bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Pulse Oximetry Screening to Detect Congenital Heart Defects: 5 Years’ Experience in a Regional Neonatal Unit in the UK
Authors: Singh Yogen , Chen Si Emma
Published: June 2021

Pulse oximetry screening (POS) has been shown to be an effective and non-invasive investigation that can detect up to 50-70% of previously undiagnosed congenital heart defects (CHDs). The aims of this study were to assess the accuracy of POS in detection of CHDs and its impact on the clinical practice. All the eligible newborn infants born between Jan 2015 and Dec 2019 in busy regional neonatal unit were included in the prospective observational study. Of the 25185 eligible infants, 189 (0.8%) infants had a true positive results: 6 had critical CHDs, 9 serious or significant CHDs, and a further 156/189 infants had significant non-cardiac conditions. 43 infants who had a normal POS were later (post-hospital discharge) diagnosed with following category of CHDs: 1 critical, 15 serious, 20 significant and 7 non-significant CHDs. POS sensitivity for detection of critical CHD was 85.7% and its specificity was 99.3%. However, its sensitivity for detection of all the major CHDs needing surgery during infancy was 33%.ConclusionPulse oximetry screening showed moderate and high sensitivity in detection of undiagnosed critical CHDs, however it failed to detect two-third of the major CHDs. Our study further emphasises the significance of adopting routine POS to detect critical CHDs in the clinical practice. However, it also highlights the need to develop new, innovative methods to detect other major CHDs missed by pulse oximetry screening and other current screening tools.
Patient-specific computational haemodynamics associated with surgical creation of an arteriovenous fistula
Authors: Hyde-Linaker George , Barrientos Pauline Hall , Stoumpos Sokratis , Kazakidi Asimina
Published: June 2021

Despite arteriovenous fistulae (AVF) being the preferred vascular access for haemodialysis, high primary failure rates (30-70%) and low one-year patency rates (40-70%) hamper their use. The haemodynamics within the vessels of the fistula change significantly following surgical creation of the anastomosis and can be a surrogate of AVF success or failure. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) can crucially predict AVF outcomes through robust analysis of a fistula’s haemodynamic patterns, which is impractical in-vivo. We present a proof-of-concept CFD framework for characterising the AVF blood flow prior and following surgical creation of a successful left radiocephalic AVF in a 20-year-old end-stage kidney disease patient. The reconstructed vasculature was generated utilising multiple contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) datasets. Large eddy simulations were conducted for establishing the extent of arterial and venous remodelling. Following anastomosis creation, a significant 2-3-fold increase in blood flow rate was induced downstream of the left subclavian artery. This was validated through comparison with post-AVF patient-specific phase-contrast data. The increased flow rate yielded an increase in time-averaged wall shear stress (TAWSS), a key marker of adaptive vascular remodelling. We have demonstrated TAWSS and oscillatory shear distributions of the transitional-flow in the venous anastomosis are predictive of AVF remodelling.
Diagnostic biomarkers for USD via serum and urinary amino acid profiles using a metabolomics-based strategy
Authors: Gao Yao , Gong Sisi , Lin Xinxin , Zhang Tianwen , Zhang Beiying , Tang Minjie , Chen Min , Ou Qishui , Mao Houping
Published: June 2021

Background: Urinary stone disease (USD) is a common disease with a high prevalence, a high recurrence rate and a lack of effective diagnostic biomarkers.Methods: To explore the potential biomarkers for USD early diagnosis, the serum and urinary amino acid (AA) profiles of 74 USD patients were compared with 35 healthy controls (HC) via gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS).Results: Based on the serum and urinary AA profiles analyzed by metabolomic strategy, a group of 5 differentially expressed AAs including Ser, Glu, Asp, Ile and Gly and 7 metabolic pathway disorders in patients were revealed.Conclusions: These serum and urinary AA profiles could provided clinical biomarkers for USD early diagnosis, and also indicated that some specific AA metabolic pathways might play important roles in the pathogenesis of USD.
Spatial and physicochemical assessment of groundwater quality index in the urban coastal region of Sri Lanka
Authors: Perera TANT , Herath HMMSD , Piyadasa Ranjana U.K , Jianhui Liu , Bing Li
Published: June 2021

This study used the groundwater quality index (GWQI) and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques to examine groundwater quality in the western coastal region of Sri Lanka. The spatial and temporal variation of 18 groundwater samples' physiochemical parameters [pH, electrical conductivity (EC), turbidity, total dissolved solids (TDS), sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+), chloride (Cl−), and bicarbonate (HCO3−)] were studied. According to the WHO and SLS, 11% of samples had EC levels that were above the acceptable range, and 22% had turbidity levels that were beyond the acceptable range. When considering, pH, TDS, other cations, and anions analyzed in the study were still below the standard permissible levels. The western coastline region, as well as several areas of the central study region, had significant concentrations of physicochemical parameters. According to the GWQI, water was consumable in 77.78% of locations in the study region and unsatisfactory in 22.22%. Furthermore, due to severe coastal erosion, the quality of groundwater in the study region is deteriorating, therefore maintaining a comprehensive groundwater management strategy to promote sustainable water consumption is imperative.
Panel Data Modelling of COVID-19 Infected Cases
Authors: ARUNACHALAM RAJARATHINAM , PAKKIRISAMY TAMILSELVAN
Published: June 2021

