parametrelerinden açlık plazma glukozu, açlık insülin değeri, karaciğer fonksiyon testleri, hormon ve lipid paneli ölçüldü. Ayrıca tüm katılımcıların Fibroscan® (transient elastografi) işlemi yapılarak, hepatosteatoz düzeyi (CAP skoru) değerlendirildi.
Bulgular: Çalışmamızda hipogonad grupta kontrol grubuna göre ortalama (CAP skoru) hepatosteatoz düzeyi daha yüksek izlendi (sırasıyla, 274.72±78.69 dB/m ve 207.41±52.82 dB/m, p=0,000). Testesteron tedavisi sonrası hipogonad grup ortalama bel çevresi, hepatosteatoz düzeyi ve laboratuar değerlerinde (AST, ALT, Açlık plazma glikoz, Total-K, LDL, TG, insülin) gerileme izlendi. Ancak bunlardan AST, ALT, LDL-K, TG, total testesteron düzeyi, bel çevresi ve ek olarak vücut kitle indeksi direk ortalama hepatosteatoz düzeyi ile korelasyon gösterdi. Lojistik regresyon analizi yapıldığında hepatosteatozu predikte eden en anlamlı parametre total testesteron düzeyi olduğu saptandı (OR: 0,004, %95 C.I: 0,988-0,998).
Sonuç: Hipogonadizmli erkek hastalarda ögonad erkeklere göre NAYKH sıklığı artmıştır. Total testesteron düzeyi, VKİ, Bel Çevresi artışı NAYKH gelişiminde bağımsız risk faktörleridir. Bu nedenle testesteron replasman tedavisinin NAYKH ve eşlik eden metabolik sendrom parametrelerini iyileştirebileceğini düşünmekteyiz.
Diplomatic Realisation of the EU’s “Geoeconomic Pivot”: Sanctions, Trade, and Development Policy Reform
Authors: Olsen Kim B.
Published: January 2022

At a time when policymakers of the European Union (EU) are pivoting towards a more assertive use of economic power in external relations, this article discusses the merits of situating the much-debated use of economic sanctions and other economic power-based instruments in the broader terminology of EU diplomatic capabilities. Pointing out a number of shortcomings in traditional literature on geoeconomics and economic statecraft, the article applies the concept of “geoeconomic diplomacy” to demonstrate how the EU’s geoeconomic success will heavily depend on the abilities of diplomats and civil servants from institutions and member states to engage in viable relationships with relevant public and private actors in the state-market realm. Based hereon, it identifies institutional and context-specific challenges that could affect the comprehensive realisation of recent EU policy reforms relevant to the geoeconomic agenda: (a) institutional measures to ensure a more robust enforcement of sanctions, (b) a new anti-coercion instrument to counter coercive trade practices by third countries, and (c) a more efficient, focused, and strategic utilisation of EU development funds for purposes of stability and peace. The article concludes by discussing the prospects for bringing such instruments closer together at the level of practical implementation through the establishment of stronger relationships between practitioners working across the EU’s various geoeconomic intervention areas.
New Developments on the Non-Central Chi-Squared and Beta Distributions
Authors: Orsi Carlo
Published: January 2022

New formulas for the moments about zero of the Non-central Chi-Squared and the Non-central Beta distributions are achieved by means of novel approaches. The mixture representation of the former model and a new expansion of the ascending factorial of a binomial are the main ingredients of the first approach, whereas the second one hinges on an interesting relationship of conditional independence and a simple conditional density of the latter model. Then, a simulation study is carried out in order to pursue a twofold purpose: providing numerical validations of the derived moment formulas on one side and discussing the advantages of the new formulas over the existing ones on the other.
Assessing Performance of the Generalized Exponential Model in the Presence of the Interval Censored Data with Covariate
Authors: Alharbi Nada , A. Jayanthi , A. Haizum , Ling Wendy
Published: January 2022

This study aims to extend the generalized exponential model (GEM) to include covariates in the presence of interval-censored data. The maximum likelihood estimator (MLE) was obtained for the parameter of the model formulated. Afterward, a thorough simulation study was carried out to evaluate the estimator's performance based on the values of bias, standard error (SE), and root mean square error (RMSE). The result indicated that the (SE) and (RMSE) decrease with the increase in sample sizes and decrease in censoring proportions. Finally, the performance of the Wald confidence interval estimation technique for the GE model with interval-censored data covariate was assessed by a coverage probability study at several censoring proportions and different sample sizes.
A Retrospective Study on Skellam and Related Distributions
Authors: Lishamol Tomy  , Veena G
Published: January 2022

This paper reviews works on Skellam distribution, its extensions and areas of applications. Available literature shows that this distribution is flexible for modelling integer data where they appear as count data or paired count data in the field of finance, medicine, sports, and science. Bivariate Skellam distribution, dynamic Skellam model and other extensions are also discussed and additional literature are provided.
Applications of HLMOL-X Family of Distributions to Time Series, Acceptance Sampling and Stress-strength Parameter
Authors: Lishamol Tomy  , Meenu Jose
Published: January 2022

