bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel HumanMethylatyion450 Analyses Reveal DNA Methylation Predictors of Future Diabetes Onset in Women With Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Authors: Kitchen Mark , Manzur Ayesha , Fryer Anthony , Wu Pensee
Published: June 2021

Aims.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder characterised by ovarian morphological, systemic biochemical, and menstrual changes. Women with PCOS are at significantly increased risk of raised fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, and diabetes. Recognition of these complications and early intervention are key to good health outcomes. We sought to identify DNA methylation patterns that may predict future diabetes onset in this high-risk PCOS population.
Patients and Methods.

Peripheral blood samples from women with PCOS and women with PCOS who later developed diabetes, were analysed by Illumina HumanMethylation450 BeadChip-arrays. Bisulphite-Pyrosequencing™ was used to validate and confirm array methylation data.
Results.

Array analyses identified 273 differentially methylated CpG loci (≥ 0.2 β-value change) at initial diagnosis of PCOS, between women who did or did not later develop diabetes. 19 of these sites demonstrated differential methylation in the same direction in ≥ five sample pairs. Methylation in three of the candidates (cg11897887, cg02819655, and cg25542007) showed the best concordance with corresponding array β-values, and, most clearly differentiated ‘cases’ from ‘controls’.
Conclusions.

We have identified novel methylation biomarkers that could predict future onset of diabetes in this high-risk population. Use of methylation analyses to identify women who are likely to develop diabetes at diagnosis of PCOS may facilitate timely lifestyle interventions to reduce future morbidity.
Successful en Bloc Resection for Femoral Head Clear Cell Chondrosarcoma Without Biopsy: A Case Report
Authors: Hoshi Manabu , Oebisu Naoto , Ohta Yoichi , Tomimoto Ayaka , Nakamura Hiroaki
Published: June 2021

Background: Clear cell chondrosarcoma (CCCS) is a rare, low-grade, malignant chondrogenic bone tumour. This tumour commonly occurs at the epiphysis of long bones, particularly in the proximal femur. Case presentation: This report describes a 58-year-old man with right hip pain since 5 months. Plain radiography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography (CT) revealed the characteristic appearance of chondroid mineralisation in the right femoral head, suggesting typical CCCS. Although a biopsy is the gold standard for definite diagnosis before treatment, wide resection with removal of the biopsy tract is thought to affect negatively affect surgical margin and postoperative hip function. En bloc resection without a biopsy and a hip hemiarthroplasty were performed instead. The pathological diagnosis was CCCS, and an adequate surgical margin was obtained. No local recurrence or distant metastases were found, and postoperative function was excellent at the final follow-up. Conclusion: The femoral head is a typical location of CCCS. Wide resection with adequate margins is the main treatment strategy for CCCS. When radiological features are typical, performing an en bloc resection without performing a biopsy is an acceptable treatment that may improve patient outcomes.
Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor Protects Dimethylnitrosamine-Induced Rat Liver Fibrosis By Inhibiting Transforming Growth Factor-β1 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Karmacharya Mrigendra Bir , Hada Binika , Park So Ra , Kim Kil Hwan , Choi Byung Hyune
Published: June 2021

Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) exerts several therapeutic pharmacological effects but its role in liver fibrosis has not yet been studied. The current study investigates the inhibitory effects of GM-CSF on dimethylnitrosamine (DMN)-induced liver fibrosis in rats. In this study, liver fibrosis was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats by intraperitoneal injections of DMN (10 mg/kg of body weight) for three consecutive days per week for four weeks. To see the inhibitory effects on disease onset, GM-CSF (50 µg/kg of body weight) was injected for 2 consecutive days per week for 4 weeks along with DMN, while to see the therapeutic effects on disease progression, the GM-CSF injection was set forth at 4 weeks after the DMN injection. We found that DMN administration produced characteristics of molecular and pathological manifestations of liver fibrosis in rats including increased expressions of collagen I, alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), and decreased PPAR-γ expression. Similarly, elevated serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin level (TBIL), and decreased albumin level (ALB) were observed. Treatment with GM-CSF improved the pathological liver conditions and significantly inhibited the elevated AST and TBIL, and increased ALB serum levels to normal. GM-CSF significantly decreased collagen I, α-SMA, and TGF-β1 expression and increased peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) expression. In conclusion, GM-CSF reduced the DMN-induced rat liver fibrosis by inhibiting TGF-β1 signaling pathway.
National COVID-19 Hospital Admissions and Mortality Among Healthcare Workers in South Africa, 2020-2021
Authors: Tlotleng Nonhlanhla , Jassat Waasila , Cohen Cheryl , Made Felix , Kootbodien Tahira , Masha Maureen , Naicker Nisha
Published: June 2021