Background and Objective: The novel coronavirus pandemic, known as COVID-19, could not have been more predictable; thus, the world encountered health crises and substantial economic crises. This paper analyses the trends in COVID-19 cases in October 2020 in four southern districts of Tamil Nadu state, India, using a panel regression model. Materials and Methods: Panel data on the number of COVID-19-infected cases were collected from daily bulletins published through the official website www.stopcorona.tn.gov.in maintained by the Government of Tamil Nadu state, India. Panel data regression models were employed to study the trends. EViews Ver.11. Software was used to estimate the model and its parameters. Results: In all four districts, the COVID-19-infected case data followed a normal distribution. Maximum numbers of COVID-19-infected cases were registered in Kanniyakumari, followed by Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi and Tenkasi districts. The fewest COVID-19 cases were registered in Tenkasi, followed by Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi and Kanniyakumari districts. A random e2ffects model was found to be an appropriate model to study the trend. Conclusion: The panel data regression model is found to be more appropriate than traditional models. The Hausman test and Wald test confirmed the selection of the random effects model. The Jarque-Bera normality test ensured the normality of the residuals. In all four districts under study, the number of COVID-19 infections showed a decreasing trend at a rate of 1.68% during October 2020.
COVID-19 Potential To Infect 4.44% Indian Population
Authors: Patel Jayendrakumar , Parikh Shalin , Patel Rakesh , Patel Shwetaben , Patel Ronak , Patel Payalben , Patel Ankita
Published: June 2021

Background: Quantitative characterisation of any contagious diseases could help in making effective strategy to prevent further spreading of the disease. Despite the rapid research in prevention of spreading COVID-19, yet there is no quantitatively information about spatiotemporal epidemiology and epidemic intensity of COVID-19. Therefore, we aimed to quantitatively characterize spatiotemporal epidemiology and epidemic intensity of COVID-19 in Indian geography by determine it’s infectability rate, efficacy rate, transmission rate and likelihood of total populations to be infected with COVID-19 in India. Method: Novel statistical model was designed to quantitatively characterize spatiotemporal epidemiology and epidemic intensity of COVID-19. A Retrospective Cohort study was carried out online and offline in Indian geography using a COVID-19 transmission questionnaires sheet that comprises five mandatory questions. The collected offline as well as online data was then entered into a Microsoft excel sheet to obtain primary data and secondary data required for the mathematical model to calculate quantitative data of spatiotemporal epidemiology and epidemic intensity of COVID-19 in India geography. Result and Discussion: Total 539 responses were analysed in the current study out of 557 received responses between April-2021 to May-2021. Average reproductive number of secondary cases was found 0.77. Infectability rate of COIVD-19 patient was found 38.11% while healthy person has 21.08% risk of becoming infected if they expose to the Primary case. J-Index and H-Index were found 55.32% and 4.44%, respectively, indicating that COVID-19 disease outbreaks as severe epidemic disease in India and has potential to infect ~4.44% Indian population. Conclusion: Higher infectability rate (38.11%) of COIVD-19 patient and higher efficacy rate (21.08%) of healthy individual to be infected with COVID-19 outbreak it a severe epidemic in India. COVID-19 potential to infect about 4.44% Indian population, at present, COVID-19 already infected ~2.13% Indian population, which is about 50% of the anticipated population to be infected i.e., 4.44%.
Gauging the Kitaev chain
Authors: Borla Umberto , Verresen Ruben , Shah Jeet , Moroz Sergej
Published: June 2021

We gauge the fermion parity symmetry of the Kitaev chain. While the bulk of the model becomes an Ising chain of gauge-invariant spins in a tilted field, near the boundaries the global fermion parity symmetry survives gauging, leading to local gauge-invariant Majorana operators. In the absence of vortices, the Higgs phase exhibits fermionic symmetry-protected topological (SPT) order distinct from the Kitaev chain. Moreover, the deconfined phase can be stable even in the presence of vortices. We also undertake a comprehensive study of a gently gauged model which interpolates between the ordinary and gauged Kitaev chains.
This showcases rich quantum criticality and illuminates the topological nature of the Higgs phase. Even in the absence of superconducting terms, gauging leads to an SPT phase which is intrinsically gapless due to an emergent anomaly.
ON THE IMPOSSIBILITY OF THE PHENOMENOLOGICAL LANGUAGE IN THE CONTEXT OF WITTGENSTEIN’S MANUSCRIPTS FROM 1929–1933
Authors:   National Research University “Higher School of Economics”, CHERNAVIN GEORGY
Published: June 2021

The article treats Ludwig Wittgenstein’s manuscripts and typescripts where he formulates the problem of impossibility of “phenomenological language” defined by him as the “description of immediate sensual perception without any hypothetical supplementation.” One may find this phase of his philosophy (1929–1933) a bit paradoxical because the philosopher claims this phase, from the very beginning, to have been overcome; we deal here with philosophical self-criticism. The Lewis Carroll’s paradox is considered in terms of analogy to this criticized project of “phenomenological language”—the paradox of a ridiculously exact map which coincides with the mapped area. We open up new possibilities for comparison between the Wittgensteinian project of the “primal language” and Husserlian, Heideggerian and Finkian projects of “phenomenological language.”
Effect of warming climate on extreme daily rainfall depth using non-stationary Gumbel model with temperature co-variate
Authors: Lee Okjeong , Sim Inkyeong , Kim Sangdan
Published: June 2021

