bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sekularisme Ataturk: “Madaniyah” atau “Lā Dῑniyah”? (Tipologi Sekularisme Ataturk )
Authors: Muhyiddin Ahmad Shofi
Published: August 2020

This article outlines the question whether Ataturk's secularism has the dimension of abolition of religion (lā dῑniyah) as assumed by many people or has the dimension of state domination over religion which is an expression of nationalism? This is because most classical Islamic political thinkers view that the relationship between religion and state is an organic unity, which cannot be separated from one another. The institutional form for the organic relationship arises in the form of a khilafah. These conditions describe the relationship between politics or power and religion as a symbiotic relationship that is mutually beneficial. As Europeans entered the Middle East, modern thoughts in the region also entered, one of which was kemalism. It was with this understanding that Ataturk in Turkey shocked the Islamic political world by displacing the already weak Ottoman Caliphate. The ideology of kemalism is caused by Ataturk actually a nationalist who admires the west, who wants the progress of Islam, therefore, according to him, it needs to be renewed in matters of religion to suit the Turkish soil. Thus, the practice of secularism in Turkey, broadly, belongs to the category of semi-secular practice, or typology of differential secularism, or "madaniyah". Because Ataturk places religion under state power, not abolishing or even destroying religion
The Dynamics of Islamic Political Parties Amid Indonesian Multicultural Society
Authors: Qodarsasi Umi , Ghofur Abdul
Published: August 2020

Islam is not limited to  religion that only talks about God. Islam has a comprehensive concept in all aspects of life, one of the aspect is politics (siyasa) that discusses the concept of the state, the exercise of power, who deserves to exercise power, how much power they can have, and the characteristics and objectives of Islamic politics itself. Political party is a superstructure in a political system that carries out several strategic functions, including political socialization, political recruitment, political articulation and aggregation of interests. Political party also has an important position in the policy making process. This paper aims to analyze how the dynamics of Islamic politics in Indonesia in the middle of multicultural society by carrying out its function as an articulator and aggregator of interests.
The Political Strategy of a Migrant Candidate in Pilkades of Batu Meranti Village
Authors: Pathurrahman Pathurrahman , Hairini Siti Mauliana , Isra Muhammad Rico
Published: August 2020

In academic literature, the term political identity such as primordial is nothing new, Clifford Geertz, as an American anthropologist introduced that term in the 1960s. Indonesia as a multicultural nation with diverse identities also has a political identity’s problem even at the national or local level. This study has brings the opponent's argument which found that Primordial issues are not the determinant factor of people's choice in a political election, cause identity was fluid, have interchangeable nature, and related in many aspects. This research used a qualitative method with a study cased approach located in Batu Meranti Villages, in South Kalimantan. Key informants were all of the candidates, the winning team of candidates, KPU, BPD, and the community in Batu Meranti Village. The data collection techniques are carried out by field research techniques, library research techniques, and documentation method techniques. The result was shown that people's perspectives have transformed the identity issue to be habitus of all candidates. The migrant candidate political strategy to win the political scramble was used the harmonization of generated formula to use his personality, economic capital, and most people's concern about those village. The migrant candidates have used the opportunity to show his personality as philanthropist and concern with soccer to get a good image and get support from society. In the end, the personality of a candidate has been replaced by the identity issue in a local election.  
Application of Role Playing Methods in Indonesian Language Subjects in Class 2 of Elementary Schools
Authors: Aini Nur , Nurdyansyah Nurdyansyah
Published: August 2020

Role playing can be called a drama or imitating certain behaviors or characters that differentiate each student's position. With this method, students are expected to be able to issue their imagination in playing a character or living up to the character of a predetermined character.  The research was conducted on 2nd grade students at MI Muhammadiyah 2 Kedungbanteng Tanggulangin, Sidoarjo. Method of role play a method that can be one of the solutions in the learning process in the classroom that allows learners or students the spirit in learning. And it can increase students learning interest so that students can sharpen their thinking to learn well and try hard to get a satisfactory value.
The philosophical essence of innovation activity
Authors: Azizbek Egamberdiev
Published: August 2020

The article highlights the role of innovative thinking in organizing research activities. Philosophical analysis of organizational, social, financial and economic aspects of the organization of innovative activity. Priorities of innovation activity in Uzbekistan and main trends in it were revealed. In addition, a number of proposals and recommendations on innovative activities have been developed
Institutional bases of state policy and legal activity in the sphere of environmental protection in emergency environmental situations
Authors: Azizov Tuxtamish Azamovich
Published: August 2020

The article analyzes the institutional foundations of the political and legal activities of the state in the field of environmental protection in emergency environmental situations, as well as the issues of improving their activities.
Archeological Resource Survey of a 2.9-mile Proposed Pipeline Corridor on University Lands in Ward County, Texas
Authors: Butler Joel
Published: August 2020

At the request of Salt Creek Midstream (SCM), Flatrock Engineering and Environmental, LLC (Flatrock) conducted an intensive archeological resource survey of approximately 2.9 miles (15,312 feet) of a proposed pipeline corridor on University Lands in northern Ward County, Texas. Because the project will take place on property owned by the University of Texas, a political subdivision of the State of Texas, it is subject to the Antiquities Code of Texas (Texas Natural Resources Code, Title 9, Chapter 191) and its associated regulations (13 TAC 26). The archeological survey was carried out under Antiquities Permit Number 9355.

