bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Hypoxia Gene-Based Signature to Predict the Survival and Affect the Tumor Immune Microenvironment of Osteosarcoma in Children
Authors: Jiang Feng , Miao Xiao-Lin , Zhang Xiao-Tian , Yan Feng , Mao Yan , Wu Chu-Yan , Zhou Guo-Ping
Published: July 2021

Osteosarcoma is a quickly developing, malignant cancer of the bone, which is associated with a bad prognosis. In osteosarcoma, hypoxia promotes the malignant phenotype, which results in a cascade of immunosuppressive processes, poor prognosis, and a high risk of metastasis. Nonetheless, additional methodologies for the study of hyperoxia in the tumor microenvironment also need more analysis. We obtained 88 children patients with osteosarcoma from the Therapeutically Applicable Research to Generate Effective Treatment (TARGET) database and 53 children patients with RNA sequence and clinicopathological data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). We developed a four-gene signature related to hypoxia to reflect the immune microenvironment in osteosarcoma that predicts survival. A high-risk score indicated a poor prognosis and immunosuppressive microenvironment. The presence of the four-gene signature related to hypoxia was correlated with clinical and molecular features and was an important prognostic predictor for pediatric osteosarcoma patients. In summary, we established and validated a four-gene signature related to hypoxia to forecast recovery and presented an independent prognostic predictor representing overall immune response strength within the osteosarcoma microenvironment.
The Prevalence and Association of Stress Urinary Incontinence, Core Muscle Endurance, and Low Back Pain among Married Women in Saudi Arabia: A Case‐Control Study
Authors: Alghadir Ahmad H. , Tse Cynthia , Iqbal Amir , Al-Khater Mariam , Al-Rasheed Ghadeer
Published: July 2021

Purpose. There may be a strong association among stress urinary incontinence (SUI), low back pain (LBP), and core muscle endurance (CME) in married women. This study is aimed at evaluating the prevalence and clinical association between SUI, CME, and LBP among married women in Saudi Arabia. Methods. The study was based on a case‐control research design, conducted among 143 women with LBP (mean age, 32 ± 7.4 years) and 160 healthy women (mean age, 31.7 ± 6.7 years). SUI, CME, and functional disability were assessed using the international consultation on the Incontinence Questionnaire‐Short Form (ICIQ‐SF), prone plank test (PP), and Oswestry Disability Index for LBP‐United Arab Emirates edition (ODI‐UAE). Results. The prevalence of SUI was found to be 60% in the LBP group while 20% in the control group. CME revealed a stronger negative correlation with SUI in the LBP group (rs = −0.75) than in the control group (rs = −0.63). Conclusions. The prevalence of SUI was observed higher in women with LBP than healthy women. CME exhibited a stronger association with SUI than LBP among women with LBP compared to healthy women in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, the role of CME in SUI development or vice versa among married women with LBP may be subjected to further research.
Guided Bilateral Transcanine Implant Placement and Implant-Supported Oral Rehabilitation in a Patient with Progressive Systemic Scleroderma
Authors: Smojver Igor , Katalinić Ivan , Vuletić Marko , Stojić Luka , Gerbl Dražena , Gabrić Dragana
Published: July 2021

When faced with a situation where an impacted tooth is in the way of a planned implant, one approach to avoid an invasive surgical procedure and potential associated complications is to place a transcanine implant. The aim of this report was to add a new case of a transimpacted tooth dental implant placement to the existing international literature and to share our experience of transcanine implantation in the maxilla followed by implant prosthodontic rehabilitation of a patient with progressive systemic scleroderma. A 55-year-old woman attended our office for oral cavity assessment and treatment planning for complete oral rehabilitation. Digital planning software was used, and implants were positioned according to a surgical template in regions 13, 16, 23, and 26 (Straumann, Basel, Switzerland) with screw-retained metal-ceramic bridges. Placement of the dental implants through impacted canines and the creation of interfaces other than implant-bone interfaces did not lead to postoperative pain or implant failure. Clinically, overall healing was observed, and the implants were successfully used for implant-supported prosthodontic rehabilitation of the jaw. Within the limitations of this case report, transcanine implantation could represent a valuable alternative to standard implant protocols.
Use of Supraclavicular Flap by End to Side Technique in Pharyngeal SCC: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Ahmadi Aslan , Sanaei Ayda , Jan Delaram , Zolfaghary Maryam
Published: July 2021

