bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CIAA-RepDroid: A Fine-Grained and Probabilistic Reputation Scheme of Android Apps Based on Sentiment Analysis of Reviews
Authors: Tchakounté Franklin , Yera Pagore Athanase Esdras , Kamgang Jean Claude , Atemkeng Marcellin
Published: August 2020

To keep its business reliable, Google is concerned to ensure quality of apps on the store. One crucial aspect concerning quality is security. Security is achieved through Google Play protect and anti-malware solutions. However, they are not totally efficient since they rely on application features and application execution threads. Google provides additional elements to enable consumers to collectively evaluate applications providing their experiences via reviews or showing their satisfaction through rating. The latter is more informal and hides details of rating whereas the former is textually expressive but requires further processing to understand opinions behind. Literature lacks approaches which mine reviews through sentiment analysis to extract useful information to improve security aspects of provided applications. This work goes in this direction and in a fine-grained way, investigates in terms of confidentiality, integrity, availability and authentication (CIAA). While assuming that reviews are reliable and not fake, the proposed approach determines review polarities based on CIAA-related keywords. We rely on the popular classifier Naive Bayes to classify reviews into positive, negative and neutral sentiment. We then provide an aggregation model to fusion different polarities to obtain application global and CIAA reputations. Quantitative experiments have been conducted on 13 applications including e-banking, live messaging and anti-malware apps with a total of 1050 security-related reviews and 7.835.322 functionality-related reviews. Results show that 23% of applications (03 apps) have a reputation greater than 0.5 with an accent on integrity, authentication and availability, while the remaining 77% has a polarity under 0.5. Developers should make lot of efforts in security while developing codes and that more efforts should be made to improve confidentiality reputation. Results also show that applications with good functionality-related reputation generally offer bad security-related reputation. This situation means that even if the number of security reviews is low, it does not mean that security aspect is not a consumer preoccupation. Unlike, developers put much more time to test whether applications works without errors even if they include possible security vulnerabilities. A quantitative comparison against well-known rating systems reveals effectiveness and robustness of CIAA-RepDroid to repute apps in terms of security. CIAA-RepDroid can be associated to existing rating solutions to recommend developers exact CIAA aspects to improve within source codes.
Biomarkers, Master Regulators and Genomic Fabric Remodeling in a Case of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Iacobas Dumitru A
Published: August 2020

Publically available (own) transcriptomic data were re-analyzed to quantify the alteration of functional pathways in the thyroid cancer, establish the gene hierarchy, identify potential gene targets and predict the effects of their manipulation. The expression data were generated from one case of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and from genetically manipulated BCPAP (papillary) and 8505C (anaplastic) human thyroid cancer cell lines. The study used the genomic fabric perspective that considers the transcriptome as a multi-dimensional mathematical object based on the three independent characteristics that can be derived for each gene from the expression data. We found remarkable remodeling of the thyroid hormone synthesis, cell cycle, oxidative phosphorylation and apoptosis pathways. Serine peptidase inhibitor, Kunitz type, 2 (SPINT2) was identified as the Gene Master Regulator of the investigated PTC. The substantial increase of the expression synergism of SPINT2 with apoptosis genes in the cancer nodule with respect to the surrounding normal tissue (NOR) suggests that its experimental overexpression may force the PTC cells into apoptosis with negligible effect on the NOR cells. The predictive value of the expression coordination for the expression regulation was validated with data from 8505C and BCPAP cells before and after lentiviral transfection with DDX19B.
Semi-supervised Adversarial Variational Autoencoder
Authors: Zemouri Ryad
Published: August 2020

We present a method to improve the reconstruction and generation performance of variational autoencoder (VAE) by injecting an adversarial learning. On the other hand, instead of comparing the reconstructed with the original data to calculate the reconstruction loss, we use a consistency principle for deep features. The training process of the VAE is then divided into two steps, training the encoder and then training the decoder. By using this two-step learning process, our method can be more widely used in applications other than image processing. While training the encoder, the label information is integrated to better structure the latent space in a supervised way. The adversarial constraints allow the decoder to generate data with better authenticity and more realistic than the conventional VAE. We present experimental results to show that our method gives better performance than the original VAE.
IIAEK Targets Intestinal Alkaline Phosphatase (IAP) to Improve Cholesterol Metabolism with a Specific Activation of IAP and Down-Regulation of ABCA1
Authors: Takeuchi Asahi , Hisamatsu Kentaro , Okumura Natsuki , Sugimitsu Yuki , Yanase Emiko , Ueno Yoshihito , Nagaoka Satoshi
Published: August 2020

