bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social Distancing, Temperature, BCG and the Evolution of COVID-19: A Panel-Model Analysis
Authors: Campos Eduardo Lima , Cysne Rubens Penha , Madureira Alexandre
Published: October 2020

Background: This work presents results concerning the impact of some variables mentioned in the literature on the daily variation rate of cases (per million inhabitants) of COVID-19, based on a large sample of countries and an empirical model with appropriate control factors. We also propose indicators for measuring social distancing and BCG (Bacilo Calmette-Guérin) vaccine immunization.Methods: A statistical panel-model was applied to daily data for 165 countries from January 22 to July 31, 2020. Besides, two indicators are constructed for each country in the sample. The first of them measures social distancing, based on percentage of people circulating on transport stations, as a proportion of the circulation in a period before pandemic. The second indicator proposed estimates the current percentage of people immunized by BCG vaccine, based on the historical coverage and demographic factors. Results: We estimate that a strict social distancing may be associated with a reduction of around 6 percentage points in the daily variation rate of cases per million of COVID-19. Besides, the effects of temperature and BCG immunization proved to be statistically significant at the usual levels, indicating that lower temperatures and a low (or a lack of) BCG immunization may be related to increases in the daily variation rate of cases (per million inhabitants) of COVID-19.Conclusions: The analysis made clear the role of social distancing to control the pandemic. In addition, the method used did not allow to exclude the hypothesis that the evolution of COVID-19 may be positively associated with lower temperatures and a low (or a lack of) BCG immunization. JEL classification codes: C13; C33; I18
Fish Predation on Corals Promotes the Dispersal of Coral Symbionts
Authors: Grupstra Carsten Guillaume Bruno , Rabbitt Kristen M. , Howe-Kerr Lauren I. , Correa Adrienne M.S.
Published: October 2020

Background: The microbiomes of foundation (habitat-forming) species, including stony corals, soft corals, and sponges, underpin the biodiversity, productivity, and stability of ecosystems. Consumers shape communities of foundation species through trophic interactions, but the role of consumers in dispersing the microbiomes of such species is rarely examined. For example, stony corals rely on a nutritional symbiosis with single-celled endosymbiotic dinoflagellates (family Symbiodiniaceae) to construct reefs. Most corals acquire Symbiodiniaceae from the environment, but the processes that make Symbiodiniaceae available for uptake are not resolved. Here, we provide the first comprehensive, reef-scale demonstration that predation by diverse coral-eating (corallivorous) fish species promotes the dispersal of Symbiodiniaceae, based on symbiont cell densities and community compositions from the feces of four obligate corallivores, three facultative corallivores, two grazer/detritivores as well as samples of reef sediment and water.Results: Obligate corallivore feces are environmental hotspots of Symbiodiniaceae cells; live symbiont cell concentrations in such feces are 5-7 orders of magnitude higher than sediment and water environmental reservoirs. Symbiodiniaceae community compositions in the feces of obligate corallivores are similar to those in two locally abundant coral genera (Pocillopora and Porites), but differ from Symbiodiniaceae communities in the feces of facultative corallivores and grazer/detritivores as well as sediment and water. Combining our data on live Symbiodiniaceae cell densities in feces with in situ observations of fish, we estimate that some obligate corallivorous fish species release over 100 million Symbiodiniaceae cells per 100 m2 of reef per day. Released corallivore feces came in direct contact with coral colonies in the fore reef zone following 91% of observed egestion events, providing a potential mechanism for the transfer of live Symbiodiniaceae cells among coral colonies. Conclusions: Taken together, our findings show that fish predation on corals may support the maintenance of coral cover on reefs in an unexpected way: through the dispersal of beneficial coral symbionts in corallivore feces. Few studies examine the processes that make symbionts available to foundation species, or how environmental reservoirs of such symbionts are replenished. This work sets the stage for parallel studies of consumer-mediated microbiome dispersal and assembly in other sessile, habitat-forming species.
Screening and Verification of Host Proteins Interacting with Neospora Caninum AMA1 Using a Yeast Two-hybrid System
Authors: Wu Baoyi , Jin Chunmei , Wang Yinan , Zhang Yan , Zheng Tianyu , Zhou Boyu , Guan Lizeng , Yu Longzheng
Published: October 2020

