bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An extended hierarchical ordered probit model robust to heteroskedastic vignette perceptions with an application to functional limitation assessment
Authors: Huang Zhiyong , Wang Haoxian , Zheng Wenyuan
Published: March 2021

To improve interpersonal comparability of self-reported measures, anchoring vignettes are increasingly collected in surveys and modeled as the hierarchical ordered probit (HOPIT) model. This paper—based on the idea of psychological distance—relaxes the assumption of vignette equivalence in the HOPIT by allowing for heteroscedasticity in respondents’ perceptions of vignettes. Particularly, we assume that respondents who are more similar to a vignette are more familiar with the condition described and therefore are capable of forming a more precise perception of the vignette. We show evidence in favor of this extended HOPIT through Monte Carlo simulations and an application concerning self-reported vision difficulty from the WHO Study on Global Aging and Adult Health (SAGE).
Are adversities and worries during the COVID-19 pandemic related to sleep quality? Longitudinal analyses of 46,000 UK adults
Authors: Wright Liam , Steptoe Andrew , Fancourt Daisy
Published: March 2021

Background

There are concerns that both the experience of adversities during the COVID-19 pandemic and worries about experiencing adversities will have substantial and lasting effects on mental health. One pathway through which both experience of and worries about adversity may impact health is through effects on sleep.

Methods

We used data from 46,284 UK adults in the COVID-19 Social Study assessed weekly from 01/04/2020-12/05/2020 to study the association between adversities and sleep quality. We studied six categories of adversity including both worries and experiences of: illness with COVID-19, financial difficulty, loss of paid work, difficulties acquiring medication, difficulties accessing food, and threats to personal safety. We used random-effect within-between models to account for all time-invariant confounders.

Results

Both the total number of adversity experiences and total number of adversity worries were associated with lower quality sleep. Each additional experience was associated with a 1.16 (95% CI = 1.10, 1.22) times higher odds of poor quality sleep while each additional worry was associated with a 1.20 (95% CI = 1.17, 1.22) times higher odds of poor quality sleep. When considering specific experiences and worries, all worries and experiences were significantly related to poorer quality sleep except experiences relating to employment and finances. Having a larger social network offered some buffering effects on associations but there was limited further evidence of moderation by other social or psychiatric factors.

Conclusion

Poor sleep may be a mechanism by which COVID-19 adversities are affecting mental health. This highlights the importance of interventions that support adaptive coping strategies during the pandemic.
Impact of adenosine on mechanisms sustaining persistent atrial fibrillation: Analysis of contact electrograms and non-invasive ECGI mapping data
Authors: Dhillon Gurpreet Singh , Ahluwalia Nikhil , Honarbakhsh Shohreh , Graham Adam , Creta Antonio , Abbass Hakam , Chow Anthony , Earley Mark J. , Lambiase Pier D. , Schilling Richard J. , Hunter Ross J.
Published: March 2021

Background

We evaluated the effect of adenosine upon mechanisms sustaining persistent AF through analysis of contact electrograms and ECGI mapping.

Methods

Persistent AF patients undergoing catheter ablation were included. ECGI maps and cycle length (CL) measurements were recorded in the left and right atrial appendages and repeated following boluses of 18 mg of intravenous adenosine. Potential drivers (PDs) were defined as focal or rotational activations completing ≥ 1.5 revolutions. Distribution of PDs was assessed using an 18 segment biatrial model.

Results

46 patients were enrolled. Mean age was 63.4 ± 9.8 years with 33 (72%) being male. There was no significant difference in the number of PDs recorded at baseline compared to adenosine (42.1 ± 15.2 vs 40.4 ± 13.0; p = 0.417), nor in the number of segments harbouring PDs, (13 (11–14) vs 12 (10–14); p = 0.169). There was a significantly higher percentage of PDs that were focal in the adenosine maps (36.2 ± 15.2 vs 32.2 ± 14.4; p < 0.001). There was a significant shortening of CL in the adenosine maps compared to baseline which was more marked in the right atrium than left atrium (176.7 ± 34.7 vs 149.9 ± 27.7 ms; p < 0.001 and 165.6 ± 31.7 vs 148.3 ± 28.4 ms; p = 0.003).

Conclusion

Adenosine led to a small but significant shortening of CL which was more marked in the right than left atrium and may relate to shortening of refractory periods rather than an increase in driver burden or distribution.

Registered on Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT03394404.
Expression of protease activated receptor-2 is reduced in renal cell carcinoma biopsies and cell lines
Authors: Morais Christudas , Rajandram Retnagowri , Blakeney Jade S. , Iyer Abishek , Suen Jacky Y. , Johnson David W. , Gobe Glenda C. , Fairlie David P. , Vesey David A.
Published: March 2021

Expression of the protease sensing receptor, protease activated receptor-2 (PAR2), is elevated in a variety of cancers and has been promoted as a potential therapeutic target. With the development of potent antagonists for this receptor, we hypothesised that they could be used to treat renal cell carcinoma (RCC). The expression of PAR2 was, therefore, examined in human RCC tissues and selected RCC cell lines. Histologically confirmed cases of RCC, together with paired non-involved kidney tissue, were used to produce a tissue microarray (TMA) and to extract total tissue RNA. Immunohistochemistry and qPCR were then used to assess PAR2 expression. In culture, RCC cell lines versus primary human kidney tubular epithelial cells (HTEC) were used to assess PAR2 expression by qPCR, immunocytochemistry and an intracellular calcium mobilization assay. The TMA revealed an 85% decrease in PAR2 expression in tumour tissue compared with normal kidney tissue. Likewise, qPCR showed a striking reduction in PAR2 mRNA in RCC compared with normal kidney. All RCC cell lines showed lower levels of PAR2 expression than HTEC. In conclusion, we found that PAR2 was reduced in RCC compared with normal kidney and is unlikely to be a target of interest in the treatment of this type of cancer.
Initiation of postpartum modern contraceptive methods: Evidence from Tanzania demographic and health survey
Authors: Rwabilimbo Martin M. , Elewonibi Bilikisu R. , Yussuf Mashavu H. , Robert Masanja , Msuya Sia E. , Mahande Michael J.
Published: March 2021

