bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Glyoxal Modified LDL: Role in the Generation of Circulating Autoantibodies in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Rizwee Md Masum , Abidi Minhal , Habib Safia , Mir Abdul Rouf , Ali Asif , Uddin Moin
Published: January 2021

Aims:

To investigate role of glyoxal modified LDL in immunopathology of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Background:

Glycoxidation of proteins is widely studied in relation to diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Objective:

This study probed the glyoxal mediated modifications in LDL, analyzed the immunogenicity of the glycated
LDL and ascertained the presence of circulating antibodies against modified LDL in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
(T2DM), coronary artery disease (CAD) and patients with both (T2DM+CAD).

Methods:

Glyoxal mediated modifications in LDL were studied by multiple spectroscopic techniques, high performance
liquid chromatography and electron microscopy. Immunization studies were carried in New Zealand rabbits. Presence of
antibodies against glyoxal modified LDL in immunized rabbits and human subjects were analyzed by ELISA.

Results:

Glyoxal altered the structural integrity of LDL and lead to the formation of AGEs. It decreased the alpha helix
content of LDL; increased β sheet formation; increased carbonyl content and decreased free lysine and arginine content.
Modified LDL showed aggregation, generation of of Nε-(Carboxymethyl) lysine and the formation of amorphous type
aggregates. It exhibited high antigenicity and generated specific immune response that shared common antigenic determinants with other glycated proteins. Direct binding data showed the presence of anti- glyoxal modified LDL antibodies in
patients with T2DM, CAD and patients with both T2DM and CAD. Further analysis in competitive binding assay revealed
specific binding characteristics of auto-antibodies. Sera from patients with T2DM+CAD exhibited highest binding with
glyoxal modified LDL.

Conclusion:

Glyoxal modified LDL has neo-antigenic determinants that cause the generation of circulating antibodies in
diabetes and coronary artery disease. The study might have potential relevance in biomarker development.
Rectifying Attenuated Store-Operated Calcium Entry as a Therapeutic Approach for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Huang Alexis S. , Tong Benjamin C.K. , Wu Aston J. , Chen Xiaotong , Sreenivasmurthy Sravan G. , Zhu Zhou , Liu Jia , Su Chengfu , Li Min , Cheung King-Ho
Published: January 2021

:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disorder. Although the
pathological hallmarks of AD have been identified, the derived therapies cannot effectively slow down
or stop disease progression; hence, it is likely that other pathogenic mechanisms are involved in AD
pathogenesis. Intracellular calcium (Ca2+) dyshomeostasis has been consistently observed in AD
patients and numerous AD models and may emerge prior to the development of amyloid plaques and
neurofibrillary tangles. Thus, intracellular Ca2+ disruptions are believed to play an important role in
AD development and could serve as promising therapeutic intervention targets.

:

One of the disrupted intracellular Ca2+ signaling pathways manifested in AD is attenuated storeoperated
Ca2+ entry (SOCE). SOCE is an extracellular Ca2+ entry mechanism mainly triggered by intracellular
Ca2+ store depletion. Maintaining normal SOCE function not only provides a means for the cell
to replenish ER Ca2+ stores but also serves as a cellular signal that maintains normal neuronal functions,
including excitability, neurogenesis, neurotransmission, synaptic plasticity, and gene expression.
However, normal SOCE function is diminished in AD, resulting in disrupted neuronal spine stability
and synaptic plasticity and the promotion of amyloidogenesis. Mounting evidence suggests that rectifying
diminished SOCE in neurons may intervene with the progression of AD. In this review, the
mechanisms of SOCE disruption and the associated pathogenic impacts on AD will be discussed. We
will also highlight the potential therapeutic targets or approaches that may help ameliorate SOCE deficits
for AD treatment.
Does Intra-Articular Injection of Platelet-Rich Plasma Have an Effect on Cartilage Thickness in Patients with Primary Knee Osteoarthritis?
Authors: Baki Noha M. Abdel , Nawito Zeinab O. , Abdelsalam Nehal M. S. , Sabry Dina , Elashmawy Hossam , Seleem Nagy A. , Taha Azza Ali Abdel-azeem , El Ghobashy Mohamed
Published: January 2021

Objectives:

To determine the effect of intra-articular injection of platelet-rich plasma
(PRP) in patients with primary knee osteoarthritis (OA) by clinical evaluation and ultrasonographic
(US) assessment of cartilage thickness.

Patients and Methods:

A total of 100 patients with mild to severe primary knee OA using the Kellgren-
Lawrence (K-L) grading scale were included and divided into two groups. Group I included
50 patients who were given two intra-articular knee injections of PRP, 1 week apart; Group II included
50 patients who received non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and chondroprotective
drugs. Functional assessment of all OA patients was done using the basal WOMAC score,
at 2 and 6 months. US assessment of femoral condylar cartilage thickness was conducted basally
and at 6 months.

Results:

Improvement of WOMAC score was observed at 2 and 6 months in Group I following
PRP injection compared to Group II (p values<0.001), The improvement of WOMAC in Group I
occurred in all severity degrees of OA (p<0.001). Moreover, a significant increase in cartilage
thickness was found at the intercondylar area (ICA) at 6 months relative to baseline assessment by
US in Group I (p = 0.041).

