bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of 6 Weeks of Aerobic Training with Nanocurcumin Consumption on IL1β, Nitric Oxide, and Depression in Women with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Osali Ali , Rostami Alireza
Published: April 2021

Backgrounds and ObjectivesThe use of anti-inflammatory supplements is important in improving the executive function of obese people. The aim of this research was to investigate the effect of 6 weeks of aerobic exercise with moderate intensity and consumption of nanocurcumin on IL1β, nitric oxide, and depression in women aged 60-65 with metabolic syndrome. Materials and Methods44 women with metabolic syndrome (MetS) were randomly selected and divided into four groups of 10, including MetS exercise+ Curcumin (MECU), MetS exercise (ME), MetS NanoCurcumin (MCU), MetS control (MC Training groups performed an exercise protocol of aerobic exercise for 6 weeks (three sessions per week). Blood samples were obtained before and after the training period for antioxidant indicators and lipid degradation measurement. Also, the Beck anxiety questionnaire was used for evaluating levels of anxiety. T-test and one-way analysis of variance were used for the evaluation of within-group and between-group differences, respectively.ResultsThere was a significant difference in IL1β, nitric oxide (NO), and depression before and after exercise in all three experimental groups (p≤0.05). Also, the results showed a significant difference in the level of NO and depression in the research groups. The highest decrease in these variables was observed in the aerobic training group and training with nanocurcumin consumption group (p≤0.05).ConclusionThese findings indicated that six-week nanocurcumin supplementation with aerobic training is a suitable method for reducing IL1β and NO and depression, preventing metabolic, cardiovascular, and inflammatory diseases in women with metabolic syndrome.Name of the registry: IR.SEMUMS.REC.1396.107Trial registration number: IRCT2017082335857N1
Anthropometry study using adult Pelvic 3D Ct For Determining Sexes at Dr. Soetomo General Hospital, Indonesia
Authors: Setiawati Rosy , Ruriana Ika , Priyambodo Priyambodo , Guglielmi Giuseppe
Published: April 2021

Background

Pelvic bones are the most reliable indicator of sex in adults because of its sexual dimorphism. Medical imaging modalities e.g. Computed Tomography (CT) provide data sources to examine modern human variation quantitatively. This study aims to determine pelvic anthropometry characteristics and logistic regression formula for adult sex identification obtained from pelvic 3D CT.
Methods

This study was an observational analytical study with retrospective regression and cross-sectional approach. The population was all patients in Radiology Installation of Dr. Soetomo General Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia, from September to December 2019 who underwent pelvic 3D CT examination. Then, age distribution and pelvic measurements data were obtained. In this case, statistical analysis was conducted for all the data obtained.
Results

A number of 204 samples were included in this study. Mean age of the patients was 50.23 ± 14.36 years. All radiologic components were also significantly different between sexes (p < 0.05) except for transverse diameter of sacral segment (p = 0.180). Moreover, eta test was performed and found that APOD, CPID, LIH, TPO, and SPA had the strongest correlation. Those variables were used for making statistical models with logistic regression as sex = (0,125 x CPID) – (0,180 x LIH) + (0,078 x SPA) + 8,912. The calculation result > 0 is a prediction for female while < 0 is a prediction for male. From logistic regression model calculation, a high validity value (91.05%) was found with 100% sensitivity to identify male sex and 81.1% specificity to identify female sex.
Conclusion

There were differences on radiometric variable characteristics in pelvic anthropometric study. The regression formula for sex determination in adults using 3D-CT pelvic provides a pelvic model sex determination with higher validity and sensitivity for male identification, as well as higher a specificity for female identification
Synthesis and Application of [Zr-UiO-66-PDC-SO3H]Cl MOFs at The Preparation of Dicyanomethylene Pyridines via Chemical and Electrochemical Methods
Authors: Naseri Amir Mohammad , Zarei Mahmoud , Alizadeh Saber , Babaee Saeed , Zolfigol Mohammad Ali , Nematollahi Davood , Arjomandi Jalal , Shi Hu
Published: April 2021

A metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with sulfonic acid tags as a novel mesoporous catalyst was synthesized. The precursor of Zr-UiO-66-PDC was synthesized both via chemical and electrochemical methods. Then, zirconium based mesoporous metal-organic framework [Zr-UiO-66-PDC-SO3H]Cl was prepared by reaction of Zr-UiO-66-PDC and SO3HCl. The structure of [Zr-UiO-66-PDC-SO3H]Cl was confirmed by FE-SEM and TEM. This mesoporous [Zr-UiO-66-PDC-SO3H]Cl was successfully applied for synthesis of dicyanomethylene pyridine derivatives via condensation of various aldehyde, 2-aminoprop-1-ene-1,1,3-tricarbonitrile and malononitrile. At the electrochemical section, a green electrochemical method has successfully employed for rapid synthesis of the zirconium based mesoporous metal-organic framework UiO-66-PDC at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. The synthesized UiO-66-PDC has a uniform cauliflower-like structure with 13.5 nm mean pore diameter and 181.6 m2­ g-1 surface area. The described catalyst [Zr-UiO-66-PDC-SO3H]Cl was also employed for the convergent paired electrochemical synthesis of dihydropyridine derivatives as an environmental friendly technique under constant current at 1.0 mA cm-2 in an undivided cell. The proposed method proceeds with moderate to good yields for the model via a cooperative vinylogous anomeric based oxidation.
Dynamic Changes of Scleral Spur Length In Different Accommodation States
Authors: Chen Liugui , Jin Wei , Hao Xinlei , Li Xuejie , Xing Yiqiao
Published: April 2021

