bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PENGARUH TINGKAT KESEHATAN BANK TERHADAP ROA dan ROE BANK UMUM SYARIAH PERIODE 2012-2018
Authors: Kurnia Ma'shumatul , Filianti Dian
Published: March 2021

ABSTRAKPenelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui kesehatan perbankan yang diwakili oleh GCG, CSR, FDR, dan BOPO terhadap return on assets (ROA), dan return on equity (ROE) BUS periode 2012-2018. Data yang digunakan adalah data tahunan yang diperoleh dari website resmi masing-masing sampel Bank Umum Syariah. Pemilihan sampel menggunakan metode purposive sampling. Metode penelitian ini menggunakan dua kali analisis regresi data panel dengan pemilihan model regresi data panel yang tepat melalui 3 uji yaitu uji chow, uji hausman, dan uji lagrange multiplier. Hasil penelitian pada analisis regresi pertama menunjukkan bahwa variabel GCG, CSR, dan FDR tidak berpengaruh signifikan terhadap ROA, sedangkan variabel BOPO berpengaruh negatif signifikan terhadap ROA. Kemudian pada analisis regresi kedua menunjukkan bahwa variabel GCG dan FDR tidak berpengaruh signifikan terhadap ROE, variabel CSR dan BOPO berpengaruh negatif signifikan terhadap ROE. Sedangkan secara simultan (bersama-sama) variabel GCG, CSR, FDR dan BOPO berpengaruh signifikan terhadap profitabilitas Bank Umum SyariahKata Kunci: Tingkat Kesehatan Bank, CSR, BOPO, Profitabilitas. ABSTRACTThis study aims to determine the health of banking represented by the GCG, CSR, FDR, and BOPO on return on assets (ROA), dan return on equity (ROE) BUS for the period 2012-2018. The data used was annual data obtained from the official website of each sample of the Syariah Commercial Bank. The sample selection used a purposive sampling method, where there were 5 samples. This research method used two-panel data regression analysis by selecting the right panel data regression model through 3 tests, namely chow test, Hausman test, and Lagrange multiplier test.  The results of the research in the first regression analysis showed that the GCG, CSR, and FDR variables had no significant effect on ROA, while the BOPO variable had a significant negative effect on ROA. Then the second regression analysis shows that the GCG and FDR variables do not have a significant effect on ROE, the CSR and BOPO variables have a significant negative effect on ROE. Meanwhile, simultaneously (together) the GCG, CSR, FDR and BOPO variables have a significant effect on the profitability of Islamic Commercial Banks.Keywords: Bank Health Level, CSR, BOPO, Profitability.
Weed’s Vegetation Analysis of Centella (Centella asiatica L. Urban) Plantations
Authors: Susanti Dian , Safrina Devi , Wijaya Nur Rahmawati
Published: March 2021

Centella (Centella asiatica L. Urban) originally is a wild plant that is being cultivated to be medicinal and cosmetics raw material. The process of centella cultivation is relatively easy and can be grown in a variety of altitudes. One obstacle in centella cultivation is weed growth. The proper handling of weeds in centella plantation requires data on the weed types and characteristics. This research aimed to determine the weed types and the amount of weed found in centella cultivation. Sampling was carried out purposively based on the presence of weeds in the cultivation area. Weed inventory was carried out using linear vegetation methods in 12 plantation beds of centella, with a size of 6 x 2 m2 each. Observations were made during weeding on one cropping season. Weed inventory was carried out by recording the number of species and number of individual weed and taking documentation of weeds that were recorded for identification purposes. Research data were analyzed by using vegetation analysis. The weed vegetation analysis on centella plantations showed that there were 35 species of weeds identified from 20 plant families. Cyperus rotundus L. dominates the weed vegetation in centella plantations because of its high adaptability and its allelochemical exudates. To sustainably cultivate the centella, proper techniques of weed controls need to be applied by considering the nature of Cyperus rotundus L.
PEMENUHAN KRITERIA BETON MEMADAT MANDIRI DENGAN VARIASI METAKAOLIN TERHADAP KAJIAN KUAT TEKAN TINGGI DAN MODULUS ELASTISITAS
Authors: Nurkhasan Sains Satria , Wibowo Wibowo , Safitri Endah
Published: March 2021

Pemanfaatan beton dalam dunia konstruksi sudah mengalami perkembangan yang sangat pesat. Sehingga diperlukan inovasi beton untuk meningkatkan mutu dan kualitasnya. Salah satunya adalah beton mutu tinggi memadat mendiri yang dalam rancang campur beton penambahan bahan tambah pada kadar tertentu yang bersifat pozolan dapat menigkatakan kualitas beton. Penelitian ini menggunakan metakaolin yang termasuk bahan tambah yang bersifat pozolan. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh penambahan metakaolin terhadap parameter SCC, kuat tekan, dan modulus elastisitas beton HSSCC.Penelitian ini menggunakan metakaolin sebagai pengganti sebagian semen portland pada campuran beton untuk memahami pengaruh dari subtitusi semen terhadap workabilitas, kuat tekan, dan modulus elastisitas dari beton tersebut. Kadar metakaolin yang digunakan pada penelitian adalah 12,5%; 15%; 17,5%; 20%; dan 22,5% dengan superplasticizer MasterEase 3029 dengan kadar 1,9%. Pengujian workabilitas pada penelitian ini meliputi uji slump flow untuk mengukur filling ability, uji V-funnel untuk mengukur passing ability, dan uji L-box untuk mengukur segregation resistance. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode eksperimental dengan benda uji berbentuk silinder dengan diameter 15cm dan tinggi 30cm. Pengujian dilakukan dengan memberikan dail ring pada selimut beton dan memberikan tekanan aksial ke permukaan beton menggunakan Compression Testing Machine sampai beban maksimum.
ANALISIS MODULUS ELASTISITAS DAN KUAT TARIK PADA POLYMER MODIFIED MORTAR (PMM) DENGAN PENAMBAHAN SERAT CANTULA (AGAVE CANTULA ROXB)
Authors: Pratama Firman , Purwanto Edy , Kristiawan Stefanus Adi
Published: March 2021