In this study, non-stationary frequency analysis was carried out to apply non-stationarity of extreme rainfall driven by climate change using the scale parameter of two parameters of the Gumbel distribution (GUM) as a co-variate function. The surface air temperature (SAT) or dew-point temperature (DPT) is applied as the co-variate. The optimal model was selected by comparing AICs, and 17 of 60 sites were found to be suitable for the non-stationary GUM model. In addition, SAT was chosen as the more appropriate co-variate among 13 of the 17 sites. As a result of estimating changes in design rainfall depth with future SAT rises at 13 sites, it is likely to increase by 10% in 2040 and 18% in 2070.
Drinking water quality assessment from water dispensers in an educational institution
Authors: Boonhok R. , Borisut S. , Chuklin N. , Katzenmeier G. , Srisuphanunt M.
Published: June 2021

Water dispensers are commonly used in educational institutions in developing countries. Assessment of factors influencing drinking water quality from this source is important due to its potential to cause waterborne diseases and other health risks. This study aimed to assess microbial contamination and the factors affecting drinking water quality from water dispensers at Walailak University, Southern Thailand. Drinking water samples from 60 water dispensers of different type-brands were collected and tested for physicochemical and microbiological parameters by following WHO Drinking Water Quality guidelines. Also evaluated by questionnaires were hygienic standards and maintenance of water dispensers. The physicochemical analysis of all water samples did not exceed the reference values of the drinking water standard; the hardness value in only 13.3% of samples was slightly higher than the reference limit. The microbiological results indicated that total coliform and fecal coliform bacteria were found in 16.67% and 8.33% of total samples, respectively. Escherichia coli was not detected in any of the water samples. The assessment of factors influencing drinking water quality, location and pathogen source around water dispensers, hygienic environment, and maintenance of water dispensers had a significant effect on drinking water quality.
La escuela y el niño como víctima del conflicto armado en Tumaco, Colombia
Authors: Ramírez Villegas Stella Rocío , Londoño Calero Sandra Liliana
Published: June 2021

El presente artículo tiene como objetivo visibilizar las voces de algunos actores de la comunidad educativa de dos instituciones públicas de Tumaco, la General Santander y la Roberto Mario Bischoff, para mostrar cómo la escuela enfrenta el desafío de sumar a su tarea de educar, la de resolver los impactos de la violencia. Se reflexiona en particular sobre el niño y la niña víctimas cuyo origen en el tiempo devela la construcción de la nación colombiana como un proyecto inconcluso de modernidad. En el origen del conflicto armado, resistir a la modernización ha sido convertirse en el diferente, en ´el otro´, en el enemigo. Se ilustra con algunos fragmentos recogidos de entrevistas abiertas y semiestructuradas como parte de un proceso de Investigación, Acción Participativa, las vivencias de la comunidad educativa en medio del conflicto y la propuesta a través de la cual las escuelas en mención han enfrentado un nuevo rol, fundamentadas en la teoría crítica de la esperanza. Las escuelas han asumido reconstruir saberes, pedagogías y lineamientos institucionales, para ganar el pulso a la violencia, que viene de la mano de actores armados que crean al niño y la niña víctima, lo alejan del sistema educativo y lo incluyen en un conflicto que les es ajeno. Esta es la historia del esfuerzo de dos instituciones educativas por asumir con mejores elementos la tarea de reducir los efectos de la violencia como una tarea que excede la competencia de la escuela, pero que no puede ser ignorada por ella.
Tin-mediated Radical Cyclization Reactions
Authors: malik Saima , Lavekar Aditya G. , Banik Bimal Krishna
Published: June 2021

Radical chemistry is known for two centuries. Due to the fascinating nature
of the radical-mediated processes, these reactions have attracted the attention of organic
chemists to prepare new compounds with diverse stereochemistry. Radical-induced
methods mostly follow atom economical principles. Tin-based radical annulation
method is the most common and widely used procedure for the synthesis of a wide
range of organic compounds with medicinal significance. In this review, we report
recent stereoselective tin-mediated radical cyclization reactions. The versatility of tinbased
reagents in the cyclization process as reported herein will encourage chemists to
construct many other molecules of interest following the principles involved in these
reactions.
Flavonoid Kaempferol Inhibits the Proliferation and Survival of Human Leukemia HL60 Cells
Authors: Rezapour Saleheh , Hosseinzadeh Elham , Jahangiryan Afsaneh , Tapeh Behnam Emamgolizade Gurd , Beheshtkhoo Nasrin , Kouhbanani Mohammad Amin Jadidi , Hassanzadeh Ali , Marofi Faroogh
Published: June 2021

Background:

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive type of leukemia adversely
affecting the normal differentiation and proliferation process of human hematopoietic myeloid lineage.
Over the last decades, Kaempferol (Kae) (3,4′,5,7-tetrahydroxyflavone) has been considered a flavonoid
with useful medical significance, capable of inhibiting various types of leukemia (e.g., AML).

Objective:

This study aimed to evaluate the Kae effect on proliferation and apoptosis of a human
AML cell line, HL60.

Methods:

The proliferation capability of the HL60 cells was estimated by MTT assay at 12, 24, and
48 hours after exposure to Kae at a series of concentrations, including 10, 25, 50, and 75 μM. Also,
the apoptosis level of HL60 cells was measured 48 hours after exposure to various concentrations of
Kae (10, 25, and 50 μM) using Annexin-V/PI staining and FACS analysis. Besides, the gene expression
of CDK1/2, Bcl-2, survivin, c-FLIP, Mcl-1, XIAP, Bax, and caspase 3 and 8 was assessed following
treatment of HL60 cells with Kae (25 and 50 μM) by Real-Time PCR.