In this paper, the applications of the half logistic-Marshall Olkin X family of distributions are investigated with special emphasis to the half logistic-Marshall Olkin Lomax distribution. The specific areas we concentrated are time series modeling, acceptance sampling plan and stress-strength analysis. Different autoregressive minification structures of order one are introduced. The acceptance sampling plan is detailed by considering life time of products following the half logistic-Marshall Olkin Lomax distribution. The stress-strength reliability of the half logistic-Marshall Olkin Lomax distribution is derived and estimated. A simulation study is carried out to examine the bias, mean square error, average confidence length and coverage probability of the maximum likelihood estimator of thestress-strength reliability. Finally a real-life data analysis has also been presented.
Monte-Carlo method for option pricing in sub-diffusive arithmetic models
Authors:   National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, Shchestyuk Nataly , Tyshchenko Serhii ,   National University Of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy
Published: January 2022

This paper focuses on applying the Monte Carlo approach to option pricing in markets with illiquid assets. Anomalous sub-diffusion is a well-known model for describing such markets when relatively long periods without any trading are observed. For constructing sub-diffusive models we need to replace a calendar time t with some stochastic processes S(t), which is called inverse subordinator. The inverse subordinator S(t) means first hitting time and is based on subordinator processes. In this paper, we propose to use the gamma process as a subordinator for Bashelie sub-diffusion model. Using well-known properties for gamma and inverse gamma processes we find the covariance structure of fractional Bachelier model with FBM time-changed by gamma process and then explore the asymptotic behavior of it. Then we apply the Monte-Carlo method and propose a procedure of option pricing for the Bashelie sub-diffusion model. For this aim, we use iterative schemes for simulating N scenarios of stock prices for our models. Finally, we demonstrate numerical results.
European integration in a constructivist prism: the construction of a supranational community and the transformation of (supra) national identities
Authors:   University of Zagreb, Čepo Dario
Published: January 2022

The paper uses the constructivist theory of international relations in order to explain the main aspects of the development of the European Union, i.e. the process of European integration. Also, with the help of European integration, an attempt is made to clarify the relevance and importance of using constructivism as a theoretical and conceptual framework for understanding political and political-science concepts, which is still, with a few exceptions, a rarity in Croatian political science. By using concepts and notions that emerged halfway between sociology and political science, this paper points to the importance of studying the concepts of identity, language, socialization and norms, in order to fully understand the development of a complex political system as is the European Union. At the very end, general conclusions are offered about the importance of using different schools of thought, including constructivism, if we want to fully understand the development of a political phenomenon, but it also points out certain weaknesses and criticisms, which should be taken into account when using constructivism as a prism that seeks to describe and clarify a specific political phenomenon.
Phenomenological Case Study
Authors:   , Roman Jeffrey D. , Keiser Lawrence J
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this case study was to uncover the skills, behaviors and influences impacting African Americans' pathways into entrepreneurship in Philadelphia. Entrepreneurial research focusing on African Americans has remained scarce. Exposure to entrepreneurship occurs at various ages of an individual's life. What remains unknown are the creative and leadership behaviors sparking African Americans to become entrepreneurs. From an age-group perspective, Baby Boomer entrepreneurs are aging and leaving the labor force while studies on millennial entrepreneurs, a more recent and emerging working class demographic, are also limited. This phenomenological case study analyzes the factors contributing to African American entrepreneurship in Philadelphia with a lens on how to increase African American millennial entrepreneurs. During one-on-one semi-structured interviews, 7 African American Entrepreneurs (AAEs) shared their creativity and leadership and how they acquired these skills. Participants offered insights on social, education, work, and entrepreneurial learning. Clinical behavioral analysis unveiled the learned and developed skills and traits of AAEs in Philadelphia. Interviewee stories were gathered and triangulated to determine what gaps, opportunities, or challenges explain Philadelphia African American entrepreneurial scarcity. The researcher proposes a multigenerational collaboration of learners, families, educators, leaders, and entrepreneurs to guide millennial African Americans towards entrepreneurship. Work experience, social relationships, and engagement equip entrepreneurs with critical self-awareness, mentoring, and learning to summon creativity, leadership, behavior, and exposure to become entrepreneurs.
Kedudukan Permenkumham Nomor 17 Tahun 2018 dalam Menjamin Kepastian Berusaha Persekutuan Komanditer
Authors: Faisal Mochammad Aznawi , Sihabudin Sihabudin , Hadiyantina Shinta
Published: January 2022

