bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Binary matrix factorization on special purpose hardware
Authors: Malik Osman Asif , Ushijima-Mwesigwa Hayato , Roy Arnab , Mandal Avradip , Ghosh Indradeep
Published: December 2021

Many fundamental problems in data mining can be reduced to one or more NP-hard combinatorial optimization problems. Recent advances in novel technologies such as quantum and quantum-inspired hardware promise a substantial speedup for solving these problems compared to when using general purpose computers but often require the problem to be modeled in a special form, such as an Ising or quadratic unconstrained binary optimization (QUBO) model, in order to take advantage of these devices. In this work, we focus on the important binary matrix factorization (BMF) problem which has many applications in data mining. We propose two QUBO formulations for BMF. We show how clustering constraints can easily be incorporated into these formulations. The special purpose hardware we consider is limited in the number of variables it can handle which presents a challenge when factorizing large matrices. We propose a sampling based approach to overcome this challenge, allowing us to factorize large rectangular matrices. In addition to these methods, we also propose a simple baseline algorithm which outperforms our more sophisticated methods in a few situations. We run experiments on the Fujitsu Digital Annealer, a quantum-inspired complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) annealer, on both synthetic and real data, including gene expression data. These experiments show that our approach is able to produce more accurate BMFs than competing methods.
Molecular characterization of xerosis cutis: A systematic review
Authors: Amin Ruhul , Lechner Anna , Vogt Annika , Blume-Peytavi Ulrike , Kottner Jan
Published: December 2021

Background

Xerosis cutis or dry skin is a highly prevalent dermatological disorder especially in the elderly and in patients with underlying health conditions. In the past decades, numerous molecular markers have been investigated for their association with the occurrence or severity of skin dryness. The aim of this review was to summarize the molecular markers used in xerosis cutis research and to describe possible associations with different dry skin etiologies.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of molecular markers of xerosis cutis caused by internal or systemic changes. References published between 1990 and September 2020 were searched using ‘MEDLINE’, ‘EMBASE’ and ‘Biological abstracts’ databases. Study results were summarized and analyzed descriptively. The review protocol was registered in PROSPERO database (CRD42020214173).

Results

A total of 21 study reports describing 72 molecules were identified including lipids, natural moisturizing factors (NMFs), proteins including cytokines and metabolites or metabolic products. Most frequently reported markers were ceramides, total free fatty acids, triglycerides and selected components of NMFs. Thirty-one markers were reported only once. Although, associations of these molecular markers with skin dryness were described, reports of unclear and/or no association were also frequent for nearly every marker.

Conclusion

An unexpectedly high number of various molecules to quantify xerosis cutis was found. There is substantial heterogeneity regarding molecular marker selection, tissue sampling and laboratory analyses. Empirical evidence is also heterogeneous regarding possible associations with dry skin. Total free fatty acids, total ceramide, ceramide (NP), ceramide (NS), triglyceride, total free amino acids and serine seem to be relevant, but the association with dry skin is inconsistent. Although the quantification of molecular markers plays an important role in characterizing biological processes, pathogenic processes or pharmacologic responses, it is currently unclear which molecules work best in xerosis cutis.
The impact of the caregiver mobility on child HIV care in the Manhiça District, Southern Mozambique: A clinical based study
Authors: Nhampossa Tacilta , Fernández-Luis Sheila , Fuente-Soro Laura , Bernardo Edson , Nhacolo Arsenio , Augusto Orvalho , Nhacolo Ariel , Sacoor Charfudin , Saura-Lázaro Anna , Lopez-Varela Elisa , Naniche Denise
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Manhiça District, in Southern Mozambique harbors high HIV prevalence and a long history of migration. To optimize HIV care, we sought to assess how caregiver’s mobility impacts children living with HIV (CLHIV)´s continuation in HIV care and to explore the strategies used by caregivers to maintain their CLHIV on antiretroviral treatment (ART).

Methods

A clinic-based cross-sectional survey conducted at the Manhiça District Hospital between December-2017 and February-2018. We enrolled CLHIV with a self-identified migrant caregiver (moved outside of Manhiça District ≤12 months prior to survey) and non-migrant caregiver, matched by the child age and sex. Survey data were linked to CLHIV clinical records from the HIV care and treatment program.

Results

Among the 975 CLHIV screened, 285 (29.2%) were excluded due to absence of an adult at the appointment. A total of 232 CLHIV-caregiver pairs were included. Of the 41 (35%) CLHIV migrating with their caregivers, 38 (92.6%) had access to ART at the destination because either the caregivers travelled with it 24 (63%) or it was sent by a family member 14 (36%). Among the 76 (65%) CLHIV who did not migrate with their caregivers, for the purpose of pharmacy visits, 39% were cared by their grandfather/grandmother, 28% by an aunt/uncle and 16% by an adult brother/sister. CLHIV of migrant caregivers had a non-statistically significant increase in the number of previous reported sickness episodes (OR = 1.38, 95%CI: 0.79–2.42; p = 0.257), ART interruptions (OR = 1.73; 95%CI: 0.82–3.63; p = 0.142) and lost-to-follow-up episodes (OR = 1.53; 95%CI: 0.80–2.94; p = 0.193).

