bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterisation of transient electromagnetic signals during fixed interference sources in tunnel structure
Authors: Qian Wangping ,   School of Transportation and Civil Engineering, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China, Xu Yikang , Gu Zhenyuan , Xiang Ziru , Li Zongyang , Liu Jinchao , Wu Jiujiang ,   Key Laboratory of Transportation Tunnel Engineering Ministry of Education, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
Published: August 2021

The detection effect of the transient electromagnetic method is ambiguous in engineering applications due to the existence of interference sources, so explaining the influence of these fixed interference sources on is crucial. In this paper, the response characterisation of transient electromagnetic signals of fixed interference sources are thoroughly investigated. First, the secondary field generated by these interference sources is analyzed, and a typical fixed interference source is calculated. Then, a sensitivity analysis of the transient electromagnetic response curve is carried out. Finally, the mathematical superposition method for multiple field sources is proposed and verified. The results illustrate that the transient electromagnetic response curve of uniform full-space surrounding rock with a single fixed interference source has an apparent lifting phenomenon in the middle stage and presents an approximate horizontal change rule at the late stage. The transient electromagnetic response curves of multiple field sources separately illustrate the response characterisation of different field sources at different time stages. These research results can provide a valuable reference for the on-site interpretation of detection signals.
Improved 220Rn measurement characteristics of scintillation cells cooled to liquid nitrogen temperatures
Authors: Bigu J
Published: August 2021

The 220Rn alpha-particle counting characteristics of a ZnS(Ag) scintillation cell cooled to liquid nitrogen (LN2) temperatures have been investigated. The cell was designed to serve a dual purpose, namely, to operate as a cold trap (when cooled at LN2) to
condense 220Rn flowing through a counting system of the flow through type, and as an efficient alpha-particle detector. An improvement in the counting rate of 50% to ~100% has been observed when compared with a similar system operating at room temperature. It is possible to improve the
characteristics of the system significantly by careful redesign of the geometry of the scintillation cell, i.e., by machining the cell in a semi-spherical shape, and reducing its physical dimensions to equal or less than the range of the alpha-particles from the decay of
220Rn.
Use of misoprostol before tandem application for intracavitary brachytherapy in patients of carcinoma cervix
Authors: Ali Tauseef , Palod Sahaj , Khan Aafreen , Verma Shalu , Gupta Sumit , Karnawat Saurabh , Bhandari Virendra
Published: August 2021

Aim:

To investigate the ease of tandem application and external os identification by giving sublingual misoprostol before initiation of intracavitary brachytherapy in cancer cervix patients.

Materials and Methods:

36 patients with cervical cancer stage IIIB which were supposed to undergo intracavitary brachytherapy(ICBT) were randomly divided into 2 subgroups, group A patients receiving misoprostol and group B not receiving misoprostol. Misoprostol 400 mcg was given sublingually 3 hrs prior to the procedure. The efficacy of the drug was measured as per the ease of identification of os and easier tandem application and amount of bleeding during procedure.

Results:

Application of tandem and identification of external os was easier and amount of bleeding was also less in patients that were administered sublingual misoprostol.

Conclusion:

Sublingual Misoprostol given before ICBT helps in cervical ripening and thus leads to easier os recognition and central tandem application and reduce overall anaesthesia time.
Is hypermethylation of SOX1 gene an independent prognostic marker in surgically resected non-small cell lung cancer?
Authors: Kontic Milica , Jovanovic Dragana , Kern Izidor , Nelson Heather H , Bojic Svetlana , Ognjanovic Miodrag , Ognjanovic SImona
Published: August 2021

Background:

Promoter hypermethylation of tumor suppressor genes presents promising markers for lung cancer diagnosis and prognosis. The purpose of this study was to determine the association between the promoter hypermethylation of multiple genes and 5-year survival rate in patients with Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Materials and Methods:

Primary tumor samples (n = 65), corresponding nonmalignant lung tissues (n = 65), and circulating blood were obtained from NSCLC patients who underwent curative surgery. Promoter methylation status in seven genes (RASSF1A, CDH13, MGMT, ESR1, DAPK, SOX1, and HOXA9) was quantified by using bisulfite pyrosequencing. Five-year survival data were obtained by a clinician. Cox proportional hazards models were used to analyze the associations between gene methylation status and overall patient survival.

Results:

The 5-year survival of the patients with SOX1 aberrant tumor methylation was found to be statistically significantly shorter than for those patients without aberrant tumor methylation (P = 0.01). This effect was independent of TNM stage. No significant survival differences were associated with aberrant methylation in other genes tested in either of the two tissue types.

Conclusion:

Our study shows that SOX1 promoter hypermethylation in NSCLC tumors is significantly associated with inferior survival, showing promise as a useful prognostic biomarker in patients with NSCLC.
Oncology treatment outcome in human immunodeficiency virus-positive cancer cervix patients
Authors: Waghmare Chaitali Manohar , Bhanu Arya , Dwivedi Shreya , Pawar Hemant J , Ravichandran Meenakshi , Jain Vandana Shailendra
Published: August 2021

Objective:

To find out the epidemiological factors and oncology treatment outcome in human immunodeficiency virus-positive cancer cervix patients (HPCCP).

Materials and Methods:

After institutional ethics committee approval, hospital case records of HPCCP registered at the radiation oncology department from January 2011 to December 2018 were retrospectively studied.

Results:

The case records of 22 eligible HPCCP were studied. Median age at presentation was 42.5 years. 90.90% of the patients were below 55 years of age. The duration of symptom was <3 months in 63.64% of patients. 68.18% of the patients were FIGO Stage III. Only 11 patients completed the planned treatment. Total target equivalent dose of 2 Gy per fraction delivered was 66 Gy. Seven patients had complete response. Four patients had local recurrence. Median disease-free and overall survival was 27 (14–38) and 18 months (2–48), respectively.