A pedestrian field survey was conducted by Flatrock archeologist Joel Butler on March 30 and 31, 2020. A corridor 100 feet in width, encompassing 38.7 acres, was surveyed during fieldwork. Surface visibility ranged from 80 to 100-percent along the 100-foot survey corridor and revealed predominantly heavily disturbed or deflated surfaces. The entire corridor was 100-percent surface inspected and 31 shovel tests were excavated to locate and/or evaluate the potential for buried cultural deposits; all shovel tests were negative. No artifacts or archeological sites were identified during fieldwork and no historic structures were visible from the right-of-way.

Flatrock recommends that construction of the pipeline be allowed to proceed as planned, with no further archeological investigations. However, it is recommended that if any cultural resources are encountered during construction, the Texas Historical Commission and University Lands should be notified, and a qualified archeologist should evaluate the findings.

No artifacts were collected or curated during this project; field records will be curated at the Center for Archaeological Studies (CAS) at Texas State University, San Marcos.
Determinants and impact of role-related time use allocation on self-reported health among married men and women: a cross-national comparative study
Authors: Jonsson Kenisha Russell , Oberg Gustav , Samkange-Zeeb Florence , Adjei Nicholas Kofi
Published: August 2020

Background: Research on the effects of marriage on health maintains that there is a gender-specific gradient, with men deriving far greater benefits than women. One reason provided for this difference is the disproportionate amount of time spent by women on housework and childcare. However, this hypothesis has yet to be explicitly tested for these role-related time use activities. This study provides empirical evidence on the association between role-related time use activities (i.e. housework, childcare and paid work) and self-reported health among married men and women.Methods: Data from the Multinational Time Use Study (MTUS) on 32,881 men and 26,915 women from Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK and the US were analyzed. Seemingly unrelated regression (SUR) models and multivariable logistic regression were used to estimate the association between role-related time use activities and self-reported health among married men and women.Results: The findings showed that education, occupation and number of children in the household under 18 years old were the most consistent predictors of time allocation among married men and women. Significant gender differences were also found in time allocation, with women sacrificing paid working time or reducing time devoted to housework for childcare. Men, in contrast, were less likely to reduce paid working hours to increase time spent on childcare, but instead reduced time allocation to housework. Allocating more time to paid work and childcare was associated with good health, whereas time spent on housework was associated with poor health, especially among women.Conclusions: Time allocation to role-related activities have differential associations on health, and the effects vary by gender and across countries. To reduce the gender health gap among married men and women, public policies need to take social and gender roles into account.
A mixed-method comparison of physician-reported beliefs about and barriers to treatment with medications for opioid use disorder
Authors: Haffajee Rebecca L. , Andraka-Christou Barbara , Attermann Jeremy , Cupito Anna , Buche Jessica , Beck Angela J.
Published: August 2020

Background: Evidence demonstrates that medications for treating opioid use disorder (MOUD) —namely buprenorphine, methadone, and extended-release naltrexone—are effective at treating opioid use disorder (OUD) and reducing associated harms. However, MOUDs are heavily underutilized, largely due to the under-supply of providers trained and willing to prescribe the medications. Methods: To understand comparative beliefs about MOUD and barriers to MOUD, we conducted a mixed-methods study that involved focus group interviews and an online survey disseminated to a random group of licensed U.S. physicians, which oversampled physicians with a preexisting waiver to prescribe buprenorphine. Focus group results were analyzed using thematic analysis. Survey results were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Results: Study findings suggest that physicians have higher perceptions of efficacy for methadone and buprenorphine than for extended-release naltrexone, including for patients with co-occurring mental health disorders. Insurance obstacles, such as prior authorization requirements, were the most commonly cited barrier to prescribing buprenorphine and extended-release naltrexone. Regulatory barriers, such as the training required to obtain a federal waiver to prescribe buprenorphine, were not considered significant barriers by many physicians to prescribing buprenorphine and naltrexone in office-based settings. Nor did physicians perceive diversion to be a prominent barrier to prescribing buprenorphine. In focus groups, physicians identified financial, logistical, and workforce barriers—such as a lack of addiction treatment specialists—as additional barriers to prescribing medications to treat OUD. Conclusions: Additional education is needed for physicians regarding the comparative efficacy of different OUD medications. Governmental policies should mandate full insurance coverage of and prohibit prior authorization requirements for OUD medications.
Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 secreting functional interleukin 2 targets tumours and enhances the immune response to suppress tumours
Authors: Lu Binghua , Yang Huijun , Liu Fei , Sun Yunjun , He Haocheng , Ding Xuezhi , Hu Shengbiao , xia liqiu
Published: August 2020

Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) is non-pathogenic probiotic bacteria. Previous studies have indicated that EcN can accumulate and proliferate selectively in solid tumours in BALB/c mouse models. In this study, EcN was engineered to express human interleukin 2 (hIL-2), which is known to enhance immune responses to tumours by activating a variety of immune cells. IL-2 expressed by EcN was proven to activate PBMCs in vitro. Compared to control EcN, intraperitoneally injected EcN expressing hIL-2 (EcN(hIL-2)) was selectively distributed in the tumour microenvironment and inhibited the growth of CT26 tumours in a tumour-bearing mouse model. Antitumour activity was achieved without toxicity to key normal organs and tissues, such as liver, spleen and kidneys. The antitumour mechanism was associated with the infiltration of inflammatory cells, such as T cells, neutrophils and macrophages. These findings provide evidence that the combination of tumour-targeting EcN bacteria and delivery of the immunostimulatory factor IL-2 can be exploited as a promising tumour immunotherapy.
Does Pregabalin Change Serum Levels of iNOS and NO in Diabetic Patients With Neuropathic Pain? A Quasi-experimental Study
Authors: Memari Moosareza , Amini Mirsaber Sadat , Poul Yalda Khazaei , Joharchi Khojasteh
Published: August 2020

Background

Pregabalin (PGB) has been approved for the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP), but the mechanism of the PGB effect in this situation is not precisely known. Would it be via the reduction of inducible Nitric‏ ‏Oxide ‎Synthase (iNOS) and thus the decrease of Nitric Oxide (NO) in type 2 diabetic patients? The current clinical trial was conducted to answer this question.
Methods

Twenty Seven diabetic patients with DPNP > 4, assessed by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), were enrolled in this study. They received placebo/Bd for ten days as a washout period, then a starting dose of 75 mg/Bd PGB for one week and 150 mg/Bd for the next seven weeks. We took a fasting blood sample at baseline, before starting the treatment (BT) with PBG, then one month after the treatment (OMT), and also at the end of two months (TMT). The iNOS and NO serum levels were measured using the ELISA kit and the Griess method, respectively.
Results

Significant time-dependent reduction of iNOS of serum and DPNP intensities observed (P < 0.05). However, the serum levels of NO reduced significantly in OMT compared to BT (P < 0.05), but no significant differences were seen between OMT and TMT (P > 0.05).
Conclusions

Our study revealed a direct correlation between serum levels of iNOS and NO with the treatment of DPNP by PGB, thus introducing a possible mechanism for pain-relieving properties of PGB.
Trial registration:

This study was approved by the ethics committee of our University of Medical ‎Sciences, (ethical code: IR.SBMU.MSP.REC.1395.41) and registered in our ‎Registry of Clinical Trials (at 14/03/2016) and approved in 19/07/2017, the registration number is: (IRCT2017012932277N1). The study was conducted in the Diabetes Clinic of a teaching ‎Hospital on 22/07/2017 till 18/03/2018.‎ We have explained the study objectives and protocols to the subjects and obtained written informed ‎consent before they participated in the study.‎
Spatiotemporal Assessment of Health Burden and Economic Losses attributable to short-term exposure to Ozone During 2015 - 2018 in China
Authors: Zhang Zihan , Yao Minghong , Wu Wenjing , Zhao Xing , Zhang Juying
Published: August 2020

Ground-level Ozone (O3) pollution is currently the one of the severe environmental problem in China. Although existing studies have quantified the O3-related health impact and economic loss, few have focused on the acute health effects of short-term exposure to O3 and have been limited to a single temporal and spatial dimension. Based on the O3 concentration obtained from ground monitoring networks in 334 Chinese cities in 2015 - 2018, this study used a two-stage exposure parameter weighted Log-linear exposure-response function to estimate the cause-specific mortality for short-term exposure to O3. The value of statistical life (VSL) method that were used to calculate the economic loss at the city-level. Our results show that in China, the national all-cause mortality attributed to O3 was 0.18 (95% CI: 0.09 - 0.36) to 0.26 (95% CI: 0.13 - 0.45) million across 2015 - 2018. The estimated economic loss caused by O3 was 253.83 (95% CI: 128.44 - 590.96) to 397.09 (95% CI: 203.54 - 759.27) billion CNY, accounting for 0.34% to 0.46% of total reported GDP. Overall, the O3 attributed health and economic burden has begun to decline in China since 2017. However, highly polluted areas still face severe burden, and undeveloped areas suffer from high GDP losses. There are substantial health impacts and economic losses related to short-term O3 exposure in China. The government should pay attention to the emerging Ozone pollution, and continue to strengthen the intervention in traditional priority areas while solving the pollution problem in non-priority areas.
Assessing dental students' professional training satisfaction with operative dentistry teaching and curriculum: A study in Saudi Arabia.
Authors: Alqarni Mohammed
Published: August 2020