Objectives. In recent years, conservation laryngeal surgeries, including partial pharyngectomy, have been introduced as an alternative procedure for selected cases of hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HSCC). Reconstruction of these defects presents a considerable challenge for the surgeon after partial pharyngectomy due to its circumferential nature. In this case report, we represent the innovative “End to side” technique to reconstruct hypopharyngeal defect using the rolled supraclavicular flap after laryngeal-preserving partial pharyngectomy. Methods and Results. A 70-year-old female presented with a history of progressive dysphagia and odynophagia. The evaluations revealed a T3N0M0 SCC of pyriform sinus. The mass was successfully resected through partial pharyngectomy, and the hypopharyngeal defect reconstruction was achieved using the rolled supraclavicular flap via the “End to side” technique. The patient was discharged after decannulation on day 10. The 3-week barium swallow was performed with no evidence of anastomotic leakage, and the oral feeding was started after NG tube removal. At week 5, complete movement of the true vocal cord on the one side and good phonation and deglutition was observed. There was no evidence of recurrence after 1 year. Conclusions. Laryngeal-preserving partial pharyngectomy and hypopharyngeal reconstruction with the rolled supraclavicular flap via the “End to side” technique could lead to good oncological and functional outcomes in selected cases of pyriform sinus.
Combination Therapy of Chemoembolization and Hepatic Arterial Infusion Chemotherapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Portal Vein Tumor Thrombosis Compared with Chemoembolization Alone: A Propensity Score‐Matched Analysis
Authors: Liu Bao-Jiang , Gao Song , Zhu Xu , Guo Jian-Hai , Kou Fu-Xin , Liu Shao-Xing , Zhang Xin , Wang Xiao-Dong , Cao Guang , Chen Hui , Liu Peng , Zhu Lin-Zhong , Xu Hai-Feng , Yang Ren-Jie
Published: July 2021

Background. Survival of patients with portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT) is extremely poor; transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is a treatment for patients with HCC and PVTT. Some studies showed that hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) might improve the survival of HCC with PVTT. There were few researches of combining TACE with HAIC for patients with HCC and PVTT. Aim. This study was aimed at comparing overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) following treatment with conventional transarterial chemoembolization plus hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (cTACE‐HAIC) or conventional transarterial chemoembolization (cTACE) alone in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT). Methods. From January 2011 to December 2016, 155 patients with HCC and PVTT who received cTACE‐HAIC (cTACE‐HAIC group) (n = 86) or cTACE alone (cTACE group) (n = 69) were retrospectively evaluated. Propensity score matching (PSM) reduced the confounding bias and yielded 60 matched patient pairs. The tumors’ responses were evaluated using the modified response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (mRECIST). OS and PFS of groups were compared using the Kaplan‐Meier method, log‐rank test, and Cox proportional hazard regression models. Results. The median follow‐up duration was 93 months (range: 1–93 months). The cTACE‐HAIC group’s OS (9.0 months) and PFS (6.0 months) were significantly longer than the cTACE group’s OS (5.0 months) and PFS (2.0 months) (p = 0.018 and p = 0.045, respectively) in the matched cohort. Multivariate analyses showed that cTACE‐HAIC was independently associated with OS (hazard ratio (HR) 0.602, p = 0.010) and PFS (HR 0.66, p = 0.038). The matched groups did not differ regarding grade 3 or 4 adverse events. Conclusion. cTACE‐HAIC was superior to cTACE alone regarding OS and PFS in patients with HCC and PVTT. Treatment‐associated toxicities were generally well tolerated.
A Novel Insight into the Role of PLA2R and THSD7A in Membranous Nephropathy
Authors: Zhang Pingna , Huang Weijun , Zheng Qiyan , Tang Jingyi , Dong Zhaocheng , Jiang Yuhua , Liu Yuning , Liu Weijing
Published: July 2021

Membranous nephropathy (MN) is an organ-restricted autoimmune disease mainly caused by circulating autoantibodies against podocyte antigens, including the M-type phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) and thrombospondin domain-containing 7A (THSD7A). Antibodies against PLA2R are present in 70%–80% and against THSD7A in 2% of adult patients, which provides a paradigm shift in molecular diagnosis and management monitoring. Both antigens share some similar characteristics: they are expressed by podocytes and have wide tissue distributions; they are bound by autoantibodies only under nonreducing conditions, and the subtype of most autoantibodies is IgG4. However, the factors triggering autoantibody production as well as the association among air pollution, malignancy, and the pathogenesis of MN remain unclear. In this review, we discuss the similarity between the pathological mechanisms triggered by disparate antigens and their associated diseases. Furthermore, we demonstrated the possibility that PM2.5, malignancy, and gene expression specifically induce exposure of these antigens through conformational changes, molecular mimicry, or increased expression eliciting autoimmune responses. Thus, this review provides novel insights into the pathological mechanism of MN.
Comparison of Hemodynamic Response following Spinal Anesthesia between Controlled Hypertensive and Normotensive Patients Undergoing Surgery below the Umbilicus: An Observational Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Gebrargs Leake , Gebremeskel Bereket , Aberra Bacha , Hika Assefa , Yimer Yusuf , Weldeyohannes Misrak , Jemal Suleiman , Behrey Degena , Tilahun Abere
Published: July 2021

Background. Hypotension and bradycardia are the most common complications associated with spinal anesthesia and more common in patients with a history of hypertension. Regular use of antihypertensive medications can prevent these complications. The occurrence of hypotension under spinal anesthesia among controlled hypertensive and normotensive patients with age 40 years and above is still debated. The objective of the study was to compare blood pressure and heart rate changes following spinal anesthesia between controlled hypertensive and normotensive patients undergoing surgery below the umbilicus at Black lion hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2020. Method. A hospital-based prospective cohort study was conducted. A total of 110 elective patients with controlled hypertension (55) and normotensive (55) patients who underwent surgery with spinal anesthesia at black lion hospital during the study period were included. The sample was selected using a systematic random sampling technique. Continuous data of independent and dependent variables were analyzed using an independent sample t-test for normally distributed and Mann–Whitney U-test for nonnormally distributed between the study groups. Categorical variables between the study groups were analyzed using the chi-square test. Descriptive data were displayed using tables and figures. For continuous and categorical variables, a