Conclusion:

HPCCP present at relatively early age and advanced stage despite short symptom duration. Poor patient compliance and treatment alteration have led to suboptimal outcome.
The immunohistochemical biomarker B-cell lymphoma-2 expression in malignant and premalignant lesions of the uterine cervix and its association with human papillomavirus infection
Authors: Nayak Prasanta Kumar , Hussain Nighat , Negi Sanjay , Agrawal Sarita , Bagde Nilaj , Mitra Subarna , Singh Vandita
Published: August 2021

Introduction:

Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths among women. It results due to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) is the preinvasive condition of cervical cancer. Various objective immunohistochemical (IHC) markers have been studied for cervical cancer. This study is aimed at studying the expression of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) IHC marker among preinvasive and invasive lesions of cervical cancer and its association with HPV infection.

Methodology:

This prospective study was conducted over a period of 1 year in a tertiary care hospital in central India, included 73 women suffering from CIN and cancer cervix. The expression of Bcl-2 and the presence of HPV genotypes were studied.

Results:

Out of 73 patients, 34 had cancer cervix, out of which 15 (44%) had Bcl-2 positivity, 24 had CIN 1, out of which 13 (54%) had Bcl-2 positivity, 10 had CIN 2, out of which 4 (40%) had Bcl-2 positivity and 5 had CIN 3, out of which 3 (60%) had Bcl-2 positivity. No significant difference was found in Bcl-2 positivity among CIN-1, CIN-2, CIN-3, and cancer cervix cases with a Chi-square value of 1.116 and P = 0.77. HPV positivity was found in 41 (56%) out of 73 patients where HPV 16 subtype was the most common (31.5%), followed by HPV 18 (13.7%). No significant association between HPV positivity and Bcl-2 positivity was found with P = 0.34.

Conclusion:

Bcl-2 IHC seems to have variable expression among CIN cases. Although its expression is low among invasive cancer cases when compared with preinvasive lesions, the difference is not significant. Similarly, no significant association was found between Bcl-2 expression and HPV infections.
Expression of oncolong noncoding RNA taurine-upregulated gene-1 in colon cancer
Authors: Abushouk Abdelrahman I. , Kattan Shahad W. , Ahmedah Hanadi T. , Baothman Eshrag , Shaheen Sameerah , Toraih Eman A. , Fawzy Manal Said
Published: August 2021

Context:

Recent studies confirmed that dysregulation of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) is a potential contributor to the development and progression of colon cancer. However, the prognostic value of these RNA molecules remains controversial.

Aims:

This study aimed to investigate the expression of taurine-upregulated gene-1 (TUG1) lncRNA in colon cancer and its clinical implications.

Subjects and Methods:

A retrospective study on 47 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded samples of surgically resected primary colon cancer specimens was done. Total RNA purified from the colon cancer samples and noncancer adjacent tissue sections was quantified by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) to assess TUG1 relative expression levels normalized to GAPDH endogenous control. Also, in silico data analysis was applied.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The relative expression levels were calculated using the LIVAK method. The survival rates were assessed using the Kaplan–Meier curves and the Cox proportional model. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

TUG1expression in the colon cancer specimens was significantly overexpressed (median = 21.50, interquartile range [IQR]: 7.0–209.2; P = 0.001) relative to the noncancerous tissues. In silico analysis confirmed TUG1 upregulation in colon carcinoma (median = 13.92, IQR: 13.5-1432). There were no significant associations between TUG1 expression and clinicopathological characteristics, such as the site, grade, stage, histopathological type, or the rates of lymphovascular invasion and relapse. Similarly, Kaplan–Meir and Cox multivariate regression analyses showed that TUG1 expression could not predict the overall survival and progression-free survival in colon cancer patients of our population.

Conclusions:

This study confirms the overexpression of TUG1 lncRNA in colon cancer tissues. Larger sample size is warranted to further elucidate the specific role of TUG1 in colon cancer.
Association of atopic dermatitis with an increased risk of systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Ponvilawan B , Charoenngam N , Wongtrakul W , Ungprasert P
Published: August 2021

Context:

Previous studies on the association between atopic dermatitis (AD) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have yielded inconsistent results.

Aims:

To investigate the relationship between atopic dermatitis and systemic lupus erythematosus.

Settings and Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Materials and Methods:

A systematic review was conducted on EMBASE and MEDLINE databases from inception to March 2020 using a search strategy that consisted of terms related to AD and SLE. Eligible study must be either cohort or case-control study. For cohort studies, they must include patients with AD and comparators without AD, then follow them for incident SLE. For case-control studies, they must include cases with SLE and controls without SLE and examine their prior history of AD.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Meta-analysis of the studies was performed using a random-effect, generic inverse variance method to combine effect estimate and standard error. Funnel plot was used to assess publication bias.

Results:

A total of 21,486 articles were retrieved. After two rounds of review by three investigators, six case-control studies were qualified for the meta-analysis. The case-control study meta-analysis found a significantly increased odds of SLE among patients with AD with the pooled odds ratio of 1.46 (95% CI, 1.05–2.04).