Kombinasi ilmu material bahan bangunan dan teknologi tekstil di zaman modern terus meningkat,shingga terbentuk textile reinforced concrete. Dimana penggunaan textile reinforced concrete dapat membantu jembatan, pilar atau beton bertulang untuk menahan getaran, sentakan tiba-tiba dan torsi. Namun pada dasarnya kelemahan reinforced concrete masih cenderung menggunakan tulangan baja sehingga rentan terhadap korosi. Alternatif untuk mengatasi keadaan tersebut dengan penggunaan bahan alternatif alam, salah satunya adalah serat cantula (Agave Cantula Roxb) yang diselimuti dengan polymer modified mortar. Penelitian ini membahas pengaruh modulus elastisitas terhadap variasi matriks yang berupa polymer modified mortar (PMM) dan textile reinforced concrete (TRC ) dengan menggunakan variasi anyaman serat cantula berupa 10mm x 10mm, 10mm x 20mm, 10mm x 15mm, 20mm x 10 mm dan 15mm x 10mm dan kuat tarik pada polymer modified mortar (PMM) . Pengujian dilakukan dengan cara tarik langsung benda uji pada umur 28 hari. Hasil dari pengujian didapatkan kenaikan tertinggi kuat tarik pada benda uji PMM TRC 200 (10 mm x 20 mm) dengan nilai kekuatan tarik sebesar 1.50 MPa pada umur 28 hari. Nilai modulus elastisitas terbesar pada TRC terdapat pada PMM TRC 200 (10 mm x 20 mm) dengan nilai modulus elastisitas sebesar 262.2968 MPa  dan nilai kuat tarik sebesar 21.3508 MPa pada umur 28 hari.
PENGARUH VARIASI MUKA AIR TANAH PADA TIMBUNAN DENGAN PERKUATAN GEOSINTETIK, SHEAR KEY, DAN TIANG PANCANG DI ATAS TANAH LUNAK
Authors: Zuhri Abdurrahman , Setiawan Bambang , Djarwanti Noegroho
Published: March 2021

Tanah lunak memiliki karakteristik daya dukung yang sangat rendah, selain itu nilai kompresibilitasnya cukup tinggi dan waktu konsolidasi terjadi dalam waktu yang sangat lama. Penggunaan perkuatan geosintetik, shear key, dan tiang pancang berfungsi untuk meningkatkan stabilitas timbunan di atas tanah lunak. Air menjadi faktor utama yang sangat berpengaruh pada tanah lunak. Perbedaan kedalaman muka air tanah (MAT) memiliki pengaruh terhadap kestabilan timbunan yang telah diberi perkuatan. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa penggunaan perkuatan geosintetik, shear key, dan tiang pancang akan meningkatkan stabilitas timbunan di atas tanah lunak, dengan urutan kenaikan nilai SF terhadap model tanpa perkuatan dari tertinggi ke yang terendah berturut-turut yaitu: tiang pancang, geosintetik, dan shear key. Semakin tinggi elevasi MAT, nilai SF yang dihasilkan akan semakin kecil. Rata-rata penurunan nilai SF terhadap kenaikan elevasi MAT dari yang terbesar ke yang terkecil berturut-turut yaitu: tiang pancang, geosintetik, dan shear key.
EVALUATION OF LEARNING PHYSICAL EDUCATION IN THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Ade Argi
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine the level of effectiveness of physical education virtual learning during the COVID-19 pandemic first grade students of 6 junior high school Bogor. The research method used is to use a descriptive qualitative research method, namely a survey using Google form media which is carried out in each house. The population in this study were students of 6 junior high school Bogor mounting to 306 students and using a sample of 34 students in the same class. This study used an instrument in the form of a questionnaire with variables. This research includes three aspects of affective, cognitive and psychomotor. Affective here uses a research instrument in the form of a questionnaire to obtain research data with a total of 18 questions with answer options Strongly, Agree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree Based on the results of research analysis and discussion, it can be concluded that the level of physical education learning during the COVID-19 pandemic can be broken down as follows the affective category average is 33.56, the cognitive average is 89.56 and the psychomotor is 78.67. From the three data, it was found that the average level of learning effectiveness was 67.27 with the category less
Fra etimologie e tropi: allo scrittoio con ‘Magister Robertus’ (Dicta 109, 110, 111)
Authors: Rossi Pietro Bassiano
Published: March 2021

