bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Significant detection of new germline pathogenic variants in Australian Pancreatic Cancer Screening Program participants
Authors: Murali Krithika , Dwarte Tanya M. , Nikfarjam Mehrdad , Tucker Katherine M. , Vaughan Rhys B. , Efthymiou Marios , Collins Allison , Spigelman Allan D. , Salmon Lucinda , Johns Amber L. , Williams David B. , Delatycki Martin B. , John Thomas , Stoita Alina
Published: August 2021

Background

The Australian Pancreatic Cancer Screening Program (APCSP) offers endoscopic ultrasound surveillance for individuals at increased risk of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) with all participants requiring assessment by a Familial Cancer Service before or after study enrolment.

Methods

Individuals aged 40–80 years (or 10 years younger than the earliest PDAC diagnosis) were eligible for APCSP study entry if they had 1) ≥ two blood relatives with PDAC (at least one of first-degree association); 2) a clinical or genetic diagnosis of Hereditary Pancreatitis or Peutz-Jeghers syndrome irrespective of PDAC family history; or 3) a known PDAC predisposition germline pathogenic variant (BRCA2, PALB2, CDKN2A, or Lynch syndrome) with ≥one PDAC-affected first- or second-degree relative.

Retrospective medical record review was conducted for APCSP participants enrolled at the participating Australian hospitals from January 2011 to December 2019. We audited the genetic investigations offered by multiple Familial Cancer Services who assessed APCSP participants according to national guidelines, local clinical protocol and/or the availability of external research-funded testing, and the subsequent findings. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel.

Results

Of 189 kindreds (285 participants), 50 kindreds (71 participants) had a known germline pathogenic variant at enrolment (BRCA2 n = 35, PALB2 n = 6, CDKN2A n = 3, STK11 n = 3, PRSS1 n = 2, MLH1 n = 1). Forty-eight of 136 (35%) kindreds with no known germline pathogenic variant were offered mutation analysis; 89% was clinic-funded, with increasing self-funded testing since 2016. The relatively low rates of genetic testing performed reflects initial strict criteria for clinic-funded genetic testing. New germline pathogenic variants were detected in five kindreds (10.4%) after study enrolment (BRCA2 n = 3 kindreds, PALB2 n = 1, CDKN2A n = 1). Of note, only eight kindreds were reassessed by a Familial Cancer Service since enrolment, with a further 21 kindreds identified as being suitable for reassessment.

Conclusion

Germline pathogenic variants associated with PDAC were seen in 29.1% of our high-risk cohort (55/189 kindreds; 82/285 participants). Importantly, 10.4% of kindreds offered genetic testing were newly identified as having germline pathogenic variants, with majority being BRCA2. As genetic testing standards evolve rapidly in PDAC, 5-yearly reassessment of high-risk individuals by Familial Cancer Services is warranted.
Characterizing DNA methylation signatures and their potential functional roles in Merkel cell carcinoma
Authors: Gujar Hemant , Mehta Arjun , Li Hong-Tao , Tsai Yvonne C. , Qiu Xiangning , Weisenberger Daniel J. , Jasiulionis Miriam Galvonas , In Gino K. , Liang Gangning
Published: August 2021

Background

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but aggressive skin cancer with limited treatment possibilities. Merkel cell tumors display with neuroendocrine features and Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) infection in the majority (80%) of patients. Although loss of histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) has been shown during MCC tumorigenesis, epigenetic dysregulation has largely been overlooked.

Methods

We conducted global DNA methylation profiling of clinically annotated MCC primary tumors, metastatic skin tumors, metastatic lymph node tumors, paired normal tissues, and two human MCC cell lines using the Illumina Infinium EPIC DNA methylation BeadArray platform.

Results

Significant differential DNA methylation patterns across the genome are revealed between the four tissue types, as well as based on MCPyV status. Furthermore, 964 genes directly regulated by promoter or gene body DNA methylation were identified with high enrichment in neuro-related pathways. Finally, our findings suggest that loss of H3K27me3 occupancy in MCC is attributed toKDM6BandEZHIPoverexpression as a consequence of promoter DNA hypomethylation.

Conclusions

We have demonstrated specific DNA methylation patterns for primary MCC tumors, metastatic MCCs, and adjacent-normal tissues. We have also identified DNA methylation markers that not only show potential diagnostic or prognostic utility in MCC management, but also correlate with MCC tumorigenesis, MCPyV expression, neuroendocrine features, and H3K27me3 status. The identification of DNA methylation alterations in MCC supports the need for further studies to understand the clinical implications of epigenetic dysregulation and potential therapeutic targets in MCC.
Serum levels of 1,5-anhydroglucitol and 1,5-anhydrofructose-derived advanced glycation end products in patients undergoing hemodialysis
Authors: Tanaka Kenji , Sakasai-Sakai Akiko , Motomiya Yasuki , Yoneda Tatsuo , Takeuchi Masayoshi
Published: August 2021

Background

1,5-anhydroglucitol is a reduction product of 1,5-anhydrofructose. Circulating 1,5-anhydroglucitol is usually excreted by the kidneys and is reabsorbed via sodium-glucose co-transporter 4 in the renal tubules. In patients on hemodialysis, serum levels of 1,5-anhydroglucitol have been reported to be low; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear.