Conclusion:

Treatment with PRP injections can reduce pain and improve knee function in patients
with various degrees of articular degeneration. Further studies are needed to clarify the anabolic effect
of PRP on the articular cartilage.
Epidemiological Characteristics of 64 Covid-19 Patients in Errachidia Province (Darâa-Tafilalet region), Morocco: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Akdad Mourad , Algharrass Youness , Talha Hafid , Babakhouya Abdelaadim , Ajebli Mohammed , Ech-cherrate Ahlam , Eddouks Mohamed
Published: January 2021

Background:

At the time of writing this paper, no data was available for the clinical and
epidemiological characteristics of African patients with COVID-19. Herein, we profiled retrospectively
the epidemiological characteristics (clinical, laboratory, radiological, treatment, and clinical
outcomes) of 64 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Regional Hospital Center (RHC) of Errachidia
in Morocco. The aim of this study was to analyze the epidemiological characteristics and laboratory
Findings of Covid-19 patients in Errachidia Province, Morocco.

Methods:

This is a retrospective single-center study that included all COVID-19 confirmed patients
(died or discharged) hospitalized in the Regional Center of Errachidia, Morocco, between
March 20, 2020 and May 23, 2020. Patients were confirmed by real-time RT-PCR and epidemiological,
demographic, clinical, laboratory, treatment, and outcomes of patients were extracted manually
from patient’s medical records.

Results:

In a total of 64 patients with COVID-19, 60.9% of patients were men, with a mean age of
41.5 years (SD 18.62). At the admission, 38 patients were asymptomatic (59.4%), and 58 (90.6%)
were clinically classified as being in a benign state. Chronic illnesses were the most comorbidities
observed, including diabetes with 8 cases (12.5%), hypertension 3 cases (4.7%), and hyperlipidemia
1 patient (1.6%). The main symptoms were cough 15 (23.4%), fever 10 (15.6), diarrhea 8
(12.5%), headache 5 (7.8%), and sore throat 5 (7.8%). Only 7 patients (10.9%) had lung lesions,
and lymphopenia was present in only 7 patients (11.1%). The median duration of viral shedding
was 14.5 days (9-22). Concerning deceased cases, they were elderly subjects aged 69.75 years, and
they have presented dyspnea, breathing problems, and respiratory distress as specific symptoms. In
addition, an increase of the medians of serum AST, CRP, and glucose levels was noticed in this
group. During hospitalization, they presented acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and
they were transferred to intensive care before they died.

Conclusion:

This study revealed that covid-19 infection often appeared in a benign form in the
studied population (90.6% in this study). This finding may incriminate the implication of some protective
parameters such as genetic, nutritional or other factors in the Moroccan population.
Comparison of Wound Infection in Uncomplicated Acute Appendicitis by Subcuticular Suture and Interrupted Suture
Authors: Zarei Farshad , Ahmadinejad Mojtaba
Published: January 2021

Background:

Postoperative complications such as; wound infection and scaring are some of the major concerns
regarding suturing techniques. This study is designed to evaluate post-operative outcomes of adhering subcuticular sutures
in comparison to interrupted suturing method in patients who underwent appendectomy for uncomplicated acute
appendicitis.

Methods:

240 patients were randomly assigned into two groups; 120 with interrupted and 120 subcuticular sutures after
appendectomy, at Shohada Ashayer hospital, Khorramabad, Iran. The prevalence of wound infection, three days after the
surgery in the hospital and a week after discharged was determined and evaluated statistically.

Results:

No wound infection was seen within three days of hospitalization in subcuticular group whereas, 1 patient reported
infection in interrupted group, however the difference was not statistically significant. A week after discharge, a patient was
reported to have wound infection in subcuticular group and 2 in interrupted group. No significant difference was seen in this
regard either. 55 females and 66 males received subcuticular sutures whereas, 74 males and 46 females were given
interrupted sutures for wound closing. One male in interrupted and 1 male and female subcuticular group was referred for
wound infection, after discharge, respecitvely. Among these groups, no significant differences were seen. In catarrhal
appendicitis, infection was reported in interrupted group only which was not statistically significant.

Conclusions:

Subcuticular sutures provide better cosmetic outcomes without any additional complications in comparison to
interrupted sutures.
Bone Disruption and Environmental Pollutants
Authors: Giannattasio Raffaele , Lisco Giuseppe , Giagulli Vito Angelo , Settembrini Silvio , De Pergola Giovanni , Guastamacchia Edoardo , Lombardi Gaetano , Triggiani Vincenzo
Published: January 2021

Background:

Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) are ubiquitous and may significantly contribute in
environmental pollution, thus contaminating humans and wildlife. Environmental pollutants could interfere with bone
homeostasis by means of different mechanisms, which include hormonal imbalance, direct osteoblasts toxicity and
enanchment of osteoclasts activity, thus leading to osteopenia or osteoporosis. Among these, bisphenols, dioxins, polycyclic
aromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorobiphenyls, poly- and perfluoroalkyls, phthalates, parabens, organotins and cadmium may
play a role in bone distuption.

Methods:

PubMed/MEDLINE, ISI-web of knowledge and Google scholar databases were searched for medical subject
headings terms and free-text word related to the aforementioned classes of chemicals and bone metabolism and remodelling
for better clarifying and understanding the main mechanisms of bone disruption.

