bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computer Vision Coaching Microsurgical Laboratory Training: Prime (Proficiency Index in Microsurgical Education) Proof of Concept
Authors: Oliveira Marcelo Magaldi , Quittes Lucas , COSTA POLLYANA HELENA VIEIRA , Ramos Taise Mosso , Rodrigues Ana Clara Fidelis , Nicolato Arthur , Malheiros Jose Augusto
Published: May 2021

Objective: Computer vision (CV) feedback could be aimed as a constant tutor to guide ones proficiency during microsurgical practice in controlled environments.Methods: Five neurosurgeons with different levels of microsurgical expertise performed simulated vessel dissection and micro-suture in an ex-vivo model for posterior computer analysis of recorded videos. Computer program called PRIME (PRoficiency Index of Microsurgical Education) used in this research recognized color labeled surgical instruments, from downloading videos into a platform, with a range of motion greater than 3 mm, for objective evaluation of number of right and left hand movements. A proficiency index of 0 to 1 was pre established in order to evaluate continuous training improvement.Results: PRIME computer program captured all hand movements executed by participants, except for small tremors or inconsistencies that have a range of motion inferior to 3 mm. Number of left and right hand movements were graphically expressed in order to guide more objective and efficacious training for each trainee, without requiring body sensors and cameras around the operating table. Participants with previous microsurgical experience showed improvement from 0.2 to 0.6 (p<0.05), while novices had no improvement. Proficiency index set by CV was suggested, in a self-challenge and self-coaching manner.Conclusions: PRIME would offer the capability of constant laboratory microsurgical practice feedback under CV guidance, opening a new window for oriented training without a tutor or specific apparatus regarding all levels of microsurgical proficiency. Prospective, large data study is needed to confirm this hypothesis.
Effective Diagnosis by Real-Time PCR of Herpes Simplex Diffuse Endotheliitis That is Similar in Appearance to Fungal Keratitis: Case Series
Authors: Todokoro Daisuke , Hosogai Mayumi , Nakano Satoko , Akiyama Hideo
Published: May 2021

PURPOSE: Herpes simplex diffuse endotheliitis with accompanying feathery infiltration is difficult to diagnose due to corneal findings that are similar to fungal keratitis. This case series reports on the effectiveness of using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to diagnose herpes simplex diffuse endotheliitis that is similar in appearance to fungal keratitis.METHODS: After extracting corneal smear sample DNA, samples were then applied to two independent PCR assays, a qualitative multiplex 24-pathogen strip PCR assay, and a quantitative real-time PCR assay of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1).RESULTS: All 3 cases showed ciliary injection, feathery infiltration in the corneal stroma and hypopyon, which are corneal findings similar to that observed for fungal keratitis. Retrocorneal plaques, which showed clear boundaries between the corneal endothelial surfaces and retrocorneal plaques in anterior segment optical coherence tomography, were observed in 2 out of 3 cases. Corneal scraping was performed in all cases, followed by initiation of antifungal treatment. However, real-time PCR of the corneal scraping detected 6.0 x 106, 1.0 x 105 and 5.0 x 105 copies/μg glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) of HSV-1 DNA per each microgram of the samples. Fungi were not cultured in any of the cases. After switching the medication from antifungal to antiviral, the feathery corneal infiltration was cured with only mild scarring.CONCLUSIONS: Real-time PCR was an effective tool in diagnosing HSV diffuse endotheliitis with feathery infiltration. Topical corticosteroids in conjunction with oral and topical antivirals were an effective treatment.
T1 Relaxation Times in the Rotating Frame for Assessing a Liver Injury-and-Recovery Animal Model
Authors: Hu Genwen , Quan Xianyue , Luo Liangping , Xu Jianmin , Mei Yingjie , Li Yufa , Yang Zhong , Zou Jinsen , Chen Yanhui
Published: May 2021

Background: To explore the relationship between the T1 relaxation times in the rotating frame (T1rho) and pathophysiology in a liver injury-and-recovery animal model.Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats (n=80) were randomly assigned to two groups: group A involved carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) injury and withdrawal, and group B involved bile duct ligation (BDL) and recanalization. Time-points (n=8) for 3.0T MRI and histological examination were: Group A on day 0, 15, and 40 after the first injection, and day 10, and 25 after injection withdrawal; Group B on day 0, 6, and 10 after obstruction, and day 6, and 13 after recanalization. calculated to assess the correlation between the T1rho and the histopathological parameters.Results: Collagen content, steatosis, ballooning, and inflammation increased in both groups with injury time and decreased with recovery time (withdrawal and recanalization). The T1rho values displayed the same trend. Significant correlation between the T1rho values and collagen was found in the both group A and group B (r = 0.547, r = 0.575, p < 0.001). Moreover, both group A and group B was correlated with steatosis (r = 0.598, r = 0.594, p < 0.001), ballooning (r = 0.616, r = 0.642, p < 0.001), and inflammation (r = 0.636, r = 0.641, p < 0.001).Conclusion: Overall, the T1rho value appears to reflect the process of injury-and-recovery of the liver. Nevertheless, the T1rho value does not exhibit a simple one-to-one correlation with a single factor, such as collagen.
Nation-wide vector surveillance did not indicate transmission of the “American lineage pandemic ZIKA virus” in India
Authors: KUMAR NARENDRAN PRADEEP , Jambulingam P , Panneer D. , Muthukumaravel S , Abidha S. , Sankari T , Ajithlal PM , Mathew Jessu , Koothradan Suhana , Paramasivan R , Muniyaraj M , Singh Himmat , Saxena Rekha , Vijayachari P , Sunish IP , Shriram AN , Dutta Prafulla , Patgiri Saurav Jyoti , DR Bhattacharyya , Hoti SL , Chattopadhyay D , Roy Subarna , Mahapatra Namita , Pati Sanghamitra , Chand Gyan , Mishra AK , Barde Pradip , Kumar Ashwani
Published: May 2021

Background

In wake of the global health emergency declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) during 2016, on the outbreak of ZIKA pandemic, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) carried out countrywide vector surveillance for ZIKA and DENGUE viruses (ZIKV & DENV) in India, as a preparedness measure.