Methods

We measured inter-dialysis changes in the levels of serum 1,5-anhydroglucitol and 1,5-anhydrofructose-derived advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in 78 patients on hemodialysis. Serum levels of 1,5-anhydrofructose-derived AGEs were also determined using a polyclonal antibody.

Results

The serum 1,5-anhydroglucitol level was decreased to as low as 2.0 μg/mL in the regular hemodialysis group; however, we could not verify changes in the serum 1,5-anhydroglucitol level during inter-dialysis days because of undetectable levels in 29 patients. The measured serum level of 1,5-anhydrofructose-derived AGEs was significantly increased in both patient groups. In addition, the 1,5-anhydrofructose-derived AGEs/1,5-anhydroglucitol ratio was higher in patients on hemodialysis than in controls.

Conclusions

Accelerated glycation of 1,5-anhydrofructose is one possible mechanism by which serum 1,5-anhydroglucitol levels are lowered in patients on HD, and we propose that the 1,5-anhydrofructose-derived AGEs/1,5-anhydroglucitol ratio should be measured in clinical settings in which patients have low serum levels of 1,5-AG.
Differences in the roles of types 1 and 2 diabetes in the susceptibility to the risk of fracture: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Dou Jiaqing , Wang Jing , Zhang Qiu
Published: August 2021

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) causes excess risk of fracture at varied sites. Whereas, the difference between the roles of types 1 DM (T1DM) and 2 DM (T2DM) diabetes in the risk of fractures remains limited and inconclusive. We, therefore, conducted a meta-analysis to assess the differences for the associations of T1DM and T2DM with the risk of fractures.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane library for eligible studies until May 2021. The odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to calculate the pooled effect estimates for the associations of T1DM and T2DM with the risk of fractures using the random-effects model. An indirect comparison results for the ratio of OR (ROR) with 95% CI were also applied to assess the difference between T1DM and T2DM with the risk of fractures.

Results

Twenty-two cohort studies involving a total of 6,484,851 individuals were selected for meta-analysis. We noted that T1DM was associated with an increased risk of all fractures (OR: 1.72; 95% CI 1.36–2.19;P < 0.001), and fractures at the hip (OR: 4.01; 95% CI 2.90–5.54;P < 0.001), upper arm (OR: 2.20; 95% CI 1.61–3.00;P < 0.001), ankle (OR: 1.97; 95% CI 1.24–3.14;P = 0.004), and vertebrae (OR: 2.18; 95% CI 1.85–2.57;P < 0.001). Moreover, T2DM induced excess risk to all fractures (OR: 1.19; 95% CI 1.09–1.31;P < 0.001), including fractures at the hip (OR: 1.25; 95% CI 1.15–1.35;P < 0.001), upper arm (OR: 1.42; 95% CI 1.20–1.67;P < 0.001), and ankle (OR: 1.15; 95% CI 1.01–1.31;P = 0.029). Furthermore, we noted that T1DM versus T2DM was associated with greater risk to all fractures (ROR: 1.45; 95% CI 1.12–1.87;P = 0.005), including fractures at the hip (ROR: 3.21; 95% CI 2.30–4.48;P < 0.001), upper arm (ROR: 1.55; 95% CI 1.09–2.20;P = 0.015), and ankle (ROR: 1.71; 95% CI 1.06–2.78;P = 0.029).

Conclusions

This study found that T1DM caused an excess risk to all fractures, including fractures at the hip, upper arm, and ankle than T2DM. Further studies should therefore be conducted to directly compare the differences between T1DM and T2DM with the risk of fractures at various sites.
Visualizing cellularity and angiogenesis in newly-diagnosed glioblastoma with diffusion and perfusion MRI and FET-PET imaging
Authors: Liesche-Starnecker Friederike , Prokop Georg , Yakushev Igor , Preibisch Christine , Delbridge Claire , Meyer Hanno S. , Aftahy Kaywan , Barz Melanie , Meyer Bernhard , Zimmer Claus , Schlegel Jürgen , Wiestler Benedikt , Gempt Jens
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Combining imaging modalities has become an essential tool for assessment of tumor biology in glioblastoma (GBM) patients. Aim of this study is to understand how tumor cellularity and neovascularization are reflected in O-(2-[18F]fluoroethyl)-L-tyrosine positron emission tomography ([18F] FET PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) parameters, including cerebral blood volume (CBV), fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD).

Methods

In this prospective cohort, 162 targeted biopsies of 43 patients with therapy-naïve, isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) wildtype GBM were obtained after defining areas of interest based on imaging parameters [18F] FET PET, CBV, FA and MD. Histopathological analysis of cellularity and neovascularization was conducted and results correlated to imaging data.

Results

ANOVA analysis showed a significant increase of CBV in areas with high neovascularization. For diffusion metrics, and in particular FA, a trend for inverse association with neovascularization was found. [18F] FET PET showed a significant positive correlation to cellularity, while CBV also showed a trend towards correlation with cellularity, not reaching significant levels. In contrast, MD and FA were negatively associated with cellularity.