This study aimed to evaluate the scleral spur length in response to different accommodation stimuli states, as well as the correlation with Schlemm’s canal and trabecular meshwork. 74 children were recruited for this study. The 0D, -4D, and − 8.0 D accommodation state was stimulated by looking at a variable distance optotype. The ciliary muscle, scleral spur, Schlemm’s canal, and trabecular meshwork were imaged by swept-source optical coherence tomography. The scleral spur length increased with accommodation stimulation (p < 0.05). Method I was 127.97 ± 20.32 µm, 138.29 ± 20.11 µm, and 150.73 ± 21.75 µm at 0D, -4D and − 8D, respectively. Method II was 158.15 ± 19.97 µm, 168.47 ± 18.72 µm, and 179.79 ± 20.83 µm at 0D, -4D and − 8D, respectively. Method III was 221.56 ± 30.74 µm, 234.99 ± 30.11 µm, and 250.09 ± 29.87 µm at 0D, -4D and − 8D, respectively. Method III had the largest areas under ROC curves (0.798, 95% CI 0.721–0.875). Moreover, ciliary muscle 1, Schlemm’s canal, and trabecular meshwork length were significantly correlated with SSL (Method III) (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that the contractile ability and compliance of the scleral spur play an important role in maintaining the morphology of the SC. Moreover, the force of accommodation regulates the SC size by increasing the length of SS.
COVID-19 Anosmia and Lacunar Stroke.
Authors: Foyaca-Sibat Humberto , Ibañez-Valdés Lourdes de Fátima
Published: April 2021

Background: Despite the worldwide COVID-19 vaccination programme, there is not enough information to predict when the current pandemic will end, and new variants of SASR-CoV-2 are travelling worldwide, leading to the new variability of clinical manifestation, complications and increasing fatal outcomes. Many publications on COVID-anosmia and asymptomatic COVID-stroke have been released, and plenty of studies on novel therapeutic approach have been published. Here we report an atypical case, our findings from review the medical literature, and comment on the treatment modalities. Material and Method: EMBASE, Medline, Scopus online databases, Google Scholar, Science Direct, WHO database, Scielo, LILACS, BIREME, and Cochrane library to identify articles evaluating anosmia*, COVID-19 anosmia*, aetiology of anosmia*, lacunar infarct*, treatment of IS*, and COVID-19 acute stroke* from January 1, 2010, to March 30, 2021.Results: We found 2454publications related to these topics. After removing duplicate articles, considering the title and abstracts, screening full text, PCR positives, symptomatic patients, and manuscript written in other languages, only six matches all the selected parameters, but from this group, none one presented COVID anosmia/PCR negative/ No respiratory disturbances/presence of IgG/ lacune larger than 15 mm (macunes).Case presentation: A 17-years-old male came to the medical outpatient clinic complaining of loss of smell without other symptomatology. The PCR test for SARS-Cov-2 done was negative, and then he did not receive COVID-19 treatment. Four weeks later patient back to the hospital because of no improvement and was admitted to the hospital neurology ward. Apart from anosmia, examination of other systems shows unremarkable findings. We did an extensive serological and CSF work-up to exclude almost all causes of anosmia. Brain MRI confirmed focal oval cyst space with CSF signal measuring 17 mm in the external capsule in the left basal ganglia region like a lacune (macune) from a previous vascular insult.Comments and final remarks: After an extensive literature review of published manuscript related to these topics, we did not find a report like our case, which presented COVID-19 anosmia/ without respiratory symptomatology/silent macune stroke/PCR negative with positive antibodies, apart from the systematic review of published articles related to these issues. We also included an updated list of anosmia aetiology and the recommended treatments for LS published in the medical literature.
Pulmonary Lymphangitic Carcinomatosis as the Initial and Only Presentation of Gastric Cancer in a Young Male and Literature Review
Authors: Li Dandan , Yuan Zhenhua , Wang Haibo , Zhang Xudong , Zhang Xiaoju
Published: April 2021