Fra gli scritti di Roberto Grossatesta solo in parte editi e studiati sono da ritenere di particolare interesse le raccolte di Dicta, di Sermones e dei commenti ai Salmi 1–100. La caratteristica comune a queste raccolte sembra sia quella di non essere state fatte oggetto di una vera e propria revisione finale da parte dell’autore. Quanto ai Dicta, ci è giunto il colophon (che si trova però come prologo in parte dei manoscritti) in cui l’autore parla in prima persona e ci illumina sulla genesi della raccolta, sugli scopi che l’hanno originata, sugli anni in cui l’ha costituita (« dum in scolis morabar »). Allo scopo di apportare nuovi elementi che possano contribuire a fare maggiore chiarezza sulla genesi della raccolta dei Dicta, si propone l’esame dei Dicta 109, 110 e 111.
La tradizione letteraria sulla prostituzione sacra a Locri Epizefiri: i due voti del 477 e del 351–346 a.C.
Authors: D'Angelo Ignazio
Published: March 2021

La tradizione letteraria sulla prostituzione sacra a Locri Epizefiri ha dato luogo ad un vivace dibattito che ha coinvolto illustri storici moderni: alcuni hanno sostenuto l’esistenza di questa forma di ierodulia, interpretando in chiave religiosa le testimonianze degli antichi, altri hanno negato che tale pratica fosse presente a Locri, evidenziando il carattere generale e, a volte contraddittorio, della documentazione. Sulla base di un’attenta analisi delle fonti letterarie, supportata dagli scavi archeologici, condotti nell’area sacra di Centocamere-Marasà di Locri, è possibile ipotizzare non solo una presenza abituale della prostituzione sacra, che coinvolgeva gli strati più bassi della popolazione, ma anche l’attuazione dei due voti di prostituzione, che furono pronunciati nel 477 e negli anni 351-346 a.C. e che interessarono le donne dell’aristocrazia.
Barriers to the efficient implementation of the neonatal Group B Streptococcal (GBS) disease prevention programme. A retrospective documentation analysis, eastern Croatia
Authors: Holik Dubravka , Bosnic Zvonimir , Volaric Mile , Volaric Nikola , Majnaric Ljiljana Trtica
Published: March 2021

Objectives. To analyse the implementation status of the neonatal Group B Streptococcal (GBS) disease prevention programme in the town of Osijek area, eastern Croatia.Methods. A retrospective analysis of archive documentation on an annual basis (2016). A conversation with gynaecologists was conducted to complement this analysis.Results. There was a prevalent proportion of the GBS swab culture findings (3/4) of cervical origin, as gynaecologists use this technique in a wide range of risk conditions related to pregnancy and as a screening technique, as well. The universal screening was performed in almost every second pregnant women (44.7%). This proportion could be a higher, counting on that the cervical swab sampling is customised among gynaecologists. The approximate prevalence of maternal GBS colonisation was above 6%. The prevalence of neonatal sepsis was 6.46%. In a major part of new-borns with sepsis, the infectious agent was unknown (92%). The GBS caused sepsis was found in 7 (5%) cases. Infectious agents other than GBS were found in 4 (3%) cases.Conclusions. The problem oriented hospital documentation, supported by the ICT system, is a prerequisite for a continuous monitoring of implementation of the neonatal GBS disease prevention programme.
Optimizing of Communications Systems Power Efficiency Considerations: Efficient Implementing Approach of Hamming Codes Utilizing FS-GDI
Authors: El-Bendary Mohsen , El-Badry O.
Published: March 2021

Due to the power efficiency importance of digital signal processing and data protection in different communications systems, this paper proposes an efficient design of different Hamming Codes utilizing Full Swing- Gate Diffusion Input (FS-GDI) approach. The proposed codes design aims to improve the power efficiency and the required area through reducing the required number of transistors. FS-GDI is a new low power VLSI design approach, it is a power effective approach for realizing the different logic gates. In this work, the Hamming codes (7, 4) and (11, 7) are designed by utilizing the original GDI, FS-GDI and the traditional CMOS approaches. The amount of consumed power, delay time, Power Delay Product (PDP) and hardware simplicity-Number of Transistors (No.Ts) are employed as a metrics for evaluating the efficiency of the proposed design compared to the traditional design. The design simulation experiments are executed utilizing Cadence Virtuoso simulator package under 65nm technology. The simulation experiments revealed these proposed codes achieve delay time reduction by 52.91% and 10% for Hamming codes (7, 4) and (11, 7), respectively On the other hand, the Hardware (H/W) of these codes became more simple where the H/W simplicity of the used Hamming codes is reduced 50 % CMOS approaches respectively. From the results analysis, the proposed design achieves efficient power and the delay optimizing of Hamming codes utilizing the FS-GDI approach. On the other hand, the power consumption and area in communications systems due to the encoding process can be reduces.
Analysis of Savings-Investment Gap in Sub-Saharan Africa: Does the nexus between Foreign Remittances and Domestic Financial Sector matter?
Authors: Adeniyi Oluwatosin , Ogunjimi Joshua , Adekunle Wasiu , Babatunde Musibau , Omiwale Edward
Published: March 2021