Conclusion

Our study confirms that amino acid PET and MR imaging parameters are indicative of histological tumor properties in glioblastoma and highlights the ability of multimodal imaging to assess tumor biology non-invasively.
Forebrain Shh overexpression improves cognitive function and locomotor hyperactivity in an aneuploid mouse model of Down syndrome and its euploid littermates
Authors: Gao Feng J. , Klinedinst Donna , Fernandez Fabian-Xosé , Cheng Bei , Savonenko Alena , Devenney Benjamin , Li Yicong , Wu Dan , Pomper Martin G. , Reeves Roger H.
Published: August 2021

Down syndrome (DS) is the leading genetic cause of intellectual disability and causes early-onset dementia and cerebellar hypoplasia. The prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is elevated in children with DS. The aneuploid DS mouse model “Ts65Dn” shows prominent brain phenotypes, including learning and memory deficits, cerebellar hypoplasia, and locomotor hyperactivity. Previous studies indicate that impaired Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling contributes to neurological phenotypes associated with DS and neurodegenerative diseases. However, because of a lack of working inducible Shh knock-in mice, brain region-specific Shh overexpression and its effects on cognitive function have not been studied in vivo. Here, with Gli1-LacZ reporter mice, we demonstrated that Ts65Dn had reduced levels of Gli1, a sensitive readout of Shh signaling, in both hippocampus and cerebellum at postnatal day 6. Through site-specific transgenesis, we generated an inducible human Shh knock-in mouse, TRE-bi-hShh-Zsgreen1 (TRE-hShh), simultaneously expressing dually-lipidated Shh-Np and Zsgreen1 marker in the presence of transactivator (tTA). Double transgenic mice “Camk2a-tTA;TRE-hShh” and “Pcp2-tTA;TRE-hShh” induced Shh overexpression and activated Shh signaling in a forebrain and cerebellum, respectively, specific manner from the perinatal period. Camk2a-tTA;TRE-hShh normalized locomotor hyperactivity and improved learning and memory in 3-month-old Ts65Dn, mitigated early-onset severe cognitive impairment in 7-month-old Ts65Dn, and enhanced spatial cognition in euploid mice. Camk2a-tTA;TRE-hShh cohort maintained until 600days old showed that chronic overexpression of Shh in forebrain from the perinatal period had no effect on longevity of euploid or Ts65Dn. Pcp2-tTA;TRE-hShh did not affect cognition but mitigated the phenotype of cerebellar hypoplasia in Ts65Dn. Our study provides the first in vivo evidence that Shh overexpression from the perinatal period protects DS brain integrity and enhances learning and memory in normal mice, indicating the broad therapeutic potential of Shh ligand for other neurological conditions. Moreover, the first inducible hShh site-specific knock-in mouse could be widely used for spatiotemporal Shh signaling regulation.
Impact of the conjugation of antibodies to the surfaces of polymer nanoparticles on the immune cell targeting abilities
Authors: Lee Na Kyeong , Wang Chi-Pin James , Lim Jaesung , Park Wooram , Kwon Ho-Keun , Kim Se-Na , Kim Tae-Hyung , Park Chun Gwon
Published: August 2021

Antibodies have been widely used to provide targeting ability and to enhance bioactivity owing to their high specificity, availability, and diversity. Recent advances in biotechnology and nanotechnology permit site-specific engineering of antibodies and their conjugation to the surfaces of nanoparticles (NPs) in various orientations through chemical conjugations and physical adhesions. This study proposes the conjugation of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) NPs with antibodies by using two distinct methods, followed by a comparison between the cell-targeting efficiencies of both techniques. Full-length antibodies were conjugated to the PLGA-poly(ethylene glycol)-carboxylic acid (PLGA-PEG-COOH) NPs through the conventional carbodiimide coupling reaction, and f(ab′)2 antibody fragments were conjugated to the PLGA-poly(ethylene glycol)-maleimide(PLGA-PEG-Mal) NPs through interactions between the f(ab′)2 fragment thiol groups and the maleimide located on the nanoparticle surface. The results demonstrate that the PLGA nanoparticles conjugated with the f(ab′)2 antibody fragments had a higher targeting efficiency in vitro and in vivo than that of the PLGA nanoparticles conjugated with the full-length antibodies. The results of this study can be built upon to design a delivery technique for drugs through biocompatible nanoparticles.
LncRNA FBXL19-AS1 promotes proliferation and metastasis of cervical cancer through upregulating COL1A1 as a sponge of miR-193a-5p
Authors: Huang Xiaoyong , Shi Haiyan , Shi Xinghai , Jiang Xuemei
Published: August 2021

Background

Cervical cancer (CC) is one of the most common and malignant tumors in women. In this study, we aim to explore the role and mechanism of F-box and leucine rich repeat protein 19 antisense RNA 1 (FBXL19-AS1), a novel long-chain non coding RNA (lncRNA) with marked roles in a variety of tumors, in regulating the proliferation and metastasis of CC.

Methods

The expression of FBXL19-AS1, miR-193a-5p and COL1A1 were detected by RT-PCR and western blot. Gain- and loss-of functional assays of FBXL19-AS1 and miR-193a-5p were performed in CC cell lines in vitro or in vivo. The proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of CC cells were determined.

Results

FBXL19-AS1 and COL1A1 were significantly up-regulated in CC tissues, while miR-193a-5p was significantly down-regulated. Overexpression of FBXL19-AS1 significantly promoted the proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT and growth of CC cells and inhibited apoptosis, while knockdown of FBXL19-AS1 had the opposite effects. On the other hand, miR-193a-5p inhibited the proliferation and metastasis of CC cells. Mechanistically, FBXL19-AS1 functioned as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) and inhibited the expression of miR-193a-5p, which targeted at the 3’-UTR site of COL1A1 and negatively regulated COL1A1 expression.