Background: Healthcare workers (HCWs) in close contact with SARS-CoV-2-infected patients have an increased risk of infection compared to non-HCWs, but little is known about the clinical course and risks for mortality amongst HCWs in South Africa. In this study, we compared characteristics of hospitalised HCWs with non-HCWs with COVID-19 and assessed factors associated with COVID-19 mortality among HCWs. Methods: Data from 5 March 2020 to 30 April 2021 was obtained from DATCOV, the national surveillance programme monitoring COVID-19 admissions in private and public hospitals across South Africa. A logistic regression model was used to determine factors associated with COVID-19 HCW admissions and mortality.Results: There were a total 169,678 confirmed COVID-19 admissions reported on DATCOV, of which 6,364 (3.8%) were HCWs. Compared to non-HCWs, HCWs were less likely to be male [aOR 0.3, 95%CI (0.3-0.4)], and more likely to be younger, white or other race, have pre-existing obesity and asthma, and be admitted in the private sector, in Eastern Cape, Gauteng, Kwa-Zulu Natal, Limpopo, Northern Cape and North West provinces. Pre-wave 1 [aOR 3.0; 95%CI 2.4-3.7)], wave 1 [aOR 2.1; 95%CI (1.8-2.5)] and post-wave 1 [aOR 1.3; 95%CI (1.0-1.7)] were associated with increase in HCW admissions compared to wave 2. There was an increased risk for in-hospital mortality among HCWs in the older age group (40-49 [aOR 3.8; 95%CI (1.6-8.80)]; 50-59 [aOR 4.7; 95%CI (2.0-10.9)] and 60-65 years [aOR 9.8; 95%CI (4.2-23.0)] compared to HCWs less than 40 years, with comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes, chronic kidney diseases, malignancy and TB. Mortality was decreased for HCWs who were coloured [aOR 0.5; 95%CI (0.3-0.8)], admitted in the public sector [aOR 0.7; 95%CI (0.5-0.9)] in pre-wave 1 [aOR 0.6; 95%CI (0.3-0.9)] compared to wave one period. Conclusion: In-hospital mortality in HCWs was associated with age, race, wave period, presence of comorbidites and sector. Policies should be put in place to remove older HCWs with comorbidities from direct patient care. Optimal management of comorbid conditions is advised and improvement of infection prevention and control measures in healthcare settings for those that come into direct contact with infected patients.
Quick Identification of Genetic Provenances and Best Practice Woodland Management of Chinese Pine (Pinus tabuliformis)
Authors: Xia Hanhan , Yang Minyi , Yang Feicui , Xie Haoran , Li Juan
Published: June 2021

Chinese pine (Pinus tabuliformis) is one of the most widespread, ecologically and economically important tree species in North China. In this study, we analyzed and compared the genetic diversity and population structure of 158 individuals from 17 populations of P. tabuliformis, by group III, a new mitochondrial marker system (nad1-2, nad4-3, nad5-1 and nad7-1) with two other groups of marker systems. In contrast to the conservation in the evolution of the mitochondrial sequence, the new mitochondrial marker system of P. tabuliformis shows as extremely high polymorphism as 25, whose haplotypes are more than four times of the group I marker system (nad1-2, nad4-3, and nad5-1) as 8 haplotypes. Although the group II, nad7-1 (19 haplotypes), showed high resolution in the provenance identification of P. tabuliformis, the new mitochondrial marker system is more accurate for detection of specific groups like HL, WT and NS and powerful to differentiate populations between GD and SS. The results suggested that the new mitochondrial marker system is as high as the resolution of GBS (genotype by seqencing). It is much more available and will be of great help to provenance identification and molecular assisted breeding of P. tabuliformis. This study will make theoretical foundation for the following studies on the evaluation, cultivation and germplasm management of P. tabuliformis populations and aid the breeding, biodiversity and conservation programs of forest species.
Elevated Expression of MKRN3 in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck and Its Clinical Significance
Authors: Zhang Shuiting , Qiu Yuanzheng
Published: June 2021

Background: Squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) is one of the most common types of cancer and is a relevant cause of cancer-related deaths. Our previous study has revealed that makorin ring finger protein 3 (MKRN3) may serve as a key regulator of the SCCHN tumorigenesis, but its specific role in SCCHN progression has never been reported.Method: TCGA data analysis and qPCR were used to quantify the level of MKRN3 in SCCHN and its clinical significance was further analyzed. Immunohistochemical staining or immunoblotting analysis was carried out to detect protein expression.Results: MKRN3 was ectopically expressed between cancerous and noncancerous SCCHN tissues, and its expression level was tightly associated with high T classifications and advanced clinical stages. qPCR analysis revealed that MKRN3 was upregulated in the SCCHN cell line. Moreover, Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression analyses indicated that SCCHN patients with high MKRN3 expression had poorer prognosis and that MKRN3 was a potential prognostic factor for SCCHN. Using gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses, we determined that MKRN3 may be involved in the regulation of synthesis and metabolism, cell growth, death and motility, and cancer pathways associated with SCCHN progression. Mechanism investigation further revealed that P53, as a potential target of MKRN3, may implicate in the SCCHN tumorigenesis mediated by MKRN3.Conclusions: MKRN3 is a valuable predictive biomarker and potential therapeutic target in SCCHN.
Effect of Fermentation Time On The Content of Bioactive Compounds With Cosmetic and Dermatological Properties in Kombucha Yerba Mate Extracts
Authors: Ziemlewska Aleksandra , Nizioł-Łukaszewska Zofia , Bujak Tomasz , Zagórska-Dziok Martyna , Wójciak-Kosior Magdalena , Sowa Ireneusz
Published: June 2021