In recent times, increasing attention is being paid to examine the developmental impact of remittances inflow, particularly due to the emergence of remittances as the fastest growing source of capital flows for developing countries. To this end, we contribute to the literature by analyzing the interactive effects of remittances and financial development on savings-investment gap for a panel of 18 Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries over the period of 1990 to 2017. Our Panel ARDL model estimation showed that higher remittances have significant reducing effect on savings-investment gap in the long run, and this becomes magnified while accounting for individual and interactive effects of remittances and financial development. We also uncovered the widening effects of rising real GDP growth and bank deposits over a long-term horizon, whereas higher private sector credit widens the savings-investment gap only in the short-run. Meanwhile, liquid liabilities have no significant effect on savings-investment gap both in the short run and long run. We further offered evidence on the complementarity and substitutability effects of remittances and financial development over the short-term and long-term horizons, respectively. We also demonstrated the superior forecast accuracy of the predictive savings-investment gap model - that accounts for both individual and interactive effects - over other specifications, and this is robust to the choice of financial development indicators, samples and forecast horizons. Our results underscore the urgent need for a reduction of transfer costs, so as to encourage both migrant workers and their beneficiaries to make use of the official channels for sending and receiving remittances in the region.
Hippocampal overexpression of Nos1ap promotes endophenotypes related to mental disorders
Authors: Freudenberg Florian , Candemir Esin , Chen Xufeng , Li Li-Li , Esen-Sehir Dilhan , Schenk Nicole , Kinoshita Makoto , Grünewald Lena , Frerichs Veronika , Fattakhov Nikolai , Manchen Jessica , Bikas Solmaz , Kumar Anita , O’Leary Aet , Slattery David , Engelhardt Jakob von , Courtney Michael , Reif Andreas
Published: March 2021

Nitric oxide synthase 1 adaptor protein (NOS1AP; previously named CAPON) is linked to the glutamatergic postsynaptic density through interaction with neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS). NOS1AP and its interaction with nNOS have been associated with several mental disorders. Despite the high levels of NOS1AP expression in the hippocampus and the relevance of this brain region in glutamatergic signaling as well as mental disorders, a potential role of hippocampal NOS1AP in the pathophysiology of these disorders has not been investigated yet. To uncover the function of NOS1AP in hippocampus, we made use of recombinant adeno-associated viruses to overexpress the murine Nos1ap isoform in the hippocampus of mice. We investigated these mice for changes in gene expression, electrophysiology, neuronal morphology, and relevant behavioral phenotypes. We found that overexpression of hippocampal Nos1ap markedly increased the interaction of nNOS with PSD-95, reduced dendritic spine density and changed dendritic spine morphology without affecting basic synaptic signaling properties at CA1 synapses. At the behavioral level, we observed an impairment in social interaction and social memory, as well as decreased spatial working memory capacity. Our data provide a mechanistic explanation for a highly selective and specific contribution of hippocampal NOS1AP and its interaction with the glutamatergic postsynaptic density to cross-disorder pathophysiology. Our findings allude to therapeutic relevance due to the druggability of this molecule.
Determination of new hematologic reference intervals for sows with optimal reproductive performance, according to reproductive stage, parity and body condition: A cohort study
Authors: Baeza Carolina , Gädicke Paula , Ruiz Álvaro
Published: March 2021

Background. Inappropriate feeding and reproductive management according to strategies in sow's reproductive efficiency produce important consequences on sow metabolism. The metabolic alterations can increase mortality and reduce fertility, productivity and lifespan of sows within a farm, decreasing herd output. In according to that, this research aimed to determine the effect of reproductive stage, parity and body condition on hematological parameters of intensive-production sows and also to establish new and representative hematological Reference Intervals for each stage of the reproductive cycle in Chilean sows of optimal reproductive performance. In order to that, a cohort study in 307 healthy sows from two farms was performed. Serial hemograms were obtained and sows were monitored at weaning, prior to artificial insemination, at 35, 60 and 90 days of gestation, and subsequent weaning. Results were analyzed by Repeated-Measures of Anova and Tukey Test to establish differences between times and by the Kruskall-Wallis Test, or Simple Anova Test, to determine differences within times caused by the body condition (BC) or sow age. Results: Significant differences were found in most factors during gestation (P=0,00). At each time frame considered, there was an effect of parity. The sow`s parity history, their BC and the farm`s infrastructure and environment were all relevant factors in each hematological parameter. Additionally, statistically significant differences in almost all the evaluated indicators were contrasted with reference IRs (P=0,00). Hematological indicators supported the interaction between BC and parity in some sows. ConclusionsThis study showed the need of not only specific reference intervals for high-production sows, but also highlights the relevance of considering the different stages of sows´s reproductive cycle. Consideration of sow’s physiological stage and parity, along with body condition appear to be highly relevant to get appropriate hematologic reference intervals.
Challenges and opportunities for use of long-lasting insecticidal nets to prevent malaria during overnight travel in Uganda: a qualitative study
Authors: Ekusai-Sebatta Deborah , Arinaitwe Emmanuel , Mpimbaza Arthur , Nankabirwa Joaniter I , Drakeley Chris , Rosenthal Philip J , Staedke Sarah G , Muyinda Herbert
Published: March 2021

Background.

Travel is a well-recognized risk factor for malaria. Within sub-Saharan Africa, travellers from areas of lower to higher transmission intensity are potentially at high risk of malaria. Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) are the primary tool for prevention of malaria, and their widespread use has contributed to substantial reductions in malaria burden. However, travellers often fail to use LLINs. To further explore the challenges and opportunities of using LLINs, we interviewed travellers in Uganda.
Methods.