BackgroundPulmonary lymphangitic carcinomatosis (PLC) is a malignant lung disease characterized by metastatic tumor lesions in the lung lymphatic vessels with a poor prognosis. Early diagnosis is the key to improve the outcome. However, when PLC is the first manifestation of patients without a known malignancy, it often leads to delayed diagnosis and treatment, and even fatal consequences due to non-specific symptoms. Here, we describe a young male presenting PLC as the first and only manifestation followed by diagnosis of gastric adenocarcinoma and systemically summarized previously reported clinical properties of PLC cases in the literature.Case presentationA 32 years old male presented nonproductive cough for 20 days and progressive exertional dyspnea in a week. He was diagnosed with pneumonia and received antibiotics for almost 3 weeks without any improvement. Chest computed tomography showed multiple nodules and thickened interlobular septa in bilateral lung. PET/CT revealed a primary gastric tumor with PLC and the biopsy of the cervical lymph node confirmed a poorly metastatic differentiated gastric adenocarcinoma. The patient’s general condition deteriorated rapidly and he developed respiratory failure, requiring non-invasive mechanical ventilation on day 9 after admission. Chemotherapy was given to the patient on the tenth day. However, few hours after receiving the first dose, the patient died of respiratory failure. It was only one month from the onset of symptoms to death of our case.ConclusionsPatients presenting PLC as the first manifestation of an unknown malignancy carry a bleak prognosis. PLC be considered for differential diagnosis in patients who present with dyspnea, dry cough with or without loss of weight. Particular attentions need to be given to patients, especially young ones without histories of malignancy, whose chest imaging exhibits thickened interlobular septa. While the stomach, lung and prostate are the most likely origins of the primary tumors, patients with PLC derived from prostate cancer may have a better prognosis after anti-cancer treatment.
Minimal Variation of Human Oral Virome and Microbiome in IgA Deficiency Challenges an Irreplaceable IgA Role for Shaping Oral Commensal Microbiota
Authors: José de la Cruz Peña Maria , Gonzalez-Granado Luis Ignacio , Garcia-Heredia Inmaculada , Carballa Lucia Maestre , Martinez-Garcia Manuel
Published: April 2021

Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is the dominant antibody found in our mucosal secretions and has long been recognized to play an important role in protecting our epithelium from pathogens. Recently, IgA has been shown to be involved in gut homeostatic regulation by `recognizing´and shaping our commensal microbes. Paradoxically, yet selective IgA-deficiency is often described as asymptomatic and there is a paucity of studies only focused on the mice and human gut microbiome context fully ignoring other niches of our body and our commensal viruses. Here, we used as a model the human oral cavity and employed a holistic view and studied the impact of IgA deficiency on both the human virome and microbiome. Unexpectedly, metagenomic and experimental data in human IgA deficiency indicate minimal-moderate changes in microbiome and virome composition compared to healthy control group and point out to a rather functional, resilient oral commensal viruses and microbes. However, a significant depletion (2-fold) of bacterial cells (p-value < 0.01) and viruses was observed in IgA-deficiency. Our results challenge the view of an irreplaceable IgA role for regulating the composition and function of our commensal microbiota and pose the question whether other “back-up” Ig-independent mechanisms might exist for maintaining a functional commensal microbiome.
Study of Limnological Status of Two Selected Floodplain Wetlands of West Bengal
Authors: Ziauddin Golam
Published: April 2021

Limnology is the study of all aquatic systems, both lentic and lotic fresh, fresh, and saline including lakes, wetlands, marshes, bogs, ponds, reservoirs, streams, rivers, oceans, etc. about their physical, chemical, and biological characteristics. Among this phytoplankton, Zooplankton, periphyton, benthos are a minute aquatic free-floating microscopic organism, which acts as a larger food source of larval and higher vertebrates and invertebrates including carnivorous and omnivorous fishes. They are related to the growth of juvenile fishes and are also play important role in the transfer of energy from the primary phytoplankton to higher trophic levels. The plankton community fluctuates according to the physicochemical parameters and the relative environment of the water body especially the Rotifers as they are known to change immediately along with the change in water quality . Realizing the importance of floodplain wetlands and the paucity of literature on the limnology of this ecosystem present investigation was carried out in two floodplain wetlands having characteristics of open (Kole beel, an ox-bow lake formed near Somra Bazar in Hooghly district), and closed beel Suguna beel situated in Nadia District of West Bengal) system during the period 2011–2013. The physicochemical parameters of the investigated beels' water and soil were, for the most part, favorable for planktonic development. It has an alkaline pH of 7.5–8.4 and is alkaline. The dissolved oxygen content and Secchi Disc transparency values indicate that the water is in excellent condition. The water was moderately hard, with only trace amounts of nutrients present. Seasonal fluctuations in the water column were apparent, and they were mainly attributable to replenished supplies and volume. The plankton population of the studied ecosystem was made up of a mixed and healthy population of diverse fauna. The greatest diversity was observed during the winter season, when favorable temperature, dissolved oxygen, and other physicochemical parameters of water, as well as optimal solar penetration, coincided. In a closed system (Suguna), the richness of planktonic structure resulted in higher fish production (1570.05 kg/ha/yr) than in an open system (Kole) (384.4 kg/ha/yr). The status of floodplain wetlands was determined to be eutrophic based on various Physico-chemical and biological parameters.
Low Dietary Diversity Score is the Cause of Underweight Among Expectant Mother from Rural Ethiopia: A Community Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Assefa Nigussie , Efram Kibret , Haidar jemal
Published: April 2021