This study aimed to analyze changes in the provisions for registering limited partnership after enacting the Minister of Law and Human Rights Regulation Number 17 of 2018 and the position of Minister of Law and Human Rights Regulation Number 17 of 2018 on the hierarchy of laws and regulations in Indonesia. The type of research used was normative juridical law with a conceptual, historical, and statutory approach. After the enactment of Minister of Law and Human Rights Number 17 of 2018, the authority to register limited partnerships, which was previously the authority of the Minister of Trade, was transferred to the Minister of Law and Human Rights. The position of Minister of Law and Human Rights Regulation Number 17 of 2018 is seen from the procedure for forming ministerial regulations that do not meet the requirements as implementing regulations and are contrary to the principle of business certainty.
Implikasi Yuridis Undang-Undang Nomor 28 Tahun 2004 Terkait Penyesuaian Anggaran Dasar Yayasan
Authors: Kartikawati Ayu , Widhiyanti Hanif Nur
Published: January 2022

This study aimed to adjust the statute for foundations established before the enactment of Law Number 28 of 2004 and analyze the legal consequences for foundations established before the enactment of Law Number 28 of 2004 that did not make adjustments to the articles of association. This study used a normative juridical method with a statutory and case approach. The results showed that the purpose of adjusting the articles of association for foundations that were established before the enactment of Law Number 28 of 2004 was to obtain recognition as a foundation, either technically or administratively. The legal consequences for foundations that were established before the enactment of Law Number 28 of 2004 that did not make adjustments to the statute were in the form of losses due to loss of previous history and wealth in the form of assets that had been obtained by the foundation so that the foundation became like a new foundation.
Perlindungan Hukum terhadap Anak Korban Kekerasan Seksual
Authors: Yuliartini Ni Putu Rai , Mangku Dewa Gede Sudika
Published: January 2022

This study aimed to analyze the implementation of legal protection for child victims of sexual violence in Singaraja City and the efforts of law enforcement officials in reducing the number of sexual violence in Singaraja City. This study used an empirical legal research approach with a descriptive type. Sources of data were obtained from primary data and secondary data. Data collection techniques through observation, interviews, and documentation studies. Determining the sample uses a non-probability sampling technique called purposive sampling. The data is processed and analyzed qualitatively. The results study indicated that the implementation of legal protection for child victims of sexual violence in Singaraja City had not run optimally. Some several facilities and services had not been fulfilled. The Buleleng Police took preemptive, preventive, and repressive measures to reduce the number of sexual violence in Singaraja City. The Social Service of Buleleng Regency assisted in assistance, trauma recovery, and counseling services for children who were victims of social violence.
Isu Politik Identitas dan Dinasti Politik dalam Kampanye Pilkada Serentak Tahun 2020
Authors: Ukhra Aunil , Hijri Yana Syafriyana , Taufikurrohman Ifan
Published: January 2022

This study was intended to explain the phenomenon of identity politics and political dynasties in the holding of simultaneous elections in 2020. The focus of this study was looking at the issue of identity politics and political dynasties in several regions, including Solo, Medan, South Tangerang, and Central Kalimantan, which were case studies of identity politics and political dynasties issue in the 2020 elections. This research used a type of qualitative research with a descriptive approach. Data was obtained through literature studies by looking at previous research based on the same topic and news in the mass media about the issue of identity politics and political dynasties. The study found that identity politics and political dynasties still occurred in some regions, i.e., in Solo, Medan, South Tangerang, and Central Kalimantan. In addition, hate speech, black campaigns, and hoax issues had sprung up with different models through social media and billboards.
Implikasi Keputusan Majelis Utama Desa Pakraman Bali Nomor 01/KEP/PSM-3/MDP BALI/X/2010 tentang Kedudukan Wanita Bali dalam Keluarga dan Pewarisan
Authors: Warsana I Made
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this study was to analyze the philosophical basis and implications of the Decision of the Main Assembly of Bali Pakraman Village Number 01/Kep/Psm-3/MDP Bali/X/2010 on the position of Balinese women in the family and inheritance. This study used a normative juridical method with a philosophical and conceptual approach, which discussed legal rules or regulations as a system associated with legal events. The study results showed that the philosophical basis for the Decision of the Main Assembly of the Bali Pakraman Village Number 01/Kep/Psm-3/MDP Bali/X/2010 was a patrilineal system Balinese society which did not provide opportunities for Balinese women to become heirs. The implication of the decision of the Main Assembly of the Bali Pakraman Village Number 01/Kep/Psm-3/MDP Bali/X/2010 was the realization of gender equality between Balinese men and women in obtaining rights, although with different amounts of inheritance.
Manual de buenas prácticas en Puntos de Encuentro Familiar
Authors: García Fernández Manuel , Peralbo Uzquiano Manuel , Permuy López Mónica , Pimentel Gomes Elisabete , Mendonça Teves Carolina , Matias Ferreira Nuno
Published: January 2022