p

value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results. The incidence of hypotension in the controlled hypertension group (23.6%) was higher than the normotensive group (7.3%) with

p

value of 0.018. The occurrence of bradycardia was seen to be 12.7% in each group with a

p

value >0.05. There was a statistically significant difference in the mean systolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, mean heart rate, and vasopressor consumption at the measurement time interval between controlled hypertension and normotensive groups. Conclusion. Under spinal anesthesia, patients with controlled hypertension are more likely to develop hypotension than normotensive patients, but on the occurrence of bradycardia, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups.
Preoperative Fasting Time and Its Association with Hypoglycemia during Anesthesia in Pediatric Patients Undergoing Elective Procedures at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Assen Hussien Endris , Hassen Anissa Mohammed , Abate Ananya , Liyew Bikis
Published: July 2021

Background. Preoperative fasting is important to reduce the risk of pulmonary aspiration during anesthesia. The influence of prolonged fasting time on glucose levels during anesthesia in children remains uncertain. Therefore, this study is aimed at assessing preoperative fasting time and its association with hypoglycemia during anesthesia in pediatric patients undergoing elective procedures at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The research hypothesis of the study is as follows: there is a prolonged preoperative fasting time, and it influences the glucose levels during anesthesia among pediatric patients undergoing elective procedures at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods. Institutional based cross‐sectional study was conducted among 258 pediatric patients who had undergone elective procedures in a tertiary care center. A systematic sampling method was used to select study participants. The data were collected through face‐to‐face interviews and medical record reviews. Binary logistic regression was used to identify associated factors of hypoglycemia during anesthesia among pediatric patients undergoing elective procedures. All explanatory variables with a p value of ≤0.25 from the bivariable logistic regression model were fitted into the multivariable logistic regression model to control the possible effect of confounders, and finally, the variables which had an independent association with hypoglycemia were identified based on adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval, and a p value less than 0.05 was significant. Results. The mean (standard deviation) fasting hours from breast milk, solid foods, and clear fluids were 7.75 (2.89), 13.25 (3.14), and 12.31 (3.22), respectively. The majority (89.9%, 57.9%, and 100%) of participants had fasted from solid, breast milk, and clear fluids for more than 8, 6, and 4 hours, respectively. More than one‐fourth (26.2%) of participants were hypoglycemic immediately after induction. Residence, order of nothing per mouth, source of patient, and duration of fasting from solid foods had a significant association with hypoglycemia during anesthesia in children. Conclusion. Children undergoing elective procedures were exposed to unnecessarily long fasting times which were associated with hypoglycemia during anesthesia.
Corrosion Resistance Synergistic Appraisal of Titanium-Impregnated Bisphenol A-Type Epoxy Duplex Coating System in Stimulated and Natural Marine Environments of Southeastern Coastal Area of China–Pakistan Economic Corridor
Authors: Jamil Ishrat , Bano Humaira , Malshe Vinod C. , Mahmood Azhar , Khan Kamran , Ahmad Nasir M.
Published: July 2021

This research endeavor is aimed at developing a protective coating for marine service conditions of the southeastern coastal area of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor. Bisphenol A-type epoxy-based protective coatings were prepared by impregnating exotic titanium metal microparticles into two different proportions, i.e., 5% and 10% (w/w). Film hardness measurement by pencil test, adhesion measurement by the crosshatch-tape test, chemical and heat resistance test, gloss measurement, natural exposure, and salt spray testing have demonstrated that Ti-enriched coatings have performed better than the virgin epoxy coating. Moreover, scanning electron microscopy has depicted more surface degradation. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy has indicated higher mass loss and chain scission in the virgin epoxy coating than the Ti-enriched coatings. In addition, these Ti microparticles have filled up the cavities/imperfections, reduced cracking, promoted crosslinking during the curing, and cordoned-off passage of corrodents and moisture, thus improving epoxy resin coating features. These results have widened the scope of Ti-embedded epoxy coatings against atmospheric corrosion for highly corrosive marine sites.
Assessment of the Bacteriological Profile and Antibiotic Susceptibility Patterns of Wastewater in Health Facilities of Ethiopia
Authors: Regasa Dadi Belayneh , Girma Eyayu , Tesfaye Mheret , Seid Mohamed
Published: July 2021