Background

Postpartum contraceptive use is vital to improve maternal and child survival. It helps to have optimal child spacing, prevent unplanned pregnancies and associated adverse birth outcomes. However, postpartum contraceptive use in Tanzania remains low. Short median interval for resumption to sex after birth among African women has been associated with adverse maternal and child health wellbeing. This study aimed to assess optimal time to contraceptive use and predictors of time to contraceptive use after birth among women of reproductive age in Tanzania.

Methods

A cross section study using the TDHS 2015–16 data was used. A total of 3775 postpartum women were analyzed. Information on pregnancy, births and contraceptive use were recorded over the previous 5 years with the focus on most recent birth from the contraceptive calendar. Data analysis was performed using Stata 14.0. Analysis accounted for complex survey design. Time to modern contraceptive use after birth was computed using Kaplan Meier estimate. Adjusted time ratios with 95% CI were estimated using Weibull accelerated failure time models.

Results

A total weighted sample of 3775 women was analyzed. The median time to contraceptive use after birth was 7(IQR: 4–13) months, while for resumption to sex afterbirth was 2(IQR: 1–5) months. Factors such as never been married (TR: 1.63; 95%CI: 1.26–2.11) and breastfeeding (TR: 5.50; 95%CI: 4.12–7.35) were associated with longer time to postpartum contraceptive use. Belonging to richest wealth quintile (TR: 0.73; 95%CI: 0.54–0.99) and adopting long acting methods (TR: 0.70; 95%CI: 0.60–0.82) increased women’s likelihood of having shorter time to postpartum contraceptive use.

Conclusion

There was a time lag of five months from resumption of sex and initiation of postpartum contraception use. The interceptive measures to facilitate timely availing methods of women’s choice and promotion of utilization of maternal health care services may reduce delays in postpartum contraceptive use.
ICU outcomes and survival in patients with severe COVID-19 in the largest health care system in central Florida
Authors: Oliveira Eduardo , Parikh Amay , Lopez-Ruiz Arnaldo , Carrilo Maria , Goldberg Joshua , Cearras Martin , Fernainy Khaled , Andersen Sonja , Mercado Luis , Guan Jian , Zafar Hammad , Louzon Patricia , Carr Amy , Baloch Natasha , Pratley Richard , Silverstry Scott , Hsu Vincent , Sniffen Jason , Herrera Victor , Finkler Neil
Published: March 2021

Background

Observational studies have consistently described poor clinical outcomes and increased ICU mortality in patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) who require mechanical ventilation (MV). Our study describes the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with severe COVID-19 admitted to ICU in the largest health care system in the state of Florida, United States.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of patients admitted to ICU due to severe COVID-19 in AdventHealth health system in Orlando, Florida from March 11thuntil May 18th, 2020. Patients were characterized based on demographics, baseline comorbidities, severity of illness, medical management including experimental therapies, laboratory markers and ventilator parameters. Major clinical outcomes analyzed at the end of the study period were: hospital and ICU length of stay, MV-related mortality and overall hospital mortality of ICU patients.

Results

Out of total of 1283 patients with COVID-19, 131 (10.2%) met criteria for ICU admission (median age: 61 years [interquartile range (IQR), 49.5–71.5]; 35.1% female). Common comorbidities were hypertension (84; 64.1%), and diabetes (54; 41.2%). Of the 131 ICU patients, 109 (83.2%) required MV and 9 (6.9%) received ECMO. Lower positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) were observed in survivors [9.2 (7.7–10.4)] vs non-survivors [10 (9.1–12.9] p = 0.004]. Compared to non-survivors, survivors had a longer MV length of stay (LOS) [14 (IQR 8–22) vs 8.5 (IQR 5–10.8) p< 0.001], Hospital LOS [21 (IQR 13–31) vs 10 (7–1) p< 0.001] and ICU LOS [14 (IQR 7–24) vs 9.5 (IQR 6–11), p < 0.001]. The overall hospital mortality and MV-related mortality were 19.8% and 23.8% respectively. After exclusion of hospitalized patients, the hospital and MV-related mortality rates were 21.6% and 26.5% respectively.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates an important improvement in mortality of patients with severe COVID-19 who required ICU admission and MV in comparison to previous observational reports and emphasizes the importance of standard of care measures in the management of COVID-19.
Antifibrotic effects of eupatilin on TGF-β1-treated human vocal fold fibroblasts
Authors: Park Sung Joon , Choi Hyunsu , Kim Ji Heon , Kim Choung-Soo
Published: March 2021