Results:

The anti-proliferation activity of Kae showed an ascending pattern over time and reached the
maximum level at 48 hours of HL60 cells exposure to Kae. Also, it was able to trigger apoptosis of
HL60 cells, in particular, at 50 μM concentration. On the other hand, Kae could modify the expression
levels of the candidate’s genes in treated cells.

Conclusion:

The promising results of using Kae against the HL60 cells have made it a good drug candidate
to treat AML through up-regulation of caspases expression and down-regulation of antiapoptotic
proteins.
Cytotoxic Impact of N-Oleoylethanolamine on Bone Cancer Cells
Authors: İzgördü Hüseyin , Sezer Canan Vejselova , Bayçelebi Kadir , Baloğlu Murat , Kutlu Hatice Mehtap
Published: June 2021

Background:

Cancer is a complex disease that derives from the uncontrolled proliferation of cells. Bone
cancer is a type of prevalent cancer that occurs both in young and adults. Bone cancer is most common in the long
bones of the pelvis, arms and legs. Statistically, more than 200 cases of osteosarcoma have been reported annually in
our country. Classical treatment with chemotherapeutics remains ineffective in the cure of this cancer type. Recent
studies have shown that ceramide induces apoptosis at its increased levels in the cells. Thus, many studies have been
conducted to cause the accumulation of ceramide molecules in the cell by different ways to induce apoptosis. NOE (Noleoylethanolamine)
is a specific inhibitor of ceramidase enzymes that hydrolyze intracellular ceramides and prevent
apoptosis.

Objective:

This study investigates the cytotoxic and apoptosis-inducing activities of NOE on human osteosarcoma
Saos-2 cells.

Methods:

Cytotoxic effects were investigated by MTT colorimetric assay. For the detection of morphological and
ultrastructural indicators of apoptosis, confocal and TEM techniques were used.

Results:

Our finding indicated that NOE is effective in the inhibition of the growth of Saos-2 cells. Confocal and TEM
findings showed morphological and ultrastructural changes as chromatin condensation, fragmentation of nuclei and
mitochondria as well as damaged cytoskeleton and cell shrinkage.

Conclusion:

The results revealed that NOE exerts its cytotoxicity on Saos-2 cells through changing the ultrastructure
and morphology of cells with clear apoptotic sparks.
Biofilm Targeting Strategy in the Eradication of Burkholderia Infections: A Mini-Review
Authors: Gunardi Wani D. , Timotius Kris H. , Natasha Agustine , Evriarti Paulina R.
Published: June 2021

Burkholderia are intracellular pathogenic bacteria which can produce biofilm. This biofilm protects the intracellular pathogenic bacteria from antibiotic treatment and the immunological system of the host. Therefore, this review aims to describe the capacity of Burkholderia to form a biofilm, the regulation of its biofilm formation, the efficacy of antibiotics to eradicate biofilm, and the novel therapy which targets its biofilm. Burkholderia's biofilm is characterized by its lipopolysaccharides, exopolysaccharides (EPSs), biofilm-associated proteins, and eDNA. Its regulation is made by quorum sensing, c-di-AMP, sRNA, and two component systems. Many antibiotics have been used as sole or mixture agents; however, they are not always effective in eradicating the biofilm-forming Burkholderia. Inhibitors of quorum sensing and other non-conventional antibiotic approaches are promising to discover effective treatment of Burkholderia infections.
Prevalence and Predictors of Metabolic Syndrome among Patients with Bronchial Asthma: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Ali Abdellah H.K.
Published: June 2021

Background:

Recent studies have reported the epidemiological link between Metabolic Syndrome (MS) and asthma, but it has rarely been studied in Egypt. The study aimed to investigate the prevalence of MS and its predictors among asthma patients in Egypt.

Methods:

In total, 320 patients with bronchial asthma were included. The following were assessed: spirometric evaluation, anthropometric indices, blood pressure, fasting blood sugar and serum lipid profile. We analyzed the correlation between metabolic scores and patient characteristics. Predictors of MS were identified using logistic regression analysis.

Results:

The prevalence of MS was 57.5% in asthma patients. For asthma patients, low High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) and abdominal obesity were the commonest metabolic abnormality. Waist circumference, Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) and triglyceride correlated significantly with asthma (P ‹ 0.05). FBS and DBP were the best predictors of MS.

Conclusion:

MS is frequent in asthma patients in Egypt. Obesity and lipid abnormalities were the commonest metabolic abnormality. Screening of these patients for components of metabolic syndrome should be a part of routine workup.
Outcomes of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure in the Management of Patients with Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pneumonia who are not Suitable for Invasive Ventilation
Authors: Aung Hnin , Avraam Eleni , Ashraf Muhammad , Karim Nawazish , Kiran Sidra , Naeem Muhammed , Mallik Srikumar , Panchatsharam Selva , Tsaknis George , Reddy Raja
Published: June 2021

Background:

The optimum management of respiratory failure in patients with coronavirus (COVID-19) infections has been a challenge for physicians across the globe. Many scientific societies have suggested the use of CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) in severe cases in an effort to reduce invasive ventilation. We investigated mortality outcomes in patients who needed CPAP but were not suitable for invasive ventilation.

Methods:

We retrospectively evaluated the mortality outcomes of all consecutive COVID-19 cases with severe type 1 respiratory failure requiring FiO2 >0.6 who were admitted to our hospital between 12th March and 04th May’20. British Thoracic Society guidelines were followed for identifying patients needing CPAP. Their outcomes were recorded and compared with a similar group of patients who had oxygen as a ceiling of care. Prospectively collected data between 5th May and 7th June’20 in similar but smaller groups of patients was also analyzed.