BackgroundEvaluating students' professional training satisfaction of operative dentistry teaching and curriculum can help identify their educational needs and improve the quality of the education imparted. This study aimed to assess the professional training satisfaction derived by senior undergraduate dental students in Saudi Arabia from the operative dentistry course teaching and its curriculum at different levels and among gender.Methods A total of 193 (109 male 56.48%; and 84 female 43.52%) students participated in a survey. The respondents were at the 10th, 11th, and 12th levels of the Operative Dentistry course in a ratio of 34.2%, 32.1%, and 33.7%, respectively. Data were collected from survey items (18 questions) covering six areas: Learning Objectives, Course Materials, Content Relevance, Instructor knowledge, Instructor delivery and Style, and Facility and environment. Descriptive and analytical tests were performed using SPSS Software 19, with the significance level set at 0.05.ResultsA high level of satisfaction was seen among Level 10 (68.18%), Level 11 (79.03%), and Level 12 (86.15%) students. A significant statistical difference was observed among Level 10 students with a low-level of satisfaction and a high level of satisfaction (p<0.05). The percentage of satisfaction increased with the level. A high level of satisfaction was seen among male (78.90%) and female (76.19%) students, with a total satisfaction level of 77.72%.Conclusion Continuous evaluation and assessment of teaching and curriculum can be a tool to improve the quality of education imparted, especially in clinical courses such as operative dentistry. This helps to prepare the students for their professional life as healthcare providers. The role of teaching skills related to amalgam has to be reevaluated. It is recommended to include student representation and participation in course development committees as they are the final recipients of the educational process.
Multitrophic Interactions Between Coccinellids and Their Parasitoids in Natural and Managed Plant Systems: Host Plant and Aphid Prey Species Matter
Authors: Rajput Imran Ali , Zalucki Myron P , Abro Ghulam Hussain , Furlong Michael J. , Ahmed Agha Mushtaque
Published: August 2020

Background: To better inform conservation biological control of aphids multitrophic interactions between aphids, coccinellids and their parasitoids in natural and managed plant systems were examined over 4 years. Methods: Coccinellid larvae found naturally feeding on aphids on two non-crop plants growing in agricultural landscapes in Pakistan; Aphis nerii (Boyer de Fonscolombe) feeding on Calotropis procera L. and Nerium oleander L.; and four crop host; Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt) feeding on Eurica sativa Mill. and Brassica campestris L., Uroleucon compositae (Theobold) feeding on Carthamus tinctorius L., and Diuraphis noxia (Mordvilko) feeding on Hordeum vulgare L.; were collected throughout the aphid season and reared on their respective aphid-plant combination in the laboratory to identify coccinellid species, their parasitoids and performance (survival and pupal weight).Results: Coccinellid pupal weight on different host plant-aphid combinations varied from 3.4±1.8 to 11.2±0.9 mg (mean ± SE), as did mortality of coccinellid larvae due to diseases and unknown causes (5±2.2 to 31±3.8%). Parasitism of coccinellid larvae by Homalotylus flaminus (Dalman) (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) ranged from ca 10±2 to 30±3% in B. campestris and E. sativa, respectively. Parasitism of coccinellid pupae by Oomyzus scaposus (Thomson) (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) ranged between 17±2.7 (C. procera) to 41±2.9% (B. compestris). One Dinocampus coccinellae Schrank (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) was reared. Conclusions: Coccinellids were host plant and aphid selective. Some coccinellids were never or rarely recorded on a particular aphid-plant combination, suggesting that their prey selection more specific than often assumed. Management decision and conservation biological control cannot be based on superficial categories such as “aphids” and “coccinellids” but needs to be plant and species specific.
Dysregulated Circulating micro RNAs Markers: New Evidence into Expression Pattern in Children with T1D among Egyptian Population
Authors: Barseem Naglaa , Mahasab Marwa , Gayed Eman Abd El
Published: August 2020

Background: miRNAs are gaining access as promising markers for a variety of autoimmune disorders yet, deviations between individuals at risk or developed T1D remains to be thoroughly explored. Objective: to study the pattern of miRNA expression profiling in plasma obtained from patients with T1D and the matched control subjectsPatients and Methods: equally divided numbers of T1D patients (90) and apparently healthy-matched control children (90) were analyzed for their expression profile of plasma miRNAs; miR-101-5p, 146-5p, 21-5p, miR-375, miR-126, and Let7a-5p by reverse transcriptase (RT-PCR) through quantitative real time technique.Results: the two studied groups were significantly different in respect to their biochemical parameters; FBG, 2hpp and HbA1c levels (p<0.05). Among the deregulated molecules, miR-101, miR-21 and-375 were highly expressed, whereas, miR-146-5p, miR-126 and miR-Let7a-5p showed significant low levels of expression in patients compared to control subjects (p<0.05). MiR-101, miR-146 were significantly correlated to age at diagnosis of T1D and disease duration respectively. Furthermore, miR-126, -Let7a-5p showed significant negative correlation with meanA1C values, the matter that was confined by multivariate analysis.Conclusion: dysregulation of the analyzed six micro RNAs pointed out to their pivotal role to be important biomarkers for T1D development.
Beet (Beta vulgaris L.) Stalk and Leaf Supplementation Improves Glucose Homeostasis and Insulin Resistance Markers in Liver of Mice Exposed to a High-Fat Diet
Authors: Lorizola Isabela Micheletti , Miyamoto Josiane Érica , Vieira Ana Luiza Figueiredo , Sumere Beatriz Rocchetti , Bezerra Rosângela Maria Neves , Torsoni Marcio Alberto , Torsoni Adriana Souza , Rostagno Mauricio Ariel , Milanski Marciane , Capitani Caroline Dário
Published: August 2020

