bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling the Transmission Dynamics of Severe Fever With Thrombocytopenia Syndrome in Jiangsu Province
Authors: Zhang Nan , Cheng Xiao-qing , Deng Bin , Rui Jia , Qiu Luxia , Zhao Zeyu , Lin Shengnan , Liu Xingchun , Xu Jingwen , Wang Yao , Yang Meng , Zhu Yuanzhao , Huang Jiefeng , Liu Chan , Liu Weikang , Luo Li , Li Zhuoyang , Li Peihua , Yang Tianlong , Li Zhi-feng , Liang Shu-yi , Wang Xiao-chen , Hu Jian-li , Chen Tianmu
Published: December 2020

Background: Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging infectious disease that is regionally distributed in Asia with high fatality. Constructing the transmissibility model of SFTS could help provide clues for the intervention of disease control and fill the gap in the research of the SFTS model.Methods: Based on the Susceptible–Exposed–Infectious–Symptomatic–Recovered (SEIAR) model and combined with the epidemiological characteristics of SFTS in Jiangsu Province. An SFTS transmission dynamics model was built to evaluate the effect through cutting off the different transmission routes and taking different interventions, to offer clues for disease prevention and control, and filled the gap in research of the SFTS model. Results: For the transmission model of SFTS, the fitting effect of case data and model is great. Meanwhile, cutting off the transmission routes of the environment have the greatest effect on the prevention and control of SFTS, but isolation and shorten the course of the disease did not gain more effect.Conclusions: This study is determined that cutting off the transmission routes from the environment to humans had the greatest effect on SFTS prevention and control.
Preoperative Albumin-to-Fibrinogen Ratio Predicts Postoperative Pneumonia in Patients with Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Zhang Peng , Zhao Song
Published: December 2020

Background: Postoperative pneumonia is the most common postoperative complication in patients with esophageal cancer. Prediction of postoperative pneumonia by establishing a preoperative physiological function parameter model can help patients make adequate preoperative preparation, reduce treatment costs, and improve prognosis and quality of life. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between albumin, fibrinogen, albumin-to-fibrinogen ratio(AFR) , and other preoperative laboratory tests and postoperative pneumonia in patients with esophageal cancer after esophagectomy.Methods: Retrospective analysis was performed on 177 consecutive patients who underwent esophagectomy in the Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from December 2018 to December 2019.Postoperative pneumonia was defined according to the revised Uniform Pneumonia Score(rUPS).Patients were divided into pneumonia and non-pneumonia groups for comparison of baseline data, perioperative indicators, and laboratory examination data.(Receiver operating characteristic)ROC curve analysis was used to evaluate the efficacy, sensitivity and specificity of AFR, and Youden’s index was used to calculate the cut-off values of AFR and other laboratory tests data. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess the risk factors for postoperative pneumoniaResults: Of the 177 patients, 32 (18%) developed postoperative pneumonia. The AUC value predicted by AFR using ROC curve analysis was 0.767, 65.6% sensitivity and 83.4% specificity. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that albumin (P=0.013), creatinine (P=0.01), and AFR (P=0.016) were independent risk factors for postoperative pneumonia.Conclusion: Preoperative AFR can effectively predict the occurrence of postoperative pneumonia in patients with esophageal cancer
Comparing Female Permanent Contraception Options in High Resource Countries: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gormley Rebecca , Vickers Brian , Cheng Brooke , Norman Wendy V
Published: December 2020

Background: Multiple options for permanent or long-acting contraception are available, each with adverse effects and non-contraceptive benefits. A comprehensive comparison of methods to support decision-making for people seeking to end their fertility and their healthcare providers is needed. We aimed to understand what is known from high quality studies about the comparability of options for permanent contraception. We sought studies comparing these methods of permanent or long-acting contraception: laparoscopic tubal ligation, hysteroscopic tubal occlusion, bilateral salpingectomy, and levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine contraception (LNG-IUC), for effectiveness, adverse events, tolerability, patient recovery, non-contraceptive benefits and healthcare system costs among females in high resource countries seeking to permanently avoid conception. Methods: We followed PRISMA guidelines, searched EMBASE, Pubmed (Medline), Web of Science, and screened retrieved articles to identify additional relevant studies. We extracted data on population, interventions, outcomes, follow-up, health system costs, and study funding source. We assessed risk of bias using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, excluding studies with high risk of bias. Due to considerable heterogeneity, we performed a narrative synthesis. Results: Our search identified 6,612 articles. We reviewed the full text of 154 studies, yielding 35 studies which met inclusion criteria. We excluded 10 studies with high risk of bias, retaining 25 at low or medium risk for bias in our synthesis. Most studies assessed hysteroscopic tubal occlusion and/or laparoscopic tubal ligation. Most comparisons reported on effectiveness and adverse events, with fewer reporting tolerability, patient recovery, non-contraceptive benefits, and healthcare system costs. No comparisons reported accessibility, eligibility, or follow-ups required. We found inconclusive evidence comparing the effectiveness of hysteroscopic tubal occlusion to laparoscopic tubal ligation. All studies reported adverse events. All forms of tubal interruption reported a protective effect against cancers. Tolerability appeared greater among tubal ligation patients compared to hysteroscopic tubal occlusion patients. No medium or high-quality studies compared LNG-IUC to other methods.Conclusions: High-quality studies comparing outcomes relevant for those seeking female permanent contraception are needed to support informed decision-making. Research is needed to directly compare surgical forms of permanent contraception, such as tubal ligation or removal, with alternative options, such as intrauterine contraception.Systematic review registration: PROSPERO [CRD42016038254].
New Stent for Transapical Mitral Valve Replacement in Acute Swine Experiment
Authors: Zou Yu , Teng Peng , Ma Liang
Published: December 2020