In August and September 2019, 20 participants attending outpatient clinics at Naguru General Hospital in Kampala with a history of travel out of Kampala within the previous 60 days were purposively selected. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analysed thematically using NVivo 12.
Results

Of the 20 participants, 13 were male. Thirteen of the participants (65%) tested positive for malaria by microscopy. A total of 25% of the participants reported use of LLINs during travel. The main reasons for travel were to attend social events (weddings, funerals, overnight prayers) and for work. Travelers who attended social events reported using LLINs less commonly than those who travelled for work. Challenges to using LLINs during travel included: 1) limited access to LLINs, 2) inability to plan ahead for travel, 3) lack of space or ability to hang LLINs while traveling, 4) impression that LLINs in lodging places were unhygienic, 5) cultural beliefs discouraging use of LLINs during social events, 6) participation in overnight ceremonies and 7) doubts about efficacy of LLINs. Positive factors influencing use of LLINs during travel included knowledge regarding malaria prevention and good affordability and availability of LLINs.
Conclusion

Despite good traveller knowledge regarding malaria control measures, use of LLINs was limited. Use of LLINs in the prevention of malaria among travellers from low to high transmission settings needs to be prioritized. This calls for increased availability of LLINs and promotion of appropriate malaria prevention messages by the government to facilitate their adoption by overnight travellers.
Development of a Novel Antibacterial Hydrogel Scaffold Based on Guar Gum/poly (Methylvinylether-alt-Maleic Acid) Containing Cinnamaldehyde-Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles
Authors: Maroufi Leila Yavari , Ghorbani Marjan
Published: March 2021

In this study, we produced a novel chemical cross-linked Guar gum/Poly(methylvinylether-alt-maleicacid) (GG/PMVE-MA) hydrogels with various blending weight ratio of GG, and PMVE-MAn (GG/P20, GG/P40, and GG/P70). These produced hydrogels were analyzed by fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, thermogravimetric analysis, swelling degree, and mechanical characteristics. The results demonstrated that with increasing PMVE-MAn content, thermal stability, swelling degree, and mechanical characteristics of hydrogels were improved. As a result, the GG/P70 hydrogel was selected as an optimal hydrogel. Moreover, MTT analyze indicated that these hydrogels were non-toxic and any reduction or stop of cells growth wasn't observed over time. Additionally, encapsulation of cinnamaldehyde (CA)-loaded chitosan nanoparticles CSNPs into optimal hydrogel formulation significantly (P < 0.05) increased scavenging of DPPH radical about 60%. In addition, the inhibition capability of GG/P70/CA-loaded CSNPs hydrogel against E. coli and S. areus, demonstrating that the hydrogel had high antibacterial and antioxidant activities. The general results showed that this composite hydrogel (GG/P70/CA-loaded CSNPs) could be useful for various applications such as drug delivery, tissue engineering and food industry.
Exosome-Derived microRNAs in Sertoli Cells Inhibit Spermatogonial Apoptosis
Authors: Gao Huihui , Cao Heran , Jin Tianqi , Peng Guofan , Chen Yining , Zeng Wenxian , Zhu Chao , Du Jian , Dong WuZi
Published: March 2021

BackgroundSpermatogenesis is a highly complicated biological process that occurs in the epithelium of the seminiferous tubules. It is regulated by a complex network of endocrine and paracrine factors and juxtacrine testicular cross-talk . Sertoli cells (SCs) play a key role in spermatogenesis due to their production of trophic, differentiation and immune-modulating factors. However, many of the molecular pathways of SCs action remain controversial and unclear. Recently, research has focused on exosomes as an important mechanism of intercellular communication. ResultsW e found that the exosomes derived from SCs ( SC-Exos ) significantly inhibited the apoptosis of the primary spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Total of 1016 miRNAs in SCs and 556 miRNAs in SC-Exos were detected using microRNA (miRNA) high-throughput sequencing. Further, 294 miRNAs were differentially expressed between SCs and SC-Exos. Based on the GO and KEGG analyses, the target genes of 37 (high-expressed in exosomes and RPM>1000) selected miRNAs were involved in multiple biological pathw ays, including the MAPK signaling pathway and PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. And miR-10b is one of the top ten exosomes with relatively large enrichment of microRNA. In addition, the overexpression of miR-10b down-regulated expression of the target KLF4 to reduce spermatogonial apoptosis in SSCs or C18-4 cell line. ConclusionsThe study indicated a large number of small RNAs loaded in exosomes was secreted form the donor SCs to target spermatogonial regulated the apoptosis. And miR-10b inhibits the apoptosis of spermatogonia through the target gene KLF4.
MMP1 and MMP9 are potential prognostic biomarkers and targets for uveal melanoma
Authors: Wang Tianyu , Zhang Yuanyuan , Bai Jianhao , Xue Yawen , Peng Qing
Published: March 2021

Background: Uveal melanoma (UVM) is the leading cause of eye-related mortality worldwide. This study aimed to explore the expression and prognostic value of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in UVM.Methods: Gene expression levels were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and Oncomine databases. Functional and pathway enrichment analyses were performed using the Metascape database. GeneMANIA was then applied to construct a protein-protein interaction network and identify the hub genes. Moreover, overall (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) analysis for the hub genes was performed using the UALCAN and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) online tool. Furthermore, TRRUST was used to predict the targets of the MMPs. Results: Our results revealed that the transcriptional levels of MMP1, MMP9, MMP10, MMP11, MMP13, MMP14, and MMP17 were upregulated in UVM tissues compared to normal tissues. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed, and the top 50 hub genes were identified. The functions of MMPs and their neighboring proteins are mainly associated with ECM-receptor interaction, proteoglycans in cancer, the IL-17 signaling pathway, and microRNAs in cancer. Among the MMPs, MMP1/2/9/11/14/15/16/17/24 played significant roles in the progression of UVM from stage 3 to stage 4. We also found that the expression of MMP1, MMP 2, MMP 9, and MMP 16 was positively correlated with OS and DFS in patients with UVM. Additionally, 18 transcription factors associated with nine MMPs were identified.Conclusions: The results of this study may provide potential biomarkers and targets for UVM. However, further studies are required to confirm these results.
The Long-Lasting Persistence of SARS-CoV-2 Nucleic Acid in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Li Shan , Wu Chaojie , Zhang Mingshun , Zhou Lianzheng , Xiang Jie , Zhang Wei , Ma Yuan , Ding Wenqiu , Wang Zhengxia , Huang Mao , Ji Ningfei
Published: March 2021