Methods

The study incorporated high-risk zones distributed to 49 Districts in 14 states/ Union Territories (UT) of India during 2016-2019. Seven ICMR Institutions undertook the study, following a uniform Standard Operating Protocol. Aedes specimens sampled on weekly intervals were processed by multiplex Reverse transcriptase PCR for ZIKV/DENV and Real time RT-PCR of ZIKV, among few samples distributed to all the Districts.

Results

Altogether, 79492 specimens of Aedes mosquitoes in 6492 pools were processed for both ZIKV and DENV infections. Among these, three and 63 pools respectively were found positive for ZIKV and DENV. ZIKV infections were recorded from Aedes aegypti sampled during 2018 sporadic ZIKA outbreak in Jaipur, Rajasthan, which belonged to the Asian lineage, already circulating in the Country. Both Ae. aegypti and Aedes albopictus were found infected with DENV and were distributed to ten states/ UTs. Both male and female specimens of Ae. albopictus recorded DENV infections indicating trans-ovarial transmission of DENV in the species.

Conclusion

This national vector surveillance study evinced no active transmission of the “American lineage - pandemic ZIKA virus” in India during 2016-2019, although Asian lineage of the virus already circulating in the Country was detected from Ae. aegypti from Jaipur, Rajasthan.
PlantRep: a resource of plant repeats
Authors: Zhang Yu , Luo Xizhi , Chen Shiyu
Published: May 2021

We re-annotated repeats sequence of 459 plant genomes and release a new resource of plant repeats: PlantRep (http://www.plantrep.cn/). We compared the structural and evolutionary characteristics of repeat sequences in different plant taxonomic group. The contribution of repeat sequences to the genes was examined systematically. PlantRep sheds lights of evolution of plant repeats and provides a free-resource for deep annotation of genome and comparative genomics research of repeat elements in plants.
Developing an Instrument to Assess Children's Capacity for Assent in Research Settings: Considering the Capacity of Five-year-olds in Japan
Authors: Ishiyama Izumi , Akama Kimiko , Yamagata Zentaro , Ishiyama Izumi
Published: May 2021

Background: When children are considered for research participation, international guidelines suggest that they should provide assent in addition to the consent of their parents or legally authorised representatives. Guidelines indicate that the assent-capable age of children, as a reference, is above seven years. However, previous studies that have clarified the appropriate age for assent are unavailable in Japan. If it can be shown that children under the age of seven have capacity for assent, it will clarify that assent is possible above the age of seven years. Therefore, we aimed to develop an instrument to assess children’s capacity for assent among four- to six-year-olds and research their capacity for studies with no invasion or intervention. Methods: To develop the instrument, we referenced a semi-structured interview instrument for assessing decision-making capacity to consent to participation in human subject research. Our instrument is composed of three sections based on 10 question items. Each answer is scored 0–2, and the total score is in the range of 0–20. Assent information was modified to be understood by four-year-olds in Japanese. To examine an instrument and to assess children’s capacity for assent, we conducted a study with 68 participants, aged to four to six years. The scores were analysed using a factor analysis, reliability analysis, one-way analysis of variance, t-test, and χ2 test.Results: The average age of participants was 5.4 years, the average interview time was 9.6 min, and the average scale score (range 0–20) was 14.4±3.8 points in total. Results showed a significant difference between four-year-olds and five-year-olds in the scale scores of assent capacity, largely attributable to differences in understanding and appreciation. Conclusions: The reliability and validity of this scale was indicated as sufficient. For studies with no invasion or intervention, five-year-olds may have the capacity for assent if provided adequate information about the research, tailored to their level of maturity with a child-friendly assent process. However, it cannot be stated that five to six-year-olds fully understand the significance of participating in a study that includes potential benefits for someone other than themselves. Future research may consider comparing six and seven-year-olds or older children.
Public Health Knowledge and Perception of Microplastics Pollution: Lessons from the Lagos Lagoon
Authors: Omoyajowo Koleayo Oluwafemi , Raimi Morufu Olalekan , Waleola Temitope Oluwagbenga , Odipe Oluwaseun Emmanuel , Ogunyebi Amos Lanrewaju
Published: May 2021