Results:

A total of 104 COVID-19 patients with documented Do Not Attempt Resuscitation (DNAR) decision required high fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) >0.6(to maintain peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2)> 92%(SpO2> 88% in COPD patients). Twenty-four patients received CPAP as the ceiling of care, with a mortality rate of 92.5%. The remaining 84 patients who were on oxygen as a ceiling of treatment had 91.7% mortality. Both population groups had a similar number of comorbidities but were less favorable in terms of age in the control group with standard O2 therapy than those who had CPAP support. Overall mortality outcomes from using CPAP therapy did not bring significant mortality benefit (p-value-0.89).

Conclusion:

CPAP did not appear to improve the survival of patients with severe respiratory failure due to COVID-19 related pneumonia and were not suitable for invasive ventilation. Further studies are warranted to adequately inform appropriate management strategies for this group of patients.
THE ROLE OF AMPK AND MTOR IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF INSULIN RESISTANCE AND TYPE 2 DIABETES. THE MECHANISM OF METFORMIN ACTION (literature review)
Authors: Pushkarev V. M. , Sokolova L. K. , Pushkarev V. V. , Tronko M. D.
Published: June 2021

It was analyzed the cellular and molecular links between chronic low-grade inflammation and caused by inflammation insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Particular emphasis is placed on the participation of AMPK and mTORC1 in the development of metabolic diseases caused by obesity. A detailed analysis of the biochemical mechanisms of action of the main drug used in the treatment of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes — metformin.
THE PROBLEM OF NEUROENDOCRINE DYSFUNCTIONS IN PATIENTS WITH SCHIZOPHRENIA AND SCHIZOAFFECTIVE DISORDER (literature review)
Authors: Pidkorytov V. S. , Syerikova O. I. , Serikova O. S. , Baybarak N. A. , Ukrayinskyy S. A. , Skrynnik O. V.
Published: June 2021

Neuroendocrine dysfunctions (NED) are often observed in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders and could be a component of the etiopathogenesis of the disease as well as effect associated with use of atypical neuroleptics. The most common NED symptoms and syndromes are described in the literature review: neuroleptic-induced hyperprolactinemia syndrome, the frequency of occurrence 2–100 %, metabolic syndrome — a 49.3 %, increasing in body weight (neuroleptics obesity) — 40–92 %, diabetes mellitus type 2 — 6.2–25.0 %, violation of thyroid metabolism — 20–49 %, a polymorphic syndrome — 9.9–32.9 %. Metabolic syndrome is more often observed in patients with schizoaffective disorder than in patients with schizophrenia; however, explanatory factors of this association deserve further research. Patients, receiving atypical neuroleptics, must undergo regular endocrinological examination and psychiatrists must draw attention to the endocrinological component of the patient’s health. Diabetologists and psychiatrists must work together to monitor patients treated with atypical antipsychotics, with the aim of identifying their impaired glucose tolerance and diabetes management.
Kidney Disease Symptoms before and after Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Taylor Kathryn , Chu Nadia M. , Chen Xiaomeng , Shi Zhan , Rosello Eileen , Kunwar Sneha , Butz Paul , Norman Silas P. , Crews Deidra C. , Greenberg Keiko I. , Mathur Aarti , Segev Dorry L. , Shafi Tariq , McAdams-DeMarco Mara A.
Published: June 2021

Background and objectives

Patients with kidney failure report a high symptom burden, which likely increases while on dialysis due to physical and mental stressors and decreases after kidney transplantation due to restoration of kidney function.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

We leveraged a two-center prospective study of 1298 kidney transplant candidates and 521 recipients (May 2014 to March 2020). Symptom scores (0–100) at evaluation and admission for transplantation were calculated using the Kidney Disease Quality of Life Short-Form Survey, where lower scores represent greater burden, and burden was categorized as very high: 0.0–71.0; high: 71.1–81.0; medium: 81.1–91.0; and low: 91.1–100.0. We estimated adjusted waitlist mortality risk (competing risks regression), change in symptoms between evaluation and transplantation (n=190), and post-transplantation symptom score trajectories (mixed effects models).

Results

At evaluation, candidates reported being moderately to extremely bothered by fatigue (32%), xeroderma (27%), muscle soreness (26%), and pruritus (25%); 16% reported high and 21% reported very high symptom burden. Candidates with very high symptom burden were at greater waitlist mortality risk (adjusted subdistribution hazard ratio, 1.67; 95% confidence interval, 1.06 to 2.62). By transplantation, 34% experienced an increased symptom burden, whereas 42% remained unchanged. The estimated overall symptom score was 82.3 points at transplantation and 90.6 points at 3 months (10% improvement); the score increased 2.75 points per month (95% confidence interval, 2.38 to 3.13) from 0 to 3 months, and plateaued (−0.06 points per month; 95% confidence interval, −0.30 to 0.18) from 3 to 12 months post-transplantation. There were early (first 3 months) improvements in nine of 11 symptoms; pruritus (23% improvement) and fatigue (21% improvement) had the greatest improvements.