Vocal fold scarring is a major cause of dysphonia. Vocal fold fibroblasts (VFFs) and the TGF-β signaling pathway play important roles in scar formation. Eupatilin, a chromone derivative of the Artemisia species, is a traditional folk remedy for wound healing. However, until recently, few studies investigated the therapeutic effects of eupatilin. We investigated the antifibrogenic effects of eupatilin on TGF-β1-treated human vocal fold fibroblasts (hVFFs). The optimal concentration of eupatilin was determined by a cell viability assay. Western blotting was used to measure the expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin during myofibroblast differentiation, fibronectin (FN), collagen type I (Col I), and collagen type III (Col III) extracellular matrix proteins, and Smad2, Smad3, and p38 in the fibrotic pathway. Measurements were made before and after eupatilin treatment. Eupatilin at 100 nM was shown to be safe for use in hVFFs. TGF-β1 induced hVFFs to proliferate and differentiate into myofibroblasts and increased Col III and FN synthesis in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Eupatilin suppressed TGF-β1-induced hVFF proliferation and differentiation into myofibroblasts through the Smad and p38 signaling pathways. Furthermore, eupatilin inhibited TGF-β1-induced FN, Col I, and Col III synthesis in hVFFs. Our in vitro findings show that eupatilin effectively suppressed TGF-β1-induced fibrotic changes in hVFFs via the Smad and p38 signaling pathways. Thus, eupatilin may be considered a novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of vocal fold fibrosis.
The gender gap in aversion to COVID-19 exposure: Evidence from professional tennis
Authors: Kowalik Zuzanna , Lewandowski Piotr
Published: March 2021

We study the gender differences in aversion to COVID-19 exposure using a natural experiment of the 2020 US Open. It was the first major tennis tournament after the season had been paused for six months, held with the same rules and prize money for men and women. We analyze the gender gap in the propensity to voluntarily withdraw because of COVID-19 concerns among players who were eligible and fit to play. We find that female players were significantly more likely than male players to have withdrawn from the 2020 US Open. While players from countries characterized by relatively high levels of trust and patience and relatively low levels of risk-taking were more likely to have withdrawn than their counterparts from other countries, female players exhibited significantly higher levels of aversion to pandemic exposure than male players even after cross-country differences in preferences are accounted for. About 15% of the probability of withdrawing that is explained by our model can be attributed to gender.
Sexual risk behaviors, mental health outcomes and attitudes supportive of wife-beating associated with childhood transactional sex among adolescent girls and young women: Findings from the Uganda Violence Against Children Survey
Authors: Chiang Laura , Howard Ashleigh , Stoebenau Kirsten , Massetti Greta M. , Apondi Rose , Hegle Jennifer , Kyatekka Mondo , Stamatakis Caroline , Wasula Lydia , Aluzimbi George
Published: March 2021

Compared to young men, Ugandan young women are disproportionately impacted by HIV. Childhood transactional sex may contribute to this disparity. Using data from the 2015 Uganda Violence Against Children Survey, we used logistic regression models to assess the association between childhood transactional sex and negative outcomes. Among 18-24-year-old young women who had sex prior to 18 (n = 982), those who ever engaged in transactional sex had 5.9 times [adjusted odds ratio (AOR); confidence interval (CI): 1.6–22.2] higher odds of having multiple sexual partners in the past year; 5.2 times (AOR; CI: 2.1–12.9) higher odds of infrequent condom use in the past year; 3.0 times (AOR; CI: 1.2–7.9) higher odds of hurting themselves intentionally; and 3.2 times (AOR; CI: 1.3–7.7) higher odds of having attitudes justifying spousal abuse than young women who never engaged in transactional sex. Interventions for transactional sex and HIV in Uganda should consider prioritizing prevention, harm-reduction and continued investment in adolescent girls’ and young women’s futures.
Researchers working from home: Benefits and challenges
Authors: Aczel Balazs , Kovacs Marton , van der Lippe Tanja , Szaszi Barnabas
Published: March 2021

The flexibility allowed by the mobilization of technology disintegrated the traditional work-life boundary for most professionals. Whether working from home is the key or impediment to academics’ efficiency and work-life balance became a daunting question for both scientists and their employers. The recent pandemic brought into focus the merits and challenges of working from home on a level of personal experience. Using a convenient sampling, we surveyed 704 academics while working from home and found that the pandemic lockdown decreased the work efficiency for almost half of the researchers but around a quarter of them were more efficient during this time compared to the time before. Based on the gathered personal experience, 70% of the researchers think that in the future they would be similarly or more efficient than before if they could spend more of their work-time at home. They indicated that in the office they are better at sharing thoughts with colleagues, keeping in touch with their team, and collecting data, whereas at home they are better at working on their manuscript, reading the literature, and analyzing their data. Taking well-being also into account, 66% of them would find it ideal to work more from home in the future than they did before the lockdown. These results draw attention to how working from home is becoming a major element of researchers’ life and that we have to learn more about its influencer factors and coping tactics in order to optimize its arrangements.
Adherence to the modified Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer guidelines: Results from a high-volume liver surgery center in East Asias
Authors: Yen Yi-Hao , Cheng Yu-Fan , Wang Jing-Houng , Lin Chih-Che , Chen Chien-Hung , Wang Chih-Chi
Published: March 2021

Background and aims

The Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging system is the most widely applied staging system for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and is recommended for treatment allocation and prognostic prediction. The BCLC guidelines were modified in 2018 to indicate that Child-Pugh A without any ascites is essential for all stages except stage D. This study sought to provide a description of patients with HCC treated at a high-volume liver surgery center in Taiwan where referral is not needed and all treatment modalities are available and reimbursed by the National Health Insurance program. As such, certain variables that could modulate treatment decisions in clinical practice, including financial constraints, the availability of treatment procedures, and the expertise of the hospital, could be excluded. The study further sought to evaluate the adherence to the modified BCLC guidelines.