Conclusions

Nearly one third of the children attend their HIV care appointments unaccompanied by an adult. The caregiver mobility was not found to significantly affect child’s retention on ART. Migrant caregivers adopted strategies such as the transportation of ART to the mobility destination to avoid impact of mobility on the child’s HIV care. However this may have implications on ART stability and effectiveness that should be investigated in rural areas.
Women’s experiences of maternal and newborn health care services and support systems in Buikwe District, Uganda: A qualitative study
Authors: Roed Marte Bodil , Engebretsen Ingunn Marie Stadskleiv , Mangeni Robert , Namata Irene
Published: December 2021

Background

Uganda continues to have a high neonatal mortality rate, with 20 deaths per 1000 live births reported in 2018. A measure to reverse this trend is to fully implement the Uganda Clinical Guidelines on care for mothers and newborns during pregnancy, delivery and the postnatal period. This study aimed to describe women’s experiences of maternal and newborn health care services and support systems, focusing on antenatal care, delivery and the postnatal period.

Methods

We used triangulation of qualitative methods including participant observations, semi-structured interviews with key informants and focus group discussions with mothers. Audio-recorded data were transcribed word by word in the local language and translated into English. All collected data material were stored using two-level password protection or stored in a locked cabinet. Malterud’s Systematic text condensation was used for analysis, and NVivo software was used to structure the data.

Findings

Antenatal care was valued by mothers although not always accessible due to transport cost and distance. Mothers relied on professional health workers and traditional birth attendants for basic maternal services but expressed general discontentment with spousal support in maternal issues. Financial dependency, gender disparities, and lack of autonomy in decision making on maternal issues, prohibited women from receiving optimal help and support. Postnatal follow-ups were found unsatisfactory, with no scheduled follow-ups from professional health workers during the first six weeks.

Conclusions

Further focus on gender equity, involving women’s right to own decision making in maternity issues, higher recognition of male involvement in maternity care and improved postnatal follow-ups are suggestions to policy makers for improved maternal care and newborn health in Buikwe District, Uganda.
Asexuality vs. sexual interest/arousal disorder: Examining group differences in initial attention to sexual stimuli
Authors: Bradshaw Julia , Brown Natalie , Kingstone Alan , Brotto Lori
Published: December 2021

Attention is considered to be a critical part of the sexual response cycle, and researchers have differentiated between the roles of initial (involuntary) and subsequent (voluntary) attention paid to sexual stimuli as part of the facilitation of sexual arousal. Prior studies using eye-tracking methodologies have shown differing initial attention patterns to erotic stimuli between men and women, as well as between individuals of different sexual orientations. No study has directly compared initial attention to sexual stimuli in asexual individuals, defined by their lack of sexual attraction, to women with Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder (SIAD), a disorder characterized by a reduced or absent interest in sex coupled with significant personal distress. The current study tested differences in the initial attention patterns of 29 asexual individuals (Mage = 26.56, SD = 4.80) and 25 heterosexual women with SIAD (Mage = 27.52, SD = 4.87), using eye-tracking. Participants were presented with sexual and neutral stimuli, and their initial eye movements and initial fixations to both image types and areas of erotic contact within sexual images were recorded. Mixed-model ANOVAs and t-tests were used to compare the two groups on the speed with which their initial fixations occurred, the duration of their initial fixations, and the proportion of initial fixations made to sexual stimuli. On two indices of initial attention, women with SIAD displayed an initial attention preference for sexual stimuli over neutral stimuli compared to asexual participants. This study adds to a growing literature on the distinction between asexuality and SIAD, indicating that differences in early attention may be a feature that differentiates the groups.
Pivots, arts practice and potentialities: Creative engagement, community well-being and arts-led research during COVID-19 in Australia
Authors: Hancox Donna , Gattenhof Sandra , Mackay Sasha , Klaebe Helen
Published: December 2021

Pre-dating COVID-19 it was widely acknowledged that there was a loneliness epidemic and that prolonged loneliness and reduced human touch results in increased propensity to heart disease, stroke and clinical dementia. Given such statistics, and the use of isolation and shielding as a health response to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is imperative that creative projects or research investigations embed strategies to address the potential fragmentation of community and increased difficulty of social connection. This discussion examines two Australian art-based projects – ‘A Place in Our Art’ and ‘Shorewell Presents … Dear Friend’ – to illustrate the use of arts and cultural activities to maintain and support social connection. The article draws on arts-health and performance theory to unpack project design and outcomes of using both physical and virtual creative art-based engagement strategies in a crisis to entice continued participation and support well-being.
Virtually Commedia: An interactive online theatre programme for LGBTQ+ youth
Authors: Pufahl Jeffrey , Simerly Savannah , Bayne Hanna , Reina Munoz Camilo
Published: December 2021