Conclusions

Among candidates, very high symptom burden was associated with waitlist mortality, but for those surviving and undergoing kidney transplantation, symptoms improved.
Correlation : Anatomical Variations of Nasal Cavity and Paranasal Sinuses and the Quality of Life Based on SNOTT-22 Score
Authors: Rahmawati Rani
Published: June 2021

This study aims to determine the correlation between the anatomical variations of nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses and the quality of life based on SNOT-22 score in the patients who underwent paranasal sinuses CT scan. The samples are 36 patients with age ≥ 18 years. The method is Chi Square test / Fisher's test and Spearman’s rho test. The results showed that anatomical variations of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses from most of the patients who underwent paranasal sinuses CT scan had septal deviation n = 29, p = 0.007 (p <0.05) and concha bullosa n = 15, p = 0.029 (p <0.05). There was a significant correlation between total anatomical variation and quality of life based on SNOT-22 score in the patients who underwent paranasal sinuses CT scan p = 0.025 (p <0.05). There was no correlation between the anatomical variations of frontal cells, agger nasi cells, ethmoid bulla, uncinate process and haller cells and the quality of life based on SNOT-22 score in the patients who underwent paranasal sinuses CT scan.
Homeward Bound: Educational Leaders’ Perceptions of Hiring Repatriating International Teachers
Authors: Mizzi Robert C.
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine how educational leaders interpret job applications from international teachers who are planning to repatriate. Ten rural and urban educational leaders from the Canadian province of Manitoba were presented with three different fictitious cases to screen and analyze for shortlisting purposes. The findings suggest that international teachers need to clearly communicate their work experiences and explain how acquired intercultural and linguistic competencies would be advantageous for the school community. Educational leaders should apply an international awareness when screening job applications. Recommendations for both leadership development and global teaching careers are offered.
Scaling training to support scientists to engage with the public in non-traditional venues
Authors: Weber Caitlin , Allen Sue , Nadkarni Nalini
Published: June 2021

Public engagement with science activities need to be extended beyond traditional learning venues (e.g., museums, schools) to increase public access. Scientists are motivated to carry out this work; however, it is difficult to scale up training to support the implementation of engagement activities in non-traditional venues. Such training would need to be applicable to different engagement contexts, while avoiding a “one size fits all” approach. We describe the guiding principles, challenges, and design choices of a training program in the United States to support scientists in designing and implementing audience-specific engagement activities in a range of non-traditional venues.
The Making of Men Program: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of a Gender-Sensitive Rite of Passage Program for Adolescent Males
Authors: Wilson Michael J. , Gwyther Kate , Swann Ray , Casey Kate , Keele Sophie , Rubinstein Arne , Rice Simon M.
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Current gendered health disparities impacting the wellbeing of boys and young men require new early intervention-focussed approaches. Health promotion programs developed with young men’s health needs and preferences in mind commonly report positive outcomes. Male-specific rite of passage programs aim to formally acknowledge the life-stage transition from boyhood to manhood through a holistic focus on identity, community, and social responsibility. While these programs are growing in popularity, there is limited data available on their effectiveness.

Methods

This study undertook a pilot evaluation of the Making of Men rite of passage program in a sample of secondary school boys (n=61, age M=16.0, SD=0.5) and their accompanying fathers or male mentors (n=47, age M=52.1, SD=5.8 years) providing non-matched pre-test, post-test, alongside follow-up data for participating boys. Qualitative interviews were also undertaken with 15 individuals (5 mothers, 6 staff members, 4 fathers).

Results

Quantitative program feedback indicated acceptability, with most respondents providing positive feedback, particularly from participating fathers. Exploratory quantitative effects indicated potential improvements in subjective social support and open communication among boys. Fathers appeared to report lower conformity to traditional masculine norms post-program, in addition to more open communication. Qualitative interviews identified three main themes: enabling relational bonds, creating a men-specific context, and supporting developmental transitions.

Conclusions

Positive program acceptability and promising outcome effects highlighted the present rite of passage program as a promising mechanism for supporting healthy masculine identity development among adolescent males. Finally, limitations and future directions are discussed, particularly in terms of gender equality integration for rite of passage programs.
Dynamics of African swine fever virus (ASFV) infection in domestic pigs infected with virulent, moderate virulent and attenuated genotype II ASFV European isolates.
Authors: Gallardo Carmina , Soler Alejandro , Nurmoja Imbi , Cano-Gómez Cristina , Cvetkova S. , Frant Maciej , Wozniakowski Grzegorz , Simon Alicia , Perez Covadonga , R. Nieto , Arias Marisa
Published: June 2021

This study aimed to compare the infection dynamics of three genotype II
African swine fever viruses (ASFV) circulating in Europe. Eighteen
domestic pigs divided into three groups were infected intramuscularly or
by direct contact with two haemadsorbent ASFVs (HAD) from Poland
(Pol16/DP/ OUT21) and Estonia (Est16/WB/Viru8), and with the Latvian
non-HAD ASFV (Lv17/WB/Rie1). Parameters such as symptoms, pathogenicity,
and distribution of the virus in tissues, humoral immune response, and
dissemination of the virus by blood, oropharyngeal and rectal routes
were investigated. The Polish ASFV caused a case of rapidly developing
fatal acute disease, while the Estonian ASFV caused acute to subacute
infections in the presence of surviving animals. In contrast, animals
infected with the ASFV from Latvia developed a more subtle, mild, or
even subclinical disease. Oral excretion was sporadic or even absent in
the attenuated group, whereas in animals that developed an acute or
subacute form of ASF, oral excretion began at the same time as in the
blood, or even 3 days earlier, and persisted up to 22 days. Regardless
of virulence, blood was the main route of transmission of ASFV and
infectious virus was isolated from persistently infected animals for at
least 19 days in the attenuated group and up to 44 days in the group of
moderate virulence. Rectal excretion was limited to the acute phase of
infection. In terms of diagnostics, the ASFV genome was detected in
contact pigs from oropharyngeal samples earlier than in blood,
independently of virulence and, together with blood, both samples could
cover a longer range to detect ASFV infection. The results presented
here provide quantitative data on the spread and excretion of ASFV
strains of different virulence among domestic pigs that can help to
better focus surveillance activities and thus increase the ability to
detect ASF introductions earlier.
An Old Disease with a New Twist: CNS and Thyroid Sarcoidosis Presenting as Subacute Dementia
Authors: Quertermous Brooke , Kavuri Sravan , Walsh David
Published: June 2021