Background: Neospora caninum apical membrane antigen 1 (NcAMA1) is a conservative type I transmembrane protein that is secreted by the microneme to the surface of the parasite, and is a key component of the invasion mechanism. In order to explore further the biological functions of NcAMA1 in the process of parasite invasion, we conducted research on NcAMA1 and its interacting partners. Methods: In this study, Vero cell yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) cDNA library was constructed. Using the constructed recombinant vector pGBKT7-NcAMA1 as bait, the Y2H system was used to screen the proteins that interact with NcAMA1. In addition, the interaction between NcAMA1 and the screened transmembrane emp24 domain trafficking protein 2 （Tmed2）was further verified by one-to-one Y2H experiments and pull-down, and the role of Tmed2 protein in the process of N. caninum invasion was initially verified by RNA silencing and antibody blocking experiments.Results: Our results show that, through the Y2H experiment, we have identified two proteins that interact with NcAMA1, which are the Chlorocebus sabaeus filamin A, alpha and Chlorocebus sabaeus Tmed2. When the expression of Tmed2 protein decreased or blocked, the invasion rate of N. caninum was increased.Conclusions: These findings give us a deeper understanding of the biological functions of NcAMA1, and for the first time suggest that Tmed2 may be involved in the process invasion by of N. caninum, inhibiting the invasion of parasites by interacting with the protein secreted by N. caninum.
Users’ Experiences With an Interactive Evidence to Decision (iEtD) Framework: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Meneses-Echavez Jose Francisco , Rosenbaum Sarah , Rada Gabriel , Flottorp Signe , Moberg Jenny , Alonso-Coello Pablo
Published: October 2020

Background: Evidence to Decision (EtD) frameworks bring clarity, structure and transparency to health care decision making. The interactive Evidence to Decision (iEtD) tool, developed in the context of the DECIDE project and published by Epistemonikos, is a stand-alone online solution for producing and using EtD frameworks. Since its development, little is known about how organizations have been using the iEtD tool and what characterizes users’ experiences with it.Methods: This study aimed to describe users’ experiences with the iEtD and identify main barriers and facilitators related to use. We contacted all users registered in the iEtD via email and invited people who identified themselves as having used the solution to a semi-structured interview. Audio recordings were transcribed, and one researcher conducted a content analysis of the interviews guided by a user experience framework. Two researchers checked the content independently for accuracy. Results: Out of 860 people contacted, 81 people replied to our introductory email (response rate 9.4%). Twenty of these had used the tool in a real scenario and were invited to an interview. We interviewed all eight users that accepted this invitation (from six countries, four continents). ‘Guideline development’ was the iEtD use scenario they most commonly identified. Most participants reported an overall positive experience, without major difficulties navigating or using the different sections. They reported having used most of the EtD framework criteria. Participants reported tailoring their frameworks, for instance by adding or deleting criteria, translating to another language, or rewording headings. Several people preferred to produce a Word version rather than working online, due to the burden of completing the framework, or lack of experience with the tool. Some reported difficulties working with the exportable formats, as they needed considerable editing.Conclusion: A very limited number of guideline developers have used the iEtD tool published by Epistemonikos since its development. Although users’ general experiences are positive, our work has identified some aspects of the tool that need improvement. Our findings could be also applied to development or improvement of other solutions for producing or using EtD frameworks.
The prognosis prediction significance of Hounsfield unit value for stroke patients treated by intravenous thrombolysis
Authors: Zhu Zhengqi , Zhang Ru , Ren Kaixuan , Cong Ruochen , Zhu Xiangyang , Zhu Li , Wang Tianle
Published: October 2020

Background: Intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) is a rapid and effective treatment in the early stage of ischemic stroke patients and the purpose of this work is to explore the significance of Hounsfield unit(HU) value in Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) for predicting the clinical prognosis of stroke patients with middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) treated by IVT. Methods: The 84 stroke patients with MCAO treated by IVT were divided into good prognosis group (48 cases) and poor prognosis group (36 cases). HU ratio and HU difference calculated from non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) between groups were analyzed. Results: The HU ratio of good prognosis group was higher than that in poor prognosis group and the HU difference of good prognosis group was lower than that in poor prognosis group (P＜0.05). The HU ratio was negatively correlated with the infarct volume, and the HU difference was positively correlated with the infarct volume (P＜0.05). HU difference was an independent risk factor for prognosis of patients with MCAO treated by IVT. The area under the curve (AUC) of HU ratio and HU difference for prognosis was 0.743 and 0.833 respectively (P＜0.05). Conclusion: The HU value changes are related to the clinical prognosis of stroke patients with MCAO treated by IVT, HU value may be a prognostic indicator for stroke patients with MCAO treated by IVT.
Epidemiologic Trends of Infants With Orofacial Clefts in a Multiethnic Country: A Retrospective Population-based Study
Authors: Yow Mimi , Jin Aizhen , Yeo George SH
Published: October 2020