Background: Many patients with mitral regurgitation are denied open-heart surgery due to high risk. Transcatheter mitral valve replacement offers an alternative treatment. This study aimed to test the feasibility of a new self-expanding valved stent for transcatheter mitral valve replacement via apex in an acute animal model.Methods: Eight porcine experiments were performed in the acute study. A left thoracotomy was performed. The new self-expanding transcatheter valved stent was deployed under fluoroscopic guidance within the native mitral annulus via apex. Hemodynamic data, before and after implantation, were recorded. Mitral annulus diameter and valve area were measured using echocardiography. Transvalvular and left ventricular outflow tract pressure gradient were measured invasively. Results: Seven animals underwent successful transapical mitral valve replacement; the implantation was unsuccessful in one animal. The mean procedure time, defined from placing the purse-string to tightening the purse-string, was 17.14 ± 7.86 min. Hemodynamic data before and after transapical mitral valve replacement showed no difference in statistical analysis. The mean diameter and mean functional area of the self-expanding device after implantation were 2.58 ± 1.04 cm and 2.70 ± 0.26 cm2, respectively. Trace to mild central and paravalvular leak was detected in 7 valves. Mean pressure gradient across the self-expanding device was 2.00 ± 0.82 mm Hg; the corresponding gradients across the LVOT were 3.28± 1.11 mm Hg. Postmortem examinations confirmed precise device positioning in 7 animals with no signs of LVOT obstruction.Conclusion: Transcatheter mitral replacement of the new valved stent was confirmed feasible in acute preclinical models. The new stent reveals optimal design parameters.
Open Aortic Valve Replacement Followed by Open Adrenalectomy In A Patient With Symptomatic Pheochromocytoma and Critical Aortic Stenosis: A Case Report
Authors: Feinstein Igor , Lee Tiffany , Khan Sameer , Raleigh Lindsay , Mihm Fred
Published: December 2020

Background: Pheochromocytoma is a rare medical condition caused by catecholamine-secreting tumor cells. Operative resection can be associated with significant hemodynamic fluctuations due to the nature of the tumor, as well as associated post-resection vasoplegia. To allow for cardiovascular recovery before surgery, patients require pre-operative alpha-adrenergic blockade, which would be limited in the setting of co-existent severe aortic stenosis. In this report, we describe a patient with severe aortic stenosis and symptomatic pheochromocytoma. Case presentation: A 51-year-old man with severe aortic stenosis (valve area 0.8 cm2) was found to have a highly active 4x4 cm left adrenal pheochromocytoma. Alpha-adrenergic blockade for his pheochromocytoma was limited by syncope in the setting of his aortic stenosis. Open aortic valve replacement (AVR) was performed, followed by adrenalectomy the next day. The perioperative course for each surgical procedure was hemodynamically volatile, exacerbated by severe alcohol withdrawal. During the adrenalectomy, cardiogenic and vasoplegic shock developed immediately after securing the vascular supply to his tumor. This shock was refractory to vasopressin and methylene blue, but responded well to angiotensin II and epinephrine. After both surgeries were completed, his course was further complicated by severe ICU psychosis, ileus, fungal bacteremia, pneumonia/hypoxic respiratory failure and atrial fibrillation. He ultimately recovered and was discharged from the hospital after 38 days. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first report of surgical AVR and pheochromocytoma resection in a patient with critical aortic stenosis. The appropriate order and timing of surgeries when both these conditions co-exist remains controversial.
A Poorly Prognostic Case of Renal Dialysis in a 20-Year Case Series of Adult Coronary Sinus Atrial Septal Defect Repair at New Tokyo Hospital
Authors: Sugimori Haruhiko , Nakao Tatsuya , Ikegaya Yuki , Iwahashi Daisuke , Tsuda Shoich , Kume Nao , Nakamura Sunao
Published: December 2020