a idea de elaborar un manual de buenas prácticas para puntos de encuentro familiar nace de la inquietud de las organizaciones sociales como Fundación Meniños y el Centro de Terapia Familiar e Intervención Sistémica de Azores, como agentes sociales implicados en la promoción del buen trato a la infancia (Barudy y Dantagnan, 2005) y el desarrollo de una parentalidad positiva (Rodrigo, 2015). Desde hace más de 20 años venimos desarrollando nuestra labor en diferentes programas de protección a la infancia y a la adolescencia en situaciones de vulnerabilidad, entre ellos, puntos de encuentro familiar. Una de nuestras características en el modo de funcionar es destinar espacios a la reflexión y la investigación sobre las prácticas profesionales que desarrollamos en nuestros programas, buscando el rigor y la fundamentación científica en todas ellas y sometiéndolas a la reflexión y a la evaluación externa, con vocación de generar una mirada colectiva compartida y necesaria para la innovación y la mejora continua. A esta inquietud
Assessing the Environmental Effects on Dengue Fever and Malaysian Economic Growth
Authors:   the Faculty of Management, Multimedia University, 63100 Cyberjaya, Malaysia, Tan Chuie-Hong , Lee See-Nie , Ho Sin-Ban
Published: January 2022

Environmental degradation is prone to increase severe weather conditions, such as heat waves and prolonged rainfall. The purpose of the study is to examine the effect of climate factors (temperature, rainfall, rain days, humidity, sea level pressure), floods and extreme events like tropical storm, tornado, typhoon and strong wind on dengue fever cases and Malaysian economic growth in the period of year 2014-2020. A correlation test was used to find the relationship between the independent, dependent and moderating variables. The study was carried out using secondary monthly data. The results showed a significant correlation between the climate change, dengue fever cases and economic growth in Malaysia. Temperature, humidity, sea level pressure and rain fall revealed a positive correlation with dengue fever cases, while rainy days and floods showed negative correlations. Besides that, increase of temperature, humidity, sea level pressure and floods moderate with dengue fever cases significantly lead to a lower economic growth.
A Cultural-Historical Activity Theory (CHAT) Analysis on Educational Psychology Class: The Challenges in Delivering a Fully Online Classroom Environment
Authors: Andriani Erina , Priskananda Aletheia Ajeng , Budiraharjo Markus
Published: January 2022

In assisting students’ transformation, classes provide activities with face validity. This paper aims to provide readers with cultural-historical activity theory (CHAT) analysis of Educational Psychology class at a private university in Yogyakarta. Activity Theory is a theoretical framework for the study and interpretation of human interaction through the use of instruments and objects. It provides a holistic and contextual discovery approach that can be used to help qualitative and interpretive research. Activity Theory is especially important in circumstances that have a large historical and cultural context and where participants, their goals and their tools are in a state of rapid and continuous change. Few studies explored the use of CHAT framework to reveal the challenges in providing a fully online class in a higher education. Therefore, this study intended to explore the practical importance of CHAT theory use for the delivery of a class in a fully online learning environment. The results revealed the units of analysis (UoA) of the CHAT framework. In addition, the students shared some challenges they faced in relation to those units of analysis. The implication of this study is to utilize the CHAT framework as a tool to evaluate the learning process.
Examining Maqasid Sharia Attainment: Case of Financing Products of Bank Muamalat Indonesia
Authors: Hendri Loni
Published: January 2022

The objective of the Islamic Bank is still profit-oriented while the Islamic economy, as the mother of the Islamic Bank, has the orientation to obtain the maqasid sharia that agreed as social well-being, which can not always be obtained by profit alone. The first pure sharia Islamic Bank in Indonesia is Bank Muamalat. As the first bank purely shariah, Bank Muamalat commit to promoting services that not only comply with sharia but are also competitive and accessible for entire citizen. Based on this background, this research aimed to evaluate financing products of Bank Muamalat by using the framework of maqasid limited to aspect of justice. This research was descriptive-qualitative using secondary data such as financial statements, types of Bank Muamalat financing products acquired from the Bank Muamalat site and brochure. Results of this research showed that financing products of Bank Muamalat could be considered as the attainment of maqasid sharia because those products are dominantly provided in the equity-based contract. But, the conditions determined for the equity-based contract in Bank Muamalat’s financing products make them considered as not promoting maqasid sharia.
Red cell alloimunization and autoantibodies in transfusion dependent thalassemia patients of Jammu region
Authors: Dutt Neeti , Sharma Sushil , Sidhu Meena
Published: January 2022