Background: The magnitude of ocean plastic debris is forecast to triple within the next decade due to a number of factors such as increased plastic demands and production, inadequate waste disposal and management, unhealthy lifestyle and poor knowledge on the health impact of plastic waste among several others, all of which could be exacerbated by COVID-19 and climate change and cause humanity to face a disaster for ocean health in less than 20 years. Hence, microplastic pollution is globally flagged as one of the biggest threats to biodiversity in recent time as they are found nearly everywhere in the environment. While, the world confronts the plastic problem and transitions towards a circular system, turning the ubiquitous plastic loads around requires both momentum and careful navigation. So far, if the burning of plastics and the accumulation of the materials in oceans and landfill is to be reduced, the industry cannot continue to manufacture plastics at the current rate.Objectives: This paper explores public health knowledge and perception of microplastics pollutionMethods: Data analysis was carried out using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 20.0) and a significance difference was established at 5% with p<0.05 considered to be statistically significant. Results: The result reveals that out of the 102 respondents that participated in the study, 59 respondents representing 57.8% were aware of microplastic pollution. Nonetheless, a significant association between awareness of microplastic pollution and the category of workers (p =0.004, p<0.05) was observed. The mean score on knowledge of microplastic is less than the expected weighted mean of 3.00 for 5 points rating scale which implies that the respondents have poor knowledge of microplastic pollution though they show better knowledge of the serious global problem of microplastic pollution than other knowledge items. Result also indicates that the mean score on perception is greater than 3.00 (3.32) which indicates that the respondents have a good perception of microplastic pollution. Conclusion: There is a need to strengthen advocacy coalition framework (ACF) communication and learning for the determination towards improving the opportunities to protect public interests, including a thorough review of all policy processes, with policy change. This will help highlight the learning importance and involving citizen stakeholder’s participation through observing risk communication on environmental pollutants menace while advancing citizen risk perception, thus influencing risk perception on plastic pollution, as well as the citizens involvement in such environmental problems. Hence, research role as well as creating education awareness will help enlighten the development of policy on the dangers of plastic pollution.
Elevating silicon into a high performance nonlinear optical platform through the integration of 2D graphene oxide thin films
Authors: Moss David
Published: May 2021

Layered two-dimensional (2D) GO films are integrated with silicon-on-insulator (SOI) nanowire waveguides to experimentally demonstrate an enhanced Kerr nonlinearity, observed through self-phase modulation (SPM). The GO films are integrated with SOI nanowires using a large-area, transfer-free, layer-by-layer coating method that yields precise control of the film thickness. The film placement and coating length are controlled by opening windows in the silica cladding of the SOI nanowires. Owing to the strong mode overlap between the SOI nanowires and the highly nonlinear GO films, the Kerr nonlinearity of the hybrid waveguides is significantly enhanced. Detailed SPM measurements using picosecond optical pulses show significant spectral broadening enhancement for SOI nanowires coated with 2.2-mm-long films of 1 − 3 layers of GO, and 0.4-mm-long films with 5 − 20 layers of GO. By fitting the experimental results with theory, the dependence of GO’s n2 on layer number and pulse energy is obtained, showing interesting physical insights and trends of the layered GO films from 2D monolayers to quasi bulk-like behavior. Finally, we show that by coating SOI nanowires with GO films the effective nonlinear parameter of SOI nanowires is increased 16 fold, with the effective nonlinear figure of merit (FOM) increasing by about 20 times to FOM > 5. These results reveal the strong potential of using layered GO films to improve the Kerr nonlinear optical performance of silicon photonic devices.
Melatonin supplementation and outcomes after assisted reproductive technology: A systematic review and meta-analyses
Authors: Zhao Jing , Hao Jie , Xu Bin , Wang Yonggang , Li Yanping
Published: May 2021

To assess the effect of melatonin (MT) supplementation on the outcomes of ART.
A meta-analysis and systematic review was conducted. Eleven studies were included in this meta-analysis. Clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), live birth rate (LBR), Miscarriage rate (MR), fertilization rate (FR), Number of oocyte, MII oocyte, top-quality embryo were reported in 10, 3, 6, 7, 9, 8, and 6 studies, respectively. MT supplementation significantly increased the CPR, the No. of MII oocyte, the No. of top-quality embryo, and the FR. However, there was no significant difference in LBR, No. of oocyte, and the MR. When studies were sub-grouped by the interventions, no matter the control group is MI+FA or placebo/none, MT supplementation increased No. of MII oocyte and No. of top embryo, whereas showed similar CPR. When studies were sub-grouped according to women’s characteristic, MT supplementation showed no significant benefit on CPR in women with PCOS, with normal ovary function, and with previous low fertilization or poor-quality embryo. However, MT supplementation increased the No of MII in women with PCOS, but did not show benefit in women with normal ovary function. MT supplementation may not improve the CPR and LBR of ART. But MT seems be beneficial to the quality of oocyte and embryo, especially for women with PCOS and DOR. Further well-designed studies are needed before the recommendation of its clinical use.
WAVE INDUCED COUPLED MOTIONS AND STRUCTURAL LOADS BETWEEN TWO OFFSHORE FLOATING STRUCTURES IN WAVES
Authors:   Offshore Engineering Team, Samsung Heavy Industries,  Co. Ltd, Gyeonggi do, Republic of Korea, Kim Mun Sung , Jung Kwang Hyo , Park Sung Boo ,   Department of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering,  Pusan National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
Published: May 2021