Background. Antimicrobials used for the treatment and prevention of bacterial infections are mainly released nonmetabolized into the aquatic environment via wastewater. Sometimes, unused therapeutic drugs are released down the drains that could act as selective pressure for the development of resistance. The aim of this study was to assess the bacteriological profile of wastewater in health facilities and determine antibiotic susceptibility patterns of bacterial isolates. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 1 to December 26, 2020, in health facility wastewater. A total of 128 samples were collected from health facilities for bacteriological analysis and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Result. A total of 128 samples were processed, and 81 bacterial isolates were recovered. The most common bacterial isolates were S. aureus (16/81 (19.8%)) followed by Klebsiella spp. (15/81 (18.5%)), E. coli (13/81 (16%)), P. aeruginosa (10/81 (12.3%)), Enterobacter spp. (8/81 (9.9%)), Citrobacter spp. (7/81 (8.6%)), coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (5/81 (6.2%)), Salmonella spp. (5/81 (6.2%)), and Shigella spp. (2/81 (2.5%)). A majority of isolates were resistant to ampicillin (62/81 (76.5%)). Only few isolates were resistant to ciprofloxacin (11/81 (13.6%)), chloramphenicol (13/81 (16%)), and kanamycin (8/54 (14.8%)). A majority of bacterial isolates (57/81 (70.4%)) were multidrug resistant (MDR). Conclusion. Wastewater from the health facilities contains antibiotic-resistant including multidrug-resistant bacteria. Therefore, health facility wastewater should be treated by appropriate wastewater treatment before being released into the environment.
An Intelligent Big Data Management System Using Haar Algorithm‐Based Nao Agent Multisensory Communication
Authors: Baothman Fatmah Abdulrahman
Published: July 2021

Artificial intelligence (AI) is progressively changing techniques of teaching and learning. In the past, the objective was to provide an intelligent tutoring system without intervention from a human teacher to enhance skills, control, knowledge construction, and intellectual engagement. This paper proposes a definition of AI focusing on enhancing the humanoid agent Nao’s learning capabilities and interactions. The aim is to increase Nao intelligence using big data by activating multisensory perceptions such as visual and auditory stimuli modules and speech‐related stimuli, as well as being in various movements. The method is to develop a toolkit by enabling Arabic speech recognition and implementing the Haar algorithm for robust image recognition to improve the capabilities of Nao during interactions with a child in a mixed reality system using big data. The experiment design and testing processes were conducted by implementing an AI principle design, namely, the three‐constituent principle. Four experiments were conducted to boost Nao’s intelligence level using 100 children, different environments (class, lab, home, and mixed reality Leap Motion Controller (LMC). An objective function and an operational time cost function are developed to improve Nao’s learning experience in different environments accomplishing the best results in 4.2 seconds for each number recognition. The experiments’ results showed an increase in Nao’s intelligence from 3 to 7 years old compared with a child’s intelligence in learning simple mathematics with the best communication using a kappa ratio value of 90.8%, having a corpus that exceeded 390,000 segments, and scoring 93% of success rate when activating both auditory and vision modules for the agent Nao. The developed toolkit uses Arabic speech recognition and the Haar algorithm in a mixed reality system using big data enabling Nao to achieve a 94% success learning rate at a distance of 0.09 m; when using LMC in mixed reality, the hand sign gestures recorded the highest accuracy of 98.50% using Haar algorithm. The work shows that the current work enabled Nao to gradually achieve a higher learning success rate as the environment changes and multisensory perception increases. This paper also proposes a cutting‐edge research work direction for fostering child‐robots education in real time.
Convergence Results for Total Asymptotically Nonexpansive Monotone Mappings in Modular Function Spaces
Authors: Rashid Maliha , Kalsoom Amna , Yao Shao-Wen , Ghaffar Abdul , Inc Mustafa
Published: July 2021

In this article, we consider an extensive class of monotone nonexpansive mappings. We use

S

-iteration to approximate the fixed point for monotone total asymptotically nonexpansive mappings in the settings of modular function space.
The Immune System in Human Milk: A Historic Perspective
Authors: Goldman Armond S. , Chheda Sadhana
Published: July 2021

Background: Human milk contains a remarkable array of immunological agents that evolved over millions of years to protect the recipient human infant. Furthermore, much of the protection persists long after weaning. However, the scientists who first discovered some components of this immune system have rarely been acknowledged. Summary: The scientists who made many fundamental immunological discoveries concerning the immune system in human milk include Alfred François Donné, Paul Ehrlich, Lars Å. Hanson, and Jules Bordet. Based upon their discoveries, a wealth of antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulating agents, and living, activated leukocytes in human milk were later revealed during the last half of the 20th and the first part of the 21st century. Moreover, it was found that human milk enhances the colonization of commensal bacteria that aid to protect the human infant. Key Message: Their discoveries helped to revitalize breastfeeding in industrialized countries during the past several decades.
A Randomized Clinical Trial of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia to Augment Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Treatment in Survivors of Interpersonal Violence
Authors: Pigeon Wilfred R. , Crean Hugh F. , Cerulli Catherine , Gallegos Autumn M. , Bishop Todd M. , Heffner Kathi L.
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Individuals exposed to interpersonal violence (IPV) commonly develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with co-occurring depression and insomnia. Standard PTSD interventions such as cognitive processing therapy (CPT) do not typically lead to remission or improved insomnia. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTi) improves insomnia in individuals with PTSD, but PTSD severity remains elevated. Objective: To determine whether sequential treatment of insomnia and PTSD is superior to treatment of only PTSD. Methods: In a 20-week trial, 110 participants exposed to IPV who had PTSD, depression and insomnia were randomized to CBTi followed by CPT or to attention control followed by CPT. Primary outcomes following CBTi (or control) were the 6-week change in score on the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS), and the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D). Primary outcomes following CPT were the 20-week change in scores. Results: At 6 weeks, the CBTi condition had greater reductions in ISI, HAM-D, and CAPS scores than the attention control condition. At 20 weeks, participants in the CBTi+CPT condition had greater reductions in ISI, HAM-D, and CAPS scores compared to control+CPT. Effects were larger for insomnia and for depression than for PTSD. Similar patterns were observed with respect to clinical response and remission. A tipping point sensitivity analyses supported the plausibility of the findings. Conclusions: The sequential delivery of CBTi and CPT had plausible, significant effects on insomnia, depression, and PTSD compared to CPT alone. The effects for PTSD symptoms were moderate and clinically meaningful.
Mapping Angiopoietin1 Expression in the Developing and Adult Brain
Authors: Wei Xin , Jessa Selin , Kleinman Claudia L. , Phoenix Timothy N.
Published: July 2021