IIAEK (Ile-Ile-Ala-Glu-Lys, lactostatin) is a novel pentapeptide from bovine milk β-lactoglobulin which lowers cholesterol levels. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the suppression of intestinal cholesterol absorption by IIAEK are unknown. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of IIAEK on intestinal cholesterol metabolism in Caco-2 cells in a human intestinal model. We found that IIAEK significantly reduced the expression of intestinal cholesterol metabolism-associated genes, particularly that of the ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) protein. Subsequently, we chemically synthesized a novel molecular probe, IIXEK, which can visualize a complex of target proteins interacting with photoaffinity-labeled IIAEK by fluorescent substances. Photoaffinity labeling and MS analysis with IIXEK for the rat small intestinal mucosa and intestinal lipid raft fractions of Caco-2 cells, we identified intestinal alkaline phosphatase (IAP) as a specific molecule interacting with IIAEK and discovered IIAEK common binding amino acid sequence, GFYLFVEGGR. Transfection of IAP siRNA counteracted the decrease in ABCA1 mRNA levels in Caco-2 cells. IIAEK significantly increased IAP mRNA and protein levels, and significantly decreased ABCA1 mRNA and protein levels in Caco-2 cells. In conclusion, we found that IIAEK targets IAP to improve cholesterol metabolism via a novel signaling pathway with a specific activation of IAP and down-regulation of intestinal ABCA1.
Nonsurgical Procedure Related Postoperative Complications Predicts 30 Days Perioperative Mortality, in Abdominal Surgeries. A Propensity Score Matched Analysis.
Authors: Vasavada Bhavin B. , Patel Hardik
Published: August 2020

Aims and Objectives: Our primary aim was to study association between nonsurgical techniques related complications and mortality and our secondary aim was to determine factors responsible for non surgical technique related complications. Material and Methods: All gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary procedures performed in last 3 years have been evaluated retrospectively. Nonsurgical procedure related postoperative complications were defined as perioperative complications nonrelated to surgical procedures or techniques and related to patients’ physiological health or comorbidities. To avoid selection bias in attempt to evaluate effect of non-surgical procedural related complication on mortality, we did 1:1 propensity score matching analysis with nonsurgical technique related complications as dependent factor. Propensity scores were calculated using logistic regression. Pre operative confounding factors like age, sex, American society of Anesthesia score (ASA), emergency surgery, type of surgeries like HPB surgeries, Upper gastrointestinal surgeries, small bowel surgeries, colorectal surgeries, hernia surgeries, open or laparoscopic surgeries were entered in model as covariates. We used nearest neighbor matching protocol with a calipher of 0.2. Cases were not reusable after matching. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 23. Results: Total 348 patients underwent various abdominal surgeries (gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary) in our department from April 2017 to March 2020. Total 24 patients developed nonsurgical technique related complications. Before Propensity score matching nonsurgical technique related complications were significantly higher in Upper Gastrointestinal surgeries (gastric and esophageal), emergency surgeries, Open surgeries, in patients who developed intraoperative hypotension, patients operated for malignancies, patients with higher ASA grades, patients in whom more blood products were used and patient who had more operative time. ASA scores independently predicted nonsurgical technique related complications. [P=0.001. Odds Ratio 3.955 (95% C.I.) 1.774-8.813)]. After Matching 24 patients patients were included in nonsurgical complication related complication group and they were compared with 23 matched controls. After matching also nonsurgical procedural related complications were significantly associated with mortality. (p< 0.0001). No intraoperative factors like intraoperative hypotension, blood product requirement, operative time predicted non-surgical technique related complication. Surgery related complications were not associated with mortality after matching. Conclusion: Nonsurgical technique related complications are associated with significant increase risk of mortality.
Pemulihan Aset Wakaf: Tinjauan Fikih dan Akuntansi
Authors: Senjiati Ifa , Sulistiani Siska Lis , Ridwan Itsnaina Lathifah
Published: August 2020

Wakaf Daarut Tauhid manages waqf in the form of a vehicle. Vehicles are waqf assets that are easily impaired so depreciation is necessary. However, in practice, the waqf Daarut Tauhid does not make accounting records for the depreciation of the assets of the vehicle's waqf. Therefore, this study aims to analyze ways of recovering waqf assets that have been depreciated using waqf review and accounting. The research method used is qualitative with a descriptive analysis approach. Data collection techniques through interviews and literature study. The results of the study are several steps to recover waqf assets in waqf institutions by revaluating the waqf assets received, and determine the economic age, depreciation costs, and the appropriate depreciation method to be used. Making a plan for recovering waqf assets with taghyir al-waqf, or Istibdlal and recording these transactions in the financial statements based on PSAK 48 paragraph 01.
Strategic Trade Policy Cina di Negara-Negara Sub-Sahara Afrika
Authors: Qodarsasi Umi
Published: August 2020

The Strategic Trade Policy of China in Sub-Saharan Africa Countries. In the past decade, Sub-Saharan Africa has been transformed into the 'rising continent'. The growth of the Sub-Saharan economy averages 6%. Some countries in Sub-Saharan are included in the most developed countries in the world. Economic growth, abundant natural resources, and a large population become the potential of Sub-Sahara to become a main trading partner for China as a global economic power. To enhance trade cooperation, China formed a Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). Through this forum, China offers a new development model, namely the Beijing consensus by prioritizing the principle of non-interference. This research aimes to find out the strategic trade policy of China to enhance economic benefits from multilateral cooperation. This research applies descriptive qualitative research method with the strategic trade policy as the research analytical framework. This research finds that China applies some of strategic trade policy in Sub Sahara Africa : sectoral targets, Special Economic Zones (SEZs), liberation of foreign investation, and export subsidies.