Background Although beet stalks and leaves are not consumed and are usually discarded, they are an important source of bioactive flavonoids possessing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, which could be explored to prevent metabolic disorders associated with an unhealthy diet. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of supplementation with beet (Beta vulgaris L.) stalks and leaves on metabolic parameters and glucose homeostasis in mice exposed to a high-fat diet.Methods Six-week-old male Swiss mice were randomly divided into five experimental groups submitted to either standard diet (CT) or high-fat diet (HF), and HF-fed mice were subdivided into three treatment groups supplemented with oven-dehydrated beet stalks and leaves (SL), lyophilized beet stalks and leaves (Ly) or beet stalk and leaf extract (EX).Results Supplementation with SL was able to ameliorate glucose homeostasis (P < 0.05) with no alteration in hepatic triglyceride content. It remains to be clarified if the enhancement in the glucose homeostasis observed in HFSL could be a consequence of improvement in pancreatic insulin secretion and/or glucose uptake from skeletal muscle and white adipose tissues.Conclusions The current results suggest that beet stalks and leaves could be used as adjuvants to improve parameters related to glucose metabolism in the liver.
Intrinsic Molecular Subtyping of Breast Cancer In Low Resource Setting
Authors: Derkyi-Kwarteng Leonard , Agyemang-Yeboah Francis , Fondjo Linda Ahenkorah , Imbeah Emmanuel Gustav , Gyan Eric , Akakpo Patrick Kafui
Published: August 2020

Background

Immunohistochemistry is an invaluable technique used clinically in the characterisation of breast cancer in various intrinsic subtypes. Such characterisation into the intrinsic subtypes is of great prognostic value in the management of breast cancer.
Methodology

Two hundred and seventy-six cases of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue blocks were selected from 2012–2016 cases from Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH). The hormonal markers Estrogen Receptor (ER), Progesterone Receptor (PR), HER 2 and Ki67 were determined for cases using a semi-automated immunohistochemical method with commercially prepared antibodies from BioSB.
Results

The commonest intrinsic molecular subtype is luminal type A (42.2%), luminal B (12.3%), Her 2+ (10.5) and TNBC (35.0%). There is a significant association between tumour size and all the intrinsic subtypes (P < 0.05). The luminal type A and B were associated with size < 5 cm while TNBC was associated with size ≥ 5 cm. Ki67 was unfavourable for 65.5% of the cases with 21.8% favourable and 12.7% being borderline. The various subtypes are significantly associated with vascular invasion.
Discussion and conclusion

This study has shown that a greater percentage of breast cancer among Ghanaian patients are hormonal positive and should have done well on hormonal treatment but did not because of the late presentation and tumour characteristics. The study confirmed previous results of the higher incidence of TNBC in African women as compared to other ethnic groups.
Favored location of a stabilizing screw for syndesmotic diastasis: Recommendation based on clinical and theoretical considerations
Authors: Wu Chi-Chuan , Yeh Wen-Ling , Lee Po-Cheng , Chou Ying-Chao , Hsu Yung-Heng , Yu Yi-Hsun
Published: August 2020

Background Although ankle injuries are common, combined malleolar fractures and syndesmotic diastasis (SD) are relatively fewer. The optimal technique for syndesmotic stabilization has yet achieved consensus. The favored location of a stabilizing screw for SD was investigated clinically and theoretically. Methods For the 10-year period, 63 consecutive adult patients with combined injuries were retrospectively studied. After malleolar fractures were internally stabilized with screws and plates, stress tests were performed to re-confirm syndesmotic instability. The diastatic syndesmosis was stabilized with cortical screws under image intensifier guidance. In the present study, only patients with one syndesmotic screw (55 patients) were enrolled and divided into the trans-syndesmotic (TR) or the supra-syndesmotic (SU) group. Clinical and functional outcomes between the two groups were compared. The favored location was speculated consequently.Results Forty-eight patients were followed for at least one year (average, 1.8 years; range, 1.0-7.0 years). The TR group included 31 patients and the SU group, 17 patients. All clinical and functional comparisons were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Conclusions Although statistical comparison is insignificant, TR screw insertion possesses biomechanical and biological merits. Unable to reveal advantages of TR screw insertion in clinical and functional comparisons may be imputed to insufficient sample sizes and early screw removal. Practically, TR insertion of a screw with late removal (> 3 months) may be a better choice.
COVID-19 Lockdown: Lessons learnt using multiple air quality monitoring station data from Kolkata City in India
Authors: Ghosh Nabanita , Roy Abhisek , Bose Devdyuti , Das Nandini , Debsarkar Anupam , Roy Joyashree
Published: August 2020

On March 16, 2020, Kolkata, a megacity located in the eastern part of India announced partial lockdown due to COVID-19 crisis ahead of the India-wide lockdown pronouncement with effect from March 25, 2020. This study presents an analysis for multiple pollutants with special focus on NO2 and O3, based on data from different monitoring stations located across Kolkata city, for the period of 16 March- 17 May 2020. A comparison was done with the pre-lockdown period of 1st February – 15th March 2020. Most significant reduction was observed in the concentration of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) (- 76.8%), volatile organic compounds (VOCs) (- 69.5%), PM10 (- 64.6%) and PM2.5 (- 60.9%). A lower percentage reduction was found for CO, sulfur dioxide (SO2) and ammonia (- 48.6%, - 41.7% and – 41.1% respectively). However, during partial lockdown, Lockdown Phase-1, Phase -2, and Phase -3 surface-level ozone (O3) has changed respectively by 31.72%, 31.13%, -14.28% and -14.05% ; which resulted in an overall increase of 8.17% in the entire study period. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Kolkata which was poor or very poor in the past even during lockdown period it failed to attain the ‘good’ standard. This needs special attention in human health impact assessment and public health management. We recommend that for policy attention and education/awareness-building efforts additional attention needs to be drawn towards stickiness in O3 which have adverse human health and which went up during lockdown period compared to pre-lockdown period. We highlight some major policy implications of the observed trends to combat city air pollution along with climate co-benefits by shifting transport fuel and related infrastructure. These observations over several months provide a good database for any future air pollution control policy formulation and many more future research.
Effect of Cardiopulmonary Bypass Machine on the Platelet Function Testing.
Authors: AlSaleh Khalid A. , AlBakr Rashed B. , AlBacker Turki B. , AlNazer Rakan , Almomen Abdulkareem , Khoja Osama T. , Owaidah Tarek
Published: August 2020