Conclusions:

A significant association between AD and increased odds of SLE was observed by this systematic review and meta-analysis.
DRESS syndrome induced by imatinib
Authors: Kaur S , Singh S , Singh R , Singla P
Published: August 2021

Drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS syndrome) is a severe, potentially life-threatening drug-induced hypersensitivity reaction characterized by cutaneous eruptions, fever, diffuse lymphadenopathy, along with eosinophilia and elevated liver enzymes. The severity and potential organ damage associated with DRESS mandates withdrawing the offending drug and provide a suitable replacement. We report a 55-year-old man who developed prolonged fever, generalized maculopapular rash and facial edema after 3 weeks of starting imatinib for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). A diagnosis of DRESS was confirmed by eosinophilia and skin biopsy findings, along with a consistent RegiSCAR score. Imatinib was stopped and he was initiated on low-dose steroids, which led to complete resolution of rash and eosinophilia. A rechallenge with imatinib was positive, and he was switched to dasatinib for further therapy, following which he attained an optimal molecular response. DRESS following imatinib has only been reported in eight patients so far. In this report we summarize the current evidence for managing DRESS and its impact on the treatment of CML.
Oral Cavity Reconstruction with Pedicled and Free Flaps
Authors: Teli Zahoor Ahmad , Kantharia Rajesh Arvind , Kantharia Shehnaz R. , Vyas Siddharth Mahesh , Bhatt Yogesh , Doshi Piyush
Published: August 2021

Background:

In Indian subcontinent, oral cavity cancer is the most common cancer in males and the 4th most common in females. Seventy percent of these patients present in advanced stages and resection of these advanced cancers lead to complex orofacial defects requiring primary reconstruction to restore form, function, and cosmesis.

Aim:

This study aims to evaluate the results of pedicled and microvascular free flaps (MFFs) for oral cavity defects following resection of locally advanced oral cancer.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of patients who underwent composite resection followed by reconstruction with pedicled or MFFs for locally advanced oral cancer from January 2018 to September 2019 was done. The demographic details, primary tumor site, tumor stage, defect type, flap type, and complication rates were analyzed.

Results:

Primary reconstruction was offered to 540 patients with pedicled flaps for 421 patients and MFFs for 119 patients. Patient distribution as per current Tumor, Node, and Metastasis staging was pT1/T2: 91, pT3: 179, and pT4: 270. Reconstruction offered for different oral cavity subsites was – buccal mucosa (n = 374), retromolar trigone (n = 10), alveolus (n = 75), tongue (n = 52), lower gingivobuccal sulcus (n = 11), floor of mouth (n = 4), upper gingivobuccal sulcus (n = 5), and lower lip (n = 9). We classified the types of defects into mucosal (n = 32), mucosal with bone (n = 370), mucosal with bone and skin (n = 101), mucosal with skin (n = 14), skin (n = 3), and central mandibular arch (n = 20). The overall rate of complications in pedicled flaps was 12.11% and MFFs was 20.16%. The success rate for pedicled flaps was 100% and for MFFs was 94.96%.

Conclusion:

In our study, MFF reconstruction had a good success rate with satisfactory functional and cosmetic outcomes.
Prescription Pattern of Drugs in Pediatric Cancer Patients in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Manjesh P S , Shetty Yashashri C. , Chinnaswamy Girish , Patankar Panini Shrikant
Published: August 2021

Aims:

The objective of the current study was to evaluate prescription pattern and to assess off-label use of drugs used in treatment of pediatric cancer patients.

Subjects and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional, observational study where patients who presented to the hemato-oncology and solid tumors Outpatient department at a tertiary cancer care hospital were prospectively recruited. Patients of either gender or age between 3 months and 15 years diagnosed with cancer and who has received treatment for at least 6-week duration were included. Demographic details, diagnosis, medication details, and off-label use were analyzed. Prescribing indicators and off-label use were analyzed by descriptive statistics using Microsoft Excel version 2019.

Results:

Of 300 patients recruited, 67% were male and 33% were female, with a median age of 75 months (interquartile range: 42–129 months). One hundred and seventy-one (57%) patients suffered from hematological cancers, while those having solid tumors were 129 (43%). Most common hematological cancer was found to be acute lymphoblastic leukemia – 126/171 (73.68%) and among 129 solid tumor patients, the most common cancer was found to be Ewing's sarcoma (29). A total number of 944 drugs were prescribed in 300 prescriptions studied. Out of 944 drugs prescribed, 346 (36.65%) were anticancer drugs and 598 (63.35%) were concomitant drugs. Most common anticancer drug prescribed in hematologic cancer was found to be vincristine (60/270), and in solid tumors also, it was vincristine in 24/76. Off-label prescriptions were found mainly in solid tumors in 80.26% (61 out of 76 anticancer drugs), whereas for hematological cancers, it was 3.33% only. The most common drug use off label in solid tumors was Cyclophosphamide.

Conclusions:

The study reflects the general pattern of drugs used in the treatment of various pediatric cancers and the extent of unavailability of chemotherapeutic agents – more so in the solid tumors' treatment.
Vocal Fold Leukoplakia
Authors: Swain Santosh Kumar , Panda Swaha
Published: August 2021

Background:

Vocal fold leukoplakia (VFL) is a term used to document a white patch on the mucosa of the vocal folds. It is caused by prolonged use of smoking, consumption of alcohol, excessive drying, or voice abuse and is considered premalignant lesion of the larynx.

Aim:

The study aims to analyze the demographic and clinical parameters, pathological findings, and management of VFL patients, as well as the incidence of laryngeal cancer among these patients.

Materials and Methods:

We retrospectively collected 92 VFL patients who received treatment during November 2015 to December 2018 and followed up for a minimum period of 2 years up to December 2020. The detail clinical characteristics including endoscopic findings, postoperative pathological findings, and management were assessed from the patient's file.

Results:

The mean age of presentation was 64.3 years, with 52 male and 40 female patients. We found cigarette smoking as the most common etiological factor, which was seen in 45 patients (48.91%) followed by alcohol consumption and laryngopharyngeal reflux. Seventy-seven patients underwent surgery (42: carbon dioxide laser excision and 35: coblation-assisted excision), and rest 15 patients treated conservatively. On postoperative, the different pathological variants encountered were nondysplasia (n = 41); low-grade dysplasia (n = 24); high-grade dysplasia (n = 5); carcinoma in situ (n = 4); and invasive carcinoma (n = 3). Factors such as age (P < 0.001) and morphological types (P = 0.043) have been significantly correlated with pathological grades of VFL.