Background: Isolated coronary sinus atrial septal defect (ASD) is defined as a coronary sinus unroofed in the terminal portion without a persistent left superior vena cava and other anomalies. This defect is rare and part of a wide spectrum of unroofed coronary sinus syndromes. Recently, several reports have described this finding. We searched the hospital’s database to determine the incidence of this defect, and to raise awareness of this condition, we discussed the findings from five patients with coronary sinus ASD who underwent surgical repair. Case presentation: The patients were three women and two men with an age range of 63–77 years. All patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography and computed tomography, and one underwent magnetic resonance imaging. In two patients, the defect was found unexpectedly intraoperatively; left-to-right shunting was apparent in the other three patients preoperatively. The pulmonary-to-systemic blood flow ratio ranged from 1.42 to 3.1 following cardiac catheterization, and oxygen saturation step-up was seen on the right side of the heart. Valvular regurgitation was seen in 4/5 patients with the mitral, tricuspid, and aortic valves involved in different combinations and to different degrees. Right atrial and ventricular dilation were seen in 4/5 patients; three patients had left atrial dilation. Three patients experienced atrial fibrillation, and one of these also experienced paroxysmal ventricular contractions. All patients underwent surgical repair, and some underwent multiple procedures. One patient who had previously undergone kidney transplantation died approximately 1 year postoperatively; the remaining four patients are currently experiencing good activities of daily living without symptoms. Conclusions: Coronary sinus ASD (Kirklin and Barratt–Boyes type IV unroofed coronary sinus syndrome) comprised 1.3% of adult congenital heart surgeries and 0.07% of adult open-heart surgeries in our hospital from 1999 to 2019. Our hospital performs cardiac surgery mainly for patients with acquired cardiac disease, and coronary sinus ASD is rare. Early diagnosis and, in symptomatic patients (especially those with blood access shunts, which may overload the heart), early surgical repair are important. The poorly prognostic case in our series is noteworthy, as similar cases have not been reported previously.
Lymphoepithelial carcinoma in the body of the tongue: The first case report
Authors: Sawako Ono , Marunaka Hidenori , Yanai Hiroyuki , Kawai Hotaka , Takabatake Kiyofumi , Nakano Keisuke , Nishida Kenji , Taniguchi Kohei , Toji Tomohiro , Nagatsuka Hitoshi , Yoshino Tadashi
Published: December 2020

Background

Lymphoepithelial carcinoma (LEC) of the tongue is a rare subtype of squamous cell carcinoma. Histologically, it is an undifferentiated carcinoma with rich lymphocyte and plasma cell infiltration. The most common location for LEC in the head and neck is the salivary glands, and LEC of the oral cavity is extremely rare1.
Conclusions

The first case report of LEC in the body of the tongue is presented. In addition, a review of the literature was performed, and the relationship between LEC and Epstein-Barr virus infection was considered.
Mental disorder and PTSD in Syria during wartime: a nationwide crisis
Authors: Kakaje Ameer , Zohbi Ragheed Al , Aldeen Osama Hosam , Makki Leen , Alyousbashi Ayham , Alhaffar Bahaa Aldin
Published: December 2020

Background: Syria has experienced war since 2011, leaving over 80% under the poverty line and millions being displaced. War and its retaliations have significantly impacted the mental health of Syrians. This study evaluates the post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and the severity of the mental distress caused by war and other factors such as low social support. This study also evaluates other variables and compares the findings with multiple studies of Syria and refugees.Methods: This is a cross-sectional study that included people who lived in Syria from different governorates. Online surveys were distributed into multiple online groups and included Kessler 10 (K10) questionnaire, the Screen for Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms (SPTSS) tool, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and demographic and war-related questionnaires.Results: Our study included 1951 participants, of which, 527 (27.0%) were males and 1538 (78.8%) aged (19-25) years. Among participants, 44% had likely severe mental disorder, 27% had both likely severe mental disorder and full PTSD symptoms, 36.9% had full PTSD symptoms, and only 10.8% had neither positive PTSD symptoms nor mental disorder on the K10 scale. Around 23% had low overall support. Half of the responders were internally displaced, and 27.6% were forced to change places of living three times or more due to war. Around 86.6% of the responders believed that the crisis was the main reason for their mental distress. Those with high SPTSS and K10 scores were found to take more days off from work or school due to negative feelings and having somatic symptoms. Moreover, the number of times changing places of living due to war, educational level, and being distressed by war noise were the most important factors for more sever PTSD and mental distress. No differences in PTSD and mental disorder prevalence were noted in governorates and type of job. A strong correlation (r=0.623) was found between SPTSS and K10 scores. Conclusion: The conflict in Syria has left the population at a great risk for mental distress which was more severe compared to Syrian refugees elsewhere. Many measures with an emphasis on mental health are needed to aid the people against a long-term avoidable suffering.
Test re-test reliability of single and multijoint strength properties in female Australian footballers
Authors: Kadlec Daniel , Jordan Matthew J. , Snyder Leanne , Alderson Jacqueline , Nimphius Sophia
Published: December 2020

Purpose: To examine the test re-test reliability of isometric maximal voluntary contractions (MVC) of hip adduction (ADDISO), hip abduction (ABDISO), and multijoint leg extension (SQUATISO) in sub-elite female Australian footballers. Methods: Data were collected from 24 sub-elite female Australian footballers (age: 22.6±4.5 y; height: 169.4±5.5 cm; body mass: 66.6±8.0 kg; 4.5±4.4 y sport-specific training; 2.5±2.0 y unstructured resistance training) from the same club on two non-consecutive days. Participants performed 3 isometric MVCs of ADDISO, ABDISO and SQUATISO. The SQUATISO was performed at 140° knee flexion with a vertical trunk position and ADDISO and ABDISO measures were performed in a supine position at 60° of knee flexion and 60° hip flexion. Reliability was assessed using paired T-tests and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), typical error (TE) and coefficient of variation (CV%) with 95% CI. Results: SQUATISO peak force (ICC: .95; CV%: 4.1), ABDISO for left, right and sum (ICC: .90 – .92; CV%: 5.0 – 5.7), and ADDISO for left, right and sum (ICC: .86 - .91; CV%: 6.2 – 6.9) were deemed acceptably reliable based on predetermined criteria (ICC ≥ .8 and CV% ≤ 10). Conclusion: SQUATISO, ABDISO and ADDISO tests demonstrated acceptable reliability for the assessment of peak force in sub-elite female Australian footballers, suggesting these assessments are suitable for muscle strength testing and monitoring adaptations to training.
3D simulation of radiographic projections to test and reduce the effect of pelvic tilt on the accuracy of cross-table lateral radiography
Authors: Xu Jie , Su Baohua , Zhang Wenhui , Sun Hao , Li Deng , Cai Zhiqing , Chen Meiyi , Qiu Meiling , Ma Ruofan
Published: December 2020