Kombucha is a beverage made by fermenting sugared tea using a symbiotic culture of bacteria belonging to the genus Acetobacter, Gluconobacter, and the yeasts of the genus Saccharomyces along with glucuronic acid, contribute to health protection. The paper presents the evaluation of ferments as a potential cosmetic raw material obtained from Yerba Mate after different fermentation times with the addition of kombucha. Fermented and unfermented extracts were compared in terms of chemical composition and biological activity. Studies of antioxidant properties were carried out using DPPH and ABTS radicals. A significant decrease in the intracellular level of free radicals was also observed. Cytotoxicity was determined on keratinocyte and fibroblast cell lines, resulting in significant increase in cell viability for the ferments. In addition, the ferments showed strong ability to inhibit the activity of lipoxygenase and collagenase and elastase enzymes and long‐lasting hydration after their application on the skin. Extract obtained after 21 days of fermentation contained the highest amount of phenolic acids and xanthines. The results showed that both the analyzed Yerba Mate extract and the ferments obtained with kombucha may be valuable ingredients in cosmetic products.
Low-intensity, Long-wavelength Red Light Slows the Progression of Myopia in Children: an Eastern China-based Cohort
Authors: Zhou Lei , Xing Chao , Qiang Wei , Hua Chaoqun , Tong Liyang
Published: June 2021

Myopia is prevalent worldwide, particularly in East and Southeast Asia. Recent studies have suggested that the spectral composition of ambient lighting influences refractive development, especially in humans. We aimed to determine the effect of 650-nm single-wavelength red light on the inhibition of myopia progression in children. In this retrospective cohort study, 105 myopic children (spherical equivalent refractive error [SER], -6.75 to -1.00 dioptres (D)) aged from 4 to 14 years old were retrospectively reviewed. Subjects were treated with 650-nm, low-intensity, single-wavelength red light twice a day for 3 minutes each session, with at least a 4-hour interval between sessions. IOL Master was utilized to measure the axial length (AL) and corneal curvature. Choroidal images were assessed using enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT), and the luminal area (LA) and stromal area were converted to binary images by the Niblack method. At baseline, the mean SER was -3.09 ± 1.74 D and -2.87 ± 1.89 D at 9 months, and significant changes occurred over time (P = 0.019). The AL increased by -0.06 ± 0.19 mm for 9 months (0.21 ± 0.15 mm pretreatment; P＜0.001). The subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFChT) had changed by 45.32 ± 30.88 μm at the 9-month examination (P＜0.001). Repetitive exposure to 650-nm, low-intensity, single-wavelength red light effectively slowed the progression of myopia and reduced axial growth after short treatment durations. These results require further validation in a longitudinal study, as well as further research in animal models.
Application of Blended Learning on the Antenatal Education Center Course: A Review of Flipped Classroom with Team-based Learning
Authors: Lin Yingying , Xiu Xiaoyan , Lin Juan , Chen Zhiwei , Zheng Cui Xian , Pan Xuehong , Lin Lihua , Yan Jianying
Published: June 2021

Background: The goal is to evaluate the effects of a flipped class strategy on knowledge, self-directed learning ability, learning satisfaction and pregnancy outcomes in primiparas undergoing antenatal education. Methods: A convenience sampling method was adopted. A total of 621 primiparas who were diagnosed with early pregnancy in a first-class hospital in southeast China and received continuous prenatal health education from May to July 2020 were selected as the research subjects. The primiparas were divided into two groups in the antenatal education centre. One was the experimental group, who used the prenatal health education model based on blended learning (a flipped classroom with team-based learning); the other was the control group, who used the traditional mode of prenatal health education. The two groups were compared on the following outcomes: knowledge, self-directed learning ability, learning satisfaction and pregnancy outcomes. Results: The blended learning approach enhanced the primiparas’ knowledge, self-directed learning ability, and learning satisfaction, effectively controlled the gestational weight gain (GWG), alleviated the degree of anxiety and depression in the pregnant women during pregnancy, improved the self-efficacy and the natural delivery rate of the primipara, shortened the delivery process and reduced the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), all P<0.05. Conclusions: Blended learning may be an effective strategy because of its validity and practicality in antenatal education.
Event-triggered Control of Uncertain Nonlinear Discrete-time Systems with Extended State Observer
Authors: Wang Xianming , Shen Mouquan , Park Ju H.
Published: June 2021

This paper is dedicated to extended state observer-based event-triggered model free iterative learning control (ET-MFILC) for nonlinear systems with disturbances. A modified MFILC scheme is proposed by using the estimated uncertainties for the disturbed system. With the help of the estimated errors, an iterative extended state observer (IESO) is constructed to estimate the unknown uncertainties. New triggering mechanism integrated true tracking errors, the estimated errors and the estimated uncertainties is designed for multiple inputs and multiple outputs (MIMO) systems. Sufficient conditions are proposed to make the resultant ET-MFILC tracking error systems be uniformly ultimately bounded. An illustrative example is presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
A Game Theoretic Analysis of Cryptocurrency Market for Sustainable Development of Smart Cities
Authors: Singh Rajani , Dwivedi Ashutosh Dhar , Wiszniewska-Matyszkiel Agnieszka
Published: June 2021