Objectives: To establish the population-based prevalence and trends of cleft live births, evaluate associated malformations and infant mortality rate (IMR), and delineate the orofacial cleft (OFC) topography, ethnic and gender-specific features of the resident-population in Singapore from 2003 to 2012. Cleft-births surveillance and data of affected individuals, families, ethnic groups, locations and environment are essential in upstream healthcare planning. Well-informed decisions supported by data are all-important in health policies.Methods: Resident population-based data were compiled from the National Birth Defects Registry (NBDR). The Registry’s data was established from multiple sources: cytogenetics and histopathology laboratories, neonatal wards and maternity hospitals, medi-claims, birth defects, death certificates with reported congenital anomalies, stillbirths and abortuses (spontaneous and elective). The significance level of trend testing was set at p<0.05.Results: Prevalence per 10 000 for all cleft live births was 16.72; isolated clefts with no associated malformations, cleft lip, cleft palate, and cleft lip with cleft palate were 8.77, 6.85, 3.16, and 6.71, respectively. Prevalence in cleft live births was sexually dimorphic and ethnic-specific: Male, 17.72; Female, 15.78; Chinese group, 17.17; Malay group, 16.92; Indian group, 10.74; and mixed ethnicity group, 21.73. Infants with isolated clefts, non-isolated clefts with other malformations, and syndromic clefts were 52.5%, 42.1%, and 5.4%, respectively. Upward trend in infants with non-isolated clefts was significant (p=0.0287). The mortality rate in infants with clefts was 4.76%.Conclusions: The population-based prevalence for cleft live births was 16.72 per 10 000 with no significant upward trend. Co-occurrence of malformations and syndromes was found in almost half of all cleft live births. The IMR of infants with OFC was double that of the population norm.
CircRNA ACAP2 is Overexpressed in Myocardial Infarction and Promotes the Maturation of miR-532 to Induce the Apoptosis of Cardiomyocyte
Authors: Zhang Jun , Tang Yanrong , Zhang Jing , Wang Jing , He Jiyun , Zhang Zhenzhen , Liu Fuqiang
Published: October 2020

Background: CircRNA ACAP2 and miR-532 both promotes the apoptosis of cardiomyocytes, which contributes to myocardial infarction (MI). Therefore, ACAP2 and miR-532 may interact with each other to participate in MI. Method: Plasma samples from both MI patients (n=65) and healthy controls (n=65) were subjected to RNA extractions and RT-qPCR to analyze the expression of ACAP2, mature miR-532 and premature miR-532. Correlations among them were analyzed by Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Expression of both mature miR-532 and premature miR-532 in cardiomyocytes with ACAP2 overexpression was analyzed by RT-qPCR to study the effects of ACAP2 overexpression on the maturation of miR-532. The role of ACAP2 and miR-532 in regulating the apoptosis of cardiomyocytes induced by hypoxia was analyzed by cell apoptosis assay.Results: In this study we found that ACAP2 and mature miR-532 were both upregulated in plasma from MI patients. ACAP2 and mature miR-532 were inversely correlated, while ACAP2 and premature miR-532 were not closely correlated. In cardiomyocytes, overexpression of ACAP2 decreased the expression of mature miR-532, but not premature miR-532. Cell apoptosis analysis showed that ACAP2 and miR-532 overexpression promoted the apoptosis of cardiomyocytes induced by hypoxia treatment. In addition, miR-532 inhibitor reduced the effects of ACAP2 overexpression. Conclusion: Therefore, ACAP2 is overexpressed in MI and may promote the maturation of miR-532 to induce the apoptosis of cardiomyocyte.
Kultura kod ne-ljudskih životinja i evolucijsko podrijetlo ljudske kulture
Authors: Škorić Marko , Kišjuhas Aleksej
Published: October 2020