Keywords: FOCAC Strategic Trade Policy (STP), Sub-Sahara Afrika

 
Democracy Today: Assessing Democracy Phenomenon in Indonesia
Authors: Istriyani Ratna
Published: August 2020

Democracy as a political and the government system has demonstrated its existence in the history of the world. This existence can be seen from the many countries that implement it, especially Indonesia. The democratic process becomes an interesting phenomenon because it cannot be separated from the dynamics of the community itself.

At present the community has entered the digital era, that the utilization of information and communication technology are massive. One phenomenon of concern is the widespread use of social media. The reality of the utilization of social media not only showed the trend of community interaction and communication but also the trend of political participation which correlates with the sustainability of democracy in Indonesia. At least, it has happened in the last decades, where political figures have been using social media as a channel to construct personal image. On the other hand, social media for civil society is as a new media (alternative media) in channeling aspirations, support, and even criticism to political and government figures.

Social media trends also cannot be separated from the figure of young people as massive users of these contemporary products. Even social media is a preference for young people to participate in upholding democratization in Indonesia. It can be seen from the posts or their responses to the socio-political conditions in this country through their account lines and the number of comments they wrote on the accounts of a number of political and government figures.

Keywords: democracy, social media, youth.
Politik identitas Muslim di Jerman dan Perancis
Authors: Jamil Irpan , Setiadi Ozi
Published: August 2020

The politics of Muslim identity in Germany and France. Islam is a universal religion. It became a religion that grew very rapidly in Europe. Germany and France are countries in Europe affected by Islamic growth. This happens because of many factors, such as the entry of Muslim immigrants, conversion to Islam, and others. This research, firstly, comprehensively describes the concept of Islamic political identity in Germany and France. Second, analyzing it in a descriptive-substantive way to find the ideal pattern of the concept of Islamic political identity in Germany and France. This type of research is a literature study with a qualitative approach to the nature of descriptive-analytical research. This study found that the development of Islam in Germany and France was supported by policies in favor of Muslims, specifically regarding the establishment of places of worship and social and cultural relations. However, the absence of formal religious infrastructure and dealing with secularization are something that needs attention. German and French Muslims make religious ideologies and symbols, such as mosques, their political endeavors.
Political Will Di Dalam Undang Undang Republik Indonesia No 6 Tahun 2014 Tentang Desa
Authors: Kurniawan Mahda Reza
Published: August 2020

People in a country, of course, have the customs and culture of each. This custom was born and developed from the behavior that was sustained in a relatively long time on the initiative of the party who first set. In its development, the behavior is then followed by several individuals in the social space to foster a culture-customs and traditions. In the era of globalization, where cultures, customs or habits that may be opposed to the state ideology enter freely, this is where the state is present to protect these customs along with the actors who have been implementing them. The presence of the state in the government's efforts to create good governance and political will is implicit and explicit in the Law of the Republic of Indonesia No. 6 of 2014 concerning Villages.

The article examines and discusses and examines the law on village number 6 in 2014 with paradigm, socio-political-anthropological. Studies and studies are carried out using the literature study method in the law with guidelines and a blend of Political, Social and Anthropological theories.

In the discussion and conclusion, it is explained and discussed that in the village law explicitly and implicitly indeed shows that the government has a good faith in organizing the country in accordance with the goals and vision of the state mission, in the context of village laws.
Politik Identitas Islam dan Pengaruhnya Terhadap Demokrasi di Indonesia
Authors: Anam Haikal Fadhil
Published: August 2020

The political identity of Islam emerged in a very large wave after the mobilization of time at the Jakarta elections in 2016. This has many implications for various aspects of State life, including the current democracy in Indonesia. In this case, Indonesia is a country that is still in the learning phase of democracy. The political influence of Islamic identity on democracy will make the nation split. This is backed by the strong narrative of the Political Islamic Group which at the end of the goal, wanted to establish the Islamic State. The future is political, will further heed and mobilize Muslims, as a majority, and rule out other religions.

 
Koalisi Partai Politik Islam Pada PILPRES 2019: Antara Ideologis dan Pragmatis
Authors: Addiansyah M. Nur Rofiq
Published: August 2020

This paper will discuss about how coalition forms are carried out by political parties, especially islamic political parties. What is the coalition process, what are the motives of the coalition, and how the formation of the coalition formed will be discussed in this paper. During the Presidential and Vice President Elections in 2019, there were two candidate pairs competing, namely the Ir.Joko Widodo-KH.Maruf Amin and the couple Prabowo Subianto-Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno.