Background: Maternal underweight is a challenging public health issues globally affecting women in most developing countries and consequently affect their newborns. Such information however is scantly in the study area and thus we examined the contribution of low dietary diversity score towards underweight among expectant mothers from rural Ethiopia.Methods: This study was based on data extracted from a large data set gathered from three rural villages from September 2017 to June 2018 in a district of North-Shewa Zone of Amhara Regional State which is 220 km north of Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia. Data on socio demographic characteristics food groups consumed and Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) measurement were taken for all expectant mothers by trained health extension workers in accordance with relevant ethical guidelines and regulations. The collected data were entered into Epi-data software version 3.02 and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Statistical significance was affirmed at a p-value ≤ 0.05. Result: Of the 400 consented participants, 380 of them had adequate information and thus analyzed for their variety of food groups consumption and their MUAC measurement outcomes. The magnitude of underweight was 18.2% and the mean (±SD) dietary diversity score was 4.45(±1.32). interestingly, the relationship between poor dietary diversity score and underweight of the participants was significant (AOR= 2.4; 95% CI=1.05 to 5.3). Conclusion: Our study revealed a significant relationship between low dietary diversity score and underweight of expectant mothers. it is thus, essential to improve the dietary diversity and nutritional status of pregnant women through strengthening the ongoing productive safety net program and empower women to earn more income so that mothers would purchase variety of foods and ultimately break the intergeneration cycle of malnutrition.
Differential long non-coding RNA expression profile and function analysis in primary Sjogren’s syndrome
Authors: Chen Xiaochan , Cheng Qi , Du Yan , Liu Lei , Wu Huaxiang
Published: April 2021

Background: Primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by abnormal immune cell activation. This study aimed to investigate differentially expressed long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in patients with pSS to identify lncRNAs that affect pSS pathogenesis. Methods: Total RNA was extrated from PBMCs of 30 patients with pSS and 15 healthy persons. Transcriptome sequencing was used to screen differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs in 8 RNA samples from the discovery cohort. The differentially expressed mRNAs underwent functional enrichment analysis. A protein interaction relationship (PPI) and ceRNA network was constructed. Real-time PCR was used to validate screened lncRNAs in all 45 RNA samples. Results: 1180 lncRNAs and 640 mRNAs were differentially expressed in pSS patients (fold change > 2 in healthy persons). The PPI network was constructed with 640 mRNAs and a ceRNA network with four key lncRNAs (GABPB1-AS1, PSMA3-AS1, LINC00847 and SNHG1). RT-PCR revealed that GABPB1-AS1 and PSMA3-AS1 were significantly upregulated 3.0-and 1.4-fold in the pSS group, respectively. The GABPB1-AS1 expression level was positively correlated with the percentage of B cells and IgG levels. Conclusions: GABPB1-AS1 was significently upregulated in pSS patients, and its expression level is positively correlated with the percentage of B cells and IgG levels. GABPB1-AS1 may be involved in the pathogenesis of pSS.
A pre-post evaluation of oncology healthcare providers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices following the implementation of a complementary medicine practice guideline
Authors: Hayward Emilie N , Watling Cody Z. , Balneaves Lynda G.
Published: April 2021

PURPOSE

Complementary medicine (CM) use is prevalent among cancer patients, yet it is often not assessed by oncology healthcare providers (HCPs). The purpose of this study was to evaluate oncology HCPs’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices surrounding CM use before and after the implementation of a practice guideline focusing on standardizing assessment and documentation of CM.
METHODS

Oncology HCPs across a provincial cancer agency were invited to participate in the study. The implementation strategy included an initial education session for HCPs and standardized CM assessment forms. Pre-post surveys assessing knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to CM were completed by HCPs prior to attending the education session and following the 4-month implementation period. Paired t-tests were conducted to determine differences between baseline and follow-up surveys.
RESULTS

A total of 31 oncology HCPs completed both baseline and follow-up surveys, with over 3,700 patient CM assessment forms being completed during the 4-month study period. At the end of the study, HCPs reported greater CM knowledge (p < 0.001), readiness to support cancer patients’ CM decisions (p = 0.002), and willingness to consult with another HCP about CM (p = 0.004). No significant change in HCPs’ reported attitudes towards CM, or clinical practices related to CM were observed.
CONCLUSION

Implementing a practice guideline, including a CM education session and a standardized assessment form was found to improve oncology HCPs’ self-reported CM knowledge and readiness to answer cancer patients’ questions about CM. The findings provide support for future knowledge translation research aimed at standardizing how CM is addressed within cancer care settings.
Differentiation of Renal Oncocytoma From Renal Cell Carcinoma Using 99mTc-Sestamibi SPECT/CT.
Authors: Tzortzakakis Antonios , Papathomas Thomas , Gustafsson Ove , Gabrielson Stefan , Trpkov Kiril , Ekström-Ehn Linnea , Bozoky Bela , Wang Wanzhong , Arvanitis Alexandros , Holstensson Maria , Karlsson Mattias , Kokaraki Georgia , Hagel Eva , Axelsson Rimma
Published: April 2021