Results:

Several of EDCs act as xenoestrogens. Considering that estrogens play a significant role in regulating bone
remodeling, most of these chemicals generate hormonal imbalance with possible detrimental consequences on bone tissue
structure and its mechanical and non-mechanical properties.

Discussion:

A lot of evidences about bone distruptors came from in vitro studies or animal models, and conduct to
equivocal results. In addition, a few data derived form humans and most of these data focused on the impact of EDCs on
bone mineral density without considering their influence on long-term fracture risk. Moreover, it should be taken into
account that humans are exposed to a mixture of EDCs and the final effect on bone metabolism might be the result of either
a synergism or antagonist effects among them. Age of first exposure, cumulative dose exposure over time, and the usually
observed non-monotonic dose-response curve for EDCs should be considered as other important variable influencing the
final effect on bone metabolism.

Conclusion:

Taking into account these variables, observational studies are needed to better analyze this issue both for
echological purpose and to preserve bone health.
In Vitro Screening for Cytotoxic, Anti-bacterial, Anti-HIV1-RT Activities and Chemical Constituents of Croton fluviatilis, Croton acutifolius, and Croton thorelii
Authors: Worarat Charina , Pompimon Wilart , Udomputtimekakul Phansuang , Sukdee Sukee , Sombutsiri Punchavee , Kuanmuang Natthika , Suwan Issariyaporn , Khamyong Yuttaphong , Suksabai Chuthimon , Artkla Woralak , Meepowpan Puttinan , Nuntasaen Narong
Published: January 2021

Background:

Although the chemical constituents and biological activities of a large number of plants in the Croton genus have been studied, there are still recently discovered plants to be investigated.

Objective:

1. To investigate the anti-bacterial, anti-HIV1-RT, and cytotoxicity activities of crude extracts from these plants. 2. To investigate the chemical constituents of Croton fluviatilis, Croton acutifolius, and Croton thorelii.

Method:

The anti-bacterial, anti-HIV1-RT, and cytotoxicity of the three plants were evaluated by standard techniques. Extraction, separation, and purification of extracts from the three plants were undertaken.

Results:

The ethyl acetate extract of C. fluviatilis showed low anti-bacterial activity against E. aerogenes, E. coli 0157: H7, and P. mirabilis, together with the ethyl acetate extract of C. acutifolius displayed low anti-bacterial activity against E. aerogenes, while all the crude extracts of C. thorelii were inactive. The ethyl acetate extracts of C. thorelii, and C. fluviatilis showed strong inhibited HIV1-RT, whereas the ethyl acetate extract of C. acutifolius, and the hexane extract of C. fluviatilis displayed moderate inhibited HIV1-RT. Cytotoxic properties of three Croton plants were specific to KKU-M213, MDA-MB-231, A-549, and MMNK-1. Especially, the ethyl acetate extract of C. acutifolius exhibited strong cytotoxic activities against MDA-MB-231, A-549, and MMNK-1. Furthermore, the ethyl acetate extract of C. thorelii showed high cytotoxic activities against KKU-M213, and MDA-MB-231.
Compounds 1, and 4 were found in C. fluviatilis. Compounds 2 and 4 were also found in C. acutifolius. Moreover, compound 3 was only found in C. thorelii.

Conclusion:

The present study revealed that the three Croton species are good sources of flavonoid compounds and further investigation of the chemical constituents from these plants may prove to be fruitful to discover more active compounds to be tested as potential medicines.
Nanomaterials for Targeted Delivery of Anticancer Drugs: An Overview
Authors: Sarmah Pubalee , Choudhary Bhavna
Published: January 2021

:

Application of nanomaterials in drug delivery is a rapidly developing area of interest. The main intention in the development of these drug delivery vehicles is to successfully know the targeted delivery-related efforts and carrying drugs to the required sites of therapeutic action with reduction in adverse side effects. The task for targeted drug delivery to reach pathological are-as has increased advances in nanomedicine. But the high toxicity of uncoated nanoparticles restricts the use in humans. So, to reduce toxicity, the encapsulation of nanoparticles is done with bio compatible materials. There are many efficient delivery systems thathave been developed in which nanoparticles are loaded with the cancer drug involvingbi-layer molecules. The ﬁelds of nanotechnology has always played a crucial role in electronics, biology and medicine. Its application can be ap-praised, as it involves the materials to be designed at atomic and molecular level.This article reviews different types of nano- materials used as delivery vehicles for chemotherapeutic agents and their mechanism of action that improve the therapeutic efficacy of the drugs. The recent scientiﬁc advances in the area of chemotherapy are also discussed with emphasizingthe fu-ture prospects in cancer treatments.
Knowledge Evaluation of Hand Hygiene and Infectious Diseases in Lebanon
Authors: Taleb Jana , Sankari Najwa , Kassem Maya Alaa Dine , Roufayel Rabih , Kadry Seifedine
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

Hand washing, also known as hand hygiene, is a simple procedure used
for cleaning and cleansing hands for eliminating soil, dirt, and germs including microorganisms
such are bacterial or viral particles. In the absence of water and soap, cinder can be used as an alternative
method for cleaning hands. Hand hygiene is an essential part that needs to be carefully followed
in the infection control protocols. With the expanding loads of Health-Care Associated Infections
(HCAIs) and the increasing levels of both treatment complexity and severity of illness
synchronized by multi-drug resistant (MDR) pathogen infections, health care practitioners are focusing
on the basic and most essential facts of disease prevention by implementing the basic and
simple cleaning measures including hand hygiene measures. According to healthcare facilities,
many scientific evidences support the observation that hand hygiene or handwashing if properly implemented,
can decrease and eliminate the risk factors of cross-transmission infections.