Neurosarcoidosis and thyroid abnormalities are reversible causes of
dementia in the elderly. We present a case of a patient with rapidly
progressive dementia due to neurosarcoidosis and sarcoid involvement of
the thyroid improved by corticosteroids and Methimazole.
COVID-19 ANOSMIA AND LACUNAR STROKE.
Authors: Foyaca-Sibat Humberto , Valdes Lourdes de Fatima Ibanez
Published: June 2021

Many publications on COVID-anosmia and asymptomatic COVID-stroke have
been released, and plenty of studies on novel therapeutic approach have
been published. Here we report an atypical case, our findings from
review the medical literature, and comment on the treatment modalities
Acute Type A Dissection, Coarctation of Aorta and Levoatriocardinal Vein -- A Rare Combination
Authors: Patel Kartik , Patel Archit , Ananthanarayanan Chandrasekaran
Published: June 2021

Concomitant presence of acute type A dissection and coactation of aorta
is rare (1). Levoatriocardinal vein has shown to be associated with left
sided hypoplastic lesions as well as with normal hearts (2, 3 ).
However, concurrent presence of levoatriocardinal vein with acute type A
dissection, severe aortic regurgitation and Coarctation of aortic
isthmus was not described. We here described a case of 20 year male
presented to emergency department with acute chest pain radiating to
back. On evaluation, he was found to have acute type A dissection with
dilated aortic root, severe aortic regurgitation, normal mitral valve,
severe coarctation of aorta and levoatriocardinal vein. Patient was
managed successfully with composite valve conduit replacement of
ascending aorta with ascending aortic to descending aortic graft (16mm
graft) with levoatriocardinal vein ligation.
Spinal Inhibitory Dysfunction in Patients With Painful or Painless Diabetic Neuropathy
Authors: Worthington Anne , Kalteniece Alise , Ferdousi Maryam , D'Onofrio Luca , Dhage Shaishav , Azmi Shazli , Adamson Clare , Hamdy Shaheen , Malik Rayaz A. , Calcutt Nigel A. , Marshall Andrew G.
Published: June 2021

OBJECTIVE

Impaired rate-dependent depression of the Hoffman reflex (HRDD) is a marker of spinal inhibitory dysfunction and has previously been associated with painful neuropathy in a proof-of-concept study in patients with type 1 diabetes. We have now undertaken an assessment of HRDD in patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 148 participants, including 34 healthy control subjects, 42 patients with painful diabetic neuropathy, and 62 patients with diabetic neuropathy without pain, underwent an assessment of HRDD and a detailed assessment of peripheral neuropathy, including nerve conduction studies, corneal confocal microscopy, and thermal threshold testing.

RESULTS

Compared with healthy control subjects (P < 0.001) and patients without pain (P < 0.001), we found that HRDD is impaired in patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes with neuropathic pain. These impairments are unrelated to diabetes type and the presence or severity of neuropathy. In contrast, patients without neuropathic pain (P < 0.05) exhibited enhanced HRDD compared with control subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

We suggest that loss or impairment of HRDD may help to identify a subpopulation of patients with painful diabetic neuropathy mediated by impaired spinal inhibitory systems who may respond optimally to therapies that target spinal or supraspinal mechanisms. Enhanced RDD in patients without pain may reflect engagement of spinal pain–suppressing mechanisms.
Serum Magnesium Is Inversely Associated With Heart Failure, Atrial Fibrillation, and Microvascular Complications in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Oost Lynette J. , van der Heijden Amber A.W.A. , Vermeulen Emma A. , Bos Caro , Elders Petra J.M. , Slieker Roderick C. , Kurstjens Steef , van Berkel Miranda , Hoenderop Joost G.J. , Tack Cees J. , Beulens Joline W.J. , de Baaij Jeroen H.F.
Published: June 2021

OBJECTIVE

We investigated whether serum magnesium (Mg2+) was prospectively associated with macro- or microvascular complications and mediated by glycemic control (hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c]), in type 2 diabetes (T2D).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We analyzed in 4,348 participants the association of serum Mg2+ with macrovascular disease and mortality (acute myocardial infarction [AMI], coronary heart disease [CHD], heart failure [HF], cerebrovascular accident [CVA], and peripheral arterial disease [PAD]), atrial fibrillation (AF), and microvascular complications (chronic kidney disease [CKD], diabetic retinopathy, and diabetic foot) using Cox regression, adjusted for confounders. Mediation analysis was performed to assess whether HbA1c mediated these associations.