Methods

This was a retrospective study with prospectively collected data. 1801 consecutive patients with de novo HCC were enrolled through our institution from 2011–2017.

Results

There were 302 patients with stage 0, 783 with stage A, 242 with stage B, 358 with stage C, and 116 with stage D HCC. Treatment adhering to the modified BCLC guidelines recommendations was provided to 259 (85.8%) stage 0 patients, 606 (77.4%) stage A patients, 120 (49.6%) stage B patients, 93 (26.0%) stage C patients, and 83 (71.6%) stage D patients.

Conclusions

We reported treatment adhering to the modified BCLC guidelines at a high-volume liver surgery center in Taiwan. We found that non-adherence to the modified BCLC staging system was common in treating stage B and C patients.
Short-term effects of the COVID-19 state of emergency on contraceptive access and utilization in Mozambique
Authors: Leight Jessica , Hensly Catherine , Chissano Marcos , Ali Liza
Published: March 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has increasingly disrupted the global delivery of preventive health care services, as a large number of governments have issued state of emergency orders halting service delivery. However, there is limited evidence on the realized effects of the pandemic and associated emergency orders on access to services in low-income country contexts to date. To address this gap, this paper analyzes administrative data on utilization of contraceptive health services by women referred via community health promoters in two large urban and peri-urban areas of Mozambique. We focus on the period immediately surrounding the national state of emergency declaration linked to the COVID-19 pandemic on March 31, 2020. Data reported for 109,129 women served by 132 unique promoters and 192 unique public health facilities is analyzed using logistic regression, interrupted time series analysis and hazard analysis. The results demonstrate that the imposition of the state of emergency is associated with a modest short-term drop in both service provision and utilization, followed by a relatively rapid rebound. We conclude that in this context, the accessibility of reproductive health services was not dramatically reduced during the first phase of the pandemic-related emergency.
Artificial neural networks versus LASSO regression for the prediction of long-term survival after surgery for invasive IPMN of the pancreas
Authors: Aronsson Linus , Andersson Roland , Ansari Daniel
Published: March 2021

Prediction of long-term survival in patients with invasive intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) of the pancreas may aid in patient assessment, risk stratification and personalization of treatment. This study aimed to investigate the predictive ability of artificial neural networks (ANN) and LASSO regression in terms of 5-year disease-specific survival. ANN work in a non-linear fashion, having a potential advantage in analysis of variables with complex correlations compared to regression models. LASSO is a type of regression analysis facilitating variable selection and regularization. A total of 440 patients undergoing surgical treatment for invasive IPMN of the pancreas registered in the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database between 2004 and 2016 were analyzed. The dataset was prior to analysis randomly split into a modelling and test set (7:3). The accuracy, precision and F1 score for predicting mortality were 0.82, 0.83 and 0.89, respectively for ANN with variable selection compared to 0.79, 0.85 and 0.87, respectively for the LASSO-model. ANN using all variables showed similar accuracy, precision and F1 score of 0.81, 0.85 and 0.88, respectively compared to a logistic regression analysis. McNemar´s test showed no statistical difference between the models. The models showed high and similar performance with regard to accuracy and precision for predicting 5-year survival status.
Clinical and ultrasonographic features of choroidal metastases based on primary cancer site: Long-term experience in a single center
Authors: Blasi Maria Antonietta , Maceroni Martina , Caputo Carmela Grazia , Sammarco Maria Grazia , Scupola Andrea , Lenkowicz Jacopo , Schinzari Giovanni , Rossi Ernesto , Pagliara Monica Maria
Published: March 2021

Introduction and purpose

Choroidal metastases (CM) are the most common intraocular malignancies. With longer survival rates for cancer patients, CM will be increasingly encountered. We evaluated clinical and ultrasonographic (US) characteristics of CM in order to identify diagnostic biomarkers that correlate with the primary tumor site.

Methods

The medical records of all patients with CM evaluated at the Ocular Oncology Unit between February 2010 and March 2020 were analyzed.

Results

82 eyes of 70 patients were included. The primary cancer site was lung in 26 patients (37%), breast in 23 (33%), kidney in 9 (13%), gastrointestinal in 5 (7%), thyroid in 5 (7%), parathyroids and prostate respectively in 2 (3%). Fifty-five patients (78%) had other systemic metastases at the time of ocular diagnosis. Ten (14%) patients had no history of primary cancer. Bilateral CM were found in 20 patients (29%); fifty-six eyes (68%) had a single CM. The epicenter of CM was predominantly macula (43 eyes, 52%). The mean thickness was 4,1 mm (range 1,8–12,3). US structure was inhomogeneous in 67 eyes (82%). Reflectivity was mainly medium (39%) and medium-low (39%). In particular, CM from lung cancer showed lower reflectivity than those from the breast (p = 0,02). CM deriving from lung cancer were typically dome-shaped, whereas CM originating from breast were characteristically plateau shaped (p = 0,02). Seventy-four (91%) eyes presented fluid on optical coherence tomography.