Many individuals experienced increased isolation and loneliness due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions on social activities, yet the impacts of this isolation can be more pronounced for vulnerable populations such as LGBTQ+ youth. In order to offer a destigmatized space for LGBTQ+ youth to connect during the pandemic, facilitators at the University of Florida modified an LGBTQ+ youth theatre programme (Theatre Connect) to be delivered via an online platform. In the spring of 2021, facilitators developed an eight-week Commedia dell’Arte curriculum that was delivered over Zoom to nine youth. Although modified to fit the needs of the group, the programme provided the opportunity for urban and rural youth to connect with one another and develop theatre skills in a safe environment. These field notes describe curriculum development as well as challenges, successes and feedback. Due to the success of this programme, Theatre Connect will maintain online programming in future seasons.
COVID-19: A catalyst for online creativity for individuals with a life-limiting illness
Authors: Roberts Amanda
Published: December 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst for the programme explored in this article. Developed to fill a gap in face-to-face support programmes for those with a life-limiting illness, the Live Well, Die Well programme offered participants the opportunity to experiment with various art-forms in online workshops. This article reveals the content and practice of three workshops facilitated by the author who uses this experience to begin an exploration of the connection between artmaking, illness, identity and agency. Critiquing the relevance of the art therapy literature to this programme, the author explores the key role online artmaking can play in ameliorating the ‘total pain’ often experienced at the end of life.
Synthesis, Characterization, Photocatalytic and Photovoltaic
Applications of a Novel Semiconductor CuPbO Nanomaterial
Authors: Ponnambalam P. , Kamalakkannan J. , Jayaseelan R. , Doss M. Arokia , Selvi G.
Published: December 2021

A new semiconductor CuPbO nanomaterial has been prepared where lead nitrate and copper nitrate
were co-precipitated to form this compound. The high-resolution scanning electron microscopic studies
revealed that CuPbO possesses a nanobundle flower-like structure. XRD confirmed the occurrence of
Cu, Pb & O in the fabricated compound. The size of the nanomaterial is determined for being ~200
nm by high-resolution transmission electron microscopic analysis. The photoluminescence analysis
showed the possible electron transfer and crevasses between Cu and PbO causes recombine of
electron-hole pairs. The ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance spectral analysis showed that the
nanomaterial has a low band gap energy. The material was found to be a good recyclable photocatalyst
in the decomposition of diamond green B dye. As a photoelectrode, CuPbO proved its efficiency in
dye-sensitized solar cell applications.
Effective Bioremediation of Zinc(II) with Fusarium sp. in Batch and Continuous Studies
Authors: Agarwal A. , Sen M. , Kant M.
Published: December 2021

Designing desirable approach for batch and continuous methods of activity for profoundly effective
removal of zinc(II) is of practical importance, given the steady, cost-effective, environmentally friendly
attribute. This article offers an answer for foster a continuous stirred tank bioreactor (CSTR) containing
single- and two-phase reactors for the viable continuous removal of zinc(II) from aqueous solution by
making use of Fusarium sp. collected from soil under growing conditions. The different development
stages Fusarium sp. were tried, including initial metal concentration, pH and growth rate in batch
bioreactors. The maximum removal of zinc(II) in the batch studies indicated 63.9 mg/g, at controlled
pH: 5.0; and at initial 500 mg/L zinc(II) concentration, which is almost of comparable quantity to the
most extreme removal of zinc(II) (52.8 mg/g) obtained in the continuous mode of operation. A
continuous flow system operated in staged manner was found to be the ideal strategy for obtaining
almost complete removal at lower concentration focus up to 100 mg/L in a single stage bioreactor and
a multistage reactor at higher zinc(II) concentrations.
Associated Factors with the Mortality Rate in Patients with COVID-19 - Decision Trees Vs. Logistic Regression
Authors: Siabani Soraya , Solouki Leila , Moradinazar Mehdi , Najafi Farid , Shakiba Ebrahim
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND Given the global burden of COVID-19 mortality, this study intended to determine the factors affecting mortality in patients with COVID-19 using decision tree analysis and logistic regression model in Kermanshah province, 2020. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted on 7799 patients with COVID-19 admitted to the hospitals of Kermanshah province. Data gathered from February 18 to July 9, 2020, were obtained from the vice-chancellor for the health of Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences. The performance of the models was compared according to the sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. RESULTS According to the decision tree model, the most important risk factors for death due to COVID-19 were age, body temperature, admission to intensive care unit (ICU), prior hospital visit within the last 14 days, and cardiovascular disease. Also, the multivariate logistic regression model showed that the variables of age [OR = 4.47, 95 % CI: (3.16 -6.32)], shortness of breath [OR = 1.42, 95 % CI: (1.0-2.01)], ICU admission [OR = 3.75, 95 % CI: (2.47-5.68)], abnormal chest X-ray [OR = 1.93, 95 % CI: (1.06-3.41)], liver disease [OR = 5.05, 95 % CI (1.020-25.2)], body temperature [OR = 4.93, 95 % CI: (2.17-6.25)], and cardiovascular disease [OR = 2.15, 95 % CI: (1.27-3.06)] were significantly associated with the higher mortality of patients with COVID-19. The area under the ROC curve for the decision tree model and logistic regression was 0.77 and 0.75, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Identifying risk factors for mortality in patients with COVID-19 can provide more effective interventions in the early stages of treatment and improve the medical approaches provided by the medical staff. KEY WORDS COVID-19, Decision Tree, Logistic Regression, Mortality, Risk Factor
Hydrotherapy and Its Application in Oral Medicine
Authors: Bhargava Riya , D.S.V. Sindhuja , Poorvi Poorvi
Published: December 2021