Method:

The data was collected using a self-administrated survey, which included 10 questions,
constructed using the monkey survey website. The survey was sent by email and collected from
100 participants of different ages.

Results:

Our results indicated that the majority of our population under study is considered
healthy, representing good educational levels.

Conclusion:

The majority revealed advanced knowledge and understanding about the key aspects
for hand washing procedures.
Permas oral traditions function in Mundeh traditional village
Authors: Sentana Gek Diah Desi , Cika I Wayan , Suarka I Nyoman , Kusuma I Nyoman Weda
Published: January 2021

The permas oral tradition is the ancestral heritage of the Mundeh Traditional Village community, which has a lot of local wisdom, policies, and life philosophies that are expressed in the form of performing arts and traditional ceremonies. It is found is a characteristic of the socio-religious which keeps the local wisdom. In this regard, this paper raises the permas oral tradition which shows how the community through the function of the permas oral tradition can preserve its culture, carry out rituals, educate ethics, and teach children to meet the daily needs of natural resources in the village. the. The method used in this research is qualitative research methods. Alan Dunde’s theory of function is used as the basis for analyzing the function because the analysis is not only limited to the language that is the medium of expression but also explores the cultural phenomena that are stored in a tradition through understanding the context. The findings of this study are that the people through the oral tradition of permas can educate people from an early age to manage nature without destroying nature, economically they can support themselves from nature in that environment with socio-cultural institutions that run harmoniously.
EXPLORASI PEMBELAJARAN OPERASI PECAHAN SISWA SEKOLAH DASAR MENURUT TEORI GRAVEMEIJER DI KABUPATEN NGADA NTT
Authors: Bito Gregorius Sebo , Sugiman Sugiman
Published: January 2021

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui perkembangan belajar operasi pecahan siswa sekolah dasar menurut teori Gravemeijer di Kabupaten Ngada NTT. Jenis penelitian kualitatif fenomenologi digunakan untuk mencapai tujuan penelitian. Dalam penelitian ini Hypothetical Learning Trajectory (HLT) memainkan peranan penting sebagai instrumen penelitian. Perangkat pembelajaran yang disusun untuk menjalankan serangkaian aktivitas belajar dalam HLT telah dikonsultasikan dengan dua orang ahli Pembelajaran Matematika selanjutnya diuji coba pada kelompok kecil yaitu lima siswa Kelas IV Sekolah Dasar Katolik Bomari Langa pada tahap eksperimen pilot. Selanjutnya HLT dibandingkan dalam proses pembelajaran sebenarnya pada tahap eksperimen pengajaran dengan 24 siswa. Berdasarkan analisis ditemukan bahwa siswa dapat berkembang dalam belajar operasi pecahan dengan menggunakan tingkat aktivitas yang berbeda berdasarkan pendekatan PMR menurut teori Gravemeijer. Pada level pertama yaitu level situasional, Drama Matematika dapat menstimulasi pengetahuan informal siswa tentang prosedur operasi penjumlahan dan pengurangan pecahan. Pada level referensial, untaian manik-manik dan kartu pecahan menjadi model dari situasi drama matematika yang merupakan jembatan menuju gagasan penggunaan garis bilangan untuk operasi penjumlahan dan pengurangan pecahan. Pada level ketiga yaitu level general, siswa dapat menggunakan garis bilangan sebagai model untuk operasi penjumlahan dan pengurangan pecahan. Pada level formal, dengan bantuan untaian bilangan membawa siswa mengkonstruksi soal cerita sendiri dan menyelesaikan soal cerita yang dihasilkan dengan prosedur formal operasi penjumlahan dan pengurangan pecahan. Kata Kunci: Teori Gravemeijer, hipotesis trayektori belajar, penjumlahan dan pengurangan pecahan.
STUDI KOMPARASI BUDAYA SEKOLAH SDSN DAN SD EKS RSBI DI DAERAH ISTIMEWA YOGYAKARTA
Authors: Muhtarom Taufik , Wangid Muhammad Nur
Published: January 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk: (1) mengetahui perbedaan budaya sekolah di SDSN dan SD Eks RSBI DIY, (2) memaparkan perbedaan masing-masing aspek budaya sekolah antara SDSN dengan SD Eks RSBI. Jenis penelitian ini adalah komparasi. Populasi penelitian ini adalah semua kepala sekolah, guru, dan staf SDSN dan SD RSBI di Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta yang berjumlah 797 orang untuk SDSN dan 155 orang untuk SD Eks RSBI. Sampel dari SDSN berjumlah 256 orang dan sampel dari SD Eks RSBI sebanyak 116 orang ditentukan menggunakan teknik proportional sampling. Pengumpulan data dilakukan menggunakan kuesioner. Teknik analisis data yang digunakan adalah analisis univariat, bivariat, dan uji-t. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa: (1) tidak terdapat perbedaan yang signifikan antara budaya sekolah SDSN dengan SD Eks RSBI di Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta; (2) ditemukan perbedaan skor dari masing-masing aspek budaya sekolah di SDSN dan SD Eks RSBI DIY. Aspek budaya sekolah yang lebih baik di SDSN adalah kolaborasi profesional, hubungan kolegial, self determination, visi-misi, konsensus, dan disiplin. Sedangkan aspek budaya sekolah yang lebih unggul pada SD Eks RSBI adalah aspek komitmen, hormat, empati, bebas bullying dan artefak fisik. Kata kunci: budaya sekolah, SDSN, SD Eks RSBI
EFEKTIVITAS PELATIHAN MOTIVASI UNTUK MENURUNKAN TINGKAT STRES SISWA DALAM MENGHADAPI UJIAN NASIONAL SEKOLAH DASAR
Authors: Habiby Wahdan Najib , Wangid Muhammad Nur
Published: January 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan mengetahui efektivitas pelatihan motivasi yang didesain melalui lima tahap yaitu training need assessment, training priorities, training design, training management, dan training evaluation dengan memberikan materi pada aspek kognitif, emosi dan spiritual untuk menurunkan tingkat stres siswa dalam menghadapi ujian nasional pada kelas VI SDN Tahunan Umbulharjo. Penelitian kuantitatif dengan rancangan eksperimen semu ini menggunakan model two group pretest-posttest design. Dilakukan pada tanggal 28 April 2012. Populasi 47 siswa, dengan sampel pada kelompok kontrol 22 siswa dan kelompok eksperimen 25 siswa. Instrumen pengumpulan data menggunakan angket tentang tingkat stres siswa yang dibagikan kepada siswa dan orangtua, serta wawancara. Data yang diperoleh dianalisis menggunakan statistik parametrik paired samples t-test, dan diperoleh skor t 3.944, signifikansi sebesar 0,001. Skor rerata kondisi stres kelompok eksperimen dengan kelompok kontrol sebesar 4,5. Karena signifikansi hitung 0,001 < 0,05 maka hipotesis diterima. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pelatihan motivasi efektif menurunkan tingkat stres siswa kelas VI SDN Tahunan Umbulharjo Yogyakarta dalam menghadapi ujian nasional. Kata Kunci: stres, Ujian Nasional SD, pelatihan motivasi.
Culture and COVID-19 Casualties: Public Health Through the Lens of Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions (Preprint)
Authors: Wang Jiali , Bandera Cesar , Yan Zhipeng
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Hofstede’s Culture Dimensions (HCD) are the most prevalent metrics with which social scientists distinguish cultural differences between countries. In this study, we examine the relationships between HCD and the COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, we investigate how differences in COVID-19 infection, death and recovery between countries correlate with differences in individualism (IDV), indulgence (IVR) and power distance index (PDI).