Conclusions

FBXL19-AS1 promotes the proliferation and metastasis of CC cells by sponging miR-193a-5p and up-regulating COL1A1.
Glycemic fluctuation exacerbates inflammation and bone loss and alters microbiota profile around implants in diabetic mice with experimental peri-implantitis
Authors: Li Hao , Wang Yufeng , Zhang Dong , Chen Tsute , Hu Arthur , Han Xiaozhe
Published: August 2021

Background

The impact of glycemic fluctuation under diabetic condition on peri-implantitis in diabetic patients remains unclear. We hypothesized that glycemic fluctuation has greater adverse effect on experimental peri-implantitis, compared with sustained high blood glucose in diabetes.

Results

Maxillary left first and second molars of diabetic db/db mice were extracted and were replaced with one dental implant in the healed edentulous space. Glycemic control or fluctuation were managed by constant or interrupted oral administration of rosiglitazone to these mice. Meanwhile, experimental peri-implantitis was induced by ligation around implants. After 14 weeks, inflammatory responses, and peri-implant bone loss, together with oral microbiota profile were analyzed. Diabetic mice with glycemic fluctuation showed greater peri-implant bone loss, inflammatory cell infiltration, and osteoclastogenesis, compared with mice with sustained hyperglycemia. Compared to sustained hyperglycemia, glycemic fluctuation led to further increase in IL-1β, TNFα, RANKL, TLR2/4, IRAK1, and TRAF6 mRNA expression in peri-implant gingival tissues. Both rosiglitazone-induced glycemic control and glycemic fluctuation caused microbiota profile change in diabetic mice compared to that in uncontrolled hyperglycemic mice.

Conclusions

This study suggests that glycemic fluctuation may aggravate peri-implantitis inflammation and bone loss, which may be associated with a shift in peri-implant microbial profile towards dysbiotic changes and the activation of TLR2/4-IRAK1-TRAF6 signaling.
Investigating seasonality, policy intervention and forecasting in the Indian gold futures market: a comparison based on modeling non-constant variance using two different methods
Authors: Nargunam Rupel , Wei William W. S. , Anuradha N.
Published: August 2021

This study focuses on the Indian gold futures market where primary participants hold sentimental value for the underlying asset and are globally ranked number two in terms of the largest private holdings in the physical form. The trade of gold futures relates to seasons, festivity, and government policy. So, the paper will discuss seasonality and intervention in the analysis. Due to non-constant variance, we will also use the standard variance stabilization transformation method and the ARIMA/GARCH modelling method to compare the forecast performance on the gold futures prices. The results from the analysis show that while the standard variance transformation method may provide better point forecast values, the ARIMA/GARCH modelling method provides much shorter forecast intervals. The empirical results of this study which rationalise the effect of seasonality in the Indian bullion derivative market have not been reported in literature.
The well-being of newly regularized migrant workers: Determinants of their satisfaction with life as compared to undocumented migrant workers and regular local residents
Authors: Burton-Jeangros Claudine , Duvoisin Aline , Consoli Liala , Fakhoury Julien , Jackson Yves
Published: August 2021

Subjective assessments of well-being are becoming routine indicators, considering that material resources are insufficient to capture people’s satisfaction with life. Examining the unique situation of undocumented migrant workers, driven by aspirations for a better life but constrained by their limited rights in the country of destination, we assess their satisfaction with life and the factors that matter in their evaluations. Data were collected in Geneva (Switzerland), in a study comparing those who have just received a residency permit or about to obtaining it after submitting a regularization request (n = 195) with those who were still undocumented and/or had not submitted a regularization request at the time of our study (n = 231). In addition, comparisons were made with a sample of regular local residents (n = 175). Data obtained through standardized questionnaires include a range of material and non-material determinants, some unique to migrants and others common to the three populations. Satisfaction with life is significantly lower among undocumented migrant workers while those who are regularized and regular local residents report similar levels of well-being. Social participation, self-reported health and discrimination are associated to satisfaction with life among undocumented migrant workers. Among those being regularized, having been longer in the country of destination is associated with lower well-being. Among regular local residents, the only significant factor for a better satisfaction with life is having a partner. Material determinants, while distributed in vastly different levels, do not influence satisfaction with life. Despite the high satisfaction expressed by those who have recently been regularized, policy intervention still have to pay attention to their persisting difficult socioeconomic circumstances amidst a context of overall affluence.
All that glitters are not gold: holds true in female adnexal lesions
Authors: Hussain Mohamed Rafi Kathar , Kulasekeran N. , Anand A. M. , Dhinadhyalan Rajasree
Published: August 2021

Background

Adnexal mass lesions are commonly encountered pathologies that creates diagnostic challenges for radiologist. Diffusion weighted imaging is a vital tool in the radiologist armamentarium for improving the diagnostic accuracy of adnexal lesions other than routine spine echo sequences.

Main body

Functional information about the lesion regarding the mobility of the water molecules in its tissue is assessed by diffusion weighted imaging. In addition to the solid malignant neoplasm, normal blood, fat, necrosis and pus also shows restricted diffusion.