Angiopoietin1 (Angpt1) is a secreted protein that activates the endothelial Tie2 receptor. Angpt1 plays a critical role in cardiac development and vascular remodeling in response to disease or injury and shows cell type-restricted expression in the lung, eye, and hematopoietic system. However, the expression of Angpt1 in the developing and adult brain is not known. Here, we employ Angpt1-GFP knock-in reporter mice and a systematic analysis of multiple single-cell RNA sequencing datasets to map the expression of Angpt1 during brain development and adulthood. In the developing brain, Angpt1 displays specific spatiotemporal patterns, with strong expression in cerebellar GABA interneuron progenitors and, to a lower level, in glial progenitor and astrocyte lineages. In the adult brain, on the other hand, we show that neurons are the main source of Angpt1 in the cerebrum, while in the cerebellum, expression is mostly restricted to astrocytes. Together, our data provide clarity on the cell types that express Angpt1 in the developing and adult brain and can be utilized to guide future studies, examining Angpt1 function in brain development, homeostasis, and pathological conditions.
Shifts in Pharma-Marketing Trends in Post COVID-19 Era
Authors: Khan Md. Mahfuzur Rahman , Basak Kona
Published: July 2021

The study reveals that there will be shift in pharma-marketing trends in post COVID-19 era. The crisis of COVID-19, which responded in lockdowns and social distancing, highlighted in some key elements in the digital transformation of healthcare. Therewith the marketing techniques changes totally in the field of pharmaceuticals. As, this is an explorative research so qualitative data has been used for conducting the research. A total number of 100 practitioners’ such as doctors, physicians, psychiatrist, medical representatives and pharmacist were selected for the interview via judgment sampling technique. The time-frame of this study is in between March 2020 to December 2020. The deductive approach is used in reaching the conclusive decision on the shift in pharma-marketing in post COVID-19 era. Review of literature asserted about negative impacts of disruptions throughout the pandemics in past, though every pandemics created new opportunities. So to survive and to sustain pharmaceutical field and conjugate industries should now focus more on new marketing tactics, to counter COVID-19 side effects. Findings of the study educe that pharmaceutical industry could encounter the global pandemic by the shifts in pharma marketing strategies including advanced marketing, digital marketing, e-detailing customer relationship management, e-sampling, innovative work behavior, telemedicine revolution in order to promoting product value and expediting prescriptions to the target consumer. So, coping up with the new normal and digitalizing the possible aspects of health care and medicines including techniques of pharma-marketing can be advantageous for both individuals and organizations.
Decoupling African Traditional Religion and Culture from the Family Life of Africans: Calculated Steps in Disguise
Authors: Boakye Ebenezer
Published: July 2021

Even though African Traditional Religion and Cultural family life seem to have been detached from the indigenous Africans, with many reasons accounting for such a detach, the attempts made by the new wave of Christianity is paramount, under the cloak of salvation and better life. The paper focuses on the steps taken by Pentecostal-Charismatics in Africa to decouple African Traditional Religion and Culture from the family life of Africans in a disguised manner. The paper begins with the retrospection of African Traditional Religion as the religion with belief of the forefathers concerning the existence of the Supreme Being, divinities, Spirit beings, Ancestors, and mysterious powers, good and evil and the afterlife. It then walks readers through the encounter between Christianity and ATR and come out that Christianity from its earliest history has maintained a negative attitude toward ATR. The paper again explores that the traditional understanding of the African family system is portrayed in the common believe system and the functions of the family com-ponents. Again, the paper further unravels decoupling measures such as reaching the masses for audience, demonization of African the world of the spirit, demonization of African elders, pastors as-suming the traditional position of elders of African families are the factors that are being taken to ensure the taking away of African traditional religious and family life from Africans. The paper again discusses the adverse effects of these decoupling factors on Africans. The paper concludes that Traditional African family patterns are slowly but progressively being altered as a result of the process of the decoupling strategies.
The Decomissioning of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Combatants in Camp Darul Arham, Butig Lanao Del Sur and It’s Implication to Peace
Authors: Diamaoden Arsalan A. , Abdulhakim Haimanah R. , Camama Sittie Roselainie P.
Published: July 2021