Cryptocurrency was first began to use in 2009 and features technology such as blockchain that is used in the development of smart cities. Game theory play an important role when designing secure economic system such as Bitcoin. In this paper, we study a dynamic game model of brand advertising in continuous time with the finite time horizon. The total payoff or profit of players or firms is discounted over time and the rate at which the firms attract the customers from its rival, called attraction rate, is taken from the economic theory of contest. As a novelty of our game model, the attraction rate of a firm depends on both: player’s or firm’s advertising effort and the advertising effort of players or firm’s rivalry. We solve the game for Stackelberg equilibrium (with the leader and follower differing by information and/or the sequence of choosing strategies) as well as for Nash equilibrium. Further, we graphically compare the results obtained for the Stackelberg and the Nash equilibrium. Surprisingly, we have obtained that if the revenue per unit of market share is equal for Nash and Stackelberg equilibrium then the results for Nash player 1 overlaps with the leader and the results for Nash player 2 overlaps with follower. Finally, we present the application of our dynamic game model in the cryptocurrency market where two firms compete with each other for the cryptocurrency market share.
Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Primary Care Utilization: Evidence From Sweden Using National Register Data
Authors: Ekman Björn , Arvidsson Eva , Thulesius Hans , Wilkens Jens , Cronberg Olof
Published: June 2021

Objective: To analyze changes in primary care utilization as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Swedish national register data from 2019 and 2020 on utilization of services were used to compare overall utilization levels and across types of contacts and patient groups. A specific objective was to assess the extent to which remote types of patient consultations were able to compensate for any observed fall in on-site visits. Data were stratified by sex and age to investigate any demographic pattern. Results: Findings show significant reductions in overall utilization of services as the pandemic occurred the first quarter of 2020. On-site visits fell during the first wave of the pandemic and rebounded thereafter. Patients over 65 years of age appear to have reduced utilization to a larger extent compared with younger groups. Simultaneously, remote contacts increased from around 12% before the pandemic to 17% of total number of consultations. However, the net effect of changes in service utilization suggests an overall reduction of around 12 percent in the number of primary care consultations as a result of the pandemic. No differences between men and women were observed. Further research will continue to monitor changes in primary care utilization as the pandemic continues.
Adherence to DASH Dietary Pattern and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Case-control Study
Authors: panjeshahin asieh , Ghadiri-Anari Akram , Hosseinzadeh Mahdieh
Published: June 2021

Objective: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) as one of the endocrine and metabolic abnormalities is prevalent in reproductive-aged women. This study aimed to investigate the relevance between adherence to the DASH diet and PCOS.Results: This is an age and BMI-matched case-control study including (n=108) new diagnosis PCOS women as a case group and women without PCOS as a control group (n=108). Also, the validated 168-item food frequency questionnaire was used to determine the usual dietary intake. The method of Fung et al. was used to calculate the DASH score. Moreover, logistic regression was assessed to evaluate the relationship between adherence to the DASH diet and the odds of PCOS. After adjustment for potential confounders, an increase in adherence to the DASH diet significantly reduced the odds of PCOS (OR for the highest vs. lowest quartile = 0.18; 95% CI 0.07, 0.47). There was a significant decreasing trend in the odds of PCOS across increasing quintiles of the DASH diet (p-trend <0.001). The results showed that adherence to the DASH diet could reduce the odds of PCOS by 82 percent. It’s worth noting that more prospective studies are required to confirm the findings of the current study.
Association between Axial Length of the Eye and Length of Each Part of the Body
Authors: Shinojima Ari , Kurihara Toshihide , Mori Kiwako , Iwai Yujiro , Hanyuda Akiko , Negishi Kaznuno , Torii Hidemasa , Tsubota Kazuo
Published: June 2021

Objective: The purpose of this study is to analyze axial length, body height, hand length, and foot length to find new factors that predict myopia and to identify gender differences as one of the factors of high myopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted as a single observation. Body height, hand length, and foot length were measured according to standard anthropometric methods. Axial length, retinal thickness, and choroidal thickness were measured using the IOL Master 700 and the Heidelberg Spectralis-OCT. To account for body height differences among participants, foot length / body height and hand length / body height were analyzed using a mixed-effects model.Results: A total of 80 eyes (men, n=20, 40 eyes; women, n=20, 40 eyes) were analyzed. The mean age was 33.5 years (range 21-59 years, SD: 9.6). For choroidal thickness, there was a significant association with axial length in men (p<0.001) and a trend toward an association in women (p=0.072). There was also a significant association between foot length / body height and axial length in men (p=0.015), but not in women (p=0.58). These results suggest that factors that determine body height and foot length may be related to axial length, although they vary by gender.
Impacts of FcγRIIB and FcγRIIIA Gene Polymorphisms on Systemic Lupus Erythematous Disease Activity Index
Authors: Karimifar Mansoor , Akbari Khosro , Fathi Farshid , ArefNejad Reza , Moosaeepour Mohammad , Motedayyen Hossein
Published: June 2021