When it comes to natural medicine, the use of water or hydrotherapy is as old as humankind. Hydrotherapy is also known as water therapy, pool therapy, balneotherapy and aquatic therapy. Water as a treatment aid was used in various parts of Rome, Greece, Egypt, China and Japan in the ancient period. Water therapy means using water for medicinal purposes like hot tubs, cold water treatments, ice packs, steam vapours, saunas, mineral springs, hot springs, wet towel applications, water exercises, and water massages. Therefore, the use of water at different temperatures and in different forms provides various effects on several systems of the body. Great results of hydrotherapy were experienced by people in physical functioning, energy, sleep, cognitive function, ability to work and participation in daily life. Based on the available data and literature this review propounds that water therapy has an empirical evidence-based outcome on various systems of the body. KEY WORDS Natural Medicine, Hydrotherapy, Empirical Evidence-Based, Various Systems.
A Review on Male Infertility - Environmental Factors, Pathophysiological and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Butola Lata Kanyal , Dhok Archana , Kanyal Deepika , Vagga Anjali
Published: December 2021

Male infertility is one of the rising global problems with an increasing decline in male semen quality among men living in Asia, Europe, Africa and North America. Infertility is defined as the failure of conception after at least 12 months of unprotected intercourse. Globally 70 million people are affected by infertility. Environmental, occupational and modifiable lifestyle factors may contribute to this decline of male fertility. Various factors associated with male infertility include smoking cigarettes, alcohol intake, use of illicit drugs, obesity, genetic factors, heavy metals, psychological stress, exposure to pesticides and industrial chemicals, poor nutrition intake, oxidative stress, sedentary lifestyle, advanced paternal age, diet and coffee consumption. KEY WORDS Infertility, Antioxidant, Environmental Factors, Endocrine Factors
Masson’s Tumour - Case Report of a Malignant Masquerader with Literature Review
Authors: Ramamoorthy Sudhakar , Rajagopal Poongodi , Chandrasekaran Deepak , Mithun Vijayabasker
Published: December 2021

Masson’s tumour, an uncommon, benign vascular disorder was first described by Pierre Masson in 1923 as an intravascular papillary proliferation that emerged from an inflamed hemorrhoidal vein of a 68-year-old man and termed it as “Hemangioendotheliome vegetant intravasculaire”.1 He interpreted the lesion as a form of neoplasm, however, Henschen portrayed it as a reactive phenomenon. The current terminology intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia (IPEH) was put forward by Clearkin and Enzinger in 1976 considering it as a reactive change occurring secondary to trauma-related vascular stasis.2 The tumour constitutes 2-4 % of all skin and soft tissue tumours. The common locations are head, neck and extremities.3 Masson’s tumour being a benign entity with an excellent prognosis is essential to differentiate from its closer mimic, angiosarcoma which needs aggressive treatment. This case is put up here because of its rarity and its clinical implications.
Non-Destructive Evaluation of Composite Helmets Using IR Thermography and Ultrasonic Excitation
Authors: Świderski Waldemar , Pracht Monika
Published: December 2021

The paper presents selected results of non-destructive testing of composite helmets with deliberately introduced defects. Ultrasound pulsed infrared thermography was used for the tests. In order to determine the initial possibilities of this method, artificial defects made of Teflon featuring different area sizes and designed to simulate delamination were placed between layers of the aramid composite from which the helmet was made. The obtained results confirmed the effectiveness of the NDT method used in these tests.
Ökonomien der Liebe
Authors: Sabisch Katja
Published: December 2021

Using the terms »reproductive labour« and »care«, the contribution traces the feminist discourse on (domestic) labour. The focus is on two publications from 1977 and 2019 that, despite different theoretical traditions, refer to love as a justification for gendered social inequalities. However, love is conceptualised here one-dimensionally as an inequality-creating variable. For this reason, the contribution argues for an integration of emotion-sociological approaches into the current care debate.
Analysis of the factors determining the development of postoperative pain in patients after knee and hip replacement surgery
Authors: Glemba K. A. , Karateev A. E. , Makarov M. A. , Makarov S. A. , Bialik E. I. , Glukhova S. I. , Lila A. M.
Published: December 2021

Chronic postoperative pain (POP) is a serious complication of total replacement (TR) of the knee (KJ) and hip (HJ) joints.

Objective: to determine the factors associated with POP in patients after TR of KJ or HJ.

Patients and methods. The study group consisted of 124 patients with knee osteoarthritis or hip osteoarthritis (age 63.6±9.9 years, 63% women and 37% men) who underwent TR of KJ or HJ. POP was defined as pain ≥40 mm on a numerical rating scale persistent for ≥3 months. Its presence was assessed after 3 and 6 months by telephone survey. Comparison of patients with POP and without it was carried out for a number of factors identified before surgery.

Results and discussion. The incidence of POP was 27.4%. There was no difference in the incidence of POP in patients after TR of KJ or HJ: 28.1% and 26.9% (p=0.88). POP was statistically significantly associated with parameters such as higher body mass index (BMI); the intensity of pain at rest; general assessment of impairment; WOMAC index pain, stiffness and overall; severity of symptoms of neuropathic pain (PainDETECT); signs of depression and anxiety (HADS).

The risk of POP was significantly higher (p<0.05) with BMI >30 kg/m2 (odds ratio, OR 2.755; 95% confidence interval, CI 1.053–7.206), rest pain ≥40 mm on a visual analog scale (OR 1.349; 95% CI 0.478–3.803), PainDETECT scores ≥13 (OR 3.598; 95% CI 1.048–12.36) and HADS depression ≥8 (OR 2.193; 95% CI 0.745–6.454), presence of ≥2 sources of pain (OR 6.996; 95% CI 2.358–20.756).