As oil or gas field moves deeper offshore area, offshore offloading operations such as Tandem or Side-by-Side arrangement between two floating structures take place in many locations throughout the world and also have many hydrodynamic problems. Therefore, the researches on the motion response and hydrodynamic force including first and second order between two floating structures are needed to have the more safe offloading operability in waves. In this paper, prediction of wave induced motion responses and structural loads at mid-ship section with hydrodynamic interaction effect between two offshore floating structures in various heading waves are studied by using a linearized three-dimensional potential theory. Numerical calculations using three-dimensional pulsating source distribution techniques have been carried out for hydrodynamic pressure distribution, wave exciting force, twelve coupled linear motion responses, relative motions and wave loads of the barge and the ship in oblique waves. The computational results give a good correlation with the experimental results and also with other numerical results. As a result, the present computational tool can be used effectively to predict the wave induced motions and structural loads of multiple offshore floating structures in waves.
SISTEMA ROBÓTICO DE BAIXO CUSTO PARA PREPARAÇÃO DE FILMES POR LAYER-BY-LAYER
Authors: Polo Giovanne , Souto Lucas , Polo André
Published: May 2021

LOW-COST ROBOTIC SYSTEM FOR PREPARATION OF LAYER-BY-LAYER FILMS. Layer-by-Layer is an efficient technique for the deposition of thin films used in several devices such as sensors, solar cells, and other systems. A robotic system improves the process reproducibility, be a stand-alone system, and does not demand human participation during the deposition process. On the other hand, the commercially available equipment is expensive. In this work, we present a low-cost robotic system built by using materials commonly found that allows performing several bathing, drying steps and deposition cycles of the substrates necessary for the formation of LbL films. This technical note presents the electronic assembly scheme and the program developed for an experiment. The number of baths, the time necessary for the deposition, and repetitions to result in the formation of the desired film; can be easily modified in this program. The films prepared in this experiment were successfully employed for the preparation of compact layers for perovskite solar cells. Therefore, the equipment can be easily customized to the needs of each research group that uses it.
Renksiz Kaynağın Pasif Optik Ağ Sisteminde Veri Silme Analizi
Authors: AKSOY Murat , NACAR ÇIKAN Nisa
Published: May 2021

Dalga boyu bölmeli çoğullamalı pasif optik ağlarda (DBBÇ POA) yeniden modülasyon tekniğinin uygulanması geniş bant kapasitesi, hızlı veri iletimi yanında sunucu ve kullanıcılar için oldukça uygun maliyet sağlamaktadır. Bu çalışmada yansıtıcı yarı iletken optik yükselteçlerin DBBÇ POA’larda 5 Gb/s hızında veri silme analizi birçok parametre incelenerek yapılmıştır. Kurulan sistemin optimum çalışma aralığını belirleyebilmek için enjekte gücü -20 dBm -0 dBm arasında, ön gerilim akımı 20 mA-100 mA değerleri arasında incelenmiştir. Kalan sonlanma oranının 0,5 değeri ve altına düşmesini sağlayan sistem parametre değerleri belirlenerek renksiz kaynağın indirme yönünden kalan veriyi ne kadar silebildiği gösterilmiştir. Uygulanan renksiz kaynağın sistemi basitleştirerek birçok avantajı gösterilmiş ve daha önce uygulanmış olan Fabry Perot Laser Diyota alternatif olabileceği gösterilmiştir.
Comparison of the Performance of K-Nearest Neighbours and Generalized Neural Network in Construction Crew Productivity Prediction
Authors: ORAL Okyanus , ORAL Emel Latali , ANDAÇ Mehmet Sait
Published: May 2021

Construction crew productivity prediction is one of the most important issues that affect the realistic prediction of construction duration and cost. Use of different search algorithms like Feed Forward Neural Network, Ant Colony, Artificial Bee Colony, Particle Swarm Optimization, Radial Based Neural Networks and Self Organizing Maps for crew productivity prediction problem have been discussed in previous studies. However, the significant effect of the coherence between the nature of the data and the characteristics of the method used in prediction performance has generally been neglected. The aim of the current research thus has been to analyse the prediction performance of two contemporary learning algorithms; K- Nearest Neighbour (K-NN) and Generalized Neural Network (GRNN) when applied to three different crew (formwork, tiling and masonry) productivity related data sets with different distribution characteristics. Performance of both methods varied with the changing coefficient of variation values. K-NN outperformed GRNN for all data sets and both of the methods had their worst performance on the dataset with the highest variance.
Kalp Yetmezliği Hastalarında Kritik Parametre Seçimi ve Sağkalım Modeli Geliştirilmesi
Authors: AYDIN Ahmet
Published: May 2021

Kardiyovasküler hastalıklar dünya çapında en fazla ölüme neden olan hastalıklar arasındadır. Kalp yetmezliği de sık karşılaşılan hastalıklardan biridir ve hastanın taşıdığı risk seviyesine göre ölüm oranları değişiklik göstermektedir. Ölüm oranlarındaki bu belirgin farklılık, hangi hastaların daha kötü prognoza sahip olduğunu tahmin edebilen ve daha yoğun tıbbi tedaviden ve/veya sol ventriküler destek cihazlarından ve kalp nakli tedavilerinden daha fazla yararlanabilecek olan risk grubunu belirleyen yöntemlerin geliştirilmesinin ihtiyaç olduğunu ortaya çıkarmıştır. Çalışma kapsamında kalp yetmezliği bulunan 299 hastanın verileri ve Cox, RSF ve GSB yöntemleri kullanılarak sağkalım modelleri geliştirilmiştir. Ayrıca iki farklı yöntem kullanılarak kalp yetmezliği hastalarının sağkalım modelinin geliştirilmesinde kritik rol oynayan parametreler belirlenmiştir. Veri setindeki tüm parametreler yerine belirlenen bu parametreler kullanılarak bir model oluşturulduğunda daha yüksek başarı elde edilmiştir ve elde edile bu sonuç aynı veri setini kullanan başka çalışmaların sonuçlarında da daha iyidir. Sonuç olarak seçilen parametre seti ve RSF yöntemi kullanılarak kalp yetmezliği hastaları için yüksek doğrulukla tahmin yapabilen bir sağkalım modeli geliştirilmiştir.
A Dual-Band Patch Antenna with Improved Gain and Group Delay Characteristics for C-Band and X-Band Applications
Authors: GENÇOĞLAN Duygu Nazan , ÇOLAK Şule
Published: May 2021