Background: Thalassemia is one of the most common genetic disorder of hemoglobin synthesis in Jammu region. Although RBC transfusion is life saving for these patients, it may be associated with some complications like RBC alloimmunization. Thus, alloimmunization against red blood cell antigens increases the need for transfusion and can significantly complicate transfusion therapy. Therefore, screening for unexpected antibodies should be a part of all pretransfusion testing, with antibody identification in the event of a positive result. The aim of the study was to determine the frequency of alloimmunization and autoimmunization and the most common alloantibodies involved.Methods:This was a descriptive study involving a total of 146 thalassemic patients in the age range of 2-32 years receiving regular blood transfusions, registered at SMGS blood bank, Jammu. Antibodies screening, antibody identification, and cross matching was done on all patient samples included in the study, during the period between November 2014 and October 2015.Results: At the start of the study, 8 patients who tested positive for alloantibodies 3 patients had more than one antibody subtype. Anti-E was the commonest antibody found in 4 (50%) patients. Similarly, at the end of study, antibody screening and then identification revealed presence of antibodies in 10 patients. Only 1 patient had more than one antibody subtype. Anti E was again the commonest antibody found in 5 (50%) patients.  Conclusions:The most common alloantibodies identified were anti Rh system antibodies (anti-E and anti-D) followed by Kell antibodies. In order to reduce alloimmunization, a policy for performing extended red cell phenotyping of these patients is essential and at least antigen E and Kell negative blood should be provided for transfusion to these patients.
A study on body mass index and menstrual cycle length in reproductive age women
Authors: Vashishta Shilpi , Gahlot Sushila
Published: January 2022

Background: Menstrual cycle length is an indicator of reproductive health of a woman. Duration of menstrual cycle in a woman is affected by a number of factors including BMI. The effect of BMI on menstrual cycle length has been studied less extensively. Not many studies have been conducted on Indian populations. This study was conducted to study the relation of body mass index and menstrual cycle length in reproductive age women.Methods: The study included 225 women of age 15-45 years. Women with average menstrual cycle length of 24-38 were regarded as regularly menstruating women. Menstrual cycle length was defined as short (<24 days), normal (24-38 days), long (>38 days). During the menstrual phase of the cycle BMI of each participant was recorded.Results: A significant (p=0.0008) increase in mean BMI was found with increased in length of menstrual cycle. The majority of the women with long menstrual cycle were obese compared to women having normal and short length of menstrual cycle.Conclusions: The results of present study indicates that women with long menstrual cycle have increased body mass index compared to women having normal or short menstrual cycle length.
Study of serum C-peptide levels in newly diagnosed diabetic mellitus subjects of North Gujarat region of India
Authors: Pathan Rashidkhan B. , Purohit Niravkumar H. , Choudhary Prema Ram
Published: January 2022

Background: Serum C-peptide has appeared as the chief clinical and practically adequate marker of β-cell function of pancreas. Serum insulin and C-peptide are concomitantly secreted into the blood circulation in equal amount. The aim of the study was to determine serum C-peptide levels in newly diagnosed diabetic mellitus subjects of North Gujarat region of India.Methods:The present cross-sectional study was done on 50 subjects of recently diagnosed Diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and non-diabetic healthy controls at Banas Medical College and our trust-based hospital. All diabetics patients were further classified into two groups; normal FC group consist of subjects with FC level 0.5-3.2 ng/ml (N=14) and high FC group included subjects with FC>3.2 ng/ml (N=36). The patients' demographic and anthropometric parameters were recorded; detailed history and clinical examination were performed in the entire cases. All biochemical parameters were analyzed.  Results: Predominance of the T2DM subjects was in the age group of 41-50 years. Mean value for age (p<0.01), anthropometric (p<0.01), fasting plasma glucose (p<0.001), HbA1c (p<0.01), cholesterol (p<0.01), triglycerides (p<0.001) and C-peptide (p<0.001) were significantly higher in the T2DM subjects. The mean values of fasting plasma glucose (p<0.001) and HbA1c (p<0.01) are significantly higher in T2DM subject with high C-peptide level as compared to normal C-peptide level.  Conclusions:In our study, we conclude that elevated levels of fasting C-peptide in newly diagnosed T2DM. Therefore, we suggested that serum C-peptide levels are valuable as marker of endogenous insulin production from β-cell of pancreas.
COVID-19 pneumonitis and lupus pneumonitis: a challenge in diagnosis and early therapeutic consideration
Authors: Suryana Ketut
Published: January 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an acute respiratory illness caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. It has various clinical manifestations, from asymptomatic to severe disease with possible multi-organ involvement, with respiratory and vascular systems being the frequent affected. COVID-19 can affect patients with autoimmune diseases including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The concurrent of both diseases may show the similar characteristic which can as a challenge in diagnosis and early therapeutic consideration. We report a case of 53 year-old Balinese woman patient who previously diagnosed with acute respiratory iIlness (Pneumonitis), The patient with past history of SLE since 2005, takes 200 mg hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and 4 mg methylprednisolone once a day orally without adverse effect. Then she was confirmed with SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19 pneumonitis) concurrent with SLE flare (Lupus pneumonitis). The clinical similarities were fever, dry cough and shortness of breath with the chest X-ray (CXR) was bilateral interstitiil infiltrate. Laboratory results; a positive SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction test, leucophenia, increased ESR, slightly increased CRP, decreased CD4 and CD8 cell count. Decreased oxygen saturation, requiring 4 L of oxygen via nasal cannula on admission. She was given therapy of antibiotics, antivirus and other symptomatic. The prior SLE maintenance therapy was continued with increasing methylprednisolone dose. The patient’s condition was improved and weaned off her oxygen requirements. She was discharged and followed by home isolation for 14 days.
Rare as hen’s teeth: laparoscopic management of primary pelvic hydatid cyst
Authors: Gupta Kopal , Sharma Dron
Published: January 2022