Conclusion

We significatively found that CM from lung cancer generally appear dome-shaped with medium-low internal reflectivity, whereas those from breast cancer typically present a plateau appearance and higher internal reflectivity. Though it is hard to identify the site of the primary tumor relying exclusively on clinical and US aspects, morphology and internal reflectivity can be considered as diagnostic biomarkers. Thus, the origin of the primary tumor can be suspected by integrating a constellation of findings.
Specialized 16SrX phytoplasmas induce diverse morphological and physiological changes in their respective fruit crops
Authors: Gallinger Jannicke , Zikeli Kerstin , Zimmermann Matthias R. , Görg Louisa M. , Mithöfer Axel , Reichelt Michael , Seemüller Erich , Gross Jürgen , Furch Alexandra C. U.
Published: March 2021

The host-pathogen combinations—Malus domestica(apple)/`CandidatusPhytoplasma mali´,Prunus persica(peach)/`Ca. P. prunorum´ andPyrus communis(pear)/`Ca. P. pyri´ show different courses of diseases although the phytoplasma strains belong to the same 16SrX group. While infected apple trees can survive for decades, peach and pear trees die within weeks to few years. To this date, neither morphological nor physiological differences caused by phytoplasmas have been studied in these host plants. In this study, phytoplasma-induced morphological changes of the vascular system as well as physiological changes of the phloem sap and leaf phytohormones were analysed and compared with non-infected plants. Unlike peach and pear, infected apple trees showed substantial reductions in leaf and vascular area, affecting phloem mass flow. In contrast, in infected pear mass flow and physicochemical characteristics of phloem sap increased. Additionally, an increased callose deposition was detected in pear and peach leaves but not in apple trees in response to phytoplasma infection. The phytohormone levels in pear were not affected by an infection, while in apple and peach trees concentrations of defence- and stress-related phytohormones were increased. Compared with peach and pear trees, data from apple suggest that the long-lasting morphological adaptations in the vascular system, which likely cause reduced sap flow, triggers the ability of apple trees to survive phytoplasma infection. Some phytohormone-mediated defences might support the tolerance.
Prospective aspects in the oncological treatment of prostate cancer
Authors: Varga Linda
Published: March 2021

Prostate cancer (PC) is the second most common malignancy worldwide; the incidence is growing in every industrial country. Depending on the stage, surgical therapy, radiotherapy, and hormonal therapy are the potential therapeutic options. The elevation of radiation dose significantly improves biochemical control and disease-free survival independently of the type of radiotherapy (RT). The short-term and long-term side-effects of therapy are very important as PC patients usually have long survival. Although RT is getting more targeted, tolerance of normal tissues limits dose escalation and increases acute and chronic gastrointestinal (GI) and urogenital (UG) morbidity, exacerbating the pre-existing urological, sexual, and psychological problems. Symptoms depend on the degree and extent of the tissue damage and have a significant adverse effect on the patient’s quality of life (QOL). In clinical practice, toxicity can be reduced by the use of modern radiotherapy techniques by decreasing the safety margins (e.g. intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT)), by advantageous patient positioning and with almost constant fullness of the rectum and the urinary bladder. During radiotherapy the supine position is the most frequently used laying method. Patients can be treated also in a prone position (with the use of belly board - BB). The use of BB is associated with lower dose burden of intestines in several clinical trials of pelvic cancers formerly in the 3DCRT and nowadays in the IMRT-IGRT era. Despite advances in loco-regional medical treatment, advanced or metastatic PC is still very serious problem. Systematic treatment of metastatic prostate cancer can be divided into hormone-sensitive (HS) and castration-resistant (CR) pathophysiological phases. For metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) until recently, androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) alone by surgical or medical castration was the standard-of-care. Although the histological classification of PC is well-known, the different molecular subtypes and variants may respond differently to certain therapies. In recent years, many retrospective studies have focused on identifying potential predictive factors for optimizing treatment decisions.
A Cross-Sectional Study of Serum and Urine Fluoride in Diabetes in Fluoride Exposed Population
Authors: Ram Mohan Sai Deepika , Nagaraj Shashidhar Kurpad , Anjanappa Raveesha , Chandrappa Muninarayana
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND In addition to diet and nutrition, environmental changes may increase the incidence of diabetes mellitus and microvascular complication leading to ‘diabetic kidney disease (DKD)’. One such factor considered in this study is fluoride. Increased incidence of DKD lead to estimation of fluoride in fluoride endemic areas. Fluoride and advanced glycation end products lead to the development of microvascular complication in patients of diabetes leading to diabetic kidney disease or diabetic nephropathy which in turn leads to increase in expression of sirtuin 1; a regulatory protein mediating deacetylation of histone proteins which was analysed. METHODS Subjects recruited for this cross-sectional study were divided as - group 1 (healthy controls), group 2 (patients with type 2 diabetes) and group 3 (diabetic nephropathy patients) with 50 subjects in each group. Routine parameters were analysed in biochemistry section of central laboratory. RESULTS In patients with diabetic kidney disease, serum and urine fluoride levels were similar (0.2 and 0.28 ppm); whereas, in other two groups, urine fluoride values were more than the serum fluoride values indicating better renal function and fluoride clearance. Least sirtuin 1 median range was observed in group 1 [22.65 (11.78 - 91.10)] and 36.9 (27.38 - 56.23) in group 3 lesser than group 2 with a value of [42.7 (30.17 - 52.93)]. CONCLUSIONS Serum and urine fluoride estimation aids in assessing progression of disorder and hence helps in preventing complications. Fluoride may not be a cause of diabetes but may accelerate its microvascular complications as observed in this study. Sirtuin 1 levels in serum or plasma can be a marker for various damages caused by aging disorders. Sirtuin 1 correlation with diabetic parameters will help in health research to include it as a therapeutic target for various toxic conditions. KEY WORDS Advanced Glycation End product, Fluoride, Diabetic Kidney Disease, Sirtuin 1, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
The Association of Antioxidant Status of Red Blood Cells in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and in Patients with Complications of Diabetes and Its Comparison with That of Healthy Subjects
Authors: Subramanya Chethan
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND Oxidative stress plays a role in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes either by affecting insulin secretion or increasing insulin resistance. Oxidative stress is dealt by the body with the help of several antioxidant systems. The antioxidant levels in disorders causing oxidative stress such as diabetes mellitus are found to be low. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxide (GPx) levels are found to be depleted in diabetic groups when compared to control group comprising of healthy individuals. The activities of SOD and GPx are significantly low in diabetic patients. This study was conducted to determine the total antioxidant capacity and levels of antioxidants such as SOD and GPx in patients with type 2 diabetes and association between antioxidant levels and type 2 diabetics as well as type 2 diabetes with its associated complications. METHODS The study population comprised of 150 individuals, 50 subjects belonging to each subgroup of type 2 diabetics, and its associated complications and healthy subjects. The study was conducted in a tertiary care centre in Mangalore, Karnataka from September 2016 to December 2016. The antioxidant capacity of RBC, fasting blood levels of SOD and GPx were estimated by phospho molybdenum method. Nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction method and Rotruck method were also used. RESULTS The total antioxidant capacity, SOD and GPx were lower among diabetics and diabetic patients with complications as compared to normal nondiabetic subjects. CONCLUSIONS There is no significant difference in oxidative stress between patients with and without chronic complications of diabetes. KEY WORDS Antioxidant Levels, Glutathione Peroxidase, Oxidative Stress, Superoxide Dismutase, Nitroblue tetrazolium Reduction
„Tudásmenedzsment-profil” érettségi modell
Authors: Gaál Zoltán , Szabó Lajos , Obermayer-Kovács Nóra
Published: March 2021