Objective: Systemic lupus erythematous (SLE) disease is a chronic autoimmune disease with unknown etiology that can involve different organs. Polymorphisms in Fcγ receptors have been identified as genetic factors in susceptibility to SLE. This study was aimed to investigate effects of two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within FcγRIIB and FcγRIIIA genes on systemic lupus erythematous disease activity index (SLEDAI) in an Iranian population. Results: Our findings indicated TT and GG genotypes were the common genotypes of FcγRIIB and FcγRIIIA SNPs in SLE patients, respectively. There were no significant differences in genotype and allele frequencies of FcγRIIB and FcγRIIIA SNPs in SLE and healthy subjects. However, the frequencies of genotypes and alleles of FcγRIIB and FcγRIIIA SNPs were significantly associated with some clinical manifestations used to determine SLEDAI (P<0.001-0.5).
Invasive Micropapillary Carcinoma of Mixed Breast Cancer Metastasizing Faster Into Thyroid: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Yu Yupei , Wang Ruifeng , Deng Junqi , Zhou Jiayu , Zhou Haiyan , Wang Junpu
Published: June 2021

Background: The incidence of metastatic breast cancer tumors in the thyroid gland is very rare, however, invasive micropapillary carcinoma of breast metastasizes to thyroid gland is rarer. As far as we know, there has never been reported that both invasive ductal carcinoma– no special type (IDC-NST) and invasive micropapillary carcinoma (IMPC) exist in breast whereas only the latter metastasizes into the thyroid gland.Case presentation: we report a case of a 59-year-old Chinese woman first diagnosed as IDC-NST of breast with involvement of axillary lymph node, grade 2 in 2015. However, five years later, blood tests revealed increased tumor markers. Multiple solid nodules were found in both side of thyroid gland by imaging. Total thyroidectomy and bilateral cervical lymph nodes dissection were presentation: the findings showed both IDC-NST and IMPC in lymph nodes but only the later in thyroid gland. Immunohistochemically, these tumor cells were positive for ER, PR, GATA3 and Mammaglobin, but negative for TG and TTF-1. Ultimately, the patient was diagnosed as mixed breast cancer with metastatic IMPC in thyroid and radiation therapy was still continued.Conclusion: Apart from the possibility of metastatic no special type of breast cancer to thyroid tumor, IMPC of breast metastasis must be taken into consideration, especially when the patient has a history of breast cancer and thyroid nodes. Accurate diagnose of metastatic breast carcinoma is vital for precise treatment and can improve the prognosis for patients.
Potential for the Lung Recruitment and the Risk of Lung Overdistension During 21 Days of Mechanical Ventilation in Patients With COVID-19 After Noninvasive Ventilation Failure: the COVID-VENT Observational Trial
Authors: Yaroshetskiy Andrey , Avdeev Sergey N. , Politov Mikhail E. , Nogtev Pavel V. , Beresneva Victoria G. , Sorokin Yury D. , Konanykhin Vasily D. , Krasnoshchekova Anna P. , Merzhoeva Zamira M. , Tsareva Natalia A. , Trushenko Natalia V. , Mandel Irina A. , Yavorovskiy Andrey G.
Published: June 2021

Background: Data on the lung respiratory mechanics and gas exchange in the time course of COVID-19-associated respiratory failure is limited. This study aimed to explore respiratory mechanics and gas exchange, the lung recruitability and risk of overdistension during the time course of mechanical ventilation. Methods: This was a prospective observational study in critically ill mechanically ventilated patients (n=116) with COVID-19 admitted into Intensive Care Units of Sechenov University. The primary endpoints were: «optimum» positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) level balanced between the lowest driving pressure and the highest SpO2 and number of patients with recruitable lung on Days 1 and 7 of mechanical ventilation. We measured driving pressure at different levels of PEEP (14, 12, 10 and 8 cmH2O) with preset tidal volume, and with the increase of tidal volume by 100 ml and 200 ml at preset PEEP level, and calculated static respiratory system compliance (CRS), PaO2/FiO2, alveolar dead space and ventilatory ratio on Days 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, 14 and 21.Results: The «optimum» PEEP levels on Day 1 were 11.0 (10.0-12.8) cmH2O and 10.0 (9.0-12.0) cmH2O on Day 7. Positive response to recruitment was observed on Day 1 in 27.6% and on Day 7 in 9.2% of patients. PEEP increase from 10 to 14 cmH2O and VT increase by 100 and 200 ml led to a significant decrease in CRS from Day 1 to Day 14 (p<0.05). Ventilatory ratio was 2.2 (1.7-2,7) in non-survivors and in 1.9 (1.6-2.6) survivors on Day 1 and decreased on Day 7 in survivors only (p<0.01). PaO2/FiO2 was 105.5 (76.2-141.7) mmHg in non-survivors on Day 1 and 136.6 (106.7-160.8) in survivors (p=0.002). In survivors, PaO2/FiO2 rose on Day 3 (p=0.008) and then between Days 7 and 10 (p=0.046). Conclusion: Lung recruitability was low in COVID-19 and decreased during the course of the disease, but lung overdistension occurred at «intermediate» PEEP and VT levels. In survivors gas exchange improvements after Day 7 mismatched CRS.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04445961. Registered 24 June 2020 - Retrospectively registered, http://https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04445961?cond=COVID-19&cntry=RU&city=Moscow&draw=3&rank=23
Optimization of Wi-Fi Direct average time to discovery: A Global Channel Randomization Approach
Authors: Mbala Remy Maxime , Fotsa-Mbogne David Jaures , NLONG Jean Michel , Menoukeu-Pamen Olivier , Kala-Kamdjoug Jean Robert
Published: June 2021