Hydatid disease is a zoonotic parasitic disease most frequently caused by echinococcus granulose Primary peritoneal hydatidosis is very rare. We report a case of primary hydatid disease of the intraperitoneal pelvic space. A 22-year-old male patient presented with a history of abdominal pain since 5 months. Abdominal examination revealed a smooth, firm, mildly tender, non-mobile lump in suprapubic region, on digital rectal examination, a smooth spherical mass was felt anteriorly and laterally outside the rectal wall, rectal mucosa was normal. All routine investigations including liver function tests were within normal limits Computed tomography scan of the whole abdomen showed giant cyst of 10×10 cm with multiple well-defined cysts in rectovesical pouch.  Diagnostic laparoscopy was performed. The liver, spleen, mesentery, omentum was found to be normal. A large tense hydatid cyst was noted in the pelvic cavity. Partial peri-cystectomy with endo-cystectomy was performed. Postoperative period was uneventful and patient was discharged on 4th postoperative day. Primary intra-abdominal but extra-peritoneal localization has been reported in only 0.2-2% cases making it a very rare entity. The treatment of choice for pelvic hydatid cyst is principally a careful surgical excision. Here with minimum invasive technique this case was operated and results were excellent.
Management of Twak vikruti: a case report
Authors: Singh Swati , Chaudhari Vaishali R. , Nakade Mamata
Published: January 2022

In today’s era skin disease is very commonly found. As there is no specific and permanent treatment available in modern science therefore people are attracting towards Ayurvedic treatments for skin related issues and diseases. Twak (skin) is the largest organ of human body which protects and covers whole body. It is one of five gyanendriya that is Sparsh gyanendriya (sense organ). Nowadays people use so many chemical products internally as well as externally for looking good which causes the imbalance of dosh, dhatu and mala (fecal product). These are the fundaments of human body and skin is the outer most protective organ. So, whenever anything uncommon happened with body, skin start showing some symptoms like redness, swelling, due to dushti of doshas (imbalance/toxicity of dosha). A male patient of 36 years old came in our hospital with the complains of Twak kandu (skin itching), Krushna varnata (hyper pigmentation), Krushna varni pitikotpatti (rashes), Vali (wrinkles) and Rukshta (dryness) which was diagnosed as Twak vikruti (skin disease) and treated with complete ayurvedic treatment Shaman chikitsa (internal medicine) along with Shodhan chikitsa (body purification treatment).
Can the new SARS-CoV-2 variant of concern, Omicron, evade the immune system?
Authors: Zaawari Abdullah , Khan Saajidah
Published: January 2022

It's been less than a week since scientists in Botswana and South Africa warned the world about a rapidly spreading SARS-CoV-2 variant, known as Omicron now. Researchers and scientists from all over the world are racing to get a clear picture of the threat that the variant poses to the world. However, it may take weeks or even months to completely understand its transmissibility and severity, as well as its ability to evade vaccines and cause reinfections.
A comparative study of temporalis fascia and fascia lata graft in type-1 tympanoplasty
Authors: Ambani Kirti P. , Chavda Amit B. , Shah Shaili S. , Patel Urvish D. , Mulani Ajay M.
Published: January 2022

Background: Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM) is most commonly faced otological condition by ENT surgeons. Tympanoplasty is the established surgical management for tympanic membrane perforation. In this study we are comparing temporalis fascia and fascia lata as graft material in type-1 tympanoplasty to compare the graft taken up and post-op hearing improvement.

Methods: A retrospective study over 80 patients with CSOM of mucosal type, dry ear for more than 6-8 weeks and the age of 15-60 years enrolled in the study. The patients who underwent the surgery for randomly assigned into 2 groups: group-1: tympanoplasty operated with temporalis fascia graft, group-2: tympanoplasty operated with fascia lata graft. All surgeries done under general anesthesia. The patients were evaluated post operatively in terms of graft taken up and hearing status.

Results: In our study post op tympanoplasty graft taken up with temporalis fascia was 86.36% whereas fascia lata graft contributed 88.88%. Hearing gain on an average with temporalis fascia graft was 11.46 dB while with fascia lata graft was 10.09 dB. Statistical data proved that there was no significant difference between two groups. So both groups had their own merits and demerits.