Background: Although recurring cases of COVID-19 have been sporadically reported, the long-persistence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is still arguable. We aimed to provide the evidences of recovered COVID-19 patients with long-lasting positive SARS-CoV-2 RNA tests in a Chinese hospital. Case presentations: We reported 4 discharged patients with COVID-19 patients relapsed during the period of self-quarantine, leading to an extended disease course. All of four patients were historically healthy without known underlying diseases (diabetes, hypertension, cancer, i.e.) which may influence the disease course. Conclusion: The persistent course of SARS-COV-2 nucleic acid test positive in these 4 cases was prolonged, which provided some ideas for the long-term existence of SARS-COV-2 RNA in convalescent patients.
Differences and Similarities in Clinical and Functional Responses Among Patients Receiving Tofacitinib Monotherapy, Tofacitinib Plus Methotrexate, and Adalimumab Plus Methotrexate: A Post-hoc Analysis of Data From Oral Strategy
Authors: Takeuchi Tsutomu , Fleischmann Roy , Iikuni Noriko , Shi Harry , Soma Koshika , Paulissen Jerome , Hirose Tomohiro , Smolen Josef S.
Published: March 2021

BackgroundThis post-hoc analysis assessed clinical and functional responses to tofacitinib monotherapy, tofacitinib + methotrexate (MTX), and adalimumab + MTX, in patients with rheumatoid arthritis enrolled in the ORAL Strategy study, including evaluation of patient-level data using cumulative probability plots.MethodsIn the 12-month, phase IIIb/IV ORAL Strategy study, patients with rheumatoid arthritis and an inadequate response to MTX were randomized to receive tofacitinib 5 mg twice daily (BID), tofacitinib 5 mg BID + MTX, or adalimumab 40 mg every other week + MTX. In this post-hoc analysis, cumulative probability plots were generated for mean percent change from baseline (%∆) in Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI; clinical response) and mean change from baseline (∆) in Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index (HAQ-DI; functional response) at month 12. Median C-reactive protein (CRP) levels by time period were summarized by CDAI remission (≤2.8) status at months 6 and 12. ResultsData for 1146 patients were analyzed. At month 12, cumulative probability plots for %∆CDAI and ∆HAQ-DI were similar across treatments in patients with greater response. At lower levels of response, patients receiving tofacitinib monotherapy did not respond as well as those receiving combination therapies. With tofacitinib + MTX, numerically higher baseline CRP levels and numerically larger post-baseline CRP reductions were seen in patients achieving CDAI remission at months 6 and 12 vs those who did not.ConclusionsThese results suggest that patients with a greater response did well, irrespective of which therapy they received. Patients with lesser response had better outcomes with combination therapies vs tofacitinib monotherapy, suggesting they benefitted from MTX. High pre‑treatment CRP levels may be associated with better response to tofacitinib + MTX. Trial registration﻿ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02187055. Registered 08 July 2014, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02187055?term=NCT02187055&draw=2&rank=1
Sediment Thickness and Moho Depth Beneath Western Indonesian Region From Teleseismic Receiver Function
Authors: Bahri Syaiful , Suryanto Wiwit , Ngadmanto Drajat
Published: March 2021

The Earth's crust layer and sediment in Western Indonesia has been studied using the inversion of teleseismic receiver function from BMKG’s seismic network. Earthquake events were analyzed in this study with a moment magnitude greater than 6.0 with epicentral distances of 30° to 90°. A total of 60 earthquake events were observed and recorded by 91 stations around the study area. Furthermore, an inversion process was carried out using the initial velocity model from the modification of the AK135f velocity model to obtain the shear wave velocity structure below each stations. The velocity model from the azimuthally stacked vertical receiver function showed that the sediment layer had a relatively medium shear wave velocity value with an average of 2.1 km/s, while the crust layer had 4.60 km/s. The sedimentary layer thickness in this region also varies between 2 km to 10 km. A relatively thick sediment layer of about 8 km to 10 km was observed in two locations, in East Kalimantan associated with the Kutai Basin and Northern part of Sumatera in the North Sumatera Basin, a two major oil producer basinal area in Indonesia. The Moho discontinuity was also found at depths that vary between 16 km to 50 km. In addition, the most shallow Moho depth is 16 km below the North Kalimantan and North part of West Java, while the deeper Moho depth of 50 km is located below East Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan, North Sumatera and South Sumatera.
Autism Screening at 18 Months of Age: a Comparison of the Q-CHAT and the M-CHAT
Authors: Sturner Raymond , Howard Barbara , Bergmann Paul , Attar Shana , Stewart Lydia , Bet Kerry , Allison Carrie , Baron-Cohen Simon
Published: March 2021