This paper uses a qualitative method with the type of case study. The electoral realm of the 2019 Presidential Elections became the empirical space discussed. The 2019 presidential election was supported by a large coalition of Jokowi-Maruf supporters and Prabowo-Sandi suppoters. These two pairs of candidates are supported by political parties based on the Islamic and nationally voters. From this 2019 Presidential Election, we can see the ideological movements of political parties in Indonesia. First, political parties are still oriented towards victory rather than ideology and policy. Second, the ideology of political parties is increasingly blurred. Third, the influence of the electoral system which led to the escape of the ideology of political parties.
Fenomena Politik ‘Pamer-Ganti Bojo’ Konstelasi Pemilihan Bupati dan Wakil Bupati 2020 di Rembang
Authors: Sugihariyadi Moh
Published: August 2020

'Show-Changing Bojo' Politics in the Constellation of Election of Regent and Deputy Regent of Rembang. The election of the Regent and Deputy Regent of Rembang is based on the electeroral law. Electoral law is followed by an electoral process, one of which is by receiving input from the public. Because people have the right, opportunity and receive equal services based on statutory regulations. Submission of candidate pairs for Regent and Deputy Regent candidates by the DPC Political Party needs to consider the electoral law and electoral process, including ethical issues in politics. This study aims to analyze the political style of the candidates for regent and deputy regent of Rembang in leadership succession through the 'bojo showing off' model. The method used is qualitative with a phenomenological approach, which proves that community participation in the selection process of prospective regents and deputy regents at the level of political parties is never a concern. Therefore, 'showing off' bojo is one way to attract the attention of the public to pay attention to the succession of the leadership.
Methodology Development of Interactive E- Courses
Authors: Sodiqovich Usmonov Murod , Burxonovich Abdullayev Xolxuja , Mamarasulovich Suvonqulov Baxtiyor
Published: August 2020

This article describes the goals and objectives of creating interactive e-learning courses based on multimedia technologies and develops a methodology for their use in the educational process.
Kontribusi Minat Belajar terhadap Hasil Belajar pada Mata Pelajaran IPS
Authors: Didik Hermanto  , Septi Budi Sartika
Published: August 2020

The study aims to determine the contribution and analyze the level of contribution of interest in learning to the learning outcomes of social studies students of fourth grade SD Negeri Bulusidokare Sidoarjo. The design of the study used quantitative correlation type research. Research sample of grade IV students of SD Negeri Bulusidokare Sidoarjo. Data collection techniques using questionnaires and documentation. Data analysis techniques using product moment correlation test to reveal the contribution and test the determination to reveal the level of contribution. Based on the presentation and analysis of the data, it can be concluded: 1) there is a contribution of interest in learning to the learning outcomes in social studies of fourth grade students of SD Negeri Bulusidokare Sidoarjo of 0.97, meaning that interest in learning has a very strong correlation to student learning outcomes and 2) there is a contribution the high between interest in learning towards learning outcomes in subjects of class IV IPS of SD Negeri Bulusidokare Sidoarjo is 94%.
Pengaruh Media Pembelajaran Ular Tangga Terhadap Hasil Belajar Matematika di Sekolah Dasar
Authors: Masrifatul Mahmudah  , Mahardika Darmawan Kusuma Wardana
Published: August 2020

The aim of this research was to know whether or not influenced and how much the influenced  learning model snake ladder in increasing of studying resulted of Mathematics for first grade students in SD plus Fatimah Az- Zahro’. This study was used a quantitative experimental with pre – Experimental observation. The population that made as an observation object was in the first grade in SD plus Fatimah Az- Zahro’. The data collection techniques used test that consist of two tests (pre-test and post-test). The observation result showed was the influenced between learning model of snack ladder with study resulted. Got of 0,00 < 0,05 value of signification level 5% getting smaller than the wrong level so it can took a concluded that the influenced of learning media of snack ladder to the studying result, had proven of data counting resulted with used Eta Squared ways got 0,48 < 0,14 value that meant had a big influenced.
Socio-economic inequalities in the association between alcohol-use disorder and depressive disorder among Thai adults: a population-based study
Authors: Assanangkornchai Sawitri , Nontarak Jiraluck , Aekplakorn Wichai , Chariyalertsak Suwat , Kessomboon Pattapong , Taneepanichskul Surasak
Published: August 2020

Background: Previous evidence indicates significant associations between depressive disorders and alcohol use disorder (AUD) and their strong links with social conditions. This study aims to investigate the association between major depressive episode (MDE) and AUD across various socio-economic groups.Methods: We analysed data from the 2014 Thai National Health Examination Survey containing a random sample of 13,177 adults aged >20 years from the general population. The Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test was used to classify respondents into non-problem drinking (score 0-7), hazardous drinking (score 8-15), and harmful-dependent drinking (score 16-40). MDE was identified using questions based on the DSM-IV. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using multinomial logistic regression to determine the strength of associations between MDE as a predictor and AUD as an outcome variable across different socio-economic levels.Results: The prevalence of MDE, hazardous, and harmful-dependent drinking was 2.5%, 10.3%, and 1.9%, respectively. The association between MDE and AUD was modified by wealth index, education level and area of residence. AORs for the association between MDE and harmful-dependent drinking were high among those in the highest (AOR=8.68, 95% CI: 5.34, 14.11) and lowest (AOR=7.14, 95% CI: 3.71, 13.73) levels of wealth index but not significant among those in the middle level (AOR=1.78, 95% CI: 0.74, 4.25). Education had the strongest effect on the relationship between MDE and harmful-dependent drinking (AOR=16.0, 95% CI: 10.30, 24.90 among those completing secondary school or higher and AOR=1.44, 95% CI: 0.63, 3.33 among those completing primary school only). The association between MDE and harmful-dependent drinking was higher among people who lived in urban areas (AOR=8.50, 95% CI: 5.50, 13.13) compared to those living in rural areas (AOR=4.73, 95% CI: 3.31, 6.77).Conclusion: Socio-economic factors modify the association between alcohol use disorder and major depressive disorder among Thai people.
Simplified sigmoidal curve fitting for a 6 MV FFF photon beam of Halcyon system to determine the field size for beam commissioning and quality assurance
Authors: Choi Min-Geon , Law Martin , Yoon Do-Kun , Tamura Mikoto , Matsumoto Kenji , Otsuka Masakazu , Kim Moo-Sub , Djeng Shih-Kien , Monzen Hajime , Suh Tae Suk
Published: August 2020