In this study, a dual-band patch antenna with improved gain and group delay characteristics is proposed for C-band and X-band applications in radar and satellite communications. In the study, conventional square patch antenna is modified by partially removing the ground plane and rounding the patch corners. The radius of the rounded patch corners is determined by parametric study to achieve the best antenna performance. According to this parametric study, the value of the radius is set to 2 mm. Antenna performance is analysed both in frequency and time domains. Return Loss, Voltage Standing Wave Ratio, gain, radiation pattern, and group delay are investigated via CST Microwave Studio program. Experimental study is also performed to verify the simulation results. The results show that the designed antenna with rounded patch corners and partial ground plane has dual band characteristic. The two resonance frequencies are 6.85 GHz and 9.1 GHz in the simulation results, and 6.56 GHz and 9.12 GHz in the measurement results. The antenna has maximum gain of 5.8 dB. Additionally, group delay variation is very small in the related frequency range. Thus, it is verified that, the proposed antenna has enhanced bandwidth, improved gain and more uniform group delay as compared to the conventional square patch antenna. The proposed dual-band antenna is a quite promising structure with its appropriate gain and uniform group delay characteristics for C-band and X-band applications in radar and satellite communications.
Applying a novel framework for the estimation of the full cost of water in a degraded rural watershed
Authors: Alamanos A. , Tsota M. , Mylopoulos N.
Published: May 2021

Water Resources Management's modern concerns include solutions on water scarcity, water quality problems and the use of economic and decision-support tools. Especially, the agricultural sector in South Europe under the requirements of the Water Framework Directive 2000/60/EC(WFD) remains a challenge. Most scholars so far doubt and criticize the implementation of the full cost of irrigation water, review papers highlight the limited progress, and fewer cases provide guidance on how to address this case. The present study applies a novel methodological framework for the estimation of the full cost of irrigation water, based on hydro-economic concepts such as: water balance, profits from agriculture, water value, water quality, monetary, opportunity and environmental costs. Originally, the method has been applied only once in a rural watershed with surface and groundwater resources. Here, a degraded Greek watershed using only groundwater resources is the study area, and the results of the two cases are compared. The model was also examined under demand management strategies and recommendations to scrutinize the effects and the applicability of the proposed measures in hydrological and economic terms. The findings give useful insights on the future management of achieving economic objectives with environmental constraints and the harmonization of Greek agriculture to the WFD.
Applicability of ferric(III) hydroxide as a phosphate-selective adsorbent for sewage treatment
Authors: Na Choon-Ki , Park Ga-Yeon , Park Hyun Ju
Published: May 2021

This research was undertaken to evaluate the usability of ferric(III) hydroxide for phosphate removal from sewage. Batch adsorption experiments, partly fixed bed column experiments, were conducted to study the influence of various factors, competing anions and contact time on the adsorption of phosphate on ferric(III) hydroxide. Processing ferric iron in the form of akaganeite (β-FeOOH) greatly increased the adsorption capacity for phosphate. The optimum phosphate removal was observed in the pHeq ≤ 6.0. All results from this study demonstrate the potential usability of β-FeOOH as a good phosphate-selective adsorbent for the phosphate removal system for a sewage treatment plant.
Synergism of Temozolomide, Metformin, and Epigallocatechin Gallate Promotes Oxidative Stress-Induced Apoptosis in Glioma Cells
Authors: Kuduvalli Shreyas S. , Precilla Daisy S. , Anandhan Vinodhini , Sivasubramanian Anitha Thirugnanasambandhar
Published: May 2021

Aim:

This study aimed to study the synergistic anti-glioma efficacies of Temozolomide,
Metformin, and Epigallocatechin Gallate in U87MG and C6 glioma cells.

Background:

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most malignant and invasive tumor of the central nervous
system. The current standard treatment comprises surgical resection, followed by adjuvant radiotherapy
and chemotherapy employing temozolomide (TMZ). Yet the survival rates for GBM patients
are very low. Hence there is a need for new treatment regimes.

Objective:

This study aimed to unravel the synergistic anti-tumor potential of a biguanide drug,
Metformin (MET) and a polyphenol, Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) to enhance the anti-GBM efficacy
of the standard drug.

Methods:

The anti-proliferative effect of TMZ, MET, and EGCG, individually and in combination
was elucidated in U87MG (human) and C6 (rat) glioma cells using MTT assay, and combination index
was used to determine synergism. Cytotoxicity of the drugs was carried out in HEK293T noncancerous
cells. Apoptotic morphological changes in the cells were observed by AO/EtBr staining.
Furthermore, the effects of drugs on antioxidant and apoptotic genes (SOD, CAT, Nrf-2, Caspase-
9, and Bcl-2) were evaluated using qRT-PCR, and the protein levels of Nrf-2 and Caspase-9
were evaluated using ELISA.