OBJECTIVE

The paper explores the relationship between certain Hofstede’s Culture Dimensions and COVID-19 statistics.

METHODS

We used multiple linear regressions to interpret statistical and economic significances.

RESULTS

IDV is found to be significantly associated with death rate and recovery rate globally, while IVR and PDI do not seem to be significantly relevant. None of the three dimensions are significantly related to the global infection rate.

CONCLUSIONS

These results have implications for the design of public health campaigns on preventing COVID-19 infection and compliance with vaccination campaigns. Some practical strategies have been proposed for public health officials to help mitigate COVID 19 spread.

CLINICALTRIAL

Not applicable
Prediction Model of Anastomotic Leakage Among Esophageal Cancer Patients After Receiving an Esophagectomy: Machine Learning Approach (Preprint)
Authors: Zhao Ziran , Cheng Xi , Sun Xiao , Ma Shanrui , Feng Hao , Zhao Liang
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is one of the severe postoperative adverse events (5%-30%), and it is related to increased medical costs in cancer patients who undergo esophagectomies. Machine learning (ML) methods show good performance at predicting risk for AL. However, AL risk prediction based on ML models among the Chinese population is unavailable.

OBJECTIVE

This study uses ML techniques to develop and validate a risk prediction model to screen patients with emerging AL risk factors.

METHODS

Analyses were performed using medical records from 710 patients who underwent esophagectomies at the National Clinical Research Center for Cancer between January 2010 and May 2015. We randomly split (9:1) the data set into a training data set of 639 patients and a testing data set of 71 patients using a computer algorithm. We assessed multiple classification tools to create a multivariate risk prediction model. Our ML algorithms contained decision tree, random forest, naive Bayes, and logistic regression with least absolute shrinkage and selection operator. The optimal AL prediction model was selected based on model evaluation metrics.

RESULTS

The final risk panel included 36 independent risk features. Of those, 10 features were significantly identified by the logistic model, including aortic calcification (OR 2.77, 95% CI 1.32-5.81), celiac trunk calcification (OR 2.79, 95% CI 1.20-6.48), forced expiratory volume 1% (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.30-0.89); TLco (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.27-1.18), peripheral vascular disease (OR 4.97, 95% CI 1.44-17.07), laparoscope (OR 3.92, 95% CI 1.23-12.51), postoperative length of hospital stay (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.13-1.21), vascular permeability activity (OR 0.46, 95% CI 0.14-1.48), and fat liquefaction of incisions (OR 4.36, 95% CI 1.86-10.21). Logistic regression with least absolute shrinkage and selection operator offered the highest prediction quality with an area under the receiver operator characteristic of 72% in the training data set. The testing model also achieved similar high performance.