Conclusion:

The invasive laryngeal cancer detection rate underlying VFL at first diagnosis was 3.90%. The early diagnosis of VFL and treatment are challenge for clinicians to decrease the incidence of laryngeal malignancy. The patient's age and morphological types may guide treatment of VFL due to risk stratifications.
Assessment of knowledge, practice, and level of preparedness of dentists practicing in Nigeria toward COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Oyedele Titus Ayodeji , Ladeji Adeola M. , Adeyemo Yewande I. , Abah Aderonke A. , Coker Modupe O.
Published: August 2021

Introduction:

The coronavirus disease pandemic (COVID-19) had a global impact on health sectors including dentistry. As dental services have to be performed and cannot be withheld for a prolonged period, dentists should prepare themselves to understand the disease process and to face future treatment challenges in affected patients to fully resume dental services. There was a need to evaluate the knowledge of dentists on Covid-19 disease process, and readiness in practicing dentistry in this situation.

Aim:

This study aimed at assessing the knowledge, practice, and level of preparedness of dentists in Nigeria towards the COVID-19 pandemic.

Materials and Methods:

An online cross-sectional survey involving dentists practicing in Nigeria was carried out using the SurveyMonkey™ platform. The link for the questionnaire from the platform was forwarded to dentists individually and on platforms of various oral health-care providers. The questionnaires tested for knowledge, practice, and preparedness of the respondents to the COVID-19 pandemic. Their biodata and practice experiences were also collected. Data were electronically retrieved from the SurveyMonkey platform in Excel spreadsheet and analysis was done; statistical significance was established at P ≤ 0.05.

Results and discussion:

A total of 209 dentists participated in the online survey; there were more respondents from the age group of 25 to 34 years. Majority of the participants practiced in the tertiary setting. Over 97% of the respondents first learned about the novel coronavirus through the media; 97.1% agreed that the main mode of spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 is through respiratory droplets on close contact, and 91.4% agreed on spread through respiratory droplets on surfaces. Over 35% had no previous training on infection and prevention control (IPC) and 50% of the centers where the respondents practice had no IPC committee. Ninety-nine percent of the respondents have heard about personal protective equipment (PPE), but only 51.5% had PPE in their clinic, while 33.7% of these have had training on the use of PPE. Over 80% of respondents exhibited fear; junior residents were the most fearful, and 67% of respondents from tertiary institutions have limited their procedures during this pandemic.

Conclusion:

This study showed that COVID-19 pandemic poses a new threat to dental practices worldwide and Nigeria in particular. Therefore, the practice of dentistry must evolve in the presence of COVID-19.
Prevalence of burnout and practice-related risk factors among dentists in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Asali Ammar Talal Abdelrahman , Pullishery Fawaz , Ibrahim Nada Mohammed , Tobji Wasmah Waheeb
Published: August 2021

Introduction:

Dentists are exposed to a high level of stress at the workplace and are at higher risk of experience burnout. Burnout has profound consequences on quality of life, patient care, and also on the health-care system.

Aim:

The present study aimed to assess the prevalence of burnout among dentists and identify its relationship with the work-setting factors in Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted using a pretested and structured questionnaire. A mixture of convenience and snowball sampling was used to collect the responses from dentists using two versions of the 22-item Maslach Burnout Inventory Scale that had three domains: emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DP), and feeling of decreased accomplishment. Dentists with scores on EE ≥ or DP ≥10 were considered to have the manifestation of burnout.

Results and Discussion:

The prevalence of burnout in dentists was found to be 33.4% and Saudi dentists experienced more burnout than non-Saudi dentist (P < 0.05). Among different dental specialties, prosthodontists and endodontists showed more prevalence than any other specialties (P < 0.05). Dentists who worked in clinical settings and also who worked more than 40 h/week experienced more burnout than others (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The prevalence of burnout among dentists working in Saudi Arabia was found to be 33.45%, and it was significantly more among Saudi dentists than expatriate dentists. Occupational burnout among dentists is a serious problem and should be dealt with appropriate interventions such as stress management training, coping up skills, organizational or structural change to reduce workload, and effective use of leisure time activities.
Investigation of fetal absorbed dose in V/Q scan in three trimesters of pregnancy using Monte Carlo simulation
Authors: Vakili Shahabeddin , Shahbazi-Gahrouei Daryoush , Pourasbaghi Parastoo , Raeisi Elham
Published: August 2021

The ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) single-photon emission computed tomography is the first method of diagnosis for pulmonary embolism in pregnant women. This study aimed to calculate the fetal absorbed dose and compare to recommended values in V/Q scan at three trimesters of pregnancy by Monte Carlo simulation (code MCNPX) using simulated phantoms, based on the adult female MIRD phantom. The collection of pregnant women phantoms (that of Stabin) was designed with changes in the MIRD phantom. Source organs were defined for each of the radiopharmaceuticals used in two scans, 133Xe and 81mKr for the lung and bladder and technetium diethylene-triamine-pentaacetate (99mTc-DTPA) aerosol for lung ventilation scan. Also, technetium macroaggregated albumin (99mTc-MAA) for lung ventilation scan, lung, bladder, and liver. Fetal absorbed dose was calculated and evaluated for the administration radiopharmaceuticals using the MCNP simulation output. For 200 MBq 99mTc-MAA, fetal absorbed dose was 1.01–1.97 mGy, which is higher than the values recommended by International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP). The same fetal absorbed dose was found for activities of 54 and 70 MBq in the third trimester. For 99mTc-DTPA-aerosol, fetal absorbed dose as a ventilation tracer was within the permitted range. For 133Xe and 81mKr, it was negligible. It is concluded that the fetus received the highest absorbed dose in the third trimester of pregnancy. For this reason, in this period of pregnancy, it is recommended to use the lower administration activity and her awareness must be done.
Targeted alpha-particle therapy in neuroendocrine neoplasms: A systematic review
Authors: Koh Thuan , Bezak Eva , Chan David , Cehic Gabrielle
Published: August 2021

Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are a very diverse group of tumors with a worldwide rise in incidence. Systemic therapy remains the mainstay treatment for unresectable and/or metastatic NENs. 177Lu-DOTATATE, a radiopharmaceutical which emits beta particles, has emerged as a promising therapy for metastatic gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP-NENs). However, limited treatment options are available particularly after the failure of 177Lu-DOTATATE therapy. This review aims to identify and summarize the available evidence for, and potential adverse events of, targeted alpha-particle therapy (TAT) in the treatment of metastatic NENs, specifically GEP-NENs. The MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and Cochrane Library databases were searched. Two articles which met the inclusion criteria were identified and included in the review. Putative radiopharmaceuticals that can be considered for metastatic NEN treatment include 225Actinium (225Ac)-DOTATATE and 213Bismuth (213Bi)-DOTATOC. There was evidence of partial response using both radiopharmaceutical agents without significant hematological, renal, or hepatotoxicity. Future studies should consider longer term, randomized controlled trials investigating the role of TAT, in particular, 225Ac-DOTATATE, in the treatment of metastatic NENs.
Interictal 18F- FDG PET/computed tomography brain in a case of frontoethmoidal encephalocele
Authors: Kousik Vankadari , Satish Kandraju , Rao Sai , Rajesh Boyina
Published: August 2021

Encephaloceles, also known as meningoencephaloceles, are a group of neurological disorders characterized by herniation of the cerebral parenchyma along with overlying meninges through openings in the skull bone. They can be seen following congenital defect in neural tube closure or acquired defect in the skull bone. We report a case of acquired frontoethmoidal encephalocele presenting with drug-refractory epilepsy. Interictal FDG PET-computed tomography done for lateralization and localization of seizure focus showed right-sided frontoethmoidal encephalocele associated with hypometabolism in the adjacent right frontopolar cortex, concordant with ictal onset on electroencephalogram.
Determination of administered activities for the treatment of Graves' disease with iodine-131: Proposition of a simplified dosimetric procedure
Authors: Soli Idrissa Adamou , Issoufou Djibrillou Moussa , Rahabi Skander , Ali Ada , Adehossi Eric , Bouyoucef Salah Eddine
Published: August 2021

This prospective study included 35 patients suffering from Graves' disease (GD) clinically and biologically confirmed by endocrinologists, sent to the nuclear medicine department of CHU de Bab El Oued, Algiers for iodine-131 therapy. CHU de Bab El Oued is a tertiary hospital located in the center of the capital Algiers. The aim of this study is to propose a simplified dosimetric procedure which will initiate iodine-131 therapy of GD in particular and hyperthyroidism in general in Niger. The determination of the maximum uptake was performed with a Biodex external probe at 2 h, 4 h, and 24 h after the administration of 3 MBq of liquid iodine-131. The iodine-131 activities were determined using the Marinelli formula with a predefined effective half-life (Te) of 5 days and subsequently extrapolated half-life with kaleidagraph software. The statistical analysis was performed using an excel sheet and analyzed using the software package Statistica 10 (stat Soft, Tulsa, USA). the male:female gender ratio was1:4.5 and the mean age was 42.56 years (±7.14). The body mass index was within normal range with a value of 25.25 kg2 (±0.42) and the mean average thyroid mass was equal to 24.05 (±10.53) g. The mean uptake value at 24 h was 43.24% (±17.68%) meanwhile the maximum uptake value was 46.28 (±21.13%). The estimated effective half-life (Te) was 5.44 days (±1.96) days which were different from the predefined Te of 5 days. The mean activity determined with fixed Te and 24 h uptake was 244.45 (±109.2) MBq and the mean activity calculated with both extrapolated Te and maximum uptake was 452.22 (±381.9) MBq. Empirical determination of activity in the treatment of GD gives higher activities (1.5 times) to patients than dosimetric methods based on the determination of extrapolated effective half-life.
Compressive statistical learning with random feature moments
Authors: Gribonval Rémi , Blanchard Gilles , Keriven Nicolas , Traonmilin Yann
Published: August 2021

We describe a general framework —

compressive

statistical

learning

— for resource-efficient large-scale learning: the training collection is compressed in one pass into a low-dimensional

sketch

(a vector of random empirical generalized moments) that captures the information relevant to the considered learning task. A near-minimizer of the risk is computed from the sketch through the solution of a nonlinear least squares problem. We investigate sufficient sketch sizes to control the generalization error of this procedure. The framework is illustrated on compressive PCA, compressive clustering, and compressive Gaussian mixture Modeling with fixed known variance. The latter two are further developed in a companion paper.
Statistical learning guarantees for compressive clustering and compressive mixture modeling
Authors: Gribonval Rémi , Blanchard Gilles , Keriven Nicolas , Traonmilin Yann
Published: August 2021

We provide statistical learning guarantees for two unsupervised learning tasks in the context of

compressive

statistical

learning

, a general framework for resource-efficient large-scale learning that we introduced in a companion paper. The principle of compressive statistical learning is to compress a training collection, in one pass, into a low-dimensional

sketch

(a vector of random empirical generalized moments) that captures the information relevant to the considered learning task. We explicitly describe and analyze random feature functions which empirical averages preserve the needed information for

compressive

clustering

and

compressive

Gaussian

mixture

modeling

with fixed known variance, and establish sufficient sketch sizes given the problem dimensions.
Banana (Musa paradisiaca) Midrib Extract as a Curative Agent of Motile Aeromonad Septicemia in Giant Gourami (Osphronemus gouramy)
Authors: Wahjuningrum Dinamella , Fitrianingrum Ike Dewi Nur , Widanarni Widanarni , Utami Diah Ayu Satyari
Published: August 2021