Alongside the roadmap toward the creation of the Bangsamoro is an implementation of Normalization Process by both the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) which mandates among others the decommissioning of MILF forces and weaponry. As a critical part of the similarly criti-cal normalization process, decommissioning shall be a process of putting the weapons of the MILF beyond use and a process of allowing a smooth transition for MILF combatants to productive civilian life. In line with this, this paper aims to: (a) track the socio-demographic profiles of the combatants; (b) examine the perceptions of the combatants in the decommissioning; (c) describe the role of the Independent Decommissioning Body (IDB) in the decommissioning process and challenges encounter; (d) draw implication from the findings of the study to peace building. The study utilized the explorative-evaluative research design that employed the qualitative descriptive approach in the interpre-tation of data to one hundred (100) combatants of Darul Arham and IDB staff. A researcher-designed survey questionnaire was used to elicit necessary information. Results show that the combatants highly perceived socio-economic assistance specifically financial, social development, and economic and sustainable livelihood assistance to be extended to them as they are being decommissioned. The study recommends for the strengthening of measures for the both parties, the GPH and the MILF, to promote and guarantee free movement of IDB and create an environment free of fear and of intimidation so it can fulfill its part in the normalization process.
Frequency of osteopenia and osteoporosis in men and women living with HIV/Aids: an observational study
Authors: Aguilar Bruno Augusto , Santos André Pereira dos , Machado Dalmo Roberto Lopes , Gomide Euripedes Bardanulfo Gonçalves , Sebastião Emerson , Navarro Anderson Marliere
Published: July 2021

Aims: To identify the frequency in changes of bone metabolism, including below the average value for age, osteopenia, and osteoporosis, in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) and to compare the frequency of factors associated with bone mineral density (BMD) and body composition between sex. Methods: This observational study assessed 106 PLWHA (65 male) recruited from the University Hospital of Ribeirão Preto Medical School from 2013 to 2014. BMD was measured using Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA). Standard deviation values for Z- and T-score proposed by the International Society for Clinical Densitometry were adopted to classify participants below the average value for age, osteopenia, and osteoporosis. Qui-square and Fischer’s exact tests were employed to compare males and females based on their factors associated with BMD reduction. Results: Fifty-two (49%) PLWHA presented at least one diagnosis for below the average value for age, osteopenia, and osteoporosis, being 37 (57%) and 15 (37%) male and female, respectively. Frequency of alcohol consumption was higher in males (n=20; 30.8%) than females (n=05; 12.2%) (p=0.028). Conclusions: A high rate of PLWHA showed changes in bone metabolism, with a higher frequency in males. The frequency of alcohol consumption was higher in males, and it may partially explain the possible causes of the increased rates of bone metabolism changes observed in this group. This information may help develop strategies for reducing the frequency of diagnosis for below the average value for age, osteopenia, osteoporosis improving quality of life in PLWHA.
Evolução da obesidade e doenças crônicas não transmissíveis nas populações das capitais do Brasil entre 2006 e 2018
Authors: Abbade Eduardo Botti
Published: July 2021

Modelo do estudo: Estudo descritivo transversal. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a evolução da prevalência de sobrepeso, obesidade e doenças crônicas não transmissíveis (DCNT), e sua relação com idade e anos de estudo, nas capitais brasileiras. Método: Foram analisados dados oriundos da Pesquisa VIGITEL prioritariamente de 2006 e 2018 referentes à 12 variáveis, através de procedimentos estatísticos descritivos, análises de frequência e diagramas de dispersão com inserção das curvas de tendência e coeficientes de determinação. Resultados: Os resultados evidenciam um aumento expressivo do IMC médio e das prevalências DCNT nas populações das capitais do Brasil, embora a autopercepção do estado geral de saúde apresente alteração inexpressiva. O IMC médio da população é maior na faixa etária entre 45 e 65 anos, e as prevalências de diabetes, pressão alta e dislipidemia apresentam um crescimento acentuado partir dos 40 anos, atingindo o ápice na faixa etária entre 70 e 80 anos. Quanto mais anos de estudos possui a população, menor são as prevalências de obesidade e DCNT. Conclusão: Iniciativas, tanto públicas como privadas, de redução dos fatores de risco que potencializam o aumento da obesidade e de DCNT são necessárias. Ademais, o aumento do nível educacional de uma população tem potencial de promover melhoria significativa no quadro de saúde pública, reduzindo os gastos em saúde e melhorando a qualidade de vida populacional.
Cobertura do exame citopatológico de colo uterino em mulheres em um município do Sul do Brasil: prevalência e fatores associados
Authors: Dumith Samuel Carvalho , Hackenhaar Arnildo Agostinho , Meneghini Kevin Francisco Durigon
Published: July 2021

Objetivo: Investigou-se a cobertura de exame citopatológico de colo uterino e fatores associados em mulheres entre 25 e 64 anos em município do sul do Brasil. Métodos: Estudo transversal, de base populacional, realizado na cidade de Rio Grande, RS. O desfecho, cobertura de exame citopatológico de colo uterino, foi definido como realização do exame nos últimos três anos para mulheres de 25 a 64 anos, de acordo com a recomendação do Instituto Nacional do Câncer. A coleta de dados ocorreu em 2016. As variáveis independentes incluídas foram: faixa etária, cor da pele, estado civil, escolaridade, nível econômico, histórico gestacional, tabagismo, obesidade, posse de plano de saúde, consulta ao médico no último ano, cadastrado do domicílio em Unidade Básica de Saúde da Família e se havia recebido visita de agente de saúde no último ano. Resultados: Participaram 521 mulheres, com média de idade de 44,3 anos. A cobertura foi de 78,1% (IC95% 73,5 a 82,7). Após ajustes, evidenciou-se como fatores associados ao desfecho: ser casada/viúva/separada/divorciada, não ser fumante, ter plano de saúde, ter consultado um médico no último ano e possuir domicílio cadastrado na Unidade Básica de Saúde da Família. Conclusão: A cobertura de exame citopatológico de colo uterino mostrou-se próxima à meta do Ministério da Saúde, abrangendo oito em cada dez mulheres. Mulheres solteiras, fumantes, sem plano de saúde, que não costumam ir ao médico e cujo domicílio não está cadastrado em UBSF constituíram os grupos de risco para não realizarem o exame.
Hérnia umbilical primária: melhor manejo operatório no adulto
Authors: Guimarães Mariana Fonseca , Assunção Marcela de Matos , Oliveira Deborah Campos , Barbosa Cirênio de Almeida
Published: July 2021