Conclusion. It was found that the risk of POP after TR of KJ and HJ is higher in patients with overweight, severe preoperative pain, signs of neuropathic pain and depression, as well as in the presence of several sources of pain (except for the affected joint, that was replaced surgically).
Quality of life and fatigue in elderly patients with sarcopenia
Authors: Safonova Yu. A. , Zotkin E. G. , Toroptsova N. V.
Published: December 2021

Objective: to assess the quality of life (QoL) using general and special questionnaires and to identify the relationship between fatigue and sarcopenia (SP) in elderly and senile people.

Patients and methods. The cohort study included 230 patients, including 177 women (77%) and 53 men (23%) over 65 years old (median age 75 [68; 79] years). The presence of SP was determined according to the criteria of the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP2, 2018). QoL was studied using the general questionnaires EQ-5D, SF-36 and a special questionnaire SarQoL, the level of fatigue – using the FACIT-F questionnaire. To assess the possibility of using the FACIT-F scale for SP screening, its sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic accuracy, positive and negative predictive value were determined, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (ROC analysis) was constructed, and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was calculated.

Results and discussion. The assessment of QoL using the EQ-5D and SF-36 questionnaires did not reveal significant differences between the groups of patients with and without SP (p>0.05). When analyzing the state of health in the study cohort using the special SarQoL questionnaire, the overall indicator was 63.12±18.83 points, while in patients with SP it was significantly lower than in patients without SP (50.65±14.23 and 75,10±14.46 points, respectively; p<0.001). The mean score for all domains was also lower in the presence of SP than in its absence (p<0.001).

The level of fatigue on the FACIT-F scale ranged from 10 to 52 points and averaged 32.5 [29.1; 35.3] points, while in patients with SP the overall score was lower than in elderly people without SP (25.1 [22.13; 29.23] and 39.8 [36.4; 42.4] points respectively; p<0.001). In patients with severe fatigue, SP was diagnosed 4.6 times (95% confidence interval, CI 2.80–7.57) more often than in those without it (p<0.001). Fatigue was associated with senile age, underweight, falls in the previous year, weak muscle strength, low SPPB test scores and an appendicular muscle mass index, CRP >10 mg/L (p<0.05).

The possibility of using the FACIT-F questionnaire for screening patients with SP was evaluated. Its sensitivity reached 76%, specificity – 73%, positive predictive value – 53%, and negative predictive value – 88%, diagnostic accuracy – 74%. The area under the ROC-curve (AUC) was 0.726 (95% CI 0.627–0.826; p<0.0001).

Conclusion. It has been shown that the general questionnaires EQ-5D and SF-36 do not reflect the true QoL impairment in SP. A significant deterioration in the state of health in elderly people with SP can be identified by a special SarQol questionnaire. The FACIT-F fatigue scale can also be used to screening in SP.
Effect of colchicine, methotrexate, and hydroxychloroquine therapy on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposition disease
Authors: Eliseev M. S. , Cheremushkina E. V. , Zhelyabina O. V. , Chikina M. N. , Kapitonova A. A. , Novikova A. A. , Markelova E. I. , Lila A. M.
Published: December 2021

Anti-inflammatory therapy, such as colchicine (COL), has been suggested to affect the incidence of cardiovascular events in patients with calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposition disease (CPPD).

Objective: to study the effect of anti-inflammatory therapy with COL, hydroxychloroquine (HC), and methotrexate (MT) on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with CPPD.

Patients and methods. The study included 305 patients with CPPD, the majority (62.30%) were women. The average follow-up period was 3.9±2.7 years. Among factors influencing cardiovascular outcome were considered: gender; age; smoking; alcohol intake >20 conventional doses per week; arterial hypertension; a history of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), in particular ischemic heart disease, acute myocardial infarction, acute cerebrovascular accident, chronic heart failure >III stage according to NYHA, as well as type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM); body mass index >25 kg/m2 and >30 kg/m2; cholesterol level (CHOL) >5.1 mmol/l; glomerular filtration rate (GFR) < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2; serum uric acid level >360 μmol/l; hypercalcemia (serum calcium level >2.62 mmol/L); CRP level >2 mg/l; the presence of hyperparathyroidism (parathyroid hormone level >65 pg/ml); CPPD phenotypes (asymptomatic, osteoarthritis with calcium pyrophosphate crystals, chronic arthritis, acute arthritis); intake of COL, HC, MT, glucocorticoids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Results and discussion. 264 patients were under dynamic observation. Any of the studied cardiovascular events were registered in 79 (29.9%) patients. During the observation period, 46 (17.4%) patients died, in 76.1% of cases the cause of death was CVD. Death from other causes was diagnosed in 11 (23.9%) patients. Non-fatal cardiovascular events were reported in 44 (16.7%) cases. The risk of cardiovascular events was higher in patients over 65 years of age (odds ratio, OR 5.97; 95% confidence interval, CI 3.33–10.71), with serum cholesterol levels ≥5.1 mmol/L (OR 1,95; 95% CI 1.04–3.65), GFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m2 (OR 2.78; 95% CI 1.32–5.56), history of CVD (OR 2,32; 95% CI 1.22–4.44). COL therapy reduced the risk of cardiovascular events (OR 0.20; 95% CI 0.11–0.39).