Background: Cross-table lateral (CL) radiography is a convenient and feasible method to assess cup version angle (VA) after total hip arthroplasty; However, pelvic tilt (PT) may contribute to its measurement inaccuracy. How PT affects CL radiographic measurements have not been well studied. We sought (1) to determine the effect of the PT on cup version measurement on CL radiography and (2) to develop a method for reducing measurement errors caused by the PT. Methods: We used 3D technique to construct standard model and capture CL radiography simulation. A linear regression model was created to analyze the relationship between PT and VA. CL radiography and computed tomography (CT) were performed for the enrolled patients after surgery. The consistency between CL and CT measurements were verified by intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC). Results: There was a high correlation between the VA and PT. For each 1-degree increased in the PT, the VA decreased by 0.76° (R²=0.995, p<0.001). Based on the data, we created a corrective formula to convert the radiographic measurements into values approximating the actual VA under a natural pelvic position. The VA measurements corrected by our equation was in high agreement with the CT-measured values with reference to the corresponding PT (ICC=0.988, p<0.001), which was in sharp contrast to that without PT control (ICC=0.454, p=0.203). Conclusions: The PT may contribute to cup version measurement inaccuracies on CL radiography. Our mathematical algorithm can serve as a reliable method to improve the accuracy of CL radiography.
Prevalence of postural musculoskeletal symptoms among dental students in United Arab Emirates.
Authors: Hashim Raghad , Salah Afraa , Mayahi Fatemeh , Haidary Saeedeh
Published: December 2020

Background The main purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of neck, shoulder, and low-back pain and to explore factors associated with musculoskeletal pain (MSP) among dental students at Ajman University and Ras Al Khaimah College of Dental Sciences in United Arab Emirates (UAE). Method This cross-sectional study was conducted among dental students using an online questionnaire, which was a modified version of the Standardized Nordic questionnaire, focused on neck, shoulder and low-back pain in the past week and the past year. Results Two hundred and two students (out of 368) responded to the questionnaire. The prevalence of MSP in at least one body site in the past week, and in the past year was 48.5% and 68.3% respectively. Factors significantly associated with MSP in at least one body site at any time were having history of trauma (P = 0.009), lack of exercise (P = 0.001), longer clinical sessions (P = 0.000), and higher BMI (P = 0.010). Conclusion The prevalence of MSP among dental students in the UAE is high. Careful attention from dental colleges is needed to increase students’ awareness of this problem. This study contributed to better understanding of MSP among dental professionals.
Association of ultra-processed food consumption with cardiovascular mortality in the US population: long-term results from a large prospective multicenter study
Authors: Zhong Guo-Chao , Gu Hai-Tao , Peng Yang , Wang Kang , Wu You-Qi-Le , Hu Tian-Yang , Jing Feng-Chuang , Hao Fa-Bao
Published: December 2020

Background: Ultra-processed foods have now become dominant in the global food system. Whether their consumption is associated with cardiovascular mortality remains controversial. Moreover, data on ultra-processed foods and cardiovascular outcomes are scarce in the US population. We aimed to examine the association of ultra-processed food consumption with cardiovascular mortality in a US population. Methods: A population-based cohort of 91891 participants was identified from the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial. Dietary data were collected through a validated 137-item food frequency questionnaire. Ultra-processed foods were defined by the NOVA classification. Cox regression was used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for cardiovascular mortality. Restricted cubic spline regression was used to test nonlinearity. Subgroup analyses were conducted to identify the potential effect modifiers. Results: After an average follow-up of 13.5 years (1236049.2 person-years), 5490 cardiovascular deaths were documented, including 3985 heart disease deaths and 1126 cerebrovascular deaths. In the fully adjusted model, participants in the highest vs. the lowest quintiles of ultra-processed food consumption had higher risks of death from cardiovascular disease (HRquintile 5 vs. 1, 1.50; 95% CI, 1.36–1.64) and heart disease (HRquintile 5 vs. 1, 1.68; 95% CI, 1.50–1.87) but not cerebrovascular disease (HRquintile 5 vs. 1, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.76–1.17). A nonlinear dose–response pattern was observed for overall cardiovascular and heart disease mortality (all Pnonlinearity<0.05), with a threshold effect observed at ultra-processed food consumption of 2.4 servings/day and 2.3 servings/day, respectively; below the thresholds, no significant associations were observed for these two outcomes. Subgroup analyses showed that the increased risks of mortality from ultra-processed foods were significantly higher in women than in men (all Pinteraction<0.05). Conclusions: High consumption of ultra-processed foods is associated with increased risks of overall cardiovascular and heart disease mortality. These harmful associations may be more pronounced in women. Our findings need to be confirmed in other populations and settings.
Gravity determines the direction of nerve roots sedimentation in the lumbar spinal canal
Authors: Yang Jun , Feng Zhiyun , Hong Zhenhua , Yang Jiang , Zhou Tingjie , Yao Xin , Xu Taifeng
Published: December 2020