Background: An O-ring gantry-type linear accelerator (Linac) with a 6 MV flattening filter-free (FFF) photon beam, Halcyon, includes a reference beam containing the representative information regarding the percent depth dose, profile, output factor, etc. for commissioning and quality assurance. However, because it does not provide the information of the field size, we proposed a method to determine all field sizes according to all depths for radiation therapy using simplified sigmoidal curve fitting (SCF).Methods: After a mathematical definition of the SCF using four coefficients, the defined curves were fitted to both the reference and measured data. For a high agreement between the fitting curve and the profiles in each data set, the field sizes were determined by identifying the maximum point along the third derivative of the fitting curve. The curve fitting included the field sizes for beam profiles of 2 × 2, 4 × 4, 6 × 6, 8 × 8, 10 × 10, 20 × 20 and 28 × 28 cm2 as a function of depth (at 1.3, 5, 10, 20 cm). The results of the field size from the reference data were compared with the results in the measured data using the same condition.Results: All fitting curves show values of goodness of fit, R2, better than 0.99. The differences in the field size between the reference data and the measured data were within the range of 0 to 0.2 cm. The lowest difference in the field sizes at a depth of 10 cm, which is a surface-to-axis distance, was reported. Conclusion: The application of the SCF has been proven to accurately obtain the field size of the preconfigured reference and of the measured FFF photon beam data for the Halcyon system. The current work can be useful for beam commissioning as a countercheck methodology to determine the field size from the reference data in the treatment planning system of a newly installed Halcyon system and for the routine quality assurance to ascertain the correctness of field sizes clinically used with the Halcyon system.
EP300 Knockdown Reduces Cancer Stem Cell Phenotype, Tumor Growth and Metastasis in Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Ring Alexander , Kaur Pushpinder , Lang Julie E.
Published: August 2020

Background: Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive breast cancer subtype with basal features, lacking the expression of receptors targeted successfully in other breast cancer subtypes. Treatment response to adjuvant and neoadjuvant chemotherapy is often short-lived and metastatic spread occurs at higher rates than other subtypes within the first five years after diagnosis. TNBCs exhibit stem cell features and are enriched for cancer stem cell (CSC) populations. E1A Binding Protein P300 (EP300) is a large protein with multiple cellular functions, including as an effector in stem cell biology.Methods: We used a genetic knockdown (KD) model of EP300 in TNBC cell lines to investigate the effect on CSC phenotype, tumor growth and metastasis. Side population assay and tumorsphere suspension culture were used in vitro. Xenograft mouse models were used for in vivo studies. We performed in silico analysis of publicly available gene expression data sets to investigate CSC gene expression and molecular pathways as well as survival outcomes associated with EP300 expression in patients with TNBC and basal-like BC.Results: EP300 KD abolished the CSC phenotype by reducing ABCG2 expression, side population cells and tumorsphere formation capacity in vitro as well as tumor formation in a xenograft mouse model in vivo. Metastatic capacity was markedly reduced in EP300 KD cells in vivo, with no detection of circulating tumor cells. TCGA data analysis demonstrated that genes positively correlated with EP300 expression in TNBC and basal-like BC were associated with CSC biology. Survival analysis demonstrated that EP300 expression predicts poor recurrence free survival in TNBC and basal BC. Conclusion: We report a novel oncogenic role for EP300 in driving CSC phenotype representing a potential target to address tumor initiation and metastatic spread in TNBC and basal-like BC. EP300 might serve as a prognostic marker and potential therapeutic target in TNBC.
The Relationship between Quality of Life, Bone Pain, Skin Pruritus and Depression among Patients with Secondary Hyperparathyroidism: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Bi Ting , Feng Xiaodong , Zhang Wei , Cheng Guangming , Wang Chunhui , Tang Yufu , Bai Sijia , Guo Shuai
Published: August 2020