Conclusion. Poor CVD outcomes in CPPD are associated with age, hypercholesterolemia, chronic kidney disease, and a history of CVD. The use of COL, in contrast to MT and HC, was accompanied by a decrease in cardiovascular risk.
Cognitive, emotional and motor disorders and their impact on the postoperative rehabilitation of neurosurgical patients
Authors: Fantalis D. , Preobrazhenskaya I. S.
Published: December 2021

Pathological post-anesthetic changes can be determined by the type and duration of anesthesia, the somatic and neurological status of the patient in the preoperative period, age, etc.Objective: to assess the severity of cognitive (CI), emotional and motor impairments in patients who underwent spinal surgery.Patients and methods. The clinical study included 60 patients aged 30-74 years who underwent spinal surgery under general anesthesia. The neuropsychological, emotional, somatic, and neurological status were assessed at the baseline and one week, 3, and 6 months after the surgery. Thirty patients underwent a course of cognitive training (main group), and 30 patients were included in a comparison group.Results and discussion. In the postoperative period, pain indicators decreased in both groups. There was an improvement in cognitive functions, emotional state, and quality of life (QoL) in the main group 3 and 6 months after surgery. The inclusion of cognitive training in the rehabilitation program for patients undergoing neurosurgical spinal surgery improved cognitive and motor functions and the QoL of patients. Evaluation and treatment of neurosurgical patients are discussed, which are helpful to improve the results of rehabilitation and QoL in the postoperative period.Conclusion. Additional positive impact of cognitive-motor training for pain regression in patients after spinal surgery was observed.
¿Y qué hacemos con los indios?
Authors: Álvarez Cuartero Izaskun
Published: December 2021

La implacable realidad de la pandemia de COVID-19 en Estados Unidos ha puesto de relieve las deficiencias de su sistema sanitario en relación con un grupo poblacional que históricamente se ha visto sometido a una permanente exclusión, las naciones indígenas estadounidenses. Este artículo pretende ofrecer una visión panorámica de los desencuentros que ha mantenido la administración de Donald Trump con las naciones indias, analizando sus antecedentes, cómo se ha organizado y regulado la atención sanitaria y las consecuencias que la pandemia ha tenido en las tribus indígenas.
Pandemia en Ecuador y Colombia
Authors: Manrique Grisales Jorge , Punín Larrea María Isabel , Sánchez Carrión Gabriela Consuelo
Published: December 2021

En Ecuador y Colombia el 2020 quedará registrado como el año de la pandemia pero también como el de la corrupción originada en algunas actuaciones de los gobiernos de turno. Es lo que se ve reflejado en la agenda mediática que pasó de los titulares de las muertes por la COVID-19 a los escándalos relacionados con la contratación irregular de insumos y alimentos. La presente investigación analizó los cambios en la agenda informativa de los periódicos: El Comercio y Expreso, de Ecuador, y El Tiempo y El País, de Colombia, entre los meses de mayo, junio y julio del 2020. El análisis reveló el protagonismo de los organismos de control en la prensa nacional y poca ampliación de casos locales de corrupción en la prensa regional. Además, se reflejó el desistir de la prensa para realizar investigaciones por su cuenta a pesar de existir evidencias y datos sobre el fenómeno en ambos países.
Effect of Probiotic Supplementation on Sprague Dawley Rat Liver Histopathology Fed by High Fat High Fructose Diet
Authors: Kusumawati Ninung Rose Diana , Panunggal Damianus Galih , Mexitalia Maria , Sidhartani Magdalena , Pratiwi Juwita , Utari Agustini
Published: December 2021

Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an important cause of liver disease burden worldwide. The gastrointestinal microbiota has a close relationship with the liver as the liver is most exposed to intestinal bacteria. Microbial manipulation is a potential and effective therapy as an alternative in the management of NAFLD/NASH. It has been found that probiotics prevent NAFLD/NASH. However, the study about the protective effect of probiotics on NAFLD/NASH is still limited. Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of probiotics on liver histopathology Sprague Dawley rats which given high-fat high fructose (HFHFr) dietMethods: This study is a murine-model post-test-only control study group design. The samples were 21 Sprague Dawley male rats in 7 – 8 weeks of age and were divided into three groups. The Control Group (C) was provided with a standard chow diet for eight weeks. The Non-Probiotic (NP) group was given a High-Fat High Fructose (HFHFr) diet for eight weeks. The Probiotic group (P) was given a HFHFr diet for eight weeks, and a combination of HFHFr and probiotic supplementation consisted of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium longum, and Streptococcus thermophilus for the next eight weeks. Histopathological samples were obtained from liver biopsy to assess steatosis, NAFLD activity score (NAS), and fibrosis stages. Wilcoxon test was done to analyze body weight before and after treatment. We analyzed the difference in histopathological results using the Mann-Whitney test.Results: We found a significant difference in NAFL and NAS Score between NP and P group. The P group was shown to have lower trends for NAFLD and NASH than the NP group, but not for fibrosis. There is no significant difference between pre and post-test body weight. Conclusion: Probiotics supplementation has a protective effect on liver histopathology against disturbances caused by the HFHFr diet.
Pojęcie matetyki we współczesnym dyskursie pedagogicznym i katechetycznym. Zarys problematyki
Authors: Filipiak Artur
Published: December 2021