CONCLUSIONS

Our model offered a prediction of AL with high accuracy, assisting in AL prevention and treatment. A personalized ML prediction model with a purely data-driven selection of features is feasible and effective in predicting AL in patients who underwent esophagectomy.
Automating triage and monitoring of 7578 COVID-19 migrant workers in the community: A Narrative Review (Preprint)
Authors: Lim Kheng Sit , Phua Kia-Sheng Jonathan , Chow Sau Yee , Liu Wei Yang Christopher , Tan Hiang Khoon
Published: January 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

• Background
The COVID-19 pandemic unmasked how quickly healthcare systems could be overwhelmed. One of the most pressing issues was the lack of hospital and intensive care beds. Attempts to mitigate these addresses both ends of the equation: admissions and bed creation. While it is relatively straightforward to utilize resources in generating more facilities, we were in unchartered waters with regards to refining triage criteria for admission to hospital for patients in the setting of community primary care.
• Methods
This narrative review shares our journey in determination and revision of triage criteria and effecting a robust self-monitored and reported automated vital sign system in a cohort of 7578 COVID-19 patients managed out-of-hospital.
• Results:
We present descriptive statistics on our patient cohort’s vital signs, compliance rate to monitoring, percentage of patients triggering medical review, percentage of patients transferred out to hospital and adverse events incidence.
• Conclusions:
We believe there are lessons and potential applications for the international community from our experience.
Integration of Investigative Science Process Skills Teaching Strategy on Students’ Achievement at Secondary School Level Physics in Embu County, Kenya
Authors: Njoka Nazario M. , Julius Judith K.
Published: January 2021

One of the challenges facing Kenya in the teaching of Physics in secondary schools is how to make learners acquire knowledge, build up capacity for critical thinking in solving problems in any situation and make an effort to enable them understand the application of content in real life situations and careers. Based on this challenge, the present study was designed to determine the effect of investigative science process skill teaching strategy on students’ achievement in Physics. The study was guided by the following objectives: To determine students’ achievement in school physics when using Investigative Science Process Skill (ISPS) teaching strategy. Theoretical framework of the study was based on constructivist theories of learning. Quasi- Experimental design was used. The research was carried out in eight schools in Embu County. Stratified random sampling technique was used to select participating schools, then simple random sampling was used to select and assign participating schools in experimental and control group. The sample was form three students. Research instrument used was: Physics Achievement Test (PAT) on the topic of Electricity (II). The research instrument was pilot-tested for validity and reliability. The reliability coefficient was calculated using Kunder-Richardson (KR-Formula20). A coefficient value of 0.768 was considered suitable for reliability of the instrument. Data was analysed using the analysis of variance (ANOVA) and chi-square and t-test. Hypotheses was tested at alpha (?) value of 0 .05 level of significance using a computer Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) for Windows. The findings of the study demonstrated that ISPS enhanced academic achievement in learning. It is hoped that the results of the study provide useful information to Physics teachers, curriculum developers, Quality Assurance and Standards Officer (QASO) and teacher-trainers.
Explosive potential of energetic mixtures based on hydrogen peroxide
Authors: Papliński Andrzej
Published: January 2021

The explosion and detonation of energetic compositions based on hydrogen peroxide (H2O2, HP) is investigated. Fuels with different oxygen balance were considered in the mixture with HP/methanol, ethylene glycol, glycerine ethanol. Detonation performance at a wide range of reciprocal HP/fuel concentrations was examined. Heats of explosion at constant volume, detonation velocity, as well as volume of gaseous products of reaction were estimated in thermochemical evaluations. The modification of explosive properties of the high-energetic CHNO material by addition of hydrogen peroxide, was also investigated. To represent CHNO explosives, nitromethane was considered. In the performed analysis, aqueous solutions of hydrogen peroxide were considered with the aim of obtaining the appropriate fuel/HP/water ratios to predict potential explosive compositions.
Formulation and Evaluation of Ketorolac Tromethamine Mouth Dissolving Tablets
Authors: Bindal Rishabh , Indurkhya Arpna
Published: January 2021

Due to more versatility and comfort, mouth dissolving tablets are the most advanced type of oral solid dosage forms. Compared to conventional tablets, it increases the effectiveness of APIs by dissolving within a minute in the oral cavity after contact with less saliva, without chewing and without the need for water for administration. Mouth Dissolving Tablets of Ketorolac tromethamine were prepared by direct compression method using various superdisintegrants like crospovidone, Croscarmellose sodium, and Sodium starch glycolate in different concentrations. Prepared tablets were evaluated for hardness, friability, weight variation, disintegration time, wetting time and in vitro drug release. Results of pre-compression and post-compression studies of all formulations were found within the standard limits. The tablets of all the batches were found to release more than 80% of drug in 5 minutes, which is the desired quality of mouth dissolving tablets that helps in faster absorption of the drug and quick onset of therapeutic effect. The the order of dissolution of various disintegrants was found to be Crospovidone˃ SSG˃ CCS. There was no significant variation in drug content of drug during stability studies for selected batch F3 in accelerated conditions over three months. It was concluded from the study that fast release of Ketorolac tromethamine from formulation F3 may reduce onset of drug action with better patient compliance.