Background: Bleeding during coronary artery bypass surgery is a leading cause of mortality. Several factors have been associated with bleeding, platelet dysfunction being the most significant.Objective: to assess the effect of cardiopulmonary bypass machine (CPB) during cardiac surgery on platelet function using Platelet Function Analyzers (PFA-100), and Multiplate Electrode Aggregometry (MEA), and correlating that with a drop in Hemoglobin (Hb).Methods: Whole blood samples were collected preoperative and sixty minutes intraoperatively of different cardiac procedures utilizing (CPB) and tested for platelet function by PFA-100 and MEA. Complete blood count was measured using an automated hematology analyzer.Results: A significant difference was found between pre- and intraoperative ADP and EPI measurement in PFA-100, where preoperative PFA-ADP values displayed the ability to predict the intra-op drop in Hb (P–value 0.01, correlation coefficient 0.4699). At the same time, pre-op MEA- Ristocetin and TRAP showed an inverse correlation with an intra-op drop in Hb (-0.31 and -0.36). Conclusion: The current study reported significant changes in platelet dysfunction in cardiac surgeries with CPB, measured by two modalities PFA-100, and MEA. While PFA-100 and MEA both detected the changes in platelet dysfunction due to CPB, PFA-100 results were sensitive and positively predicted intra-op Hb drop as compared to MEA. There was a significant change in Hb one hour into the CPB, indicating that platelet transfusion might help decrease Intra- and postoperative bleeding independent of the platelet count as they are dysfunctional. PFA-100 results can be relied upon for distinction of high-risk cardiac surgery patients for bleeding and can be used for clinical decision making to improve patient outcome.
'Dissonant' Heritage of Cold War Modernism or European Heritage of Modernist Architecture of the second half the 20th century in conservation perspective: residential houses of Katowice, Poland - a case study
Authors: Żmudzińska-Nowak Magdalena , Krause Magdalena , Bródka Jakub
Published: August 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to author disagreement.
Diagnostic Yields of Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Tissue Acquisition according to the Gastric Location
Authors: Kim Dong Hyun , Park Chang-Hwan , Park Seon-Young , Cho Eunae , Kim Hyun Soo , Choi Sung Kyu
Published: August 2020

AimThe histologic diagnosis of sub-epithelial tumors (SETs) in stomach has been achieved via endoscopic or surgical resection. We evaluated the efficacy of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle tissue acquisition (EUS-FNTA) for the diagnosis of gastric SETs according to the gastric location.MethodThirty-three patients diagnosed with gastric SETs via EUS-FNTA from January 2016 to May 2018 were analyzed retrospectively. Demographic characteristics, diagnostic yields and complications were evaluated.ResultsNineteen patients (57.6%) were female, with a median age of 57.7 years. EUS revealed a mean longitudinal diameter of 25.6 mm. The most common location of SETs was gastric body (n = 18, 54.5%), followed by cardia and fundus (n = 10, 30.3%), and antrum (n = 5, 15.2%). Twenty-gauge biopsy needle was used most frequently (90.9%). The diagnostic yield was obtained in 23 patients (69.7%). The most common diagnosis was gastrointestinal stromal tumor (69.5%), followed by leiomyoma (13.0%), and ectopic pancreas (8.7%). The diagnostic yield of SETs in gastric antrum (0/5, 0%) was significantly lower than in the gastric body and cardia (23/28, 82.1%, p = 0.001). A case of immediate bleeding after EUS-FNTA occurred in one patient (3.0%) who recovered uneventfully. According to studies reported in English literature, the overall diagnostic yield of SETs in gastric antrum was significantly lower than in the gastric body, fundus, and cardia (29.7% vs. 71.4%, p < 0.001, n = 191)ConclusionsAlthough EUS-FNTA is an advanced diagnostic tool for gastric SETs, it is essential to develop more effective methods for the diagnosis of antral SETs.
Laparoscopic Radical Antegrade Modular Pancreatosplenectomy: Preliminary Experience with 10 Cases
Authors: Zhang Renchao , Gan Xin-Jun , Song Wei , Shi Song-Tao , Yu Hui-Fang , Mou Yi-Ping
Published: August 2020