RESULTS

The average baseline serum Mg2+ concentration was 0.80 ± 0.08 mmol/L. During 6.1 years of follow-up, serum Mg2+ was inversely associated with major macrovascular, 0.87 (95% CI 0.76; 1.00); HF, 0.76 (95% CI 0.62; 0.93); and AF, 0.59 (95% CI 0.49; 0.72). Serum Mg2+ was not associated with AMI, CHD, CVA, and PAD. During 5.1 years of follow-up, serum Mg2+ was inversely associated with overall microvascular events, 0.85 (95% CI 0.78; 0.91); 0.89 (95% CI 0.82; 0.96) for CKD, 0.77 (95% CI 0.61; 0.98) for diabetic retinopathy, and 0.85 (95% CI 0.78; 0.92) for diabetic foot. HbA1c mediated the associations of serum Mg2+ with HF, overall microvascular events, diabetic retinopathy, and diabetic foot.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum Mg2+ concentration is inversely associated with the risk to develop HF and AF and with the occurrence of CKD, diabetic retinopathy, and foot complications in T2D. Glycemic control partially mediated the association of serum Mg2+ with HF and microvascular complications.
Serum Magnesium Is Inversely Associated With Heart Failure, Atrial Fibrillation, and Microvascular Complications in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Oost Lynette J. , Heijden Amber A.W.A. van der , Vermeulen Emma A. , Bos Caro , Elders Petra J.M. , Slieker Roderick C. , Kurstjens Steef , Berkel Miranda van , Hoenderop Joost G.J. , Tack Cees J. , Beulens Joline W.J. , Baaij Jeroen H.F. de
Published: June 2021

Objective

We investigated whether serum magnesium (Mg2+) was prospectively associated with
macro- or microvascular complications and mediated by glycemic control
(Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)), in T2D.

Research Design and Methods

We analyzed in 4,348 participants the
association of serum Mg2+ with macrovascular disease and mortality
(acute myocardial infarction (AMI), coronary heart disease (CHD), heart failure
(HF), cerebrovascular accident (CVA), peripheral arterial disease (PAD)), atrial
fibrillation (AF) and microvascular complications (chronic kidney disease (CKD),
diabetic retinopathy and diabetic foot) using Cox regression, adjusted for
confounders. Mediation analysis was performed to assess whether HbA1c
mediated these associations.

Results

The average baseline
serum Mg2+ concentration was 0.80 ± 0.08 mmol/L. Serum Mg2+
was during 6.1 years of follow-up inversely associated with major macrovascular
0.87 (95% CI: 0.76; 1.00), HF
0.76 (95% CI: 0.62; 0.93) and AF 0.59 (95% CI: 0.49; 0.72). Serum Mg2+
was not associated with AMI, CHD, CVA and PAD. Serum Mg2+ was during
5.1 years of follow-up inversely associated with overall
microvascular events 0.85 (95% CI: 0.78; 0.91), 0.89 (95% CI: 0.82; 0.96) for
CKD, 0.77 (95% CI: 0.61; 0.98) for diabetic retinopathy and 0.85 (95% CI: 0.78;
0.92) for diabetic foot. HbA1c mediated the associations of serum Mg2+
with HF, overall microvascular events, diabetic retinopathy and diabetic
foot.

Conclusions

Serum Mg2+ concentration is
inversely associated with the risk
to develop HF, AF and with the
occurrence of CKD, diabetic retinopathy and foot complications, in T2D. Glycemic
control partially mediated the association of serum Mg2+ with HF and
microvascular complications.
UKRAINIAN ELECTRONIC MUSIC IN GLOBALISATION AND NATIONAL REVIVAL
Authors: Bondarenko Andriy
Published: June 2021

The article considers the impact of globalisation and national revival processes on the development of electronic music in Ukraine. It is shown that in the early stages of development (the late 1990s – early 2000s) Ukrainian electronic music is dominated by the focus on Western European music culture, and early festivals of dance electronic music (“The Republic of Kazantip”, “Ultrasonic”) also borrow Russian traditions, which indicates the predominance of globalization and peripheral tendencies in this area. At the same time, the first creative searches related to the combination of electronic sounds with the sounds of Ukrainian folklore are intensified. In particular, the article considers the works of the 2000s-2010s by O. Nesterov and A. Zahaikevych, representing folk electronics in the academic sphere, and works by Katya Chilly, Stelsi, Kind of Zero representing folk electronics in non-academic music. The aesthetic basis of such combinations was the musical neo-folklore of the last third of the XX century and the achievements of folk rock in the late 1990s. Intensification of these searches in the late 2010s, in particular the popularity of such artists as Ruslana, Onuka, Go_A allow us to talk about intensifying the national revival processes in the musical culture of Ukraine and involving Ukrainian music in the world culture preserving its national identity.
THE ROLE OF EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH INTELLECTUAL DISORDERS
Authors: Husieva Tetyana
Published: June 2021

The article provides a theoretical analysis of the role of work in the correction of people with disabilities due to intellectual disabilities. Different types of work in special institutions are outlined. The role of work in the education and development of people with disabilities due to intellectual disabilities is now particularly important due to the difficulties in preparing them for practice. In Ukraine, state and public systems of educational institutions and establishments have been created and are constantly developing, in order to cover all people with disabilities. An integral part of this system are special institutions where people with disabilities who have certain deviations of physical or mental development can study, get educated, prepare for independent life and socially useful work. People with disabilities should be oriented about the role they play in the work force of the society; in that they should provide useful and affordable work. This is done in order to prepare themselves for socially useful activities, they must see the main goal to be pursued in the learning process. In the system of pedagogical measures to influence the psyche of a person with a disability due to intellectual disabilities work is one of the most important means of correcting intellectual disabilities. The corrective value of employment for people with disabilities due to intellectual disabilities is that work greatly contributes to the education of positive personality traits. It is known that people with intellectual disabilities make poor use of work skills in new situations. Work contributes to the application of knowledge and skills acquired during training in practical activities outside the institution.