Results:

The triple-drug combination (TMZ+ MET+ EGCG) synergistically inhibited the proliferation
of U87MG and C6 glioma cells in a dose-dependent manner and promoted the apoptosis of
glioma cells. The triple-drug combination significantly up-regulated the expression of antioxidant
and apoptotic genes and induced oxidative stress, suggesting a shift in equilibrium towards apoptosis.

Conclusion:

MET and EGCG in combination with TMZ synergistically promoted oxidative stressinduced
apoptosis in glioma cells. Hence, the combination of TMZ, MET, and EGCG may be therapeutically
exploited for improving the clinical outcomes of patients with GBM.
Pharmacokinetics Parameters of Diagoxin among Saudi Patients in Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Allihimy Abdulaziz S. , Almeman Ahmad A. , Alnassar Nassar A. , Almadhi Jihad
Published: May 2021

Background:

The pharmacodynamic effects of digoxin are susceptible to multiple factors, most notably, heart uptake of the digoxin dose and its concentration in the serum. Another important factor to mention is the renal function state of an individual.

Objective:

In this study, we aimed to develop a simple algorithm based on subsets of clinically relevant information, which will help to personalize digoxin based on pharmacokinetic (PK) approach which can help in marketing the appropriate utilization of this medication.

Methods:

This was a retrospective chart review and analysis of 48 patients who were admitted to the Drug and Poison Information center in Buraidah, Saudi Arabia, between January 2016 and April 2019. All pharmacokinetic parameters were added according to the C-peaks and C-troughs. MONOLiX® was used for data pharmacokinetic analysis.

Results:

Twenty-seven (56%) were males and twenty-one (44%) were females with an average age of 63.6 years across both genders. The mean volume of distribution was 496.6 litres with an average clearance of 6.6 L/h. For females, their average volume of distribution was slightly higher than that for males (526 litres compared to 473 litres). In addition, the clearance rate between both genders showed a 2.1 litre/hour discrepancy (7.8 L/h for females compared to 5.7 L/h for males).

Conclusion:

In order to individualize the digoxin dosage regimens, this model can be used to predict digoxin serum concentration. Further studies are needed to clarify the effects of nutritional status and co-administration of medications on digoxin pharmacokinetics.
Eficacia, estado de cosas inconstitucionales sobre los derechos de la población desplazada en Colombia
Authors: Avella Gallego Carolina , Gabriel Martínez Jesús , Nitola Cardozo Diego Felipe , Niño Hernández Wilmar
Published: May 2021

This article elaborates an analysis and description of the state of unconstitutional things about forced displacement victims in Colombia, declared through the decree T-025 and the resolution 373 of 2016, by a general panorama, where the study of this structural failure expose the circumstances that displaced people are in when the T-02/04 was announced, the evolution of its events and governmental acts facing the Constitutional Court response, in this way new categories that describe the socio-juridical phenomenon and its development are proposed, presenting "The New State of Unconstitutional Things".
Instrumentos de medición para la evaluación psicopedagógica: una revisión sistemática
Authors: Redondo Mendoza Ciro Ernesto , Mejía Toro Wilber Arduai , Berrío García Nathaly
Published: May 2021

Colombian context needs protocols, practices and appropriate systematic exercises for psychopedagogcal evaluation, this leads to then use of foreigner instruments, these omit numerous relevant aspects of the teaching and learning process. For this reasons, a systematic reviewn was made, the dimensions, categories, kinds of studies, between other variable associated with the psychopedagogical were observed, on Ibero-America investigations the last 10 years, with student population, since pre escolar until senior year. The psychopedagogical investigation on Ibero-America presents more productions in the Spanish language accord to the study results, that along with other conclusions, standout: Dialnet plus is a data base with the biggest productions of quantitative studies about psychopedagogical evaluation, while the one with the least is Scielo. In production by regions, Spain leads the largest text production, followed by South America and Central America. To conclude, the understanding of teaching and learning process is advanced due to the psychopedagogy, however, for the academic benefit, the interest on specific variables that add integrally to the phenomenon must keep going.
TROPICAL FORESTS AS A TARGET OF GLOBAL SCIENTIFIC PRODUCTION AND THE COMPARATIVE POSITION OF BRAZIL
Authors: Edler de Almeida Elenara Chaves , Almeida Guimarães Jorge
Published: May 2021

This research article was focused on the scientific production of the world on the topic Tropical Forests, based on the articles published by the 20 main countries that compose the Web of Science Data Base, published by Institute for Scientific Information (ISI), which published 90% of the world´s total production covering the period 1901 and 2012. The evolution of this production goes from 2 articles in 1901 to 3.554 in the year 2012. The publications in the period are mainly from the USA (14,145 articles) and Brazil (8,324 articles), corresponding the sum of the two countries to 60% of the total publications. The expansion is credited to a set of factors, highlighting the growing importance of tropical forests as an area of geopolitical interest; ecological and conservationists movements; the availability of new imaging technologies and the very gradual growth of world scientific production in recent years. Environmental sciences / ecology is the area of knowledge that registers the largest number of publications (36.8%), but nine other areas, among them, plant sciences (9.8%), agriculture (7.1%), biodiversity conservation 6.6%) and remote sensing (3.4%) also attracted interest for publications about the subject.
Managing network responsiveness in emergency preparedness supply chains for safety and security in developed nations
Authors: Kaneberg Elvira , Jensen Leif-Magnus , Hertz Susanne
Published: May 2021