Conclusions: Overall graft uptake rate and hearing gain with temporalis fascia and fascia lata in type 1 tympanoplasty are almost equal. There was no significant difference in both groups so ultimately it is surgeon choice and level of expertise that decides use of graft material in tympanoplasty.
Inhibitory effect on subretinal fibrosis by anti-placental growth factor treatment in a laser-induced choroidal neovascularization model in mice
Authors:   Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710004, Shaanxi Province, China, Zhang Yi , Wang Jian-Ming ,   Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710004, Shaanxi Province, China, Wang Li-Jun ,   Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710004, Shaanxi Province, China, Yang Xi-Ting ,   Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710004, Shaanxi Province, China, Zhou Ai-Yi ,   Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710004, Shaanxi Province, China
Published: January 2022

AIM: To investigate whether anti-placental growth factor (PGF) can inhibit subretinal fibrosis and whether this effect is mediated by the inhibitory effect of PGF on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells.
METHODS: Subretinal fibrosis model was established in laser induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) mice on day 21 after laser photocoagulation. Immunofluorescence staining (IFS) of cryosections and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to detect the expression of PGF. IFS of whole choroidal flat-mounts was used to detect the degree of subretinal fibrosis. IFS of cryosections and ELISA were used to detect the expression of EMT related indicators in subretinal fibrosis lesions.
RESULTS: The expression of PGF protein in subretinal fibrosis lesions was significantly up-regulated (P<0.05), and mainly co-stained with pan-cytokeratin labeled RPE cells. Intravitreal injection of anti-PGF neutralizing antibody reduced the area of subretinal fibrosis and the ratio of fibrotic/angiogenic area significantly at the concentrations of 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 μg/μL (all P<0.05). The expression of E-cadherin in the local RPE cells decreased, while α-SMA increased significantly in subretinal fibrosis lesions, and the application of anti-PGF neutralizing antibody could reverse these changes (P<0.05).
CONCLUSION: The expression of PGF is up-regulated in the lesion site of subretinal fibrosis and mainly expressed in RPE cells. Intravitreal injection of anti-PGF neutralizing antibody can significantly inhibit the degree of subretinal fibrosis in CNV mice, and this effect may be mediated by the inhibition of PGF on EMT of RPE cells.
Artesunate inhibits proliferation and migration of RPE cells and TGF-β2 mediated epithelial mesenchymal transition by suppressing PI3K/AKT pathway
Authors:   The Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanchang University; Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Disease, Nanchang 330000, Jiangxi Province, China, Wang Zi-Yi , Wu Ling-Dan ,   The Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanchang University; Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Disease, Nanchang 330000, Jiangxi Province, China, Chen Jie ,   The Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanchang University; Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Disease, Nanchang 330000, Jiangxi Province, China, Chen Mei-Ling ,   The Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanchang University; Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Disease, Nanchang 330000, Jiangxi Province, China, Chen Ci-Min ,   The Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanchang University; Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Disease, Nanchang 330000, Jiangxi Province, China, Xu Qi-Hua ,   The Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanchang University; Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Disease, Nanchang 330000, Jiangxi Province, China
Published: January 2022

AIM: To study the braking effectiveness of artesunate on transforming growth factor (TGF)-β2 mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in vitro.
METHODS: The fostered ARPE-19 cells were processed with artesunate alone or combined with the TGF-β2. The CCK-8 examination was utilized to test the cell propagation. Cell migration was detected by scratch as well as the Transwell examination. The EMT characters and activation of PI3K/Akt signal channel were estimated by Western blotting and immunofluorescence. The Western blotting was utilized in order to confirm the vitreous of controls as well as patients with proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) were collected and the levels of PI3K, phospho-PI3K, Akt.
RESULTS: Disposal of ARPE-19 cells with artesunate (50-150 μmol/L) obviously suppressed their propagation and immigration, which dependent on the concentration and time. Artesunate suppressed the EMT which was induced by TGF-β2 in ARPE-19 cells through sustaining the expression of vimentin and α-SMA through the suppression of PI3K, phospho-PI3K, phospho-Akt and Akt. Levels of PI3K, phospho-PI3K, AKT and phospho-Akt was increased in the vitreous in PVR (P<0.05).
CONCLUSION: Such findings indicate that PI3K/Akt signal channel is highly activated in vitreous of PVR. Artesuante is an operative depressor of the propagation, immigration and TGF-β2-mediated EMT of ARPE-19 cells by reduced the expression of PI3K/Akt channel.
Novel mutations in the BEST1 gene cause distinct retinopathies in two Chinese families
Authors:   Department of Ophthalmology, Hainan Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Sanya 572013, Hainan Province, China, Zhu Zhi-Hong , Zhang Yi-Xin ,   Department of Ophthalmology, the PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing 100088, China, Wang Rui ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Hainan Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Sanya 572013, Hainan Province, China, Wu Tong ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Hainan Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Sanya 572013, Hainan Province, China, Liu Wei ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Hainan Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Sanya 572013, Hainan Province, China, Chen Ze-Hua ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Hainan Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Sanya 572013, Hainan Province, China, Xie Hai-Nan ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Hainan Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Sanya 572013, Hainan Province, China, Chen Lan-Lan ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Hainan Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Sanya 572013, Hainan Province, China, Liu Zi-Hao ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China, Huang Hou-Bin ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Hainan Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Sanya 572013, Hainan Province, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China; The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
Published: January 2022