Objectives: To investigate the role of gravity in the sedimentation of lumbar spine nerve roots using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of various body position. Methods: A total of 56 patients, who suffered from back pain and underwent conventional supine lumbar spine MR imaging, were selected from sanmen hospital database. All the patients were called back to our hospital to perform MR imaging in prone position or lateral position. Furthermore, the sedimentation sign (SedSign) was determined based on the suspension of the nerve roots in the dural sac on cross-sectional MR images, and 31 cases were rated as positive and another 25 cases were negative. Results: The mean age of negative SedSign group was significantly younger than that of positive SedSign group (51.7±8.7 vs 68.4±10.5, P<0.05). The constitutions of clinical diagnosis were significantly different between patients with a positive SedSign and those with a negative SedSign (P<0.001). Overall, nerve roots of the vast majority of patients (48/56, 85.7%) subsided to the ventral side of the dural sac on the prone MR images, although that of 8 (14.3%) patients remain stay in the dorsal side of dural sac. Nerve roots of only one patient with negative SedSign did not settle to the ventral dural sac, while this phenomenon occurred in 7 patients in positive SedSign group (4% vs 22.6%, P<0.001). In addition, the nerve roots of all the five patients subsided to the left side of dural sac on lateral position MR images. Conclusions: The nerve roots sedimentation followed the direction of gravity. Positive SedSign may be a MR sign of lumbar pathology involved the spinal canal.
Dietary intakes of total polyphenol and its subclasses in relation to incidence of chronic kidney disease: a prospective population-based cohort study
Authors: Mirmiran Parvin , Yuzbashian Emad , Rahbarinejad Pegah , Asghari Golaleh , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: December 2020

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is nowadays a public health challenge worldwide. Accordingly, this study is aiming to evaluate the association between long-term intake of total polyphenol and its subclasses, and the incidence of CKD. Methods: A sample of 3021 Iranian Adults (47% men) were selected from the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study population. The participants aged 20-79 years and had no diagnosis of CKD at baseline. Total polyphenol intake and its major subclasses including flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes, and lignans, was assessed by a validated and reliable food frequency questionnaire, and were categorized as flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes, and lignans. CKD should be defined by either reduction in eGFR or by morphological abnormalities of the kidneys or by abnormalities in the urinalysis persistent for 3 months. Since GFR is generally accepted as the best overall index of kidney function, in current study CKD was exclusively defined as eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73m2. The Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study equation was used to calculate the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).Hazard ratio and 95% confidence intervals of CKD by total polyphenols quartiles were assessed by Cox-regression analysis. Results: In this study, we documented 355 cases of diagnosed CKD over 11,058.464 person-years. The median [IQR] age of participants was 36 [27-46] years at baseline. After adjustment of the potential confounders, it was revealed that a moderate intake of lignans (≤6.8 mg) was negatively associated with the incidence of CKD, whereas there was no significant association between the higher amounts of lignan intake and CKD. No significant associations were observed between the consumption of total polyphenols and the incidence of CKD (HR: 0.97, 95% CI 0.67-1.40). Conclusions: Data of the current study suggest that in the case of lignan with protective properties, a moderate amount of lignan favorably reduced the incidence of CKD by approximately 32%, whereas higher amounts possessed a null effect.
Metagenomic analyses and genetic diversity of Tomato leaf curl Arusha virus affecting tomato plants in Kenya
Authors: Avedi Edith Khamonya , Adediji Adedapo Olutola , Kilalo Dora Chao , Olubayo Florence Mmogi , Macharia Isaac , Ateka Elijah Miinda , Machuka Eunice Magoma , Mutuku Josiah Musembi
Published: December 2020

Background: Tomato production is threatened worldwide by the occurrence of begomoviruses which are associated with tomato leaf curl diseases. There is little information on the molecular properties of tomato begomoviruses in Kenya, hence we investigated the population and genetic diversity of begomoviruses associated with tomato leaf curl in Kenya.Methods: Tomato leaf samples with virus-like symptoms were obtained from farmers’ field across the country in 2018 and Illumina sequencing undertaken to determine the genetic diversity of associated begomoviruses. Additionally, the occurrence of selection pressure and recombinant isolates within the population were also evaluated.Results: Twelve complete begomovirus genomes were obtained from our samples with an average coverage of 99.9%. The sequences showed 95.7-99.7% identity among each other and 95.9-98.9% similarities with a Tomato leaf curl virus Arusha virus (ToLCArV) isolate from Tanzania. Analysis of amino acid sequences showed the highest identities in the regions coding for the coat protein gene (98.5-100%) within the isolates, and 97.1-100% identity with the C4 gene of ToLCArV. Phylogenetic algorithms clustered all Kenyan isolates in the same clades with ToLCArV, thus confirming the isolates to be a variant of the virus. There was no evidence of recombination within our isolates. Estimation of selection pressure within the virus population revealed the occurrence of negative or purifying selection in 5 out of the 6 coding regions of the sequences.Conclusions: The begomovirus associated with tomato leaf curl diseases of tomato in Kenya is a variant of ToLCArV, possibly originating from Tanzania. There is low genetic diversity within the virus population and this information is useful in the development of appropriate management strategies for the disease in the country.
Assessing Physician Performance Using Multisource Surveys: Do Biases Exist Due to Gender, Country of Training, Native Language, and Age?
Authors: Lanz Julie J , Gregory Paul , Harmon Larry
Published: December 2020