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of banana (Musa paradisiaca) midrib extract supplementation as preventive and curative treatments of motile aeromonad septicemia (MAS) on giant gourami (Osphronemus gouramy). Disc diffusion assay was conducted to evaluate antibacterial activity of banana midrib extract against Aeromonas hydrophila. The most effective dose was used for subsequent tests. Experimental fish were categorized into five groups: negative control; positive control; and preventive, curative, and controlling treatments. Except negative control, all groups were challenged by A. hydrophila at a density of 107 CFU mL−1 (0.1 mL per fish). Preventive, curative, and controlling treatment groups were administered the banana midrib extract-enriched diet (3%), whereas positive and negative controls were not treated with banana midrib extract. The results showed that banana midrib extract inhibited A. hydrophila activity in giant gourami, demonstrated by lower A. hydrophila numbers in preventive, curative, and controlling treatments than those in the positive control. After the challenge test in the fish treated with banana midrib extract, immunity parameters were better than those of the positive control. Banana midrib extract was highly effective as a curative agent against MAS in giant gourami based on the highest survival of the experimental fish compared with other treatments.
In Silico Bioactive Peptide Prediction from The Enzymatic Hydrolysates of Edible Seaweed Rubisco Large Chain
Authors: Kose Ayse
Published: August 2021

Seaweeds are one of the ancient food supplements on Earth. Especially Asian countries use seaweeds as the fundamental ingredient in their cuisine. Seaweeds are photosynthetic organisms living in aquatic ecosystems and in the coastal territories. Seaweeds out of farm areas are frequently observed as coastal wastes. However, seaweeds are outstanding sources for bioactive substances and investigation bioactive properties of seaweed RuBisCO has never been done. RuBisCO is the most abundant protein on Earth but a vast amount of RuBisCO goes through waste. In this study, bioactive peptide prediction of frequently consumed seaweed RuBisCO proteins were analyzed in silico to identify possible bioactive peptides as substitute or support for grain, meat, and dairy based bioactive peptides. A huge portion of peptides were di-, tri- peptides with IC50 values less than 300 µM according to the comparison of BIOPEP database. Including gastric digestion, more than half of the peptides showed DDP-IV and ACE inhibitory activity followed by antioxidant properties. Also, novel antiinflammatory and anti-cancer peptides were found through in silico analysis.
Potential Application of PCR Based Molecular Methods in Fish Pathogen Identification: A Review
Authors: Ador Md. Ali Arman , Haque Md. Shameul , Paul Sulav Indra , Chakma Jui , Ehsan Rakib , Rahman Ashikur
Published: August 2021

Molecular biology developments have led to fast growth in new methods for fish disease diagnosis. Molecular diagnostic methods are rapid and more specific, more sensitive than the culture of pathogens, serology, histology, and biochemical methods which are traditionally utilized to identify causative agent fish disease. Molecular diagnostic methods are valuable for detecting specific pathogens that are difficult to culture in vitro or require a long cultivation period and it significantly more rapid in providing results compared to culture. It enables earlier informed decision-making and rapid diagnosis of bacteremia, particularly for low levels of bacteria in specimens. Molecular techniques which have the major significance are mainly PCR-based molecular diagnostic methods including Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR), Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction (multiplexPCR), and Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD). These have been increasingly utilized to diagnose fish disease for the last recent years. Molecular diagnostic methods can detect pathogens from asymptomatic fish, so disease outbreaks could be prevented. As a consequence, antibiotic treatment can be reduced and the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria can be eliminated. In this review paper, we attempt to summarize the potentiality of PCR-based molecular diagnostic methods and their application in fish pathogen identification.
Primary Care Appointment Systems: Causes and Implications of Timely Arrivals
Authors: Alibeiki Hedayat , Kumar Chetan , Ballard Jim , Willis Deanna R. , Given Scott , Taylor Jennifer
Published: August 2021

ABSTRACT
The primary goal of this study was to identify potential factors that might contribute to patient punctuality issues, while also assessing the satisfaction of a proposed intervention. In addition, we aimed to learn more about the psychosocial and behavioral implications that patients face with regards to arriving on time for their primary care visits. A mixed-method research study was used to identify and quantify potential factors that might contribute to patient punctuality issues, while also assessing the satisfaction of a proposed intervention. In addition to possible factors that contribute to punctuality, we aimed to learn more about how patients are affected when they arrive late for appointments. Through qualitative assessment, we explored the psychosocial and behavioral implications that patients face with regards to arriving on time for their primary care appointments. A total of 524 individuals out of 1050 patients (50%) responded to the paper-based survey. Of the 524 adult respondents, we excluded 103 (19.7%) participants due to the missing data on either of their historical behavior patterns, future intentions for arrival, or their definition of appointment time. We analyzed the data for the remaining 421 eligible survey participants. In addition, seven of the eight patient interviews were transcribed and analyzed in order to identify themes using the patient’s own words to better understand the psychosocial and behavioral implications patients face on arriving to their appointment on time. Three primary themes emerge in the interviews related to the perception of arriving late to appointments at the FMC. The findings of this study indicate that regardless of patients’ interpretation of appointment time, they typically arrive 10-15 minutes before the appointment time. In addition, there is a significant connection between patients’ perceptions of historically arriving late to appointments and the intent to arrive very early to their future appointments. Combined with the qualitative results, this study suggests that most patients are motivated to be on time, in some cases seeing the idea of lateness as a contradiction of their own self-identity. The behavioral causes and implications of the findings are explained using the concept of Fear Appeals and the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT).
WEDDING CEREMONY TRADITION AMONG TURCIC PEOPLE
Authors: Məmmədova Məleykə Ali Qizi
Published: August 2021