Supply chains can play a major role in reducing countries’ safety and security threats; the role of network responsiveness offers insights into management exchanges responding to the preparedness of developed countries like Sweden. Illustrating the managing of overall supply chain capabilities among network responsiveness stems from the supply chain responsiveness concept. Several challenges to responsiveness prevent actors’ networks from fully benefitting from coordination. A management approach is employed to explore the impact of network responsiveness on the supply chain as an overarching strategy for safety and security. The study suggests three different approaches which differ in their impact on the network’s responsiveness: (i) an overall strategic planning approach, (ii) one integrated system approach for the overall response, and (iii) a coordination approach for managing the overall supply chain responsiveness strategy.
PjBL dengan Penugasan Video Tutorial di Masa Pandemi COVID-19: Peningkatan Ketertarikan Belajar serta Penguatan Kreatifitas dan Kepercayaan Diri
Authors: Wibowo Nugroho
Published: May 2021

Salah satu hasil evaluasi kegiatan belajar di masa pandemi COVID-19 menunjukkan bahwa peserta didik merasa bosan. Dilain pihak, pembelajaran saat ini tidak harus mengejar target kurikulum. Guru perlu melakukan penguatan karakter. Kreatifitas dan kepercayaan diri perlu dikuatkan pada mata pelajaran Produk Kreatif dan Kewirausahaan (PKK). Artikel ini mendeskripsikan penerapan Project-Based Learning (PjBL) dengan penugasan video tutorial untuk membuat peserta didik tertarik serta menguatkan karakter kreatif dan percaya diri. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah kuasi eksperimen yang dideskripsikan dari hasil pengalaman terbaik (best practice) peneliti. Tahapan PjBL dengan penugasan video tutorial terdiri atas: (1) informasi dan regulasi tugas; (2) penggalian ide; (3) pembuatan video; dan (4) pencarian jejaring dan pemberian reward. Hasil evaluasi pelaksanaan pembelajaran tersebut adalah: (1) 83.33% peserta didik cenderung tertarik pada penugasan video tutorial; serta (2) 80.56% peserta didik yang mengalami penguatan kreatifitas dan 91.67% peserta didik yang mengalami penguatan percaya diri. Keberhasilan pembelajaran ini didukung oleh semangat dan sifat kooperatif peserta didik. Dilain pihak, penghambat kegiatan belajar tersebut adalah sinyal yang kurang baik, kualitas video dan kuota internet yang terbatas. Artikel ini berkontribusi untuk memperlihatkan pengalaman terbaik guru pada penerapan PjBL dengan penugasan video tutorial untuk meningkatkan ketertarikan belajar sekaligus menguatkan kreatifitas dan kepercayaan diri
Impact of a Workflow-Integrated Web Tool on Resource Utilization and Information-Seeking Behavior in an Academic Anesthesiology Department: Longitudinal Cohort Survey Study
Authors: Gopwani Sumeet R , Adams Erin , Rooney Alexandra , Tousimis Eleni , Ramsey Katherine , Warusha Sohan
Published: May 2021

Background

Medical resident reading and information-seeking behavior is limited by time constraints as well as comfort in accessing and assessing evidence-based resources. Educational technology interventions, as the preferred method for millennial leaners, can reduce these barriers. We implemented an educational web tool, consisting of peer-reviewed articles as well as local and national protocols and policies, built into the daily workflow of a university-based anesthesiology department. We hypothesized that this web tool would increase resource utilization and overall perceptions of the educational environment.

Objective

The goal of this study was to demonstrate that an educational web tool designed and built into the daily workflow of an academic anesthesia department for trainees could significantly decrease barriers to resource utilization, improve faculty-trainee teaching interactions, and improve the perceptions of the educational environment.

Methods

Following Institutional Review Board approval, a longitudinal cohort survey study was conducted to assess trainee resource utilization, faculty evaluation of trainees’ resource utilization, and trainee and faculty perceptions about the educational environment. The survey study was conducted in a pre-post fashion 3 months prior to web tool implementation and 3 months following implementation. Data were deidentified and analyzed unpaired using Student t tests for continuous data and chi-square tests for ordinal data.

Results

Survey response rates were greater than 50% in all groups: of the 43 trainees, we obtained 27 (63%) preimplementation surveys and 22 (51%) postimplementation surveys; of the 46 faculty members, we obtained 25 (54%) preimplementation surveys and 23 (50%) postimplementation surveys. Trainees showed a significant improvement in utilization of peer-reviewed articles (preimplementation mean 8.67, SD 6.45; postimplementation mean 18.27, SD 12.23; P=.02), national guidelines (preimplementation mean 2.3, SD 2.40; postimplementation mean 6.14, SD 5.01; P<.001), and local policies and protocols (preimplementation mean 2.23, SD 2.72; postimplementation mean 6.95, SD 6.09; P=.02). There was significant improvement in faculty-trainee educational interactions (preimplementation mean 1.67, SD 1.33; postimplementation mean 6.05, SD 8.74; P=.01). Faculty assessment of trainee resource utilization also demonstrated statistically significant improvements across all resource categories. Subgroups among trainees and faculty showed similar trends toward improvement.