The main objective of this work is to propose concrete time reduction strategies for discovery of Wi-Fi Direct in Android. To achieve our goals, we perform a fairly general mathematical modeling of the discovery of devices using Poisson processes. Subsequently, under asymptotic invariance hypotheses of certain distributions, we derive formulas for the expected time to discovery. We provide suﬃcient condition for fast convergence to an invariant distribution and determine key decision parameters (jumps intensities) that minimize the average time to discovery. We also propose a predictive model for rapid evaluation of these optimal discovery parameters. Experimental tests in an emulator are also conducted to validate the theoretical results obtained. A comparative performance study is done with some optimization approaches from literature. Compared with existing methods, the improvement of the average time discovery we obtained with the proposed method is above 98.34%.
Evaluation of Fruit Extracts Influence on the Susceptibility of Escherichia Coli Rods to the Bactericidal Action of Human Serum
Authors: Cisowska Agnieszka , Gabrielska Janina
Published: June 2021

This study determined the influence of the methanol (ME) and water (WE) fruit extracts obtained from eight species of Rosaceae and Grossulariacae family on the susceptibility of Escherichia coli rods to the lytic action of normal human serum (NHS). Bacteria were incubated for 24 h in tryptic soy broth with varying concentrations (1, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 mg ml-1) of raspberry, cherry, hawthorn, dog rose, gooseberry, chokeberry, quince, and Japanese quince extracts and then the bactericidal activity of NHS was established. We found that the resistance of E. coli rods to the bactericidal action of serum was altered by prior incubation with all tested extracts and was dependent on plant extract concentration. Among the tested extracts, gooseberry (both ME and WE), raspberry ME and cherry WE were responsible for the most profound changes in serum resistance of E. coli rods. Evaluation of the antimicrobial mechanisms of action of phenolics-rich plant extracts has the potential to impact the development of novel compounds with promising applications in food and biopharmaceutical industry or medical approaches to preventing and treating pathogenic infections.
Enhanced Cloud Method (E-Cloud) for Efficient Seismic Fragility Assessment of Structures
Authors: Zhuang Lujie , Pang Yutao
Published: June 2021

Cloud analysis is based on linear regression in the logarithmic space by using least squares, in which a large number of nonlinear dynamic analyses are usually suggested to ensure the accuracy of this method. So, it needs significant computational effort to establish fragility curves especially for the complicated structures. The present paper proposed the Enhanced Cloud Method (E-Cloud) to enhance the efficiency but maintain the accuracy of the Cloud method. The basic concept of the proposed “E-Cloud” aims to utilize both maximum and additional seismic responses with corresponding intensity measures (IMs) from ground motions for the logarithmic linear regression of the Cloud method. Since the nonlinear time-history responses can be transferred to the Engineering Demand Parameter (EDP)-IM curve at the duration when the ground motion is intensifying, the additional seismic responses at different IM levels (i.e., potential Cloud points) can be selected from this EDP-IM curve. These potential Cloud points are combined with maximum seismic responses for the regression so as to reduce the required number of dynamic analyses in Cloud analysis. The proposed “E-Cloud” method is applied for the case study of a typical RC frame structure. By comparison of the obtained probabilistic seismic demand models and fragility curves from “E-Cloud” method to Cloud analysis, it is demonstrated that the E-Cloud method can significantly improve the computational efficiency of the Cloud analysis, which also leads to accurate and stable results for the seismic fragility assessment of structures.
Knowledge and Attitudes of antenatal towards intimate partner violence in The Gambia: a cross-sectional study in rural health facilities
Authors: Jatta Joseph W. , Ouedraogo Jean Claude R. P.
Published: June 2021

BackgroundIntimate partner violence is a severe public health and human right issue that 1 in 3 women experience in their lifetime. Women's knowledge and attitudes towards intimate partner violence might importantly determine who experiences violence from an intimate partner. This study aimed at analysing the knowledge and attitudes of antenatal towards intimate partner violence.MethodsThis study employed a descriptive cross-sectional technique to meet its objectives. Pregnant women seeking antenatal care were selected from 6 public healthcare facilities in the Gambia's upper river region (URR). We used the single proportion formula to calculate the sample size, which was 373 women. Data were entered, cleaned and analysed using SPSS version 21.ResultsA good majority of the participants had an overall good knowledge about IPV (77%). The most common behaviours of intimate partner violence known to the women were denial of money to hurt her (80.2%). Only 58% of the women knew that partners insisting on knowing where his wife is always and expecting the wife to ask for permission before seeking healthcare for herself was a form of violence against them.Eighty-seven per cent (87%) of the participants had a negative attitude towards IPV (i.e., they were not precisely against the stated forms of violence perpetrated by their partners). When asked about what would warrant them to leave their partners, 67% acclaimed they would never leave their partners despite facing violence from them. According to 36% of the respondents, women stay in abusive marriages because of their children.ConclusionDespite the relatively high knowledge of intimate partner violence among pregnant women, their attitudes tell a different story, which is acceptance of violent behaviour from their partners. More work needs to be done to sensitise women on their rights to prevent intimate partner violence.
Virulence Genotype and Clinical Influence of the Type VI Secretion System in Klebsiella Pneumoniae Isolates Causing Bloodstream Infections
Authors: Zhang Yin , Huang Ying
Published: June 2021

BackgroundKlebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) causes bloodstream infection (BSI), which is responsible for a high rate of morbidity and mortality among different populations. In mainland China, data on the incidence and features of the T6SS gene cluster in K. pneumoniae is currently scarce. As a result, we conducted a prospective investigation to determine the involvement of the type VI secretion system (T6SS) in K. pneumoniae pathogenicity and antibiotic resistance.MethodIn this retrospective analysis, we enrolled 119 individuals who had been diagnosed with K. pneumoniae bloodstream infection and acquired demographic and clinical data from their medical records. The virulence genes rmpA, rmpA2, aerobactin, iroB, hcp, vgrG, and icmF were tested for K1 and K2, antimicrobial susceptibility. T6SS positive strains (N=20) were identified as having icmF, vgrG, and hcp, while T6SS negative strains (N=99) did not manifest the same. In this study, hvKP was defined as rmpA and aerobactin positivity. Five T6SS+ and five T6SS- isolates were chosen for the competition, serum resistance, and biofilm formation experiments to further gain insights regarding the microbiological properties of T6SS+ K. pneumoniae isolates.ResultAmong 119 isolates obtained from patients with BSIs, 20 (16.8%) were T6SS positive K. pneumoniae. T6SS positive strains had four virulence genes and a greater K1 capsular serotypes rate than T6SS negative bacteria. Among hvKP isolates, the T6SS positive rate was substantially greater than the T6SS negative rate (P = 0.001). T6SS-positive K. pneumoniae strains had a lower rate of antimicrobial resistance in comparison to T6SS-negative bacteria. The 30-day mortality in all patients was 23.1%, and 66.7% (26 patients) of them died in the first 7 days of bacteremia onset. The T6SS genotype determined no significant differences in early (7-day) mortality. On the other hand, late mortality among patients with T6SS+ isolates were 10% compared with 37.4% among patients infected by T6SS− strains (P = 0.01). In comparison to T6SS-negative isolates, K. pneumoniae isolates with T6SS-positive might outcompete Escherichia coli. T6SS+ isolates, on the other hand, did not show stronger biofilm-forming activity or a greater survival rate in presence of normal human serum in comparison to T6SS– isolates.ConclusionIndividuals with BSIs were more likely to have T6SS-positive K. pneumoniae. T6SS+ K. pneumoniae strains appeared to be extremely virulent. In T6SS‐containing K. pneumoniae, the system may play a major role in bacterial competition.
Respiratory Morbidities and Lung Function Abnormalities in Survivors of Bhopal Gas Disaster: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: De Sajal , Banerjee Nalok , Sabde Yogesh
Published: June 2021

Background
Respiratory morbidities remained major morbidities among the survivors of the Bhopal gas disaster. We hypothesized that underlying lung function abnormalities, especially small airway dysfunctions (SAD), were responsible for persistent respiratory morbidity.
Material and methods
We conducted a cross-sectional study between 2018 and 2020 in the severely exposed cohort of the Bhopal gas disaster. A standardized questionnaire was used to collect respiratory symptoms. The forced oscillation technique (FOT) and spirometry were used for assessing lung functions. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to examine the association.
Results
Total 916 individuals (men: 442) participated. The mean age was 55.2 ± 12.3 years. Breathlessness was a predominant respiratory complaint (71.7%), followed by cough (15.1%). Five hundred fifty-eight individuals participated in lung function assessment. The R5 > ULN (upper limit of normal), R5 − 19 >ULN, and X5 < LLN (lower limit of normal) were observed in 29.3%, 23.3%, and 21.2% participants, respectively. Normal, obstructive, and restrictive spirometry was observed in 46.2%, 26.1%, and 27.7% of participants, respectively. Abnormalities in FOT parameters were observed in 25.3% of individuals with normal spirometry. Individuals with obstructive spirometry had the highest risk of abnormal FOT parameters (adj OR:3.93, 95% CI: 2.24–6.89). Breathlessness showed a significant association with abnormal R5 (adj OR: 1.81; 95% CI: 1.13–2.91) and obstructive spirometry (adj OR: 2.26; 95% CI: 1.29–3.95).
Conclusion
Assessment of small airway functions, in addition to spirometry, will help to identify complex lung function abnormalities in the population exposed to toxic inhalation.
A Study on the Compliance, Risk Perception and Attitude of University of Khartoum Medical Students to Safety Measures Against COVID-19 during the Period of Lockdown, Khartoum, Sudan
Authors: Ali Mustafa Mohamed Ibrahim , Ahmed Khabab Abbasher Hussien Mohamed , Omer Mohammed Eltahier Abdalla
Published: June 2021

Background

COVID-19 is a novel respiratory infectious disease. Preventive measures against COVID-19 include facemask use, physical distancing and good sanitation and hygiene practices. Risk perception of COVID-19 is important in prevention. Lockdown was imposed in Sudan in early 2020.
The study aims to:

study the compliance, risk perception and attitude of University of Khartoum Medical Students to safety measures during the period of COVID-19 lockdown.
Methodology:

An observational descriptive cross sectional study, institutional based at the University of Khartoum, Faculty of Medicine in 435 students selected via proportionate stratified random sampling through a self-administered semi- structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20. Pearson and Mann Whitney U test were used to measure associations.
Result