Conclusion

All the lesion that shows restriction in the DWI are not malignant, but converse is mostly true. Knowledge regarding the non-malignant lesion in the ovary that shows restricted diffusion will give a clue in diagnosis, management and treatment of the adnexal lesions.
THE SIGNIFIER AS RUINS
Authors: Kangelaris Fotis
Published: August 2021

Even though the seduction of ruins seems to be coming from a nostalgia for the past which, possibly, refers to the lived experience (Dasein) of youth, of glory and as a result to the vanity of the human creation, to the vanity of life itself, even if we consider ruins as a resistance and victory against time and of this against this very vanity, however, this perception for ruins is nothing but a concealment from the glance of the relation “thing”-signifier and of the way that the “thing” dictates the signifier. Ruins as a regression of the existence towards non-existence, of creativity towards fall, demonstrate the signifier as flowing from the “thing”, the Logos from ineffable, the image from unimagined, of “something” from “nothing”, art itself as a reaction of avoidance of chaos. Essentially, ruins demonstrate meaning as a reaction to “nothing”, for which “nothing” the meaning as ruins regresses when the reason of resistance disappears. Ruins on the way to “nothing”, a step before their absolute disappearance and their return to the protogenic materials of nature from which, besides, they come, that is the fall and crash of the meaning, allow a quick look over the origin of the meaning without the glance being in danger from the emergence of the absolute “nothing” as an origin of the meaning. Ruins attract us because they disclose while at the same time appeal to us because they conceal the void of the “thing” as a descent of the rational world.
FROM EUCLID TO THE AGE OF THE IMAGE
Authors: Kourniatis Nikolaos
Published: August 2021

This paper attempts to give an interpretation of the importance of the role of geometry and in particular the courses of perspective in the formation of the perception of space, in the architectural education. A role that seems to focus both on understanding methods of handling space and its objects, as well as on redefining the real-imaginary relationship; physical – virtual, collective - subjective. This inquiry begins with the axioms of Euclid's Optics, from the period of Girard Desargues to the modern era, placing three different phases in the evolution of the formation of the perception of space, through the sense of vision. In the last part of the work, an application of perspective image remodeling is presented, through mirrors that are placed in an existing space. (fig.1) Geometry plays a dual role in the educational process of architects. On the one hand it aims to interpret the association between the different elements of space by frequently questioning established stimulus-response relations. The pattern of geometric thinking starts with observation and through analysis and questioning - which is a stage defined by its intense illusory nature; it ends up formulating rules and eventually leads to new interpretations of disciplines and relationships that are already known.
FASHION SHOWS IN ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE SITES
Authors: Allegranti Ivan
Published: August 2021

This article has the aim to investigate the relationship between fashion and archaeological heritage sites. This paper start from the analysis of the International Laws regulating the protection both of cultural heritage as well as archaeological heritage such as the UNESCO World Heritage Convention of 1972 or article 167 of the Treaty on the Functioning of Europe. After, it will be devoted to outline the international recommendations on the preservation of cultural heritage. Soon after, the paragraph 5 traces the relationship between archaeological heritage sites and fashion shows made by the most important fashion brands in the world. For instance, paragraph 5 of the paper analyzes a concrete case of a show, the show of Greek designer Mary Katrantzou who showed her collection at the Temple of Poseidon on top the Cliff of Cape Sounion. Thanks to this, it will be analyzed Greek’s law on the protection of antique and cultural heritage. The main achievement of this research, achieved trough the reading and in-depth analysis of international laws, international conventions and the Greek Law 3028/2002 “On the Protection of Antiquities and Cultural Heritage in General”, is the outlining of the discipline concerning private events in archaeological heritage spaces in Greece.
MODERN GRAPHIC DESIGN PROMOTING ARCHAEOLOGICAL ARTIFACTS AND SCIENTIFIC TEXTS
Authors: Skourlis Stelios
Published: August 2021

One of the most demanding and intriguing duties of the art of graphic design is the promotion of not only archaeological artifacts but scientific texts, as well. The skills and cognitive dexterities of the stakeholders involved in these projects exceed by far the common process of graphic designing. A most essential prerequisite is the experience which is based on a deep insight of Typography, Photography, Color Management, Graphic Design, good aesthetics, history and the perception to distinguish and pinpoint the unique artistic value of each and every artifact. So far, the study of archaeological artifacts appeared to be the exclusive right solely of archaeologists, but it is of utter importance that graphic designers, illustrators and photographers follow suit, since the promotion and the design process of a book or an application, is their field of study, as well. The entire process presupposes the ability to combine and unify modern typography, design elements, high quality photographs with newly-discovered artifacts that carry thousands of years of history. The daily process and collaboration with archaeologists is of most vital in order for the project to be successful. The parameters to be considered for just a single artifact, or a brief scientific paper referring to a brief historical period or a timeline are countless, some of which being the historical era, the civilization, the script style, language, religion, religious references and the like.
Why are feasibility studies accessing routinely collected health data? A systematic review
Authors: Mirza Aziza , Yorke-Edwards Victoria , Lensen Sarah , Murray Macey L. , Diaz-Montana Carlos , Carpenter James , Sydes Matthew R. , Love Sharon B.
Published: August 2021

Background: Feasibility trials are often undertaken to determine whether a larger randomised controlled trial (RCT) is achievable. In a recent review, 15 feasibility trials accessed routinely collected health data (RCHD) from UK national databases and registries. This paper looks at attributes of these trials and the reasons why they accessed RCHD. 

Methods: We extracted data from all publicly available sources for the 15 feasibility studies found in a previous review of trials successfully accessing RCHD in the UK between 2013–2018 for the purpose of informing or supplementing participant data. We extracted trial characteristics, the registry accessed, and the way the RCHD was used. 