A szervezetek üzleti sikere nagyban függ attól, hogy a munkatársak tudását milyen módon sikerül hasznosítani. A tudás a piaci verseny egyik meghatározó tényezőjévé vált. A 2000-ben megrendezett lisszaboni csúcson az Európai Unió államfői elhatározták, hogy az uniót „2010-ig a világ legversenyképesebb és legdinamikusabb tudásalapú gazdasági egységévé kell tenni”. E célkitűzéssel azonosulva a Pannon Egyetem Szervezési és Vezetési Tanszékének Stratégiai Menedzsment Kutatóműhelye 2004-ben egy új kutatást indított, amelynek fő célkitűzése, hogy a gyakorlatban hasznosítható, ugyanakkor elméletileg és módszertanilag megalapozott megközelítést dolgozzanak ki, amely elősegíti a szervezetek tudásmenedzsmenttel kapcsolatos tevékenységeinek tudatos kialakítását és megvalósítását. A kutatás eredményeképp megalkották a „Tudásmenedzsment- profil” folytonos érettségi modellt, amely hét determináns faktor segítségével leírja egy szervezet tudásmenedzsment-gyakorlatát. A modell a tudatos tudásmenedzsment-gyakorlat feltérképezésének egy eszköze lehet, amelynek alapját képező tudásmenedzsment-faktorok meghatározzák a tudásmenedzsment- gyakorlat során kidolgozandó és fejlesztendő területeket. Bevezették a „Tudásmenedzsment-indexet”, amely egy szervezet tudásmenedzsment-gyakorlatának fejlettségi szintjét mutatja meg.
Az emberierőforrás-menedzsment magyarországi és közép-kelet-európai sajátosságai a Cranet-kutatás alapján
Authors: Farkas Ferenc , Karoliny Mártonné , Poór József
Published: March 2021

A tanulmány egy több éve folyó nemzetközi vizsgálathoz csatlakozott magyar kutatócsoport munkájáról számol be. A kutatás az emberierőforrás-menedzsment vállalati szintű alkalmazásainak azonosságait és különbözőségeit vizsgálja. A tanulmány fókuszában ezen belül a magyarországi és hat közép-kelet-európai ország emberierőforrás-menedzsmentjének sajátosságai állnak. A vizsgálati minta alapján levonható következtetések tudományos vita tárgyát képezhetik.
A modern projektszervezetek vezetéselméleti összevetése
Authors: Jarjabka Ákos
Published: March 2021

A projektek egyfajta szervezeti válaszoknak tekinthetők a modern piacgazdaság körülményeinek turbulens változásaira. A projekt kifejezés a latin „proiectum” szóból ered, melynek jelentése „előre helyezett dolog”, mely alapján a továbbiakban e tanulmány a projekteket olyan időben behatárolt szervezeti feladatoknak tekinti, melyek méretük, bonyolultságuk, újdonságtartalmuk vagy jelentőségük miatt a szervezet rutinszerű alaptevékenység-ellátási megoldásaival valószínűleg nem oldhatók meg hatékonyan. Ezekre a projektkihívásokra sokféle szervezeti válaszlehetőség létezik, melyek mindegyike – egymással összehasonlítva – rendelkezik előnyös, de hátrányos tulajdonságokkal. E tanulmány célja, hogy feltárja a szervezeti gyakorlatban leggyakrabban előforduló projektszervezeti lehetőségeket, és azok vezetéstudományi típusú elemzésével és összevetésével segítse a menedzsment választási döntéshozatalát azok között.
A személyiség kaizen-elve
Authors: Titkos Csaba
Published: March 2021