Background: With a growing number of foreign-trained physicians joining the United States workforce, there is a need to assess their job performance fairly. The purpose of this study was to explore the fairness of a multisource competency assessment on U.S.- and non-U.S.-trained physicians. Methods: We conducted a non-experimental retrospective analysis on physicians working in the United States (n=258) who participated in a physician assessment and education program. Results: There were no significant differences in performance outcomes at the scale level of teamwork, motivating or discouraging behaviors, technical practice, and patient interactions, nor the item level based on demographic differences. Conclusions: The PULSE 360 is a powerful tool that can be used to evaluate physician performance without bias due demographic differences including: gender, country of physician medical training, physician native language, or age.
YÜRÜTMENİN DURDURULMASI KURUMUNDA TELAFİSİ GÜÇ YA DA İMKÂNSIZ ZARAR KAVRAMI VE UYGULANMAKLA ETKİSİ TÜKENEN İDARİ İŞLEMLER
Authors: TETİK Ahmet Talha
Published: December 2020

Yürütmenin durdurulması kurumu, İdari Yargılama Usulü Kanunu’nun 27/2. ve Anayasanın 125/5. maddelerinde düzenlenmiştir. Bu açıdan yürütmenin durdurulması, hem yasal hem de anayasal bir kurumdur. Anılan düzenlemelerde yürütmenin durdurulması kararı verilebilmesi için esasa ilişkin iki şart öngörülmüştür. Bu şartlardan ilki idari işlemin açıkça hukuka aykırı olması; diğeri ise idari işlemin yürütülmesi halinde telafisi güç ya da imkansız zararların doğacak olmasıdır. Yürütmenin durdurulması kararı verilebilmesi için söz konusu iki şartın birlikte gerçekleşmesi gerekmektedir. Yürütmenin durdurulması kurumunun esasa ilişkin şartlarından birisi olan “telafisi güç ya da imkansız zarar” kavramının daha önce müstakil bir çalışmaya konu edilmediği görülmektedir. Bu açıdan “telafisi güç ya da imkansız zarar” kavramının, teorik ve pratik boyutlarıyla çerçevesinin çizilmesi önem arz etmektedir. Telafisi güç ya da imkansız zarar kavramının hukukumuza girişi, kavramın Türk idare hukuku öğretisinde yorumlanması ve idari yargı mercilerinin kavrama bakış açısı çalışmamız kapsamında ele alınmaya çalışılacaktır. Telafisi güç ya da imkansız zarar kavramı özelinde uygulanmakla etkisi tükenen işlemler de öğretideki görüşler ve yargı kararları ışığında ele alınacaktır.
Impact of consumer innovativeness on risk and new product adoption: a moderating role of Indonesia’s demographic factors
Authors: Triwijayati Anna , Melany  , Wijayanti Dian
Published: December 2020

Consumer innovativeness is an important driver of economic progress and a country’s position in global competition. This study aims to examine the moderating effect of demographic factors of Indonesian consumers on the impact of consumer innovativeness on perceived risk and new product adoption. The type of research chosen is a causal comparative study by using online and offline survey methods. Data were obtained from a sample of 1,000 consumers from 31 provinces. The results showed that the demographic variable became a moderating variable for the impact of consumer innovativeness on new product adoption, but did not play a role in the influence of consumer innovativeness on credit-purchase risk perception. With regard to the influence of consumer innovativeness on credit-purchase risk perception, only social class has a significant effect as a moderating variable. As for the effect of consumer innovativeness on a new product adoption, the variables of marital status, occupation, income, and social class have significant effects. The social class variable consistently becomes a moderating one in both equations. The results of this study are useful for marketers to focus more specifically on their target markets, especially on the diffusion of new product innovations based on demographic characteristics.
AcknowledgmentPDUPT Research Grant by Ministry of Research and Technology of The Republic of Indonesia, 2019.
The moderating role of firm size and interest rate in capital structure of the firms: selected sample from sugar sector of Pakistan
Authors: Hussain Sarfraz , Quddus Abdul , Phat Tien Pham , Rafiq Muhammad , Pavelková Drahomíra
Published: December 2020

The selection of financing is a top priority for businesses, particularly in short- and long-term investment decisions. Mixing debt and equity leads to decisions on the financial structure for businesses. This research analyzes the moderate position of company size and the interest rate in the capital structure over six years (2013–2018) for 29 listed Pakistani enterprises operating in the sugar market. This research employed static panel analysis and dynamic panel analysis on linear and nonlinear regression methods. The capital structure included debt to capital ratio, non-current liabilities, plus current liabilities to capital as a dependent variable. Independent variables were profitability, firm size, tangibility, Non-Debt Tax Shield, liquidity, and macroeconomic variables were exchange rates and interest rates. The investigation reported that profitability, firm size, and Non-Debt Tax Shield were significant and negative, while tangibility and interest rates significantly and positively affected debt to capital ratio. This means the sugar sector has greater financial leverage to manage the funding obligations for the better performance of firms. Therefore, the outcomes revealed that the moderators have an important influence on capital structure.
Energy efficiency and green solutions in sustainable development: evidence from the Norwegian maritime industry
Authors: Koilo Viktoriia
Published: December 2020