Background: 99mTc-Sestamibi Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography/Computed Tomography (SPECT/CT) contributes to the non-invasive differentiation of renal oncocytoma (RO) from renal cell carcinoma (RCC). We investigated whether standard uptake value (SUV) SPECT, has a beneficial role in differentiating renal oncocytoma (RO) from renal cell carcinoma (RCC) besides visual assessment. As a secondary aim, we evaluated the mitochondrial content of 19 oncocytic tumours arranged in a tissue microarray, by immunohistochemistry, using succinate dehydrogenase complex subunit B (SDHB) protein expression. In addition to visual evaluation of 99mTc-Sestamibi uptake by characterizing renal tumours as Sestamibi positive or Sestamibi negative regarding their uptake compared to the non-tumoral renal parenchyma, SUVmean and SUVmax measurements were performed in the renal tumour and the non-tumoral renal parenchyma. Intra Class Correlation calculated to assess the intra-reader reliability of SUV measurements. ROC-analysis demonstrated an optimal cut off SUV value that differentiates RO from RCC. SDHB score was analysed using Cochran–Armitage test for trend.Results: 57 renal tumours from 52 patients were evaluated. Visual evaluation of 99mTc-Sestamibi SPECT/CT examination resulted in a sensitivity of 83%, whereas quantitative evaluation showed a sensitivity of 64% regarding the differential of RO from RCC. A significant trend (p=0,0328) of increased SDHB score found in the Sestamibi positive group.Conclusion: Quantitative evaluation with SUV SPECT measurements did not improve the performance of 99mTc-Sestamibi SPECT/CT in differentiating RO from RCC. 99mTc- Sestamibi SPECT/CT identified a larger Sestamibi-positive tumour group containing RO, Hybrid Oncocytic Chromophobe Tumours and the majority of chromophobe RCCs. Thus, Sestamibi-negative renal tumours, that are possibly malignant, should be considered for surgery. Patients with Sestamibi-positive tumours can be suited for biopsy and follow up according to active surveillance protocols. Low Grade Oncoytic Tumour, a provisional renal entity with no proven recurrence or metastatic potential, appears to be positive on 99mTc- Sestamibi SPECT/CT examination.
Oncological Outcomes of Laparoscopic Versus Open Gastrectomy after Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for Locally Advanced Gastric Cancer: A Retrospective Multicenter Study
Authors: Khaled Islam , Priego Pablo , Soliman Hany , Faisal Mohamed , Saad Ihab
Published: April 2021

Background The oncological outcomes of laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG) and open gastrectomy (OG) following neoadjuvant chemotherapy have been investigated in a few studies. Our purpose was to evaluate the oncological outcomes of LG and OG after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with locally advanced gastric cancer (GC) and to determine the advantages, preferences, and ease of use of the two techniques after chemotherapy.Methods We conducted a retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent either OG (n = 43) or LG (n = 41). The neoadjuvant treatment regimen consisted of capecitabine plus oxaliplatin for three cycles, which was then repeated 6 to 12 weeks after the operation for four cycles.Results The hospital stay time and intraoperative blood loss in the LG group were significantly lower than those in the OG group. The mortality rate and the 3-year survival rate for patients in the LG group were comparable to those of patients in the OG group (4.6% vs. 9.7% and 68.3% vs. 58.1%, respectively). Similar trends were observed regarding the 3-year recurrence rate and metastasis. The mean survival time was 52.9 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 44.2–61.6) in the OG group compared with 43.3 (95% CI, 36.6–49.8) in the LG group. Likewise, the mean disease-free survival was 56.1 months (95% CI, 46.36–65.8) in the LG group compared with 50.9 months (95% CI, 44.6–57.2) in the OG group.Conclusion LG is a feasible and safe alternative to OG for patients with locally advanced GC receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
Translation of a Circulating microRNA Signature of Melanoma to a Novel Solid-Tissue Biomarker to Improve Diagnostic Accuracy and Reproducibility.
Authors: Laar Ryan Van , King Samuel , McCoy Richard , Saad Mirette , Fereday Sian , Winship Ingrid , Uzzell Catherine , Landgren Anthony
Published: April 2021