A cikk a képzés és a fejlesztés területének sajátos, új szeletével foglalkozik. A tréningmódszer kompetenciahatárát, érvényességét tisztázva rámutat a személyiségfejlesztés, a személyiség átdolgozásának fontosságára és módszertani lehetőségeire. A szerző feltevése szerint az érett személyiség, mint a jungi individuációs processzus terméke, viselkedést meghatározó kompetencia. Van, hogy oktatni kell, máskor tréningezni, olykor a viselkedésváltozás hiánya, a kudarc miatt a viselkedés okait kutatjuk. Ha a megértést (felfogást) akarjuk befolyásolni, tartsunk oktatást, ha viselkedésváltozást kívánunk elérni, tréningezzünk, ha a viselkedés okára vagyunk kíváncsiak, más módszereket kell keresnünk. A JOHARI-modell segítségével jól szemléltethető a tréning kompetenciaterülete és egyben befolyásoló erejének határa. A tréning működési területén kívül eső, a viselkedés hátterét, okát rejtő rész, a jungi személyiségelmélet modelljének mély struktúrájával analóg. A JOHARI-modell „sötét” területe a jungi tudattalan óriási területe. Ide nyúlnak személyiségünk gyökerei. Ha személyiségfejlesztés a célunk, ez az átdolgozandó terület. Ehhez bizonyosan sajátos módszerekre van szükség. Olyanokra, amelyek képesek ezzel a területtel kommunikálni, mert erre a „kísérletre” születtek: a megértésen és a viselkedésen túli terület átdolgozásának kísérletére. Olyanok, mint a tréningeken is használt pszichodráma és NLP (neurolingvisztikai programozás), vagy a terápiában használt KIP (katatim immaginatív pszichoterápia) és EGO state. A személyiségfejlesztés célja itt a berögződött, diszfunkcionálisnak tűnő viselkedés oki területének megértése, átdolgozása, átírása egy új viselkedés megjelenésének esélyét adva. Azaz, a viselkedést tünetként, a személyiséget, pontosabban annak tudat alatti részét okként kezeljük. Az írás esetek bemutatásával is szemléltet.
Recent proposals on nomenclature of dinoflagellates (Dinophyceae)
Authors: Gomez Fernando
Published: March 2021

The recent proposals to conserve or reject dinoflagellate names are commented. The Nomenclatural Committee for Algae (NCA) recommended to conserve
Scrippsiella against
Heteraulacus and
Goniodoma (proposal #2382). The synonymy of
Peridinium acuminatum and
Glenodinium trochoideum is highly questionable, and one Steins illustration of
Goniodoma acuminatum as type will solve the doubts. An alternative genus and family name for the gonyaulacoid taxa formerly classified in
Goniodoma is not provided, and
Scrippsiella is a junior synonym of
Duboscquodinium. The NCA confirmed
Amphidoma acuminata as type species against
A. nucula (2577). Stein established
Amphidoma nucula as the representative species of the genus, and the poor-defined
A. acuminata is associated with higher nomenclatural instability because it is probably a
Centrodinium species. The NCA recommended
Heterocapsa steinii as type of
Heterocapsa (2607). That species name is a junior synonym of
Properidinium heterocapsum and
Peridinium monas. That taxon and allied species should be placed in
Cachonina because Stein proposed
Heterocapsa for three species of the Kryptoperidiniaceae. The proposal to conserve
Alexandrium against
Blepharocysta (2686) is based on that
Peridinium splendor-maris is a senior synonym of
Alexandrium balechii, currently classified in
Gessnerium.
Peridinium splendor-maris is a collective name that includes undefined organisms, and no description or illustration corresponded to
Alexandrium or
Gessnerium. The NCA reported that
Alexandrium catenella and
A. fundyensis are synonyms, without comments on
A. pacificum (2302). The consequence is that one of the five species of that group has not name. Naming taxa should follow the principle of priority and the article 7.3 of the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants, and rejection or conservation of names should be exceptional. Based on a supposed nomenclatural stability, the NCA is creating arbitrariness and instability in naming dinoflagellate taxa based on questionable taxonomical interpretations.
Cultural Influences on Traditional and Modern Architecture in Ijebu-Ode
Authors: Kazeem Kayode Olatunji , Ikudayisi Ayodele Emmanuel , Adelakun Oluwatobi Gbenga
Published: March 2021

Technology, available materials, economy, culture and host of other factors influence man’s dwelling and play important roles in determining the type of building he inhabits. However, little research has been carried out in order to determine the influences of culture on both traditional and modern architecture in Nigeria. The aim of this research project, therefore, is to determine and compare the influences of culture on the traditional and modern building types in Nigeria using Ijebu-Ode as a case study. Questionnaires were randomly administered both in Ita-Alapo and Obalende representing traditional and modern areas of the town respectively. Also, building typologies were randomly selected in both areas and were compared in terms of building quality, form and techniques. The results gathered were then analyzed descriptively with the use of tables and charts showing their frequencies, mean and rank. The analysis revealed that while security was the first factor that influences the types of building in the modern area (Obalende), it was the people’s family structure that determines their building type in the traditional area (Ita-Alapo). The research concluded by recommending that Nigerian architects should always endeavor to consider and incorporate the people’s culture into their designs, especially when designing where they will live.
Mechanical properties under quasi-static loading of the core made of flax/poly(lactic acid) composite
Authors: Zuhri M.Y.M. , Nasrudin M.A. , Nasrodin M.A.M. , Sapuan S.M. , Hassan M.Z.
Published: March 2021