The maritime industry plays a special role in Norway. In recent years, it became subject to increasingly stronger requirements to reduce emissions. However, the most important is that the Norwegian maritime industry in several areas can deliver and further develop technology and products that provide lower emissions, nationally and globally. Going forward, technology development will be more important with time. Thus, it is important to find out what impact it will have on the industry’s sustainable development and estimate the efficiency of new technologies.This paper primarily aims to find a new optimization tool, which allows monitoring progress in the maritime industry towards sustainable development.The present study reveals many new possible zero-emission solutions in the maritime industry, such as battery-electric architectures, ammonia, hydrogen, biofuel, and liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), autonomous ships, etc. Moreover, it was highlighted that without active coordination between governance, academia, and industry, it is impossible to achieve international climate commitments and associated targets for reducing the emissions in the maritime industry.In addition, in this study, a twofold model was proposed: the first part is the calculation of the Sustainable Development Index (SDI), and the last one is mathematical modeling, where the optimization variable carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and Sustainable Development Index (SDI) should be maximized. The investigation results prove that the model should be tested, and further research in this area is needed. AcknowledgmentThe research is supported by a grant from the Research Based Innovation “SFI Marine Operation in Virtual Environment (SFI-MOVE)” (Project no: 237929) in Norway.
PLANLI ALANLAR İMAR YÖNETMELİĞİ, KENTLEŞME VE ERİŞİLEBİLİRLİK
Authors: KARADAĞ Hüseyin
Published: December 2020

Birleşmiş Milletler Engellilerin Haklarına İlişkin Sözleşme ile engellilerin diğer bireylerle eşit koşullarda toplumsal yaşama katılım hakkına sahip olduğu kabul edilmiş, engellilerin toplumsal hayata tam katılımlarını kolaylaştırmak için gerekli tedbirlerin alınması taraf devletlerce taahhüt edilmiştir. Engellilerin sosyal hayata katılım, istihdam ve eğitimine yönelik hedeflerin gerçekleşmesi ve diğer yasal haklarının kullanılması için erişilebilirlik önkoşuldur. Erişilebilirlik aynı zamanda bir insan hakkıdır. Bugün dünya nüfusunun %56’sı kentlerde yaşamaktadır. Gelişmiş ülkelerde kentli nüfus oranı çok daha fazladır. Ülkemizde ise 2019 TÜİK verilerine göre nüfusun %92’si il ve ilçe merkezlerinde yaşamaktadır. Engellinüfusuna ilaveten nüfustaki yaşlanma trendi ve Türkiye’de nüfusun %90’dan fazlasının kent merkezlerinde yaşaması erişilebilir kent olgusunu daha da önemli kılmaktadır. Kentte yaşayanengelli ve yaşlıların toplumsal yaşama tam katılımının sağlanması için yapılması gereken başlıca kriterlerden ilki erişilebilir bir yapılı çevre ve kesintisiz bir erişilebilirlik zincirinin kentlerdesağlanmasıdır. Bu çalışmada Planlı Alanlar İmar Yönetmeliği erişilebilirlik perspektiften değerlendirilmektedir. 2017 yılında yayımlanan bu yönetmelik bazı iyileştirmelere ihtiyaç duymasına rağmen yapılaşmada erişilebilirliğin sağlanması açısından önemli düzenlemeler getirmiştir. Çalışma, engelli ve yaşlılara ilişkin sürdürülebilir sosyal politikalar açısından yapılarda erişilebilirliği ve kentlerde kesintisiz bir erişilebilirlik zincirinin zorunlu olduğunu da ortaya koymaktadır.
BAHAN AJAR KOMIK MATEMATIKA BERBASIS DIGITAL BAGI SISWA SEKOLAH DASAR
Authors: KUSUMADEWI RIDA FIRONIKA , NEOLAKA AMOS , Yasin Mahmuddin
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this study was to determine the availability and use of teaching materials in schools, especially elementary schools. The teaching materials used are suitable for the students' needs. This study uses a Research and Development approach and method. The data collection technique here is to use interviews, teacher, and student response questionnaires to digital-based mathematics comic teaching materials. The field studies carried out include identifying the availability of teaching materials, analyzing the needs of teaching materials, analyzing learning, and identifying students' initial characteristic behaviors. The results of interviews based on field studies show that so far teachers have used conventional teaching materials, and only occasionally use digital-based teaching materials in the form of videos that are displayed on YouTube videos. Student response during learning so far is feeling less happy in participating in learning, especially learning mathematics, students' verbal ability in mathematics is still lacking. Based on these results, it is necessary to have teaching materials designed according to the needs and characteristics of students, namely by using digital-based comic teaching materials to improve the ability to understand mathematical concepts.Keywords: Teaching Materials, Mathematical Comic, Digital Abstract Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui ketersediaan dan penggunaan bahan ajar  disekolahan khususnya sekolah dasar. Bahan ajar yang digunakan apakah sesuai dengan kebutuhan siswa. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan dan metode penelitian pengembangan (Research and Development). Teknik pengambilan data disini adalah menggunakan wawancara, angket respon guru dan siswa terhadap bahan ajar komik matematika berbasis digital. Studi lapangan yang dilakukan diantarannya adalah mengidentifikasi ketersediaan bahan ajar, melakukan analisis kebutuhan bahan ajar, melakukan analisis pembelajaran, dan mengidentifikasi perilaku karakteristik awal siswa. Hasil wawancara berdasarkan studi lapangan adalah, selama ini guru menggunakan bahan ajar konvensional, dan hanya sesekali menggunakan bahan ajar berbasis digital yang berbantu video yang ditampilkan melalui video youtube. Respon siswa selama pembelajaran selama ini adalah merasa kurang senang dalam mengikuti pembelajaran khususnya pembelajaran matematika, kemampuan siswa secara verbal pada pelajaran matematika juga masih sangat kurang. Berdasarkan hasil tersebut, maka sangat diperlukan adanya bahan ajar yang dirancang sesuai kebutuhan dan karakteristik siswa yaitu dengan menggunakan bahan ajar komik berbasis digital untuk meningkatkan kemampuan pemahaman konsep matematika.Kata kunci: Bahan Ajar, Komik Matematika, Digital
PENGEMBANGAN MEDIA PEMBELAJARAN DENGAN ADOBE ANIMATE CC PADA MATERI GERAK PARABOLA
Authors: Prastyo Irman Said , Hartono Hartono
Published: December 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk merancang, membuat dan mengetahui kelayakan media pembelajaran dengan Adobe Animate CC pada materi gerak parabola. Penelitian ini termasuk ke dalam jenis penelitian Research and Developement (RD). Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan observasi dan angket. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa aplikasi tersebut layak digunakan, yaitu ditandai dengan skor rata-rata oleh empat ahli teknologi sebesar 89,375. Pada penilaian SUS, menurut Adjective Rating aplikasi masuk ke dalam kategori excellent dengan Grade Scale bekategori B dan Acceptability Ranges masuk pada kategori acceptable.
SIMPLE CHATBOT DEVELOPMENT TO HELP STUDENTS UNDERSTANDING EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Authors: Faqih Muhammad Izzatul , Mustofa Mustofa
Published: December 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk (1) Mengembangkan chatbot sederhana untuk membantu mahasiswa memahami metodologi penelitian pendidikan, (2) Mengetahui kelayakan chatbot sederhana untuk membantu mahasiswa memahami metodologi penelitian pendidikan, (3) Mengetahui respon chatbot sederhana untuk membantu mahasiswa memahami metodologi penelitian pendidikan. Jenis penelitian ini adalah penelitian Research and Developement (RND). Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan observasi, angket, dan dokumentasi. Hasil penelitian aplikasi tersebut layak digunakan yaitu ditandai dengan skor 4,425 yang diberikan oleh 4 ahli teknologi. Pada penilaian SUS aplikasi secara adjective rating bernilai excellent, dengan grade scale bekategori B dan acceptability ranges masuk pada acceptableKata kunci: chatbot, metodologi penelitian pendidikan
Vibration analysis of motorcycle handlebar for riding comfort using tuned mass damper
Authors: Khune Sumit , Bhende Amit
Published: December 2020