Background Successful treatment of cutaneous melanoma depends on early and accurate diagnosis of clinically suspicious melanocytic skin lesions. Currently, histopathology examination of excised skin lesions is considered the ‘gold standard’ for diagnosis of melanoma. Multiple studies have shown the low accuracy and reproducibility of this method, underscoring the urgent need for new diagnostic tools, including disease-specific biomarkers. Previously, a 38-microRNA signature of melanoma (‘Mel38’) was previously identified in plasma and validated as novel circulating biomarker. In this study, Mel38 expression in solid biopsy tissue is examined to determine its ability to contribute to accurate and reproducible melanoma diagnoses.Methods Nanostring digital gene expression profiling was used to apply the Mel38 signature in a cohort of 308 formalin fixed paraffin embedded skin biopsies (‘Mel38’). Genomic data were interrogated using hierarchical clustering, univariate and multivariate statistical approaches. Mel38 classification scores (range 0 to 10) were compared to consensus histopathology results, including MPATH-DX class, AJCC disease stage, histological subtype as well as technical assay factors.Results The Mel38 score can identify high-risk melanomas (MPATH-Dx Class IV) from less-malignant forms of the disease with an area-under-the curve of 0.96 (P < 0.001). The genomic score ranges from 0 to 10 and is positively correlated with the melanoma progression, from benign naevi to metastatic disease (intraclass correlation coefficient: 0.85). Using a score threshold of > 2.3 identifies higher-risk melanomas, associated with poorer outcomes and more intensive suggested clinical actions. Multivariate analysis showed the score to be a significant predictor of malignancy, independent of technical and clinical covariates. Analysis of the Mel38 signature in spitz naevi reveal an intra-subtype profile, in common to both benign and malignant conditions.Conclusion Melanoma-specific circulating microRNAs maintain their association with malignancy when measured in the hypothesized tissue of origin. The Mel38 signature is an accurate and reproducible metric of melanoma status, based on changes in microRNA expression that occur as the disease develops and spreads. Inclusion of the Mel38 score into routine practice would give physicians a genomic assessment of a patient’s disease status. Combining molecular biomarker data with conventional histopathology data may improve diagnostic accuracy, reproducibility, and patient outcomes.
Transformational Educational Leadership and the Innovative Strategies Engaging Online Faculty for the Excellent Teaching Performance in the United States
Authors: Matos Lorraine , Kasztelnik Karina
Published: April 2021

This research paper summarizes the arguments and counterarguments within the scientific discussion on the transformational educational leadership and the innovative strategies engaging online faculty for the excellent teaching performance in the United States. There are various leadership traits of academic leadership to assess engagement amongst online adjunct faculty in the online platform of higher education. This research study focuses on the lived experiences of academic leaders to aid online adjunct faculty in trying to increase the sense of inclusion, engagement, and support. Applying the lived experiences of academic leader could retrieve elements within online adjunct faculty so they can have a positive contribution towards the institution. Support is needed to improve engagement, to assist adequate academic leadership. Systematization of the literary sources and approaches for solving the problem the academic leadership indicates that incorporate individualized strategies when the leader recognizes the value online adjunct faculty bring to their institutions. The relevance of this scientific problem decision is that the themes within this article breakdown the vital impact leaders have with their online adjunct faculty. The wide-ranging factors discussed in this article were categorized to demonstrate the critical components that leadership strategies if implemented effectively, could aid in an engagement component and inclusion for online adjunct faculty. Factors that are vital for academic leadership could be the use of leadership strategies to promote engagement and inclusion within the online environment outlined in this scientific article. The research paper presents the results of an empirical analysis all strategies incorporated in finding the material, history of online education, remote learning environment, leadership traits, leadership support for remote, adjunct faculty, leadership characteristic inactive online adjunct faculty engagement, leadership challenges, authentic relationship, benefits of engagement, communication obstacles on the virtual platforms, and theories within leadership presented a more in-depth understanding on the topic of online adjunct faculty engagement and inclusion. The results of the research can be useful by all academic leaders from all undergraduate, graduate, post-graduate level around the world.
Albanian Individual Taxpayers Perceptions and Determinants on Ethical Behavior Regarding Tax Compliance
Authors: Salé Michael J. , Muharremi Oltiana , Hoxhaj Meleq
Published: April 2021

Tax evasion and tax avoidance are among the most addressed topics in economic literature in recent years, as one of the most discussed issues in different countries. The research’s primary purpose is to present Albanian residents’ and taxpayers’ perceptions regarding tax evasion, tax avoidance, and tax compliance. The leading indicators used in this report, the attitude towards tax evasion and tax avoidance, rely on individual taxpayers’ perceptions and not on factual evidence such as the amount of income hidden from the tax authorities. Several studies have been done in different countries regarding the population’s perception regarding factors affecting evasion. In this paper, we investigated the following logical sequence: in the beginning, we provided an overview of the fiscal system and legislation, informal economy, and fiscal evasion in Albania. This analysis data was taken from reports from national and international organizations. After this, we analyzed data obtained from a survey issued to 387 taxpayer individuals in Albania. Our objective was to identify, using empirical analysis, factors that influence an individual’s ethical perception of tax avoidance and evasion. The statistical analyses we carried out in the paper were factor analyses and ordinal logistic linear regression analyses using the JMP statistical software. Based on the empirical research, we concluded that government policies positively correlate with taxpayers’ behavior regarding tax compliance. Among other determinants influencing tax evasion, we have evaluated that higher tax rates are an essential element. The results of the research can be helpful for governments and other policymakers’ institutions.
Comparative Study of Population Aging Trend in Iran and Poland
Authors: Hekmatnia Hasan , Ghalehteimouri Kamran Jafarpour , Shamsoddini Ali
Published: April 2021