Results: The 15 feasibility RCTs were conducted in a variety of disease areas, and were generally small (median sample size 100, range 41–4061) and individually randomised (60%, 9/15). The primary trial outcome was predominantly administrative (non-clinical) (80%, 12/15) such as feasibility of patient recruitment. They were more likely to recruit from secondary care (67%, 10/15) settings than primary (33%, 5/15). 

NHS Digital was the most commonly accessed registry (33% (5/15)) with SAIL databank (20% (3/15)), electronic Data Research and Innovation Service (eDRIS) and Paediatric Intensive Care Audit Network (PICANET) (each 13% 2/15) also being accessed. Where the information was clear, the trials used RCHD for data collection during the trial (47%, 7/15), follow-up after the trial (27%, 4/15) and recruitment (13%, 2/15). 

Conclusions: Between 2013 and 2018, 15 feasibility trials successfully accessed UK RCHD. Feasibility trials would benefit, as with other trials, from guidance on reporting the use of RCHD in protocols and publications.
COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in an ethnically diverse community: descriptive findings from the Born in Bradford study
Authors: Dickerson Josie , Lockyer Bridget , Moss Rachael H. , Endacott Charlotte , Kelly Brian , Bridges Sally , Crossley Kirsty L. , Bryant Maria , Sheldon Trevor A. , Wright John , Pickett Kate E. , McEachan Rosemary R.C. ,   Bradford Institute for Health Research COVID-19 Scientific Advisory Group
Published: August 2021

Background: The roll out of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines are underway in the UK, and ensuring good uptake in vulnerable communities will be critical to reducing hospital admissions and deaths. There is emerging evidence that vaccine hesitancy is higher in ethnic minorities and deprived areas, and that this may be caused by distrust and misinformation in the community.  This study aims to understand COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in an ethnically diverse and deprived population of Bradford through the Born in Bradford (BiB) research programme.

Methods: Surveys were sent to parents in BiB who had taken part in a previous Covid-19 survey (n=1727). Cross tabulations explored variation by ethnicity and deprivation. Answers to a question asking the main reason for hesitancy was analysed using thematic analysis.

Results: 535 (31%) of those invited between 29 th October-9 th December 2020 participated. 48% were White British, 37% Pakistani heritage and 15% from other ethnicities; 46% were from the most deprived quintile of the Index of Multiple Deprivation. 29% of respondents do want a vaccine, 10% do not. The majority had not thought about it (29%) or were unsure (30%). Vaccine hesitancy differed by ethnicity and deprivation: 43% (95% CIs: 37-54%) of White British and 60% (35-81%) in the least deprived areas do want a vaccine, compared to 13% (9-19%) of Pakistani heritage and 20% (15-26%) in the most deprived areas. Reasons for not wanting a vaccine were commonly explained by confusion and distrust which was linked to exposure to misinformation.

Conclusions: There is a risk of unequitable roll out of the vaccination programme in the UK with higher vaccine hesitancy in ethnic minorities and those living in deprived areas. There is an urgent need to tackle misinformation that is leading to uncertainty and confusion about the vaccines.
Methodology of Natsal-COVID Wave 1: a large, quasi-representative survey with qualitative follow-up measuring the impact of COVID-19 on sexual and reproductive health in Britain
Authors: Dema Emily , Copas Andrew J , Clifton Soazig , Conolly Anne , Blake Margaret , Riddell Julie , Boso Perez Raquel , Tanton Clare , Bonell Chris , Sonnenberg Pam , Mercer Catherine H , Mitchell Kirstin R , Field Nigel
Published: August 2021

Background: Britain’s National Surveys of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles (Natsal) have been undertaken decennially since 1990 and provide a key data source underpinning sexual and reproductive health (SRH) policy. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted many aspects of sexual lifestyles, triggering an urgent need for population-level data on sexual behaviour, relationships, and service use at a time when gold-standard in-person, household-based surveys with probability sampling were not feasible. We designed the Natsal-COVID study to understand the impact of COVID-19 on the nation’s SRH and assessed the sample representativeness.

Methods: Natsal-COVID Wave 1 data collection was conducted four months (29/7-10/8/2020) after the announcement of Britain’s first national lockdown (23/03/2020). This was an online web-panel survey administered by survey research company, Ipsos MORI. Eligible participants were resident in Britain, aged 18-59 years, and the sample included a boost of those aged 18-29. Questions covered participants’ sexual behaviour, relationships, and SRH service use. Quotas and weighting were used to achieve a quasi-representative sample of the British general population. Participants meeting criteria of interest and agreeing to recontact were selected for qualitative follow-up interviews. Comparisons were made with contemporaneous national probability surveys and Natsal-3 (2010-12) to understand bias.

Results: 6,654 participants completed the survey and 45 completed follow-up interviews. The weighted Natsal-COVID sample was similar to the general population in terms of gender, age, ethnicity, rurality, and, among sexually-active participants, numbers of sexual partners in the past year. However, the sample was more educated, contained more sexually-inexperienced people, and included more people in poorer health.