AIM: To describe the clinical heterogeneity of patients with novel mutations in BEST1.
METHODS: All the members in the two Chinese families underwent detailed clinical evaluations including best-corrected visual acuity, slit-lamp examination, applanation tonometry, and dilated fundus examination. Fundus autofluorescence, fundus fluorescein angiography, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, electrooculography, and electroretinogram were also performed. Genomic DNA was extracted from venous blood for all the participants. The targeted next-generation sequencing of inherited retinal disease-associated genes was conducted to identify the causative mutation.
RESULTS: A novel BEST1 missense mutation c.41T>C (p.Leu14Ser) was identified in Family 1. It was co-segregated with the phenotype of best vitelliform macular dystrophy (BVMD) and bioinformatics analysis confirmed it was harmful. Another novel BEST1 frameshift mutation c.345_346insGGCAAGGACG (p.Glu119Glyfs*116) and a novel USH2A missense mutation c.12560G>A, p.Arg4187His were identified in family 2 with retinitis pigmentosa (RP), which might interact and lead to the phenotype of RP.
CONCLUSION: Two novel mutations in the BEST1 gene in two unrelated families with distinct phenotypes and BEST1 mutation accompanied with USH2A mutation would result in RP, which could be enormously helpful in understanding the pathogenesis of the inherited retinal disease caused by a BEST1 mutation.
Comparison of efficacy of two different silicone hydrogel bandage contact lenses after T-PRK
Authors:   Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China, Li Hua , Zhang Jia-Fan ,   Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China, Leng Lin ,   Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China, Liu Sai ,   Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China, Long Ke-Li ,   Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China
Published: January 2022

AIM: To compare the efficacy between two different silicone hydrogel bandage contact lenses after transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (T-PRK).
METHODS: In this randomized controlled trial, a total of 89 patients (178 eyes) who underwent T-PRK at the Qingdao Eye Hospital from October to December 2019 were selected. One random eye wore a Senofilcon A bandage contact lens after surgery, and the other eye a Balafilcon A bandage contact lens. Pain scores, uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), spherical equivalent (SE), corneal epithelial healing status, epithelial thickness, bandage lenses deposits, lenses movement, and ocular surface conditions were measured and compared.
RESULTS: There were no differences between the two groups in UCVA, SE, corneal epithelial healing status, corneal epithelial thickness, tear river heights and tear film rupture time at each follow-up visit. However, postoperative pain scores in the Senofilcon A group were significantly lower than those of the Balafilcon A group (Fintergroups=67.833, P<0.001; Ftime=383.773, P<0.001; Finteraction=57.344, P<0.001). The duration of pain in eyes in the Senofilcon A group was shorter than that of the Balafilcon A group (t=-3.326, P=0.001). The surface deposition scores and movement scores of Senofilcon A bandage lenses on the first and fourth days after surgery were lower than those of Balafilcon A bandage lenses (Z=-5.385, -6.782, P<0.001; Z=-8.336, -8.906, P<0.001).
CONCLUSION: Both Senofilcon A and Balafilcon A bandage lenses have good efficacy after T-PRK. Senofilcon A lenses are associated with less pain and more comfort compared to Balafilcon A.
The Effect of Coating Parameter of Active Layer on Performance of Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: YENEL Esma
Published: January 2022

In this study, Glass / ITO / PEDOT / Polymer / Al organic solar cell structures were obtained by using glass/indium doped tin oxide (Glass/ITO) transparent metal oxide substrates, PEDOT:PSS and P3HT:PCBM polymer photoactive layer and their performance depending on spin rate and coating technique were investigated. The polymer layer was coated using the spin coating method. Al metal was coated by physical vapor deposition method. By keeping the concentration of the photoactive layer constant, the effects of different spin coating rates, beside static and dynamic coating technique on the power conversion efficiency of the cells and their stability were compared. Electrical characterization of organic solar cells was performed under a solar simulator in a glove box system. By applying voltage between -0.5 V and +1.5 V, I-V (current-voltage) measurements of the solar cells were taken in the light and dark. The power conversion efficiencies of organic solar cells coated at 800rpm, 1000rpm and 2000rpm spin coating speeds, respectively, were observed to be 2.34%, 2.08% and 1.98%. When the average efficiency values considered, static coating at 800 rpm gives more reproducible results in comparison with the other average efficiency values. The average efficiency values for static coating at 800 rpm is observed to be %2.