BackgroundThe radical antegrade modular pancreatosplenectomy (RAMPS) which is a reasonable surgical approach for left-sided pancreatic cancer is emphasis on the complete resection of regional lymph nodes and tumor-free margin resection. Laparoscopic radical antegrade modular pancreatosplenectomy(LRAMPS) has been rarely performed, with only 49 cases indexed on PubMed. In this study, we present our experience of LRAMPS.MethodsFrom December 2018 to February 2020, 10 patients underwent LRAMPS for pancreatic cancer at our department. The data of the patient demographics, intraoperative variables, postoperative hospital stay, morbidity, mortality, pathologic findings and follow-up were collected.ResultsLRAMPS was performed successfully in all the patients. The median operative time was 235 minutes (range, 212–270 min), with an EBL of 120 ml(range,100–200 ml). Postoperative complications occurred in 5 (50.0%) patients. Three patients developed a grade B pancreatic fistula. There was no postoperative 30-day mortality and reoperation. The median postoperative hospital stay was 14 days (range, 9- 24d).The median count of retrieved lymph nodes was 15 (range, 13–21), and four patients (40%) had malignant-positive lymph nodes. All cases achieved a negative tangential margin and R0 resection. Median follow-up time was 11 months (range, 3–14 m). Two patients developed disease recurrence(pancreatic bed recurrence and liver metastasis) 9 months,10 months after surgery,respectively. Others survived without tumor recurrence or metastasis.ConclusionsLRAMPS is technically safe and feasible procedure in well-selected patients with pancreatic cancer in the distal pancreas. The oncologically outcomes need to be further validated based on additional large-volume studies.
Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of NBS-encoding Genes in Raphanus Sativus L. And Their Roles Related to Fusarium Oxysporum Resistance
Authors: Ma Yinbo , Chhapekar Sushil Satish , Lu Lu , Oh Sangheon , Singh Sonam , Kim Chang Soo , Kim Seungho , Choi Gyung Ja , Lim Yong Pyo , Choi Su Ryun
Published: August 2020

Background: The nucleotide-binding site–leucine-rich repeat (NBS-LRR) genes are important for plant development and disease resistance. Although genome-wide studies of NBS-encoding genes have been performed in several species, the evolution, structure, expression, and function of these genes remain unknown in radish (Raphanus sativus L.). A recently released draft R. sativus L. reference genome has facilitated the genome-wide identification and characterization of NBS-encoding genes in radish.Results: A total of 225 NBS-encoding genes were identified in the radish genome, with 202 mapped onto nine chromosomes and the remaining 23 localized on different scaffolds. According to a gene structure analysis, we identified 99 NBS-LRR-type genes and 126 partial NBS-encoding genes. Additionally, 80 and 19 genes respectively encoded an N-terminal Toll/interleukin-like domain and a coiled-coil domain. Furthermore, 72% of the 202 NBS-encoding genes were grouped in 48 clusters distributed in 24 crucifer blocks on chromosomes. The U block on chromosomes R02, R04, and R08 had the most NBS-encoding genes (48), followed by the R (24), D (23), E (23), and F (17) blocks. These clusters were mostly homogeneous, containing NBS-encoding genes derived from a recent common ancestor. Tandem (15 events) and segmental (20 events) duplications were revealed in the NBS family. Comparative evolutionary analyses of orthologous genes reflected the importance of the NBS-LRR gene family during evolution. Moreover, examinations of cis-elements identified 70 major elements involved in responses to methyl jasmonate, abscisic acid, auxin, and salicylic acid. According to RNA-seq expression analyses, 75 NBS-encoding genes contributed to the resistance of radish to Fusarium wilt. A quantitative real-time PCR analysis revealed that RsTNL03 (Rs093020) and RsTNL09 (Rs042580) expression positively regulates radish resistance to Fusarium oxysporum, in contrast to the negative regulatory role for RsTNL06 (Rs053740).Conclusions: The NBS-encoding gene structures, tandem and segmental duplications, synteny, and expression profiles in radish were elucidated for the first time and compared with those of other Brassicaceae species (Arabidopsis thaliana, Brassica oleracea, and Brassica rapa) to clarify the evolution of the NBS gene family. These results may be useful for functionally characterizing NBS-encoding genes in radish.
Impact of Educational Chronic Care Model on Diabetic Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Elmalky Ahmed Mahmoud , Alharbi Abdulsalam S. , Alsaqabi Abdulkarim M.
Published: August 2020

Background Lack of knowledge and understanding about diabetes are important barriers to cure. Treatment of diabetes alone without education is not sufficient. Nowadays, health education could reach us on mobiles. Aim Our aim is how to make advice-giving becomes a system to treat our patients. The theme of this study is diabetes education. And to know how far the prompt well-structured education could affect the clinical status and the quality of life of a poorly controlled diabetic patients. Methods702 patients with type 1 diabetes were followed for 2 years (2017, 2018), by condensed friendly education and training sessions. Our activities were mainly through direct individual approach and social media, structured in the form of visits. The study was done in a specialized clinics of diabetes (SDC) in a tertiary university hospital. We evaluated the clinical status, psychological, sociocultural and satisfaction of the patients, pre and post education. We assessed our patients at the beginning of the study, throughout, and at the time of discharge. Quantitative and qualitative data were compared statistically by paired t test and chi-square test at 0.05 level of significance. Results96.7% of our patients were completely satisfied by what they have achieved through this project. The average HbA1C become less than eight in 54% of patients. Patients with HbA1C 8-9%, BP <140/80, and LDL <3.36 mmol/l, were 46%, 51% and 79% respectively. The average blood pressure for 56% of patients was 132/77. The average LDL level among 71% of patients was 2.25. 27% of patients had average discharged HbA1c of 7.3. Net promotor score of SDC was 85%, were promotors, passives and detractors were 87.8%, 9.5% and 2.8% respectively. P value <0.05Conclusion Education self-management support programs are cost-effective and superior to usual care. Education programs were more effective in lowering HbA1c. Attendees finding it valuable and enjoyable.
Knowledge and Practices on Fever and Home Management of a Febrile Child and Antipyretic Use: A Sri Lankan Experience
Authors: Silva Hemal De , Weliange Shreenika De Silva , Weerasekera Kumudu
Published: August 2020