Background Secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT), a manifestation of chronic kidney disease-mineral bone disorder (CKD-MBD), is common in CKD patients and has significant morbidity and mortality. Quality of life (QOL) in SHPT patients is seriously affected by symptoms such as bone pain and skin pruritus. However, studies have focused on operative effects and hypocalcemia rather than the relationships between QOL, bone pain, skin pruritus and depression symptoms.Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted from January 2017 to December 2019 in a third-class hospital in China. The brief table of the QOL measurement scale (QOL-BREF), a self-designed bone pain and skin pruritus scale and the Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS) were used to estimate QOL, bone pain and skin pruritus, and depression, respectively. Pearson’s correlation, multiple linear regression analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM) were used for analysis.Results Overall, 320 questionnaires were considered valid (98.46% effective response rate). The prevalence of bone pain, skin pruritus and depression was 94.06%, 69.06%, and 77.81%, respectively. Bone pain, skin pruritus and depression were significantly associated with QOL. In SEM, QOL negatively correlated with bone pain (r=-0.509), skin pruritus (r=-0.517) and SDS (r=-0.465). Bone pain significantly (P<0.01) and positively correlated with skin pruritus (r=0.568) and SDS (r=0.450). Skin pruritus significantly (P<0.01) and positively correlated with SDS (r=0.426). In addition, QOL partially mediated the association between bone pain or skin pruritus and depression (mediation proportion of 48.62% or 45.08%).Conclusions SHPT patients have high depression levels and poor QOL due to bone pain and skin pruritus. The effects on depression may be fully mediated by the impact of bone pain or skin pruritus on QOL. Thus, bone pain or skin pruritus could increase depression via the intermediary role of QOL.For clinical front-line medical staff,it can relieve bone pain and skin pruritus through timely operation and psychological intervention, so as to improve patients' quality of life and reduce anxiety.At the same time, we should also pay attention to the high-risk groups.
The Age Threshold of the 8th Edition AJCC ClassificationIs Useful for Indicating Patients with Aggressive Papillary Thyroid Cancer in Clinical Practice.
Authors: Kaliszewski Krzysztof , Diakowska Dorota , Nowak Łukasz , Wojtczak Beata , Rudnicki Jerzy
Published: August 2020

Background: Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is unique among cancers in that patient age is a consideration in staging. One of the most important modifications in the 8th Edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) classificationis to increase the age cutoff for risk stratification in PTC from 45 to 55 years. However, whether this cutoff is useful in clinical practice remains controversial. In the present study, we assessed how well this new age threshold stratifies patients with aggressive PTC.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinicopathological features and overall survival rate of patients with PTC admitted to and surgically treated at a single surgical center. The study protocol was divided into two series. In each series all patients (n=523) were divided in 2 groups according to age cutoff. In the first series (cutoff 45) patients <45 (n=193) vs. ≥45 (n=330) were compared, and in the second series (cutoff 55) patients <55 (n=306) vs. ≥55 (n=217) were compared.Results: The rate of the prevalence of locally advanced disease (pT3 and pT4) was significantly higher in the patients above 55 years old than in those below 55 years old (p=0.013). No significant differences were found for this parameter in series with cutoff point 45 years old. A significantly higher risk of locally advanced disease T3+T4 (OR=4.87) and presence of LNM (N1) (OR=3.78) was observed in ≥45 years old group (p=0.021 and p<0.0001, respectively). More expressive results were found for the patients ≥55 years old group, where the risk of locally advanced disease (T3+T4) was higher (OR=5.21) and LNM presence was OR=4.76 (p<0.001 and p<0.0001, respectively). None of the patients below 55 years old showed distant metastasis, but 19 patients above 55 years old showed M1 (p<0.0001). In older patients group (≥55 years old) we observed deaths related thyroid cancer in 11 individuals.Conclusions: The age cut off of 55 years old for risk stratification proposed by the 8th Edition of AJCC effectively stratifies PTC patients with a poor prognosis, indicating it is likely to be useful in clinical practice.
Molecular detection of pathogens in ticks and fleas collected from companion dogs and cats in East and Southeast Asia
Authors: Nguyen Viet-Linh , Colella Vito , Greco Grazia , Fang Fang , Nurcahyo Wisnu , Hadi Upik Kesumawati , Venturina Virginia , Tong Kenneth Boon Yew , Tsai Yi-Lun , Taweethavonsawat Piyanan , Tiwananthagorn Saruda , Tangtrongsup Sahatchai , Le Thong Quang , Bui Khanh Linh , Do Thom , Watanabe Malaika , Rani Puteri Azaziah Megat Abd , Dantas-Torres Filipe , Halos Lenaig , Beugnet Frederic , Otranto Domenico
Published: August 2020

Background: Ticks and fleas are considered amongst the most important arthropod vectors of medical and veterinary concern due to their ability to transmit pathogens to a range of animal species including dogs, cats and humans. By sharing a common environment with humans, companion animal-associated parasitic arthropods may potentially transmit zoonotic vector-borne pathogens (VBPs). This study aimed to molecularly detect pathogens from ticks and fleas from companion dogs and cats in East and Southeast Asia.Methods: A total of 392 ticks and 248 fleas were collected from 401 infested animals (i.e. 271 dogs and 130 cats) from China, Taiwan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam, were molecularly screened for the presence of pathogens. Ticks were tested for Rickettsia spp., Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp., Babesia spp. and Hepatozoon spp. while fleas were screened for the presence of Rickettsia spp. and Bartonella spp.Result: Of the 392 ticks tested, 37 (9.4%) scored positive for at least one pathogen with Hepatozoon canis being the most prevalent (5.4%), followed by Ehrlichia canis (1.8%), Babesia vogeli (1%), Anaplasma platys (0.8%) and Rickettsia spp. (1%) [including Rickettsia sp. (0.5%), Rickettsia asembonensis (0.3%) and Rickettsia felis (0.3%)]. Out of 248 fleas tested, 106 (42.7%) were harboring at least one pathogen with R. felis being the most common (19.4%), followed by Bartonella spp. (16.5%), Rickettsia asembonensis (10.9%) and “Candidatus Rickettsia senegalensis” (0.4%). Furthermore, 35 Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks were subjected to phylogenetic analysis, of which 34 ticks belonged to the tropical and only one belonged to the temperate lineage (Rh. sanguineus (sensu stricto)). Conclusion: Our data reveals the circulation of different VBPs in ticks and fleas of dogs and cats from Asia, including zoonotic agents, which may represent a potential risk to animal and human health.
Clinicopathological Characteristics and Endoscopic Features of Early Gastric Cancers Diagnosed After Helicobacter pylori Eradication: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Ishibashi Hideki , Takedatsu Hidetoshi , Tanabe Taro , Imakiire So , Matsuoka Hiroki , Yasuda Hideki , Sakisaka Hideto , Matsuoka Satoshi , Kayashima Yoshiyuki , Kuno Nobuaki , Abe Koichi , Funakoshi Sadahiro , Hirai Fumihito
Published: August 2020