Matetyka jako uzupełnienie dydaktyki zakłada konstruktywistyczne pojmowanie uczenia się, rozumianego jako dynamiczny, autopoietyczny (samoorganizujący się) proces, w czasie którego człowiek tworzy swą własną rzeczywistość. Matetyka uwzględnia integralny sposób patrzenia na ucznia oraz postrzega przebieg uczenia się z jego perspektywy. W konsekwencji nauczanie zaczyna być rozumiane jako uporządkowana i wyczerpująca oferta skierowana do ucznia, w której znaczącą rolę odgrywa nie tylko przekaz treści, lecz również płaszczyzna relacji, co sprawia, że w procesie uczenia się dochodzą do głosu również emocje, motywacje i wola uczniów, a nie tylko ich rozum.

W odniesieniu do nauczania religii i katechezy oznacza to, że matetyce wiary uczą się wszyscy od siebie nawzajem. Uczą się przede wszystkim tego, jak patrzy się na świat z wiarą i jak wygląda on bez wiary. Najistotniejsze jednak jest to, by nauczyciel religii/katecheta był człowiekiem  wierzącym, bo tylko wówczas będzie wiarygodny.
The role of trustworthiness in social media influencer advertising: Investigating users’ appreciation of advertising transparency and its effects
Authors: Balaban Delia C. , Mucundorfeanu Meda , Naderer Brigitte
Published: December 2021

When social media influencers (SMIs) post sponsored content, it should be recognizable as such. However, there is no European Union-wide legislation governing sponsorship transparency, and monitoring practices differ significantly across member states. In Romania, where we conducted our study, such regulations are only just emerging, and there are weak monitoring policies regarding advertising disclosure on SMI branded posts. In this study, we examined how two different types of advertising disclosure commonly used on Instagram are likely to affect consumers’ behavioral outcomes, such as purchase intention and intention toward the SMI, mediated by the activation of conceptual persuasion knowledge (CPK), via negative affect and the trustworthiness of the SMI. We conducted a three-level between-subjects online experiment (N=248), manipulating the absence versus the presence of advertising, which came in one of two types, brand-unspecific (#ad, #sponsoredpost) and brand-specific (paid partnership with [brand]). Considering the mediation path via the trustworthiness of the SMI, findings suggest that the paid partnership disclosure had positive outcomes for purchase intention and intention toward the SMI.
The comparison of triboelectric power generated by electron-donating polymers KAPTON and PDMS in contact with PET polymer
Authors: Keykha Mohsen , Sheikholeslami T. Fanaei
Published: December 2021

The Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) are Fabricated by contact between two surfaces of different materials and convert of electric loads between them. In such structures, the two contacting layers should be radically different in terms of their electric property so that one of the layers could induce positive electrical charge while the other induces a negative charge. The application of force on and friction between the two layers induce positive and negative charges. Through the electrodes in external load, the electrical charges flow as electric current. In the present study, TEGN structures fabricated of polyethylene terephthalate polymers (PET) act as electron acceptor while Polyamide (KAPTON) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) act as electron donator. The resulting outputs are compared consequently. Considering the fact that the two materials are relatively identical in terms of electron donation as they are in contact with PET, the generators fabricated of KAPTON could generate 400% more power under identical conditions. Therefore, one may conclude that KAPTON could be more suitable for development of self-power system as they are more available and more environmentally compatible.
Estimating Impulse-Response Functions for Macroeconomic Models using Directional Quantiles
Authors: Montes-Rojas Gabriel
Published: December 2021

A multivariate vector autoregressive model is used to construct the distribution of the impulse-response functions of macroeconomics shocks. In particular, the paper studies the distribution of the short-, medium-, and long-term effects after a shock. Structural and reduced form quantile vector autoregressive models are developed where heterogeneity in conditional effects can be evaluated through multivariate quantile processes. The distribution of the responses can then be obtained by using uniformly distributed random vectors. An empirical example of exchange rate pass-through in Argentina is presented.
Polygenic scores for psychiatric disease: from research tool to clinical application
Authors: Andlauer Till F. M. , Nöthen Markus M.
Published: December 2021

Propensity to psychiatric disease involves the contribution of multiple genetic variants with small individual effects (i. e., polygenicity). This contribution can be summarized using polygenic scores (PGSs). The present article discusses the methodological foundations of PGS calculation, together with the limitations and caveats of their use. Furthermore, we show that in terms of using genetic information to address the complexities of mental disorders, PGSs have become a standard tool in psychiatric research. PGS also have the potential for translation into clinical practice. Although PGSs alone do not allow reliable disease prediction, they have major potential value in terms of risk stratification, the identification of disorder subtypes, functional investigations, and case selection for experimental models. However, given the stigma associated with mental illness and the limited availability of effective interventions, risk prediction for common psychiatric disorders must be approached with particular caution, particularly in the non-regulated consumer context.
Clinical and molecular genetics of Meniere disease
Authors: Martinez-Gomez Estrella , Gallego-Martinez Alvaro , Roman-Naranjo Pablo , Lopez-Escamez Jose A.
Published: December 2021