Background: Autism screening is recommended at 18 and 24-month pediatric well visits. The M-CHAT-R screen requires a follow-up interview (M-CHAT-R/F) when positive. M-CHAT-R/F may be less accurate for 18- than 24-month-olds and accuracy for identification prior to two years is not known in samples including children passing screens. Since autism symptoms may emerge gradually, items with ordinal responses, such as Q-CHAT-10, might better capture autism signs than the dichotomous (i.e., yes/no) items in M-CHAT-R. The objective of this study was to determine the accuracy of the M-CHAT-R/F and the Q-CHAT-10 for predicting autism in a sample of children who screen positive or negative at 18 months old.Methods: This is a community pediatrics validation study with screen positive (96) and age and practice-matched screen negative children (314) recruited for diagnostic evaluations completed prior to two years old.Clinical diagnosis of autism based on results of in-person diagnostic autism evaluations by research reliable testers blind to screening results and using the ADOS-2 Toddler module, Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL) per standard guidelines, and ADOS-T algorithm.Results: While the M-CHAT-R/F had higher specificity and PPV compared to M-CHAT-R as expected, performance characteristics, including improved sensitivity with similar PPV, favored Q-CHAT-10 (scoring adjusted to capture the full range of frequency items). Limitations: Many parents declined participation and the sample skewed toward higher educated parents. Results cannot be extended to older ages. Conclusions: The limitations of the M-CHAT-R/F at the 18-month-visit include low sensitivity with minimal balancing benefit of improved PPV from the follow-up interview. The Q-CHAT-10 shows advantages over M-CHAT-R/F including requiring half the number of items and no follow-up interview, yet it did not improve the low PPV at 18 months. Ordinal, rather than dichotomous, scoring of autism screening items appears to be beneficial at this age. The Q-CHAT-10 with adjusted scoring is thus a better alternative to the M-CHAT at the 18-month-visit, providing better detection of children who can be diagnosed at this age even though psychometrics of both approaches still fall below recommended standards, consistent with growing recognition that screening needs to also occur repeatedly beyond this age.
The first Chinese chest EIT device for ICU applications: system introduction and evaluation
Authors: Qu Shuo-yao , Dai Meng , Wu Shuo , Lv Zhi-rang , Ti Xin-yu , Fu Feng
Published: March 2021

Background

Chest electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is a promising application which is used to monitor the ventilation and perfusion of the lung at the bedside dynamically. The aim of the study was to introduce the first Chinese made chest EIT device for ICU application (Pulmo EIT-100). The system design of the hardware and software was briefly introduced. The performance of the system was compared to PulmoVista 500 (Dräger Medical) in healthy volunteers.
Methods

The EIT system Pulmo EIT-100 consists of impedance measurement module, power supply module, PC all-in-one machine, medical cart and accessories. The performance of the system current source and voltage measurement unit was tested. A total of 50 healthy lung volunteers were prospectively examined. Subjects were asked to perform repetitive slow vital capacity (SVC) maneuvers with a spirometer. EIT measurements were performed in the following sequence during each SVC with: (1) Pulmo EIT-100, (2) PulmonVista500, (3) Pulmo EIT-100 and (4) PulmonVista500. Linearity and regional ventilation distribution of the reconstructed images from two devices were compared.
Results

The output frequency stability of the current source was 2ppm. The amplitude error within one hour was less than 0.32‰. The output impedance of the current source was about 50 KΩ. The signal-to-noise ratio of each measurement channel was ≥ 60 dB. For fixed resistance measurements, the measured values drifted about 0.08% within one hour. For human subjects, the correlations between the spirometry volume and EIT impedance from two devices were both 0.99 ± 0.01. No statistical significances were found in the parameters investigated. The repeatability (variability) of measures from the same device was comparable.
Conclusion

Our EIT device delivers reliable data and might be used for patient measurement in a clinical setting.
Transient Central Precocious Puberty: a new entity among the spectrum of Precocious Puberty?
Authors: Assirelli Valentina , Baronio Federico , Ortolano Rita , Maltoni Giulio , Zucchini Stefano , Natale Valeria Di , Cassio Alessandra
Published: March 2021

Objective

The aim of this study is to evaluate clinical, hormonal and ultrasound features in girls with precocious puberty (PP).
Methods

96 girls referred to our center for PP between 1st January 2007 and 31th December 2017 fulfilled inclusion criteria and were recruited for the study. 3 groups of patients were considered. Group 1: 56 subjects with Central PP (CPP) requiring treatment with GnRH analogue; Group 2: 22 subjects characterized by some criteria of CPP without indication to treatment, “Transient CPP”(T-CPP); Group 3: 18 subjects with Isolated Thelarche (IT). A questionnaire about anamnestic and environmental data was provided to patients which were followed through normal clinical care.
Results

an increase in Groups 2 and 3 diagnosis was observed over the years. LH peak (UI/ml) at diagnosis was higher in Group 1 vs Group 2 (11.7 ± 7.8 vs 4.58 ± 1.60)(p < 0.001) and 3 (11.7 ± 7.9 vs 2.18 ± 1.15)(p < 0.001) and also in Group 2 vs Group 3 (4.58 ± 1.6 vs 2.18 ± 1.1)(p < 0.05). At 6–12 months, LH peak of Group 2 was lower (2.35 ± 1.3) compared with diagnosis data (4.58 ± 1.60)(p < 0.05). Uterine Longitudinal Diameter (ULD) (mm) was longer in Group 1 (42.53 ± 6.26) vs Group 2 (36.54 ± 4.86)(p < 0.001) and 3 (30.70 ± 4.74)(p < 0.001), and this difference is also found between Group 2 and 3 (p < 0.005). Potential exposure to herbicides and pesticides was reported in 17.5% in Group 2 vs 12.5% in Group 1 (p < 0.001).
Conclusions