Population aging and its consequences are an extremely controversial issue in the global context. An increase in the number of older people along with a decrease in the birth rate leads to an excessive burden on the economically active part of the population. Such imbalances threaten to reduce the workforce, slow economic growth, increase social spending, increase the fiscal burden. Therefore, using the country’s own experience to solve the problem of rapid aging of the nation and take measures to improve the quality of life of older people and their social integration into society is insufficient, as changes in the age structure of the population may occur for the first time. Therefore, it is necessary to study and adapt the experience of other countries to address this social issue. The purpose of this study was to conduct a comparative analysis of the aging population in Iran and Poland, as well as to assess the impact of the nation’s aging on life expectancy, fertility and gross domestic product (GDP) in these two countries. The object of the study is Poland as a representative of European countries, which is facing an increase in the number of elderly people, and Iran as a country where the age structure of the population is just beginning to change. The study period is 1950-2020. The results of the study show that there has been an increase in the elderly population, but the share of this population compared to other countries is lower. The authors of the study proved the existence of significant differences in the aging population in Poland and Iran. A feature of the demographic situation in Iran is the declining birth rate, which leads to a decrease in the total population and an increase in the proportion of elderly people. These socio-demographic transformations in the long run can have a destructive effect on Iran’s GDP. In contrast to Iran, Poland is experiencing an increase in population aging, leading to rising spending on social security and protection, as well as falling GDP. The rapid growth of the elderly population compared to the growth of the total population of the country and the increase in the share of elderly people in the coming years emphasizes the need for further planning of control over the problems associated with this population group.
The Decline Of The Middle Class In Jordan
Authors: Aljaloudi Jameel
Published: April 2021

Declining economic growth in Jordan, rising unemployment and the abolition of state support for certain segments of the population have led to a deterioration in the welfare of the middle class in Jordanian society. The importance of the middle class for the country is due to the fact that they act as a driving force in creating a market economy, as well as implement creative and intellectual work. The article considers the essential importance of the middle class and its role in building a democratic and legal state, as well as in ensuring a stable pace of economic development. The purpose of this article is to analyze the level of decline in the middle class in Jordanian society during 2010-2017. The following indicators were used to conduct this study: average annual income, double the national poverty line and the share of the population that receive an average of 60% of income. The source of statistical information was the data of the World Bank and the General Statistics Department of Jordan. The author of the article proposes to calculate a generalized indicator for the characteristics of the middle class in society – the average annual household income index. The study showed that during 2010-2017 there was a significant reduction in the size of the middle class in Jordan. The author suggests that such negative dynamics will persist in the coming years, especially given the decline in economic activity due to the coronavirus pandemic. It is proved that the inefficiency of state economic and social policy has led to an increase in the number of poor people, as well as rising unemployment in the country. According to the results of the study, it is proposed to adjust government programs to ensure the preservation of the middle class and enable it to realize its potential in stimulating economic growth, human capital development and supporting the development of civil society in Jordan.
Interface junctions in QCD${}_4$
Authors: Gorantla Pranay , Lam Ho Tat
Published: April 2021

We study 3+1 dimensional SU(N)SU(N)
Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) with N_fNf
degenerate quarks that have a spatially varying complex mass. It leads
to a network of interfaces connected by interface junctions. We use
anomaly inflow to constrain these defects. Based on the chiral
Lagrangian and the conjectures on the interfaces, characterized by a
spatially varying \thetaθ-parameter,
we propose a low-energy description of such networks of interfaces.
Interestingly, we observe that the operators in the effective field
theories on the junctions can carry baryon charges, and their spin and
isospin representations coincide with baryons. We also study defects,
characterized by spatially varying coupling constants, in 2+1
dimensional Chern-Simons-matter theories and in a 3+1 dimensional real
scalar theory.
Введение в гемостаз, современные препараты крови и их влияние на коагуляцию
Authors: Галстян Г. М. , Суханова Г. А.
Published: April 2021

Важность изучения системы гемостаза в общемедицинской практике трудно переоценить, т. к. понимание врачом физиологических основ свертывания крови является необходимым инструментом в оказании помощи пациентам с жизнеугрожающими состояниями. Но как показывает практика, именно этот раздел довольно часто является белым пятном в знаниях врача, что приводит к диагностическим ошибкам, влекущим за собой ошибочную тактику в лечении пациентов с тяжелой соматической патологией.
Периоперационное анестезиологическое обеспечение больных с морбидным ожирением
Authors: Эпштейн С. Л.
Published: April 2021

Ожирение – важный фактор риска развития различных серьезных заболеваний, приводящих к физической дезадаптации, повышению смертности в популяции, по сравнению с группой людей с нормальной массой тела. Очевидные анатомические трудности, скрытые особенности физиологии и фармакокинетики анестезиологических препаратов создают определенные проблемы для анестезиолога в периоперационном периоде [21].
DIFICULDADES DE INGRESSANTES DE UM CURSO DE LICENCIATURA EM QUÍMICA SOBRE CONCEITOS DA ELETROQUÍMICA: UM DESAFIO PARA O ENSINO SUPERIOR
Authors: Venturi Gabriela , Junckes Ermelinda , Martin Maria , Oliveira Brenno
Published: April 2021