Background: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is an important risk factor for developing gastric cancer. However, even after H. pylori eradication, early gastric cancer (EGC) can develop. We elucidated the characteristics of EGCs diagnosed after H. pylori eradication. Methods: Thirty-six EGCs in 32 patients diagnosed after H. pylori eradication were defined as the eradication group (H. pylori-EG). The clinicopathological and endoscopic features were compared with those of 156 EGCs in 140 patients in the H. pylori-positive group (H. pylori-PG). Twenty-nine EGC lesions in the H. pylori-EG were further divided into two subgroups: the first included six lesions of none to mild atrophic mucosa around the EGC, and the second included 23 lesions of moderate to severe atrophic mucosa around the EGC. We compared them between the two subgroups. Results: Endoscopic features of EGCs in the H. pylori-EG were characterized as small (P = 0.049) and of the depressed type (P = 0.022) compared with those in the H. pylori-PG. EGCs in the H. pylori-EG were detected on the upper region of the stomach more frequently than those in the H. pylori-PG (P = 0.002). As for submucosal ECGs in the H. pylori-EG, it was more likely to be seen in the mild atrophic mucosa subgroup (4/6, 67%) compared to the moderate to severe atrophic gastric mucosa subgroup (1/23, 4%) (P = 0.003).Conclusions: EGCs after H. pylori eradication were characterized as small and of the depressed type. Submucosal invasive EGCs developed more frequently in the none to mild atrophic mucosa after H. pylori eradication. Therefore, careful patient follow-up is important after H. pylori eradication.
The Drosophila Suzukii Mating Rate Decrease for the Reproductive Interference of Drosophila Melanogaster
Authors: Chen Yongzhuo , Zhang Min , Hu Wei , Li Jing , Liu Pengcheng , Hu Hao-Yuan
Published: August 2020

Background: Drosophila suzukii has been widely distributed all over the world since 2008, and it is a harmful pest causing great economic loss in many countries. Previous research has found that the presence of Drosophila melanogaster could reduce the emergence and egg laying of Drosophila suzukii. In order to figure out the potential mechanism of this phenomenon, we studied three potential factors including lifetime, larval interspecific competition, and reproductive interference. Results: The results show that the Drosophila suzukii offspring number was significantly decreased when reared with Drosophila melanogaster. The lifetime and larval interspecific competition have no significant effect on the Drosophila suzukii population. Surprisingly, Drosophila melanogaster can cause reproductive interference with male Drosophila suzukii, which leads to a significant decline in the successful mating rate of the latter fruit fly. Conclusions: The presence of Drosophila melanogaster causes the Drosophila suzukii population to decrease through the effect of reproductive interference, and the Drosophila suzukii successful mating rate is significantly decreased for the existence of Drosophila melanogaster.
The Cost ‑effectiveness of Hypertonic Saline Inhalations for Infant Bronchiolitis
Authors: buendia jefferson , Acuña-Cordero Ranniery
Published: August 2020

Background
Pharmacological treatment for bronchiolitis is primarily supportive because bronchodilators, steroids, and antibiotics, show little benefit. Clinical studies have suggested that nebulized 3% hypertonic solution is useful for infants with bronchiolitis. This study aims to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the HS inhalations in infant bronchiolitis in a tropical country
Methods
Decision tree analysis was used to calculate the expected costs and QALYs. All cost and use of resources were collected directly from medical invoices of 193 patient hospitalized with diagnosis of bronchiolitis in tertiary centers, of Rionegro, Colombia. The utility values applied to QALYs calculations were collected from the literature. The economic analysis was carried out from a societal perspective.
Results
The model showed that nebulized 3% hypertonic solution, was associated with lower total cost than controls (US $200vs US $240 average cost per patient), and higher QALYs ( 0.92 vs 0.91 average per patient); showing dominance. A position of dominance negates the need to calculate an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio.
Conclusion
The nebulized 3% hypertonic solution was cost-effective in the inpatient treatment of infant bronchiolitis. Our study provides evidence that should be used by decision-makers to improve clinical practice guidelines and should be replicated to validate their results in other tropical countries.
Malaria Funding Profile Against Disease Burden:Regression Analysis Case of Zambia, 2009 to 2018
Authors: Mtalimanja Michael , Mtalimanja James Lamon , Xu Zhengyuan , Du Wenwen , Xu Wei
Published: August 2020