In the mythological consciousness, marriage is seen as a transition from a "natural being" to a "cultural and social being", a "restriction" - the quality of getting rid of loneliness by mating, an attempt to continue their existence. Marriage is not only a "one-sided determination" in the form of "a union arising out of a contract that gives men and women the right to have sexual rights with each other," but also with factors such as "continuity, social integrity, and resistance." 6, p.9). In this study the wedding ceremonies of the Turkic people are discussed.
DÖVİZ KURU, İHRACAT VE İŞSİZLİK İLİŞKİSİ: TÜRKİYE ÖRNEĞİ
Authors: Prof. Dr. Salih ÖZTÜRK  , Harun DEMİR
Published: August 2021

Döviz kurundaki değişiklikler, dışa açık ekonomiler açısından ilk aşamada dış ticarette etkili olmaktadır. İhracat ve ithalatta meydana gelen değişiklerle birlikte döviz kurundaki değişiklikler işsizlik üzerinde de belirli etkilere neden olabilmektedir. Çalışmada ilk olarak teorik ve politik açıdan döviz kurunun ihracat ve işsizliğe olan etkilerine değinilmiştir. Sonraki aşamalarda ise Toda-Yamamoto nedensellik analizi ile bu etkilerin Türkiye açısından geçerliliği test edilmiştir. Nedensellik testi sonucunda, reel efektif döviz kuru ile ihracat arasında çift yönlü ilişki ve işsizlik oranı ile ihracat arasında çift yönlü ilişki tespit edilmiştir.
KAMU DIŞ BORÇLANMASI VE EKONOMİK BÜYÜME İLİŞKİSİ: TÜRKİYE ÜZERİNE AMPİRİK BİR UYGULAMA (1970-2016)
Authors: Prof. Dr. Salih ÖZTÜRK  , Uğur ÇINAR  , Mustafa Latif EMEK
Published: August 2021

Bu çalışmanın temel amacı, kamu dış borçlanması ve ekonomik büyüme arasındaki ilişkiyi Türkiye ekonomisinde 1970-2016 döneminde incelemektir. Değişkenlerin birim kök özelliklerinin belirlenmesinde Ng-Perron testi kullanılmıştır. Değişkenler arasındaki eşbütünleşmenin varlığı Engle-Granger eşbütünleşme testi ile araştırılmıştır. Serilerin kısa dönem ilişkilerini tahmin edebilmek için Hata Düzeltme Modeli kullanılmıştır. Uzun dönem katsayılarının analiz edilmesinde DOLS tahmin tekniği uygulanmıştır. Son olarak Granger nedensellik analizi ile seriler arasındaki ilişkinin yönü araştırılmıştır. Ampirik bulgular i) değişkenlerin birinci farkında durağan olduğu, ii) değişkenlerin eşbütünleşik olduğu, iii) uzun dönemde kamu dış borçlanmasının ekonomik büyümeyi arttırdığı, iv) GSYH’den dış borçlanmaya doğru tek yönlü nedenselliğin varlığı, v) bazı politika eğilimleri sunabileceği ortaya koymaktadır.
ეკონომიკის დინამიკის კოვიდპანდემიაზე დამოკიდებულების ზოგიერთი ასპექტის შესახებ
Authors: ARCHVADZE JOSEPH
Published: August 2021

იოსებ არჩვაძე
ეკონომიკის დოქტორი
ქუთაისის უნივერსიტეტის პროფესორი
ქუთაისი, საქართველო
E-mail: daswreba@yahoo.com
http://orcid.org/0000-0003-0288-288X
 
მოკლე აღწერა
საქართველო ღია ეკონომიკური სისტემის მქონე ქვეყანაა და როგორც ასეთი, მაღალ კორელაციაში იმყოფება როგორც გლობალიზაციის შედეგად ჩამოყალიბებულ ეკონომიკურ პრეფერენციებთან, ისე აღნიშნული მდგომარეობიდან წარმომავალ   საფრთხეებთან. ამის მკაფიო მაგალითია კოვიდ19-ის გავრცელება საქართველოში, რომელმაც უკვე გადაიტანა აღნიშნული პანდემიის სამი ტალღა და გარკვეული გამოცდილება დააგროვა მასთან ბრძოლის ოპტიმალური გზების ძიებაში, მისი ნეგატიური სოციალურ-ეკონომიკური შედეგების დაძლევაში. 
პანდემიის უკვე ჩავლილი ტალღების ნეგატიური შედეგები საქართველოს ეკონომიკასა და მოსახლეობის ჯანდაცვაზე განსხვავებული ზემოქმედებისა და ასიმეტრიული მასშტაბების იყო. კერძოდ, პირველი ტალღის დროს მთავარი დარტყმა მიიღო ქვეყნის ეკონომიკამ, მეორე ტალღის მთავარი დარტყმა მოსახლეობაზე, მათ ჯანმრთელობასა და სიცოცხლეზე მოვიდა, მესამე ტალღის ნეგატიური ზემოქმედების დიაპაზონი კი თითქმის თანაბრად „გადანაწილდა“ ჯანდაცვასა და ეკონომიკაზე.
სტატიის მომზადებაში გამოყენებულ იქნა საქართველოსა და საერთაშორისო ორგანიზაციების ოფიციალური მასალები, აგრეთვე შესაბამის თემაზე ბოლო დროს გამოქვეყნებული სამამულო და უცხოური ლიტერატურა.
მიუხედავად ფართომასშტაბიანი და ინტენსიური კვლევისა, პანდემიის გავლილ პერიოდში ვერ მოხერხდა ცალსახად ხისტი კავშირის „აღმოჩენა“ ეკონომიკის დაცემისა და კოვიდპანდემიის მასშტაბებს შორის. - კავშირი მათ შორის უფრო ვოლატილურია, რომლის მასშტაბები განისაზღვრება ყოველი ქვეყნისა და დროის მიხედვით და მრავალ (ადმინისტრაციულ, სამედიცინო, კულტუროლოგიურ, ფსიქოლოგიურ და ა.შ.) ფაქტორთა მოქმედებითა და ურთიერთგავლენით.  ცალკეული ქვეყნების მაგალითები ადასტურებენ, რომ პანდემიასთან დაკავშირებული შეზღუდულობისა თუ ლიბერალიზაციის  ფაქტობრივად თანაბარი პირობების დროსაც კი შეიმჩნევა მნიშვნელოვანი განსხვავებანი კოვიდ19-ით გამოწვეული ინფიცირების, ლეტალური შემთხვევებისა და ეკონომიკური რყევების მასშტაბებს შორის.   
პანდემიის დაწყებიდან პირველი 7-8 თვის მანძილზე საქართველოში ეპიდვითარება გაცილებით უკეთესი იყო, ვიდრე მის სახმელეთო მეზობლებსა და საშუალოდ მსოფლიოში. თუმცა, პანდემიის მეორე ტალღა საქართველოს ჯანდაცვის სფეროსა და ეკონომიკისათვის უაღრესად ნეგატიური დატვირთვის აღმოჩნდა, რის გამოც პანდემიის სამედიცინო შედეგების ხარისხობრივი მაჩვენებლები საქართველოში მნიშვნელოვნად ჩამორჩა თავისი მეზობელი სახელმწიფოების ანალოგიურ მაჩვენებლებს. აღნიშნული ჩამორჩენა, მიუხედავად ეპიდვითარების და ეკონომიკური მდგომარეობის მეტ-ნაკლებად სტაბილიზაციისა მომდევნო პერიოდში, ბოლომდე არაა დაძლეული.
საზღვაო სატრანსპორტო კლასტერების ფორმირების შესაძლებლობები და მისი როლი ეკონომიკის განვითარებაში
Authors: VARSHANIDZE TAMTA , JAPARIDZE SALOME , MANVELIDZE LASHA
Published: August 2021