DIFFICULTIES OF CHEMISTRY NEW UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS AS REGARDS ELECTROCHEMICAL CONCEPTS: A CHALLENGE FOR HIGHER EDUCATION. The present work discusses some of the difficulties that chemistry undergraduates have with electrochemistry and possible impacts on higher education. They responded to a questionnaire about their insights and experiences regarding electrochemistry teaching, as well as their knowledge about it. The responses were categorized according to their difficulties, mistakes, and alternative views, by means of content analysis. The data revealed that undergraduates often enter the course without solid previous knowledge about redox phenomena, since few of them managed to develop more elaborate and correct responses, directly impacting the continuity of electrochemical studies in higher education.
Clogging in subsurface wastewater infiltration beds: genesis, influencing factors, identification methods and remediation strategies
Authors: Li Ying-hua , Peng Lin-lin , Li Hai-bo , Liu De-ze
Published: April 2021

Subsurface wastewater infiltration (SWI) is an environmentally friendly technology for the advanced treatment of domestic sewage. Clogging (including physical, chemical and biological clogging) of the porous medium not only directly reduces the hydraulic load (treatment efficiency), but also reduces the service life. Although clogging has become one of the key issues discussed in several reports, there are still several gaps in understanding, especially in its occurrence process and identification. SWI clogging causes, development process and solutions are different from those of constructed wetlands. This article quotes some reports on constructed wetlands to provide technical ideas and reference for revealing SWI clogging problems. Based on the analysis of the clogging genesis, this review gathers the main factors that affect the degree of clogging, and new methods for the identification of clogging conditions. Some preventive and unclogging measures/strategies are presented. Finally, it is suggested that to effectively alleviate the clogging phenomenon and extend the service life, priority should be given to the comprehensive analysis of wastewater quality and solid constituents accumulated in the pores. Then, the effectiveness of in-situ strategies, such as alternating operation will be the main focuses of future research.
Youth and Provider Perspectives on Behavior-Tracking Mobile Apps: Qualitative Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Armstrong Courtney C , Odukoya Erica J , Sundaramurthy Keerthi , Darrow Sabrina M
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

Mobile health apps stand as one possible means of improving evidence-based mental health interventions for youth. However, a better understanding of youth and provider perspectives is necessary to support widespread implementation.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this research was to explore both youth and provider perspectives on using mobile apps to enhance evidence-based clinical care, with an emphasis on gathering perspectives on behavior-tracking apps.

METHODS

Inductive qualitative analysis was conducted on data obtained from semistructured interviews held with 10 youths who received psychotherapy and 12 mental health care providers who conducted therapy with youths aged 13-26 years. Interviews were independently coded by multiple coders and consensus meetings were held to establish reliability.

RESULTS

During the interviews, the youths and providers broadly agreed on the benefits of behavior tracking and believed that tracking via app could be more enjoyable and accessible. Providers and youths also shared similar concerns that negative emotions and user burden could limit app usage. Participants also suggested potential app features that, if implemented, would help meet the clinical needs of providers and support long-term use among youth. Such features included having a pleasant user interface, reminders for clients, and graphical output of data to clients and providers.

CONCLUSIONS

Youths and providers explained that the integration of mobile health into psychotherapy has the potential to make treatment, particularly behavior tracking, easy and more accessible. However, both groups had concerns about the increased burden that could be placed on the clients and providers.
A Clinical Study on Atrial Fibrillation, Premature Ventricular Contraction, and Premature Atrial Contraction Screening Based on an ECG Deep Learning Model (Preprint)
Authors: Hong Jianyuan , Li Hua-Jung , Yang Chung-Chi , Han Chi-Lu , Hsieh Jui-Chien
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

Based on the clinical investigation in this study, electrocardiography (ECG) devices generated interpretations on atrial fibrillation (AF), premature ventricular contraction (PVC), and premature atrial contraction (PAC) have high ratios of false-positive errors. An ECG interpretation gap exists between ECG devices and cardiologists.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to develop an electrocardiogram (ECG) interpreter to improve the performance of AF, PVC, and PAC screening based on an ECG.

METHODS

In this study, we first adopted a deep learning model to delineate ECG features such as P, QRS, and T waves based on 1160 8–10-s lead I or lead II ECG signals from a clinically-used 12-lead ECG device whose ECG device interpretation is AF as a training dataset. Second, a sliding window with 3-RR intervals in length is applied to the raw ECG to examine the delineated features in the window, and the ECG interpretation is then determined based on experiences of cardiologists.

RESULTS

The results indicate the following: (1) This delineator achieves a good performance on P-, QRS-, and T- wave delineation with a sensitivity/specificity of 0.94/0.98, 1.00/0.99, and 0.97/0.98, respectively, in 48 10-s test ECGs mixed with true-positive AF and false-positive AF ECGs. (2) As compared to ECG-device generated interpretations, the precision of the detection of AF, PVC, and PAC in this study was increased from 0.77 to 0.86, 0.76 to 0.84, and 0.82 to 0.87 in 188 10-s test ECGs. Finally, (3) the F1 measure, which is a measure of the accuracy of test data but takes false- positives and false-negative into account, on the detection of AF, PVC, and PAC were 0.92, 0.91, and 0.83, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, this study improved the precision of ECG devices’ interpretation and bridge the gap between machines’ ECG interpretation and cardiologists and can facilitate clinical applications on one-channel ECG.

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