Background: Zambia has made profound strides in reducing both the incidence and prevalence of malaria followed by reducing malaria related deaths between 2009 and 2018. The number of partners providing malaria funding has significantly increased in the same period. The increasing number of partners and the subsequent reduction of the number of reported malaria cases in the Ministry of Health main data repository Health Management Information System (HMIS) stimulated this research. The study aimed at (1) identifying major sources of malaria funding in Zambia; (2) describe malaria funding per targeted interventions and (3) relating malaria funding with malaria disease burden.Methods; Data was collected using extensive literature review of institutional strategic document between the year 2009 to 2018. The National’s Health Management Information System (HMIS) provided information on malaria hospitalization data, incidence and mortality data. The statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) alongside Microsoft excel was used to analyze data in the year 2019.Results: The investigation observed that about 30% of the funding came from PMI/USIAD, 26% from the global funds. The government contributed 17% with other partners sharing the remaining 27%. Regression Analysis Model indicated a positive association between reducing malaria disease burden and increasing funding towards ITNs, IRS, MDA, and Case Management r2=77% (r2>0.77; 95% CI: 0.72 - 0.81). Furthermore IRS showed a p-value 0.018 while ITNs, Case Management and MDA having 0.029, 0.030 and 0.040 respectively. Conclusion: Our findings highlight annual funding towards specific malaria intervention produces desired results.
The effect of hearing protection devices on speech intelligibility of Persian employees
Authors: Karami Mina , Aliabadi Mohsen , Golmohammadi Rostam , Nahrani Morteza Hamidi
Published: August 2020

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of hearing protection devices (HPDs) on speech intelligibility in Persian work environments. Three current earmuffs and three earplugs and one of the prototypes of molded earplug were tested on 15 male subjects which were randomly selected. The noise reduction of HPDs was measured based on the Real Ear Attenuation at Threshold (REAT) method. Speech intelligibility during using HPDs was determined based on the speech discrimination score (SDS) at two signal to noise (S/N) ratios (0 and +5). Data were analyzed using SPSS, version 22.Results: The actual to nominal noise reduction rating values were from 47% to 84% for HPDs. The earmuffs showed higher ratios of actual to nominal noise reduction compared with the earplugs. At two S/N ratios, no significant differences were observed in speech intelligibility using HPDs (p >0.05). However, at S/N ratio=0, the speech intelligibility descriptively has been improved by using common earmuffs up to 9.07 %. There was a significant difference up to 21.27% in speech intelligibility for proposed molded earplugs at S/N ratio=0(p <0.05). It is concluded that, if the trend of signal to noise ratio is positive, the HPDs will reduce the ability to understand speech.
Carbon sequestration scenarios in Portugal: which way to go forward?
Authors: Cunha Jorge , Campos Felipe S. , David João , Padmanaban Rajchandar , Cabral Pedro
Published: August 2020

Background: Assessing carbon storage and sequestration is key for defining effective conservation actions to mitigate climate change. Forest species changes have direct impacts on carbon stocks and may lead to undesirable climate trade-offs. In this paper, we measure aboveground biomass (AGB) and the impact of forest changes on climate regulation through three land policy scenarios by 2030 in continental Portugal.Results: We found that a High intervention scenario, supported by an important increase in “Other coniferous trees” class, will provide 29.5% more of carbon sequestration, whereas a Low intervention scenario, in which there is a moderate increase in all forest classes, will result in an increase of 5.7%. A business as usual (BAU) scenario, supported by an increase in eucalyptus forests and a decrease in autochthonous species, will decrease carbon sequestration (-2.7%), particularly Lisboa, Algarve and Norte regions. Economic valuation shows that the High intervention scenario will generate the highest economic outcome for climate regulation by 2030.Conclusion:This study provides a spatial-based methodology for monitoring carbon sequestration and new insights about the impact of policies for Green House Gas (GHG) mitigation, supporting the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals achievement.
Rapid and Efficient BAC Recombineering: Gain & Loss Screening System
Authors: Kuk Myeong Uk , Oh Sekyung , Park Joon Tae
Published: August 2020

Background Recombineering has been developed to modify bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) via homologous recombination. Nevertheless, as a screening strategy to identify the correct clone was not properly developed, it was difficult to obtain a correct clone within a limited time period. To address these issues, we developed a new screening method (a gain & loss screening system) that enables the efficient identification of the recombineered clone.Results Simple inoculation of cells into LB medium with appropriate antibiotics visually revealed the positive clones within 24 h. DNA sequencing confirmed 100% accuracy of this screening method by showing that all positive clones exhibited recombinant sequences. Furthermore, our new method allowed us to complete the entire procedure consisting of 1st recombineering, flip-out and 2nd recombineering in just 13 days.Conclusion Overall, our new strategy may provide a new avenue for BAC recombeerining, as evidenced by markedly increased accuracy and subsequently shortened recombineering duration.