თამთა ვარშანიძე
ბიზნესის ადმინისტრირების დოქტორი
ბათუმის შოთა რუსთაველის სახელმწიფო უნივერსიტეტი
საქართველო, ბათუმი
E-mail: tamta.varshanidze@bsu.edu.ge
http://orcid.org/0000-0002-0275-9913
 
სალომე ჯაფარიძე
ბათუმის შოთა რუსთაველის სახელმწიფო უნივერსიტეტი
ბიზნესის ადმინისტრირების სადოქტორო პროგრამის დოქტორანტი
საქართველო, ბათუმი
E-mail: salokoj@gmail.com
http://orcid.org/0000-0001-9367-3252
 
ლაშა მანველიძე
ბათუმის შოთა რუსთაველის სახელმწიფო უნივერსიტეტი
ბიზნესის ადმინისტრირების სადოქტორო პროგრამის დოქტორანტი
საქართველო, ბათუმი
E-mail: lashamanvelidze@gmail.com
http://orcid.org/0000-0001-5631-3127
 
მოკლე აღწერა
მსოფლიოში გამძაფრებული ეკონომიკური და საერთაშორისო ურთიერთობების ანალიზი ცხადყოფს, რომ ნებისმიერი სახელმწიფო სხვადასხვა მეთოდით ცდილობს შექმნას ზღვაზე გასვლის ოპტიმალური გეოგრაფიული და პოლიტიკური გარემო. ანალოგიური მიდგომის ძირითადი არსი იმაშია, რომ ზღვისპირა რეგიონები წარმოადგენენ განსაკუთრებულ სატრანსპორტო პოლიგონს მსოფლიო სასაქონლო ბაზარებზე რაციონალური წვდომისათვის, რაც თავისთავად ქვეყნის ეკონომიკურ სიძლიერეზე,  კეთილდღეობასა და მოსახლეობის ცხოვრების დონის გაუმჯობესებაზე აისახება.
მნიშვნელოვანია საქართველოს ზღვისპირა რეგიონების, კერძოდ კი აჭარის რეგიონის საზღვაო-სატრანსპორტო სისტემის პოტენციალის შეფასება და რეგიონში კლასტერული ფორმირებების შექმნის, მისი განვითარების შესაძლებლობების და პერსპექტივების განსაზღვრა, კლასტერული ფორმირებების ევროპული გამოცდილების შესწავლა და შესაძლო პარალელების გავლება.
 
მნიშვნელოვანია საზღვაო კლასტერების ფორმირების ევროპული მოდელის მორგების შესაძლებლობების განხილვა საქართველოს, კერძოდ კი აჭარის რეგიონზე.
  აჭარის რეგიონში საზღვაო კლასტერის შექმნისათვის არსებობს  როგორიცაა: მძლავრი არაერთი საფუძველი, მათ შორის ისეთი მნიშვნელოვანი  როგორიცაა: ხელსაყრელი გეოპოლიტიკური მდებარეობა, მძლავრი პორტი და გამართული სატრანსპორტო ინფრასტრუქტურა, მიმზიდველი საინვესტიციო გარემო, ტურიზმის სხვდასხვა მიმართულებების განვითარება, მძლავრი სასაწყობო მეურნეობა, რაც საბოლოო ჯამში ქმნის საზღვაო კლასტერების შექმნის საუკეთესო წინაპირობას.
გარემოება მოწმობს, რომ კლასტერებს შეუძლიათ ზემოქმედება მოახდინონ მთავრობის ორგანოების შეხედულებებზე ტერიტორიის ეფექტური მართვის კუთხით, გამოავლინონ ახალი ინვესტიციების მოზიდვის შესაძლებლობები, დააჩქარონ როგორც ცალკეული ტერიტორიის, ისე მთლიანად სახელმწიფოს ეკონომიკური განვითარება.