Out of 435 participants, a mean adherence of 57.7%, mean risk perception of 73.6% were elicited. And 80.3% had a positive attitude towards lockdown. Adherence had significant association with gender and risk perception. Risk perception had no significant relation with gender.
Conclusion

In conclusion, adherence to preventive measures among medical students of the University of Khartoum was poor. Risk Perception was high. Attitude towards lockdown was positive.
Strategic and tactical benchmarks for restructuring the financial system of Ukraine
Authors: Frolov Serhiy , Orlov Volodymyr , Lozynska Olha , Shukairi Fathi
Published: June 2021

General trends of the current stage of development of the world and domestic economies confirm the most important trends of financial systems of the leading countries, including Ukraine. Among them, it is advisable to highlight the following: financial inclusion, formation of an unassailable reputation by financial institutions, reducing the volume of shadow banking, increasing the level of the population’s financial literacy, developing financial technologies, and deepening the financial system. All of this involves increasing the size of financial assets in relation to the size of the economy based on the GDP indicator. Based on the results of generalizing the approaches of scientists to the list of determining factors affecting the development of the country’s financial system, the key role of the level of financial literacy of the population was established. The article presents the total index of financial literacy of the population of individual countries of Europe and the world based on the index components. The development of the financial system in all these areas creates conditions for a gradual transition to the development of a new quality financial ecosystem. The article proposes a definition of the financial ecosystem in the context of established hybrid of real and digital space based on the integration of financial institutions as key players with technology companies, public service providers and other participants. To ensure development, the advantages and disadvantages are specified based on the results of the SWOT analysis, which allowed to systematize the strengths and weaknesses, as well as the opportunities and threats of the financial ecosystem development. Based on the results of the analysis, four basic strategies for restructuring the financial system were developed, which are the basis for proposals for the development of the financial ecosystem and changing the business models of functioning of its subjects in Ukraine.
The Political Elites’ Response Discourse towards Prabowo’s Speech Entitled “Indonesia Punah” on Kompas.com and Republika.com
Authors: Sobari Teti , Damayanti Ema
Published: June 2021

The background of research was developed by the responses of political elites to the statements of figures. The research problem was how the discourse of response and aligments from Prabowo speech entitled “Indonesia Punah” published in Kompas.com and Republika.com, which were the material objects of the research. A qualitative approach combined with a descriptive analysis techniques were applied in the research. Analysis was done by using Michael Foucault`s power relation theory. The research indicates that Kompas’ writing style tends to accentuate Jokowi’s government side as a comparison in responding to Prabowo’s speech. As for Republika, it dominates a clear description of the figure who gives the response. Then, the results of the power relations between Moeldoko and Hidayat Nur Wahid show that Moeldoko comments on behalf of the government by linking Jokowi’s performance. Meanwhile, Hidayat Nur Wahid gives a response to save the reputation of the stigma embedded in him, namely the religious figure, deputy chairman of the People`s Consultative Assembly (MPR) of the Republic of Indonesia, and Prabowo’s party bearer cadre.
Nature-Based Learning Models for Ecological Citizension Formation in Schools
Authors: Faujiah Faujiah , Marzuki Marzuki
Published: June 2021

The aim of research was to form students’ ecological citizenship by using a nature-based learning model. Some problems of natural damage such as forest fires, landslides, and floods must be everyone’s concern and responsibility. Therefore, schools needed to prepare a generation who had a responsibility towards nature. The method applied in the research was a descriptive method, while data collection technique was done by means of literature study. Data analysis techniques were in-depth reading to find more accurate data. They were compiled using logical arguments based on the results of analysis. The results of research indicate that forming ecological citizenship in a school environment can be done with environmental knowledge, environmental skills, and environmental ethics. These three aspects can be obtained using a learning model that is in accordance with the basic competencies to be achieved. The learning model that brings students closer to nature is a nature-based learning model outside the classroom that is also adjusted to the basic competencies contained in the Pancasila and Citizenship Education subject. The three aspects of ecological citizenship formation in these schools can be implemented properly if they are socialized to teachers and students. The purpose of this socialization is that teachers can integrate environmental problems into lessons. In contrast, socialization to students is carried out in the hope that an attitude of loving the environment is formed.
Transculturality through Industrial Space: Cembengan at the Colomadu Sugar Factory
Authors: Fajarwati Ade Ariyani Sari , Kurnia Lilawati
Published: June 2021

The research aimed to explain Cembengan celebrations held at the Colomadu sugar factory, Karanganyar which was built in 1861. This celebration was held every time the factory would start milled processing sugar cane into sugar. The word “cembeng” itself came from the Chinese word “Cengbeng”, which was a ritual to commemorate deceased ancestors. Cengbeng was held every April 5th by cleaning graves and placing food and prayer tools such as incense and candles. Meanwhile, the Cembengan tradition itself as a ritual also commemorated the ancestors, but its function had turned into a ritual to start the production process at a sugar factory. This ritual was considered important so that it was carried out continuously for hundreds of years in a Javanese industrial space. This ritual was also attended by Dutch officials when it was still under the control of the Dutch East Indies. The research investigated the intersection between space, capital, and culture, which formed an ‘invented tradition’. The method used was through historicity approach and analyzed the relationship between space and the formation of Cembengan tradition in the Colomadu sugar factory. The results show that the transcultural aspect no longer consults the origin but rather cultural practices that merge cultural boundaries.