Modelo do estudo: Revisão sistemática. Objetivo: Avaliar se é facultativo ou imprescindível o uso de malha cirúrgica no reparo das pequenas hérnias umbilicais primárias, com orifício menor que 2 cm, a fim de oferecer melhores evidências aos cirurgiões e, assim, aprimorar o método cirúrgico e o seu desfecho. Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão da literatura, cuja busca foi direcionada aos artigos que abordassem o manejo operatório das hérnias abdominais, sobretudo das hérnias umbilicais de pequeno tamanho. A pesquisa foi realizada nas bases de dados primárias PubMed, LILACS, Cochrane Library e Periódicos CAPES. Resultados: No total, foram incluídos quatro estudos. Foram avaliadas as taxas de recorrência, bem como as de complicações pós-operatórias após a correção da hérnia umbilical com e sem o uso de tela, observando-se o tamanho do defeito abdominal. Foi observada diminuição da recorrência das hérnias após o reparo com tela. No entanto, complicações, como infecção da ferida operatória, foram mais comumente observadas com o uso da prótese. Não houve consenso quanto ao uso da tela em hérnias menores que 1 cm. Conclusão: O uso de próteses pode vir a ser o tratamento de escolha no reparo das hérnias umbilicais primárias. Contudo, mais estudos são necessários para avaliar o papel dessa estratégia no manejo das hérnias menores que 1 cm.
Inequities in Aortic Stenosis and Aortic Valve Replacement Between Black/African‐American, White, and Hispanic Residents of Maryland
Authors: Czarny Matthew J. , Hasan Rani K. , Post Wendy S. , Chacko Matthews , Schena Stefano , Resar Jon R.
Published: July 2021

Background

Racial and ethnic inequities exist in surgical aortic valve replacement for aortic stenosis (AS), and early studies have suggested similar inequities in transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

Methods and Results

We performed a retrospective analysis of the Maryland Health Services Cost Review Commission inpatient data set from 2016 to 2018. Black patients had half the incidence of any inpatient AS diagnosis compared with White patients (incidence rate ratio [IRR], 0.50; 95% CI, 0.48–0.52;
P
<0.001) and Hispanic patients had one fourth the incidence compared with White patients (IRR, 0.25; 95% CI, 0.22–0.29;
P
<0.001). Conversely, the incidence of any inpatient mitral regurgitation diagnosis did not differ between White and Black patients (IRR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.97–1.03;
P
=0.97) but was significantly lower in Hispanic compared with White patients (IRR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.33–0.40;
P
<0.001). After multivariable adjustment, Black race was associated with a lower incidence of surgical aortic valve replacement (IRR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.55–0.82
P
<0.001 relative to White race) and transcatheter aortic valve replacement (IRR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.65–0.90;
P
=0.002) among those with any inpatient diagnosis of AS. Hispanic patients had a similar rate of surgical aortic valve replacement and transcatheter aortic valve replacement compared with White patients.

Conclusions

Hospitalization with any diagnosis of AS is less common in Black and Hispanic patients than in White patients. In hospitalized patients with AS, Black race is associated with a lower incidence of both surgical aortic valve replacement and transcatheter aortic valve replacement compared with White patients, whereas Hispanic patients have a similar incidence of both. The reasons for these inequities are likely multifactorial.
The Odd Future Participle at Pol. Phil. XIII: Reassessing the Authenticity and Unity of Polycarp’s Letter to the Philippians
Authors: Linderborg Otto , Johansson Viktor
Published: July 2021

The Letter to the Philippians is the sole surviving work of the early Christian bishop and martyr, Polycarp of Smyrna. Ever since the 17th century scholars have contested the authenticity and unity of the letter without reaching a settlement. However, new linguistic evidence allows for a reassessment of the controversy. The future participle πρεσβεύσοντα at Pol. Phil. XIII.1 is one of a mere four occurrences of FPs in the entire corpus of the Apostolic Fathers, and the use of the FP is exceedingly rare among low-register Judeo-Christian texts in general. The statistical analysis over a wide range of Ancient Greek literary texts conducted in this paper lends support to the conclusion that Pol. Phil. is a uniform text with a spurious interpolation in the form of the bulk of chapter XIII.
Modelling a Christian Academy: Christ, Disciples, and Biblical Scholarship in Origen’s Commentary on Matthew
Authors: Solheid John C.
Published: July 2021