Conclusions: Natsal-COVID Wave 1 rapidly collected quasi-representative population data to enable evaluation of the early population-level impact of COVID-19 and lockdown measures on SRH in Britain and inform policy. Although sampling was less representative than the decennial Natsals, Natsal-COVID will complement national surveillance data and Natsal-4 (planned for 2022).
Companies’ performance on the internationalization process
Authors: Steinbruch Fernanda Kalil , Nunes Moema Pereira , Nascimento Leandro da Silva
Published: August 2021

Relational studies between internationalization and performance lack analytical deepening, that is why a bibliometric study was developed to identify the aspects that configure the scientific publications on the subject. The total of 104 articles published between 2008 and 2018 in international journals were analyzed, identifying that most of them do not clearly conceptualize the type of performance addressed, while the minority emphasizes the "international", "financial" and "innovation" performances. Although the number of publications is decreasing over the years (an indicative of the subject's maturity), the analyzed results allowed to identify future research opportunities.
Análise do negócio da fintech de pagamentos móveis sob a perspectiva do modelo Canvas
Authors: Arbues Decoster Sonia Rosa , Guedes Jéssica Vasconcelos
Published: August 2021

O objetivo deste estudo é analisar a proposta de valor das plataformas de pagamentos digitais móveis B2Be B2C, por meio do estudo de caso de uma fintech, líder mundial no segmento. As evidências empíricas foram coletadas a partir de análise documental da empresa objeto do estudo, da plataforma digital, entrevistas e contatos telefônicos em 2019. O instrumento de pesquisa foi elaborado a partir do referencial teórico das plataformas two sided network, bem como no Modelo Canvas - BMC. Por meio da análise de conteúdo foi possível evidenciar como a estratégia de adoção do modelo tecnológico inovador contínuo de pagamentos móveis se consolidou calcada na comunicação clara dos serviços propiciados para two-sided network.
Recursos municipais para a saúde e o controle externo
Authors: Amâncio Ferreira Duarte Luiza , Ferreira Júnior Silvio , Poley Martins Ferreira Frederico
Published: August 2021

Mediante abordagem quantitativa, este estudo analisou a aplicação dos recursos próprios municipais em ações e serviços públicos de saúde no estado de Minas Gerais, bem como os pareceres emitidos pelo tribunal de contas em relação aos municípios que não atenderam ao percentual de aplicação exigido na LC 141/2012. Dentre as evidências obtidas, constatou-se que o princípio da insignificância, adotado por alguns conselheiros do Tribunal de Contas, além de condicionar o resultado do julgamento à composição dos membros das Câmaras Deliberativas, acaba por gerar resultados dúbios que não apresentam lastro com as realidades socioeconômicas dos municípios autuados.
Discourse Strategies and Narrative Repetition in the Qurʾān: A Special Reference to al-Shuʿarāʾ
Authors: Farsi Roghayeh
Published: August 2021

This paper attempts to explain some discursive strategies in relation to the cyclic structure of narratives in the Qurʾānic context of Sūrat “al-Shuʿarāʾ.” To that end, the paper works on three essential interrelated aspects of study. First, it detects the cyclic structure that interconnects the seven prophets’ narratives within the Sūrah. Second, it investigates the cross-Sūrah interconnections by examining the (re)occurrence of each prophet’s narrative in the preceding and following sūrahs. Third, it discusses how such coherent interrelationships among the relevant sūrahs can reveal certain discourse strategies such as narrative extension, intention, expansion, juxtaposition, and inversion among these sūrahs. Another, yet interrelated, aspect of the study is to explain the “Us/Them” distinction counted in the Qurʾānic narratives involved, and to show how such dichotomy is realized through the use of referential and predicational strategies. The study adopts and adapts Reisigl and Wodak’s strategies to address this aspect. Within this analytical approach, the narratives are examined on the basis of two strategies; namely, “despatialization” (actionyms, perceptionyms, anthroponyms, and metaphors of spatiality) and “collectivization” (pronouns and possessive determiners). The analysis of data reveals some striking findings that can be summarized in two major points: first, each of the narrative’s topoi in the social actors representation evinces the dominance of predicational strategies; second, the Qurʾānic discourse is bias-free and is, thereby, drastically distinguished from other types of discourse such as political discourse.
Appeal to the Ideas of A.S. Makarenko in Building the Educational Process in a Modern Primary School
Authors: Nevskaya S.
Published: August 2021

The article discusses the problem of using the didactic ideas of the outstanding domestic teacher Anton Semyonovich Makarenko for the successful teaching and comprehensive development of Russian junior schoolchildren, improving modern educational systems, and implementing socially active pedagogy in practice. Particular attention is paid to the role of the teacher’s personality in the formation of a positive attitude of students to cognitive activity. The methodological techniques that were developed and tested in the pedagogical experience of A.S. Makarenko so that the process of acquiring knowledge and mastering skills becomes interesting, useful and personally significant for each student.
Functional and Performance Characteristics Including Principles of Placing the Elements of Voice Alarm Systems on the Market
Authors: Pergał Szymon
Published: August 2021