Vehicle comfort is related to vibrations induced due to surface irregularities and power generation and transmission parts. Long exposure to high vibrations may lead to numbness, stiffness, and pain in the rider’s hand parts such as fingers, shoulders, and neck. It is a challenge to design a good suspension system and vibration absorber which isolates the driver/rider from the induced vibrations. The principle aim of a vehicle’s suspension system/vibration absorber is to isolate the occupant from the induced disturbances, while still allowing the average driver to maintain control over the vehicle and drive it safely. The purpose of the present study is to investigate the vibrations in the motorcycle handlebar and modify the handlebar to reduce the vibration for good ride comfort without affecting its handling. A motorcycle with an under square engine is selected for the experimentation. The under square engine has more stroke length than bore diameter and hence it is more susceptible to generate vibrations. A tuned mass damper system is designed and developed to attenuate handlebar vibrations. To investigate and predict vibration attenuation levels in handlebar at different operating conditions, a proper design of experiments (DOE) is carried. In the DOE, the effects of factors such as motorcycle engine speed, mass on handlebar have been studied on vibrations at the handlebar. The objective of DOE is to develop a robust model that predicts the handlebar vibrations of a motorcycle which is highly desirable when rider exposes to vibration for a long period. The results of the investigation show vibration attenuation from 23 to 66 % at various engine speeds. The effect of the tuned mass damper is substantially visible at higher engine RPM hence proper modification of handlebar becomes essential in case of high revving applications where riders are exposed to high vibrations for longer periods.
Vida campesina en el Magdalena Grande
Authors: Vallejo Fabio Silva , Contreras Alexander Rodríguez
Published: December 2020

Conocer la vida, cotidianidad y forma de ser de los pueblos campesinos y pescadores del Magdalena Grande (Cesar, Magdalena y La Guajira) es un reto que debió asumirse mediante un método que permitiera a las personas expresar el significado de lo que hacen y por qué lo hacen. Esto fue posible gracias al diálogo e intercambio de saberes, pero fundamentado en el saber escuchar, instrumento de acercamiento que generó una horizontalidad en la construcción de conocimiento sobre el significado de “ser campesino” en una región tan diversa como es el Caribe colombiano. La investigación abordó la realidad de las comunidades campesinas del Magdalena Grande a partir de las formas de relacionarse con el territorio no solo en términos productivos, sino de sus valores y los significados que sobre este construyen. El trabajo de los etnógrafos no se limitó a describir prácticas económicas en relación con la tierra y el agua, sino a conocer cómo estos dos aspectos han configurado identidades, corporalidades y saberes propios que expresan la historia y la realidad concreta de pueblos que han luchado por el sostenimiento de sus tradiciones y sus memorias como elementos estructuradores de sus modos de vida.