This paper addresses evidence in Origen’s Commentary on the Gospel of Matthew of the Alexandrian’s self-understanding of his scholastic practices. Drawing on Origen’s interpretation of the parables in the Gospel, I argue that Origen exploits the motif of Jesus explaining the parables to his disciples as a model for his own school enterprise in Caesarea. In light of this observation, I will begin by examining the echoes of the classroom environment found in Origen’s Matthew Commentary building on the work of Guido Bendinelli and Lorenzo Perrone. Paying particular attention to stylistic features, such as the use of the first-person plural, I will map the classroom dynamic in the making of the commentary. Then, I will focus on Origen’s hermeneutical approach to Jesus’ parables, especially the distinction he draws between Jesus engagement with the “crowds” and his private teaching to the disciples. Underpinning the Matthew Commentary was Origen’s attempt to model his school against the conceptual backdrop of the Jesus-disciple dynamic and the Greco-Roman philosophical school tradition.
On an Alleged Senatus Consultum against the Christians
Authors: Gassman Mattias
Published: July 2021

A passage in Macarius Magnes’ Apocriticus (2,14 Volp) has recently been adduced to support the long-controverted hypothesis that a senatus consultum was issued against the Christians in the year 35. The note reviews the evidence and finds it wanting. Of the texts usually adduced, Tertullian, Apologeticum 5,1–3 does not describe a senatus consultum, Eusebius, Historia ecclesiastica 5,21,4 and the Greek and Armenian Acta Apollonii say nothing about Tiberius, and Jerome, Chronicon 35–36 post Christum appears to be an elaboration from Tertullian. The Macarian passage, in turn, refers to a “common judgment” and describes the condemnation of Christians by all respectable persons, especially the senatus populusque Romanus. It does not describe the promulgation of a formal senatus consultum.
Geschmackvolle Kenner der Bibel
Authors: Wittler Kathrin
Published: July 2021

Johann Gottfried Eichhorn, the most influential theologian in German-speaking academia around 1800, favourably reviewed the work of Jewish translators and exegetes of the Bible such as David Friedländer, Aaron Wolfssohn, and Joel Löwe in his Allgemeine Bibliothek der biblischen Litteratur and opened this periodical to their contributions. This article retraces this intellectual exchange and places it in the historical context of the emancipation debates.
Synthesis of Ag nanoparticle supported graphene/multi-walled carbon nanotube based nanohybrids for photodegradation of toxic dyes
Authors: Singh Amanvir , Chahal Surjeet , Dahiya Heena , Goswami Arkaja , Nain Sonia
Published: July 2021

Irrespective of the superior surface properties of graphene, research interests are impulsively devoted to synthesizing 1-D carbon nanomaterial-based binary or ternary nanocomposites for potential applications. Nevertheless, an insightful comparison between the properties of graphene oxide (GO) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is lacking in the literature. In the present work, quasi-spherical silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) were anchored on two different carbon nanomaterial/Ag-based photocatalysts, GO/Ag and multiwalled CNT (MWCNT)/Ag via a modified one-pot synthesis approach. The synthesized Ag NPs and photocatalysts were analyzed using XRD, FTIR, FESEM, TEM, and UV-Vis spectroscopy and tested for their photocatalytic efficiency against three different toxic organic dyes, namely rose bengal (RB), methylene blue (MB), and phenol red (PR). During the photocatalytic process, the reactive oxygen species generated via interband transitions from the surface plasmonic resonance of Ag NPs acted synergistically with unique electrostatic interactions by carbon nanomaterials in the GO/Ag-based catalyst to degrade RB, MB, and PR dyes by 92, 87.6, and 81.4%, respectively within 120 min of UV irradiation. Furthermore, temperature dependence and electricity cost consumption were evaluated to establish the specific advantages of GO over its carbon-based counterparts for the purification of wastewater.
The value of a nano-bamboo charcoal ankle guard combined with ankle-joint rehabilitation treatment on the rehabilitation effect of ankle-joint motor injury
Authors: Lu Fei , Yan Zhenzhuang , Su Qinglun , Tian Lei , Wu Maodong , Zhang Xiaoqiong , Liu Zhen
Published: July 2021

Ankle-joint sports injuries with poor rehabilitation results can seriously affect a patient’s quality of life. Nanobamboo charcoal has a strong adsorbability and disinfection effect. It has been used in ankle guards, but the effect of nanometer-sized bamboo charcoal has not been reported thus far. In this study, 98 patients with an ankle-joint motor injury were divided into a Regular Group and Joint Group (49 cases, each) using the random number table method. The Regular Group received the conventional treatment, and the Joint Group received nano-bamboo charcoal ankle guard combined with ankle-joint rehabilitation treatment. The analysis showed that ankle function, balance function, dorsiflexion range of motion, American Orthopedic Foot Ankle Society score, and total effective rate (91.84% vs. 73.47%) in the Joint Group were all higher than those in the Regular Group, while the Visual Analog Scale and Clinical Symptom Score scores were all lower than those of the conventional group (P< 0.05). This indicates that a nano-bamboo charcoal ankle guard combined with ankle-joint rehabilitation treatment can effectively reduce pain and improve ankle-joint balance, movement, dorsiflexion range of motion, and other functioning parameters of the patients, with a significant curative effect and high clinical application value.