Meniere disease (MD) represents a heterogeneous group of relatively rare disorders of the inner ear that causes vertigo attacks, fluctuating sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) involving low and medium frequencies, tinnitus, and aural fullness. MD has been attributed to an accumulation of endolymph in the cochlear duct. The diagnosis of MD is based on the phenomenological association of clinical symptoms including SNHL during the vertigo attacks. At least two mechanisms are involved in MD: (a) a pro-inflammatory immune response mediated by interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), and IL-6, and (b) nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB)-mediated inflammation in the carriers of the single nucleotide variant rs4947296. The majority of MD cases are considered sporadic, although familial aggregation has been recognized in European and East Asian populations in multiplex families, supporting a genetic contribution to the disease. In sporadic MD cases, the main genetic findings involve multiplex rare variants in several SNHL genes, such as GJB2, USH1G, SLC26A4, ESRRB, and CLDN14, and axonal guidance signaling genes, such as NTN4 and NOX3. Familial aggregation has been reported in 6–8 % of MD cases, and most families show an autosomal dominant inheritance. Few rare missense heterozygous variants have been described in simplex families in six genes (COCH, FAM136A, DTNA, PRKCB, SEMA3D, and DPT). Of note, 33 % of familial MD individuals show singleton and multiplex rare missense variants in the OTOG gene, suggesting a multiallelic inheritance. Moreover, potentially pathogenic rare variants in the familial genes FAM136A, DTNA, and DPT have been reported in Korean singletons with sporadic MD. Rare variants may have a significant contribution to sporadic and familial MD. The interaction of common cis-regulatory variants located in non-coding regions and rare variants in coding regions in one or more genes will determine the variation on the phenotype in MD. Further studies on genotype–phenotype correlations are required to improve the yield of genetic diagnosis, and different types of variants seem to contribute to the genetic structure of MD.
Non-syndromic hearing loss: clinical and diagnostic challenges
Authors: Vona Barbara , Doll Julia , Hofrichter Michaela A. H. , Haaf Thomas
Published: December 2021

Hereditary hearing loss is clinically and genetically heterogeneous. There are presently over 120 genes that have been associated with non-syndromic hearing loss and many more that are associated with syndromic forms. Despite an increasing number of genes that have been implemented into routine molecular genetic diagnostic testing, the diagnostic yield from European patient cohorts with hereditary hearing loss remains around the 50 % mark. This attests to the many gaps of knowledge the field is currently working toward resolving. It can be expected that many more genes await identification. However, it can also be expected, for example, that the mutational signatures of the known genes are still unclear, especially variants in non-coding or regulatory regions influencing gene expression. This review summarizes several challenges in the clinical and diagnostic setting for hereditary hearing loss with emphasis on syndromes that mimic non-syndromic forms of hearing loss in young children and other factors that heavily influence diagnostic rates. A molecular genetic diagnosis for patients with hearing loss opens several additional avenues, such as patient tailored selection of the best currently available treatment modalities, an understanding of the prognosis, and supporting family planning decisions. In the near future, a genetic diagnosis may enable patients to engage in preclinical trials for the development of therapeutics.
Peripheral sensory neuropathies – pain loss vs. pain gain
Authors: Cox James J. , Woods C. Geoffrey , Kurth Ingo
Published: December 2021

Peripheral sensory neurons are afferent neurons that innervate the skin, joints, bones, muscles, and mucosal tissues. By converting different stimuli into action potentials, they transmit signals for the sensing of temperature, touch, pressure, or pain. This review discusses the known Mendelian disorders which affect pain sensing in humans. For painlessness, these disorders can be classified as developmental, neurodegenerative, or functional, where pain-sensing neurons (nociceptors) are present but cannot be activated or produce action potentials. Affected patients suffer from numbness with recurrent injuries, burns, and poorly healing wounds. For Mendelian disorders of excess pain, aberrant overactivity of nociceptors is a hallmark and leads to paroxysmal or continuous pain states. Again, the effect can be functional or, as in small fiber neuropathies, can be accompanied by degeneration of small unmyelinated nerve fibers in the skin. About 20 different genes are known to cause Mendelian pain disorders and the molecules involved are of general interest for human pain research and as analgesic targets. Comprehensive genetic testing is the key to early diagnosis and adaptation of clinical management.
On the differential diagnosis of neuropathy in neurogenetic disorders
Authors: Cirak Sebahattin , Daimagüler Hülya-Sevcan , Moawia Abubakar , Koy Anne , Yis Uluc
Published: December 2021

Neuropathy might be the presenting or accompanying sign in many neurogenetic and metabolic disorders apart from the classical-peripheral neuropathies or motor-neuron diseases. This causes a diagnostic challenge which is of particular relevance since a number of the underlying diseases could be treated. Thus, we attempt to give a clinical overview on the most common genetic diseases with clinically manifesting neuropathy.
Novel strategies to cure imprinting disorders
Authors: Horsthemke Bernhard , Zechner Ulrich
Published: December 2021

In imprinting disorders, where the active copy of an imprinted gene is mutated or lost, there is a unique opportunity for causal treatment by unsilencing the other, dormant allele. Depending on the mechanism by which the allele is silenced, unsilencing can be achieved by epigenetic drugs, antisense-oligonucleotides (ASOs) or epigenome editing. While most of the research is still preclinical, first-in-humans studies with ASOs have started in 2020.