This paper investigates the mechanical behavior of an interlocking structure made of flax/poly(lactic acid) (PLA) composites manufactured using hot press compression molding. The flax/PLA composite manufactured at a temperature of 190°C and pressed for 10 minutes obtained the highest values of strength and modulus. A range of core cell sizes between 10 and 40 mm with a height from 20 to 40 mm was fabricated using a simple slotting technique. The larger core size offers a better relative density value when comparing to the smaller size (with a similar number of layers). The results also showed that the 10 mm core size exhibits better compression strength than the 20 and 40 mm core sizes. In contrast, the specific energy absorption (SEA) values of the structures increase as the core size decreases.
Politik Jalanan: Fenomena Perilaku Politik Gerakan Pemuda Ka’bah Kota Yogyakarta di Pemilu Serentak 2019
Authors: Pahlevi Moch. Edward Trias , Efendi David , Amrurobbi Azka Abdi
Published: March 2021

Penelitian ini dilatarbelakangi oleh opini masyarakat yang menganggap bahwa Gerakan Pemuda Ka’bah (GPK) memiliki tendensi kelompok kekerasan dan kepentingan politik praktis, khususnya yang berafiliasi pada Partai Persatuan Pembangunan (PPP). Kehadiran kelompok ini disebut sebagai kelompok vigilante atau milisi yang dianggap oleh masyarakat sebagai kelompok kekerasan terutama di jalanan. Artikel ini bertujuan untuk melihat bagaimana manuver politik GPK selama momentum pemilu 2019 yang lalu. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian lapangan yang mengkaji tentang perilaku politik dan politik jalanan. Lokasi penelitian dilakukan di Kota Yogyakarta dengan mengunakan metode penelitian kualitatif, yang mengandalkan data-data primer dari para informan. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa perilaku GPK dalam politik jalanan dan eksistensi simbol ternyata berkorelasi dengan kepentingan ekonomi mereka. Selain itu, munculnya GPK Khittah berdampak pada menurunnya suara pemilih PPP di Kota Yogyakarta.
Dampak Deforestasi Hutan Skala Besar terhadap Pemanasan Global di Indonesia
Authors: Wahyuni Herpita , Suranto Suranto
Published: March 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui perkembangan tingkat deforestasi di Indonesia dengan melihat implikasi dan upaya Indonesia dalam mengurangi deforestasi yang tentunya memberikan dampak baik terhadap pengurangan emisi atau pemanasan global. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian kualitatif yang bersumber dari berbagai literatur atau studi kepustakaan dalam menjawab hasil penelitian. Hasil temuan menemukan bahwa tingkat deforestasi di Indonesia masih tinggi. Deforestasi merupakan permasalahan yang memerlukan strategi dalam penguranganya, salah satunya dengan program REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation). REDD+ berhasil menurunkan deforestasi setiap tahunnya karena adanya pendekatan dan kerjasama yang lebih dalam mengupayakan deforestasi serta pengurangan emisi atau pemanasan global. Dengan adanya REDD+ ini, beberapa daerah berusaha melakukan transformasi kebijakan untuk mendukung misi perbaikan ekologis dan deforestasi di kawasannya, sebagaimana terjadi di wilayah Pulau Kalimantan maupun di Nusa Tenggara Barat.
Analisis Optimalisasi Potensi Daerah untuk Meningkatkan Pendapatan Asli Daerah Kota Malang
Authors: Triarda Reza , Damayanti Ratnaningsih
Published: March 2021

Pendapatan Asli Daerah (PAD) seringkali dijadikan bahan komparasi antar kabupaten/kota di Indonesia. Tidak hanya besarannya saja, tetapi juga komposisinya terhadap jumlah pendapatan daerah selain dari dana perimbangan dan lain-lain pendapatan daerah yang sah menarik untuk dikaji. Umumnya, penerimaan PAD didominasi oleh pajak daerah. Sayangnya, jenis-jenis pajak daerah terlalu kaku sehingga menyulitkan bagi kabupaten/kota dalam berinovasi demi meningkatkan PAD. Untuk meningkatkan PAD lahkah pertama yang diperlukan adalah menganalisis potensi daerah masing-masing. Dengan mempergunakan dokumen-dokumen keluaran Pemerintah Kota Malang antara tahun 2012-2019 yang dianalisis secara kuantitatif, tulisan ini menemukan hasil bahwa perkembangan ekonomi telah merubah potensi daerah. Beberapa sektor pajak seperti BPHTB, PBB, dan PPJ tidak dapat lagi dijadikan sebagai sektor yang diandalkan apabila masih dikalkukasi dan dikelola dengan pemahaman lama. Terdapat faktor yang tidak dapat dikendalikan oleh pemerintah Kota Malang, seperti suku bunga bank, pertumbuhan ekonomi makro, nilai tukar rupiah terhada dolar, dan lain-lain yang juga berpengaruh pada realisasi pajak daerah. Perkembangan ekonomi Kota Malang telah menghasilkan primadona baru dalam pajak daerah, yaitu hotel dan restoran. Sayangnya Pemerintah Kota Malang masih terlalu berfokus pada BPHTB, PBB, dan PPJ sehingga belum mengoptimalkan potensi pajak hotel dan restoran.