This study seemed to indicate an increase in diagnosis of T-CPP and IT cases. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a form defined as T-CPP, characterized by a partial activation in the HPG axis normalizing over time. As for environmental factors, we indirectly evaluated the role of some endocrine disruptors (EDCs) affecting pubertal axis activation, without leading to a complete maturation.
WITHDRAWN: Liver resection promotes (regulates) pro-inflammatory cytokines in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Fathi Farshid , Sanei Behnam , Hakemi Mazdak Ganjalikhani , Saidi Reza F. , Rezaei Abbass
Published: March 2021

Objective: Several animal studies have shown the roles of cytokines in regulating liver regeneration following liver resection (LR), which is a type of surgery is designed to remove cancerous tumors from liver. This study investigated how the expressions and serum levels of some pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) were changed during LR.Liver tissues from 15 patients with HCC were collected and the levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumornecrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), IL-1α, IL-1 β, IL-10, and transforming growth factor- beta1 (TGF-β1) were assessed using real-time PCR assay at different times before and after LR. The serum values of TNF-α and IL-6 were also measured by ELISA.Results: After 60 and 90 minutes of LR, IL-6 gene expression was significantly increased (P < 0.001-0.05). The same trend was also observed in TNF-α expression after 90 minutes of LR (P <0.01). No significant changes were observed in the expressions of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-10, and TGF-β1 before and after LR. In addition, LR had significant effects on TNF-α and IL-6 serum levels (P<0.05-0.0001). Our data provided further evidence to reveal that IL-6 and TNF-α cytokines are critical to improve liver regeneration.
Herbal Medicine for Cervicogenic Dizziness: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Oh Hyunjoo , Shin Seungwon , Lee Euiju , Chung Won-Seok
Published: March 2021

Background: Herbal medicines (HMs) have been widely used in the treatment of cervicogenic dizziness (CGD) based on their empirical effectiveness and safety. Herein, we reviewed and evaluated the clinical evidence on the efficacy and safety of HM for CGD. Methods: Among the relevant studies published up to December 2019 in 11 electronic databases, only randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were included. The studies’ methodological quality was assessed using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomised trials, and the strength of evidence for the main findings was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. Results: All 17 included RCTs with 1,797 participants were conducted with six types of modified HM prescriptions and three types of active controls. More than half of the included studies were of low quality because of the high risk of bias due to deviations from the intended intervention. HMs plus active controls were more effective in CGD treatment than active controls alone. HMs plus antivertigo drugs, HMs plus manual therapy, and HMs plus acupuncture therapy were all effective in CGD treatment, with HMs plus antivertigo drugs showing the most reliable effect. All HM prescriptions were effective for specific patterns of CGD when administered with active controls, with Banxia Baizhu Tianma tang and Dingxuan tang demonstrating the most reliable effect. No serious adverse events were reported in all included studies. Conclusions: The current evidence suggests that HMs may enhance the treatment effect on CGD when combined with other treatments without serious adverse events. Further high-quality evidence is needed to draw a definite conclusion.Systematic review registration: PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42020199222), and the Research Registry (Review Registry Unique Identifying Number: reviewregistry1036)
Initial Presenting Symptoms, Comorbidities and Severity of COVID-19 Patients Attending Hmawbi and Indine Treatment Centers During the Second Wave of Epidemic in Myanmar: a Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Htun Ye Minn , Win Tun Tun , Aung Aung , Latt Thant Zin , Phyo Yan Naung , Tun Thet Min , Htun Nyan Sint , Tun Kyaw Myo , Htun Khin Aung
Published: March 2021

Background: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by a highly contagious virus called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 emerged in China at the end of 2019 and became a major threat to health around the world. The health experts are still learning more about the detailed knowledge of the natural course and the severity of COVID-19. The study aimed to assess the prevalence and association of severity with demographic characteristics, initial presenting symptoms, and comorbidities among COVID-19 patients in Treatment Centers, Myanmar. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Hmawbi and Indine Treatment Centers from November to December 2020 and a total of 176 adult COVID-19 patients participated in this study. Data were collected by telephone surveys using structured questionnaires. The odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was used as a measure of association and the independent associated factors for severity (pneumonia) were investigated using logistic regression analysis. Results: In total, 76.7% were symptomatic patients and the most common presenting symptoms were fever 43.2%, loss of smell 42.0%, and cough 25.6%. The prevalence of comorbidity in COVID-19 patients was 35.8% and the most common comorbidities were hypertension 19.9%, heart diseases 9.7%, and diabetes mellitus 9.1%, respectively. As a severity, 23.3% of patients had signs of pneumonia. The associated factors of pneumonia were aged 60 years and older [Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 8.82, 95 % CI: 2.68-29.08], overweight or obese (AOR: 3.33, 95% CI: 1.30-8.54), current smoking (AOR: 15.29, 95% CI: 2.91-80.37), and alcohol drinking (AOR: 7.04, 95% CI: 1.40-35.31). Thirty percent of symptomatic patients present with pneumonia. Conclusions: Nearly one-fourth of the patients developed pneumonia. The COVID-19 patients who are aged 60 years and older, overweight or obese, current smokers, and alcohol drinkers should be monitored carefully during the course of treatment to reduce the disease severity.