Keywords: Crospovidone, Croscarmellose sodium, Ketorolac tromethamine, Mouth dissolving tablets, Sodium starch glycolate, superdisintegrants.
Unani Medicine: Significance of Asbab-e-Sitta Zarooriya in times of Pandemic COVID-19
Authors: Fatma Araf , Perveen Aisha , Rehman Sana Ur , Khan Rabia
Published: January 2021

SARS COV-2 belongs to the beta coronavirus genera, it is believed that bats as warm-blooded flying vertebrates are ideal hosts for coronavirus gene source. COVID-19 caused by novel coronavirus was originated from Wuhan city of Hubei Province in China in December 2019. The common symptoms comprise fever, cough, malaise, and shortness of breath. The incubation period is between  2 - 14 days. In this paper we have deliberated the structure of viruses; varying symptoms among COVID-19, SARS, MERS, and approach to tackling this problem with utmost effective Unani alternatives. Unani medicine endeavors to find the best conceivable ways by which a person can lead a hale and hearty life with minimum or zero sicknesses. Unani scholars believe by practicing important things like the use of fresh and clean water, breathing clean air and eating fresh food, upholding a balance between the mind and the body so that the metabolic processes can function effortlessly and the body wastes are evacuated, by enhancing immunity, and keeping an equilibrium between (Asbab-e-Sitta Zarooriya) six essential factors for life one can stay away from diseases.

Keywords: COVID-19, Unani Medicine, SARS COV-2, Asbab-e-Sitta Zarooriya.
Tanqiya wa Tadeel (Evacuation and Rejuvenation): The Unani Concept as Evolutionary Basis for Conventional Stroke Management
Authors: Nayab Mohd , Kouser Hina V , Ansari Abdul Nasir
Published: January 2021

The treatment of stroke has always been a challenge for all systems of medicine. The modern medicine has substantially been capable to treat and control both, the haemorrhagic and ischemic strokes in emergency situations. The current approach of modern medicine relies on thrombolysis, antithrombosis, neuroprotection and rehabilitation. While the former two approaches yield significant mortality and morbidity reduction with available thrombolytic and antithrombotic agents but the latter two approaches have limited success with prevalent neuroprotective agents and physical therapy. While the Unani medicine approach in treatment of stroke strongly resemble to that of modern medicine, the action of thrombolysis and antithrombosis exerted by Unani drugs; however, remains undesirably slow in acute stroke and may lead to relatively extended damage to brain tissues in comparison to significantly effective control achieved by modern medicine. The latter part of stroke recovery in the form of rehabilitation remains tardy with available modern approaches, however, several studies done in stroke rehabilitation, following the principle of Tanqia and Tadeel of Unani medicine, have shown promising results in relatively rapid recovery from various post stroke disabilities. Unani drugs used in various dosage forms under the rubric of tanqia and tadeel possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and neuroprotective properties represented by Muhallil (Resolvent), Mulattif (Demulcent), Munaqqie Dimagh (Brain Cleanser), Mufatteh Sudad (Deobstruent), Muhallile Auram (Anti-inflammatory) and Jali (Cleanser) terminologies, used for drug actions in Unani medicine. The explicable reason of early recovery during rehabilitation appears to be the rapid improvement in neuroplasticity of brain exerted by various active constituents of Unani drugs used in various combinations and permutations in different dosage forms. The term tanqia stands for evacuation of morbid material and tadeel for rejuvenation. The principle of tanqia and tadeel of Unani medicine offers all therapeutic approaches for various forms and stages of stroke and therefore provides theoretical and practical bases for the evolution of modern medical approaches in stroke management.

Keywords: Falij; Istefragh; Munzij; Mushil; Nuzj
Overload Control in a Token Player for a Fuzzy Workflow Management System
Authors: Nedopetalski Felipe , Jeske de Freitas Joslaine Cristina
Published: January 2021

The underlying proposal of this work is to control overload of a Token Player in a Fuzzy Workflow Management System. In order to accomplish this, possibility theory is used to measure how much the Token Player can be overloaded. The model used in this work is built using Colored Petri net and the simulation is made using CPN Tools. Finally, is possible to control overload of the Token Player in a Fuzzy Workflow Management System, nevertheless more time is spent to achieve the end of activities.
The Explainable Business Process (XBP) - An Exploratory Research
Authors: Alhomsi Riham , Santarosa Vivacqua Adriana
Published: January 2021

Providing explanations to the business process, its decisions and its activities, is an important key factor for the process in order to achieve the business objectives of the business process, and to minimize and deal with the ambiguity of the business process that causes multiple interpretations, as well as to engender the appropriate trust of the users in the process. As a first step towards adding explanations to business process, we present an exploratory study to bring in the concept of explainability into business process, where we propose a conceptual framework to use the explainability with business process in a model that we called the Explainable Business Process XBP, furthermore we propose the XBP lifecycle based on the Model-based and Incremental Knowledge Engineering (MIKE) approach, in order to show in details the phase where explainability can take a place in business process lifecycle, noting that we focus on explaining the decisions and activities of the process in its as-is model without transforming it into a to-be model.
PROFILE OF PROSPECTIVE TEACHERS' MATHEMATICAL COMMUNICATION ABILITY REVIEWED FROM ADVERSITY QUOTIENT
Authors: Muhtarom Muhtarom , Pratiwi Adelia Dian , Murtianto Yanuar Hery
Published: January 2021