Background: Fever, a common childhood experience requires correct home management and seeking medical advice at the correct time. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge and practices of fever home management of a febrile child among the primary caregivers.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in four randomly selected wards at the Lady Ridgeway Hospital, in Sri Lanka. among 400 primary caregivers of children less than 12 years of age admitted with fever. A pre-tested, pre-coded, interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect information. Measurement of temperature by the participants were also observed. Results: Normal body temperature was correctly mentioned by 46.2% and mercury thermometer was identified as the best thermometer by 45.8%. Nearly 3/4th stated that the dose of antipyretics should be calculated according to age and or body weight and their knowledge on dose calculations showed that in 70.9% the calculated dose was considered safe and effective. In practice, 54% of the study population had used a thermometer for detection and/or monitoring of fever. Paracetamol was used by 99% of the study population alone or in combination by to treat the febrile child at home before the hospital admission. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs were also used by 1.5%. The dose of paracetamol given to the child was too low for 6.5% while it was too high for 24.5%. Statistically significant associations (p<0.05) were seen for correct technique of temperature measurement with higher education, higher family income and having a single child. Conclusions: This study adds to the contemporary fever management literature, by assessing problem from another dimension, which was the knowledge and practices of the primary caregivers in providing home management to a febrile child. Several knowledge and practice gaps were identified, which could be corrected through the clinical and public healthcare system.
Hiccups and Psychosis: Two atypical presentations of COVID -19
Authors: Alvarez-Cisneros Teresa , Lara-Reyes Aldo , Sansón-Tinoco Stephanie
Published: August 2020

The WHO defines a possible case of COVID-19 as a person experiencing fever, cough, shortness of breath and neurological signs including anosmia, ageusia or dysgeusia. However, experiences from hospitals all over the world have shown that presentations vary widely. In our emergency department in a private hospital in Mexico City, we received two patients with very different symptoms on the same shift. Two previously healthy men in their 40 s presented, one with 3 days of hiccups and the other with a new onset psychotic event.
A metagenome association study of gut microbiome revealed biomarkers for chemotherapy efficacy in locally advanced and advanced lung cancer
Authors: Zhao Zhe , Fei Kailun , Wang Zhijie , Duan Jianchun , Bai Hua , Wang Jie
Published: August 2020

Background

Accumulating evidence has confirmed the important role of the gut microbiome in the development and immunotherapy efficacy of lung cancer. However, little is known about the relationship between intestinal flora and chemotherapy. This study investigates the correlation between intestinal flora and chemotherapy efficacy in lung cancer.
Methods

We analyzed baseline stool samples from patients with locally advanced and advanced lung cancer before chemotherapy treatment, through metagenomics of the gut microbiota. The composition, diversity, function, and metabolic pathway analysis of the microbial communities were compared, using the R statistical programming language, among patients with different clinical outcomes.
Results

From September 1, 2018 to September 30, 2019, we obtained stool samples from 64 patients with locally advanced and advanced lung cancer treated with chemotherapy at baseline, consisting of 33 patients who responded to treatment (responders) and 31 patients who did not (non-responders). The median progression-free survival was 7 months (range, 1.5–14.5). Streptococcus mutans and Enterococcus casseliflavus were enriched in responders (P < 0.05), while 11 bacteria including Leuconostoc lactis and Eubacterium siraeum were enriched in non-responders (P < 0.05) by variance analysis. Responders to chemotherapy were associated with significantly higher Acidobacteria and Granulicella, while Streptococcus oligofermentans, Megasphaera micronuciformis, and Eubacterium siraeum were more abundant in non-responders by Lefse analysis. Streptococcus mutans and Enterococcus casseliflavus were further identified as bacterial markers for the responders in chemotherapy using unsupervised clustering, and Leuconostoc lactis and Eubacterium siraeum were the biomarkers for non-responders. Functional analysis of metabolic pathways revealed that the L-glutamate degradation VIII pathway was enriched in responders (P = 0.014), and the C4 photosynthetic carbon assimilation cycle, reductive TCA cycle I, and hexitol fermentation to lactate, formate, ethanol, and acetate were enriched in non-responders (P < 0.05). In addition, significant associations of bacterial species with clinical indicators such as age, body mass index, and pathological patterns were observed by spearman correlation analysis.
Conclusions

The study showed that the specific gut microbiome of patients with lung cancer might possess a potential predictive role for the clinical outcomes of chemotherapy. Further validation is needed.