Conclusions

Learning technology interventions significantly decrease the barriers to resource utilization, particularly among millennial learners. Further investigation has been undertaken to assess how this may impact learning, knowledge retention, and patient outcomes.
Increases in Naloxone Administrations by Emergency Medical Services Providers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Retrospective Time Series Study
Authors: Khoury Dalia , Preiss Alexander , Geiger Paul , Anwar Mohd , Conway Kevin Paul
Published: May 2021

Background

The opioid crisis in the United States may be exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Increases in opioid use, emergency medical services (EMS) runs for opioid-related overdoses, and opioid overdose deaths have been reported. No study has examined changes in multiple naloxone administrations, an indicator of overdose severity, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objective

This study examines changes in the occurrence of naloxone administrations and multiple naloxone administrations during EMS runs for opioid-related overdoses during the COVID-19 pandemic in Guilford County, North Carolina (NC).

Methods

Using a period-over-period approach, we compared the occurrence of opioid-related EMS runs, naloxone administrations, and multiple naloxone administrations during the 29-week period before (September 1, 2019, to March 9, 2020) and after NC’s COVID-19 state of emergency declaration (ie, the COVID-19 period of March 10 to September 30, 2020). Furthermore, historical data were used to generate a quasi-control distribution of period-over-period changes to compare the occurrence of each outcome during the COVID-19 period to each 29-week period back to January 1, 2014.

Results

All outcomes increased during the COVID-19 period. Compared to the previous 29 weeks, the COVID-19 period experienced increases in the weekly mean number of opioid-related EMS runs (25.6, SD 5.6 vs 18.6, SD 6.6; P<.001), naloxone administrations (22.3, SD 6.2 vs 14.1, SD 6.0; P<.001), and multiple naloxone administrations (5.0, SD 1.9 vs 2.7, SD 1.9; P<.001), corresponding to proportional increases of 37.4%, 57.8%, and 84.8%, respectively. Additionally, the increases during the COVID-19 period were greater than 91% of all historical 29-week periods analyzed.

Conclusions

The occurrence of EMS runs for opioid-related overdoses, naloxone administrations, and multiple naloxone administrations during EMS runs increased during the COVID-19 pandemic in Guilford County, NC. For a host of reasons that need to be explored, the COVID-19 pandemic appears to have exacerbated the opioid crisis.
Development and Acceptability of a Co-Produced Online Intervention to Prevent Alcohol Misuse in Adolescents: A Think Aloud Study
Authors: Davies Emma Louise , Martin Jilly , Foxcroft David R
Published: May 2021

Background

The prototype willingness model (PWM) may offer an appropriate basis for explaining and preventing adolescent alcohol misuse. An intervention was developed using a co-production approach, and consisted of an online quiz featuring 10 questions linked to the PWM.

Objective

This study sought to determine the acceptability and relevance of the intervention content to young people, to incorporate their feedback into a final version.

Methods

A qualitative think aloud study with follow-up semistructured interviews was undertaken with 16 young people aged 11-15 (50%). Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

The following 3 main themes relating the acceptability of the intervention were identified: “challenging expectations of alcohol education”; “motivations for drinking or not drinking,” and “the inevitability of drinking.” Participants found the intervention appealing because it was counter to their expectations. The content appeared to reflect their experiences of social pressure and drinking encounters. There was evidence that a focus on drinker/nondrinker prototypes was too narrow and that because adolescents perceived drinking as inevitable, it would be challenging to enact any plans to resist pressure to drink.

Conclusions

An online intervention based on the PWM has the potential to engage and interest adolescents. A wide range of alcohol prototypes should be targeted and a focus on short-term harms should ensure that the intervention is credible to young people.
Monitoring Beliefs and Physiological Measures Using Wearable Sensors and Smartphone Technology Among Students at Risk of COVID-19: Protocol for a mHealth Study (Preprint)
Authors: Cislo Christine , Clingan Caroline , Gilley Kristen , Rozwadowski Michelle , Gainsburg Izzy , Bradley Christina , Barabas Jenny , Sandford Erin , Olesnavich Mary , Tyler Jonathan , Mayer Caleb , DeMoss Matthew , Flora Christopher , Forger Daniel B , Cunningham Julia Lee , Tewari Muneesh , Choi Sung Won
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted lives and greatly affected the mental health and public safety of an already vulnerable population—college students. Social distancing and isolation measures have presented challenges to students’ mental health. mHealth apps and wearable sensors may help monitor students at risk of COVID-19 and support their mental well-being.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to monitor students at risk of COVID-19 by using a wearable sensor and a smartphone-based survey.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective study on undergraduate and graduate students at a public university in the Midwest United States. Students were instructed to download the Fitbit, Social Rhythms, and Roadmap 2.0 apps onto their personal smartphone devices (Android or iOS). Subjects consented to provide up to 10 saliva samples during the study period. Surveys were administered through the Roadmap 2.0 app at five timepoints: at baseline, 1 month later, 2 months later, 3 months later, and at study completion. The surveys gathered information regarding demographics, COVID-19 diagnoses and symptoms, and mental health resilience, with the aim of documenting the impact of COVID-19 on the college student population.

RESULTS

This study enrolled 2158 college students between September 2020 and January 2021. Subjects are currently being followed-up for 1 academic year. Data collection and analysis are currently underway.

CONCLUSIONS

This study examined student health and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic and assessed the feasibility of using a wearable sensor and a survey in a college student population, which may inform the role of our mHealth tools in assessing student health and well-being. Finally, using data derived from a wearable sensor, biospecimen collection, and self-reported COVID-19 diagnosis, our results may provide key data toward the development of a model for the early prediction and detection of COVID-19.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04766788; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04766788

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/29561