Aim: The aim of the article was to present voice alarm systems and discuss the legitimacy of their use in fire alarm systems. The article presents the principles of introducing the elements of voice alarm systems to the market and their functional and operational properties. The article was written on the basis of a master’s thesis entitled “The analysis of the functional and operational properties of voice alarm systems” submitted at the Faculty of Safety and Civil Protection Engineering of the Main School of Fire Service. Introduction: Voice alarm system is one of the methods of warning the users of facilities about a threat, but there are many methods of alerting, e.g. sounders or optic signalling devices. Each of the above-mentioned systems has its advantages and disadvantages, so the application of the appropriate system, regardless of whether the regulations impose this obligation on the investor or it will be done on investor's own require deep consideration. Methods: There are several legal acts in force in Poland that define various aspects of voice alarm systems. Facilities in which the use of voice alarm systems (VAS) is mandatory are listed in the Regulation of the Minister of Interior and Administration of 7 June 2010 on fire protection of buildings, other construction facilities and areas. In turn, the specification of the documents required for individual VAS elements is specified in the Regulation (EU) No 305/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March 2011 establishing harmonized conditions for the marketing of construction prod- ucts and repealing Council Directive 89/106/EEC and additionally in Poland in the annex to the regulation of the Minister of Interior and Administration of 20 June 2007 on the list of products used to ensure public safety or protection of health and life and property, as well as the rules for issuing admittance for use of these products. Results: It has been found that many elements of voice alarm systems require careful analysis. Starting with the conformity assessment of the system components through its parameters, such as speech intelligibility, coverage angles or the appropriate sound pressure level. It is also important to select the system for the intended functional use of the rooms and to verify the correct operation of the system after changing the arrangement. Conclusions: Voice alarm systems are a very good, but relatively expensive system. They allow for a very diverse operation and facilitate appropriate evacuation. However, despite the high costs, it is worth considering their installation due to the invaluable action in terms of ensuring the safety of the users of the facility and the protection of their lives. Keywords: voice alarm systems, loudspeakers, maintenance, conformity assessment, phased evacuation Type of article: review article
A Rare Presentation of Cryptococcal Meningitis in a Treatment-Native Patient with Sarcoidosis
Authors: Qureshi Mehak , Abdelazeem Basel , Khan Ashiya , Najjar Mazen
Published: August 2021

Cryptococcus neoformans is an encapsulated, yeast-like fungus that commonly lives in the environment due to soil contamination by the faeces of birds, especially pigeons. Cryptococcus is an opportunistic fungal infection frequently diagnosed in immunocompromised patients with HIV, steroid use, malignancy, history of organ transplantation, or, rarely, sarcoidosis. There have been only a few reports of cryptococcus infection in sarcoidosis patients who were not on steroid treatment. Here, we highlight the importance of considering opportunistic fungal infection in asymptomatic treatment-naive sarcoidosis patients. We present a patient with a history of asymptomatic, treatment-naive sarcoidosis who presented with headache and was diagnosed with cryptococcal meningitis in the presence of an idiopathic T-cell lymphopenia.
NAFLD and its link with diabetes: Why we should be worried
Authors: Cremonesini Louise , Harkin Emma
Published: August 2021

Louise Cremonesini and Emma Harkin look at this increasingly common form of liver disease
Development of soybean genotypes as a function of water availability and sowing seasons in Rio Verde, state of Goias
Authors: Santos Gilmar Oliveira , Leandro Soares Samuel , André Simon Gustavo , Cristina Alvares Renata
Published: August 2021

Soybean crop yield is affected in the absence of favorable conditions for its complete development, and one of the most limiting factors is the water availability throughout the crop cycle. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the behavior of three soybean genotypes, in two sowing dates, during two harvests, in the city of Rio Verde, Stat of Goiás. Four experiments were carried out in a randomized block design, with four replicates in the 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 harvests. The variables analyzed in the experiment were plant height at maturity, days to maturity, and grain yield. The water balance in the soil considered the water storage of 46.8 mm. It was observed periods with greater water deficiency (53.5 mm) in the 2018/2019 harvest for all genotypes. In short, for genotypes with 100 to 110 days of the cycle, the sowing time that showed to be the most promising to obtain higher yields, was between October 20 and November 20, for genotypes with a cycle of 120 days. This range of adaptation becomes broader, mainly because these genotypes have a longer vegetative period, being, therefore, the period of least water requirement for the crop.
Retinal adaptive optics imaging with a pyramid wavefront sensor
Authors: Brunner Elisabeth , Shatokhina Julia , Shirazi Muhammad Faizan , Drexler Wolfgang , Leitgeb Rainer , Pollreisz Andreas , Hitzenberger Christoph K. , Ramlau Ronny , Pircher Michael
Published: August 2021

The pyramid wavefront sensor (P-WFS) has replaced the Shack-Hartmann (SH-) WFS as the sensor of choice for high-performance adaptive optics (AO) systems in astronomy. Many advantages of the P-WFS, such as its adjustable pupil sampling and superior sensitivity, are potentially of great benefit for AO-supported imaging in ophthalmology as well. However, so far no high quality ophthalmic AO imaging was achieved using this novel sensor. Usually, a P-WFS requires modulation and high precision optics that lead to high complexity and costs of the sensor. These factors limit the competitiveness of the P-WFS with respect to other WFS devices for AO correction in visual science. Here, we present a cost-effective realization of AO correction with a non-modulated P-WFS based on standard components and apply this technique to human retinal in vivo imaging using optical coherence tomography (OCT). P-WFS based high quality AO imaging was successfully performed in 5 healthy subjects and smallest retinal cells such as central foveal cone photoreceptors are visualized. The robustness and versatility of the sensor is demonstrated in the model eye under various conditions and in vivo by high-resolution imaging of other structures in the retina using standard and extended fields of view. As a quality benchmark, the performance of conventional SH-WFS based AO was used and successfully met. This work may trigger a paradigm shift with respect to the wavefront sensor of choice for AO in ophthalmic imaging.