Communication skills are an essential aspect that students need to possess by students who want to succeed in their studies, where students' mathematical communication can organize mathematical thinking both orally and in writing. While AQ is intelligent in facing difficulties, a student must face the problems that exist in them. This study aims to determine the profile of prospective mathematics prospective teacher's mathematical communication skills in terms of adversity quotient. This study was conducted on mathematics education students in the 6th semester of Universitas PGRI Semarang. This research is a descriptive qualitative study. Subjects taken from 57 respondents were three students in the category of climbers, campers, and quitters. Written tests and interviews do data collection. Indicators of mathematical communication skills used in this study include drawing, writing, and mathematical expression. The results showed that the subject climber can meet all the indicators of mathematical communication skills and can be said to be good. Subject campers tend to meet all indicators of mathematical communication skills, have the power of communication in indicators drawing, and be quite useful. Quitter's subject tends not to meet all the communication indicators. The subject does not answer the drawing indicator's problem, and the writing and mathematical expression indicators are still wrong.
A closer look at the bodily-kinesthetic intelligence in Physical Education classes
Authors: Nista-Piccolo Vilma Lení
Published: January 2021

This article poses a reflection on the pedagogical practices developed during Physical Education classes in school. Intending to move beyond a diagnostic analysis of what concerns this area of knowledge in the school routine, this study aims to present this curricular component highlighted as bodily-kinesthetic intelligence. The change to a comprehensive view of the mind has unveiled human cognition and has enabled the identification of different cognitive forces with contrasting styles. Based on a narrative review, specific to this theme, focusing on pedagogical practices experienced in Physical Education classes, the guidelines on this subject, were analyzed. The main purpose of changing this mindset is to improve intelligence manifestations, by stimulating the individual’s innate potentials through opportunities. The considerations highlighted in this analysis allow us to reveal significant points for this area. In light of the principles of the Theory of Multiple Intelligences, this study portrays the importance in the choice of content that is representative of the reality of the receivers, developed through various learning pathways during Physical Education classes in school. The establishment of theoretical principles presented by Howard Gardner greatly contributed to the educational field, with emphasis on teaching through various approaches, allowing Physical Education to interpret the students’ performance with a focus on their potentials.
Trajetória de professores das escolas multisseriadas do Munícipio de Concórdia/SC e suas práticas educativas (1950-1970)
Authors: Zotti Solange Aparecida , Schwingel Francini Coelli Schneider
Published: January 2021

Concórdia/SC tornou-se município em 1934 e sua economia estava assentada na agricultura de subsistência nas pequenas propriedades rurais familiares. Nesse contexto se desenvolve uma rede de escolas multisseriadas que tem por objetivo a alfabetização da população do campo. Este trabalho apresenta a trajetória de um grupo de professores das escolas multisseriadas do Município e analisa as práticas educativas desenvolvidas por estes profissionais e que caracterizaram as escolas, considerando-se o contexto socioeconômico do município. De caráter qualitativo, foram realizadas oito entrevistas que exploraram os temas formação, planejamento, processo de aprendizagem, métodos de ensino e sistema de avaliação. As práticas educativas das escolas se caracterizaram tradicionais e a diversidade é um aspecto positivo no processo de aprendizagem, bem como o papel dos professores na comunidade.
A Detailed Solution Framework for the Out-of-Plane Displacement of Circular Dielectric Elastomer Actuators
Authors: Medina Hector , Farmer Carson , Korn Daniel
Published: January 2021

The out-of-plane displacement (OPD) of a circular dielectric elastomer
actuator (DEA) membrane has been explored in recent years for a variety
of important applications. Circular DEAs consist of an elastomer
membrane that is prestretched to a rigid frame and coated with compliant
electrodes. Such a simple configuration has found many interesting
applications such as in, pumps, pulse tracking, hopping search and
rescue robots, dielectric elastomer (DE) generators for renewable energy
harvesting, linear actuators, and many others. Here, we present an
easy-to-follow implementation of the OPD equations for circular DEAs via
a detailed numerical solution using the shooting method (SM) on a system
of differential algebraic equations (DAE), based on previous theoretical
work. The SM numerical solution to the system of DAEs is applied to a
practical range of values based on the reported literature. Analysis of
the results and comparison against other studies are provided. The
current work provides a go-to framework for implementation in further
research and development.
Therapeutic strategies to fight COVID-19: which is the status artis?
Authors: Scavone Cristina , Mascolo Annamaria , Rafaniello Concetta , Sportiello Liberata , Trama Ugo , Zoccoli Alice , Bernardi Francesca , Racagni Giorgio , Berrino Liberato , Castaldo Giuseppe , Coscioni Enrico , Rossi Francesco , Capuano Annalisa
Published: January 2021

COVID-19 is a complex disease and many difficulties are faced today
especially in the proper choice of pharmacological treatments. The role
of antiviral agents for COVID-19 is still being investigated. The
evidence for immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory drugs is quite
conflicting, while the use of corticosteroids is supported by robust
evidence. The use of heparins in hospitalized critically ill patients is
preferred over other anticoagulants. Lastly, conflicting data were found
regarding to the use of convalescent plasma and vitamin D. According to
data shared by the WHO, many vaccines are under phase 3 clinical trials
and some of them already received the marketing approval in EU countries
and in the US. In conclusion, drugs repurposing has represented the main
approach recently used in the treatment of patients with COVID-19. At
this moment, the analysis of efficacy and safety data of drugs and
vaccines used in real life context is strongly needed.