U radu se dovodi u pitanje zamisao o ontološkoj privilegiranosti ljudske vrste, za što smatramo da počiva na brojnim pogrešnim idejama. Jedna je od takvih pogrešnih ideja da je Homo sapiens jedina vrsta koja posjeduje kulturu. Najprije se ističe problematika (definiranja) kulture u kontekstu tzv. minimalističkih i ekspanzionističkih definicija toga fenomena, a zatim se navode primjeri kulturnog ponašanja kod ne ljudskih životinja. Kritički su analizirane i najčešće komponente za koje se obično smatra da su neophodne da bi se moglo govoriti o istinskoj kulturi, kao što su: društveno učenje, jezik, simboli, teorija uma, povijest, tradicija, prirodna pedagogija i kumulativnost kulture. Naposljetku, istaknute su implikacije jedne adekvatnije, ekspanzionističke i naturalističke, definicije kulture koja je utemeljena na evolucijskim (darvinističkim) osnovama.
Two-dimensional dynamic model of the interaction of a fluid and a piezoelectric bending actuator in a plane channel
Authors: Nasibullayev I.Sh. , Darintsev O.V.
Published: October 2020

The paper proposes a two-dimensional computer model of the fluid flow in a plane channel under the action of an applied pressure drop with a flat ceramic piezoelectric actuator immersed in it, bending in the transverse direction in proportion to the applied electric voltage. A mathematical model of the coupled liquid-piezodrive system in variational form for numerical simulation by the finite element method is proposed. Since the assignment of the Dirichlet boundary conditions for displacement in this problem, is difficult, an equivalent piezo actuator deformation scheme using the Neumann boundary conditions is constructed. The deformations and equivalent stresses of von Mises on a piezo actuator are calculated. The influence of the geometry of the channel and the hydrodynamic resistance formed by the piezo actuator on the dynamics of the fluid flow is analyzed. An algorithm is proposed for adaptive dynamic remeshing of the channel computational mesh under deformations exceeding the size of finite elements. With a symmetric control signal supplied to the piezoelectric actuator, the asymmetry of the geometry leads to a violation of the symmetry of the fluid flow within the period, both in terms of fluid flow rate and in time. In the absence of a pressure drop at low frequencies of the oscillations of the piezoelectric element (of the order of the inverse relaxation time of the velocity), the period-average liquid flow rate is nonzero and increases with increasing frequency. In the presence of an external pressure drop along the layer, the average liquid flow rate is proportional to the pressure drop; at low frequencies, it is inversely proportional to the frequency; with increasing frequency, it reaches saturation. Based on the results of numerical modeling, various variants of new microfluidic technical devices generating a fluid flow using a piezoelectric bending actuator are proposed: a micropump creating a closed-circuit flow; fluid flow regulator and fluid volume dispenser.
Shock wave reflection from a layer of a finely dispersed medium with low concentrations
Authors: Bashirova K.I. , Mikhaylenko C.I.
Published: October 2020

The paper investigates the propagation of a shock wave when interacting with a loosely packed granular medium. The continuous two-phase mathematical model presented in this work allows one to numerically describe the propagation of a shock wave in the channel of a shock tube, the achievement of a layer of granular filling by the shock wave, and the reflection of the wave. It was shown that the granular medium partially transmits the shock wave, but mostly corresponds to it. This reflection differs from the reflection of a shock wave from a solid wall. The nature of the reflection of the shock wave depends on the density of the granules. In particular, it has been shown that a granular medium of lower density, due to the increased mobility of individual particles, leads to some amplification of the reflected wave. It is also shown that the reflected wave in this case forms two pronounced peaks. It should be noted that the pressure passed in the layer of the granular medium, on the contrary, turns out to be the greater, the heavier the particles of the granular medium.
Lise Öğrencilerinin Akademik Erteleme Davranışlarının Yordanmasında Bilişsel Esneklik ve Ruminasyonun Etkisi
Authors: Yukay Yüksel Müge , Sayın Mine , Dinç Serra
Published: October 2020

Yapılan çalışmada lise öğrencilerinin akademik erteleme davranışlarının azalmasında bilişsel esneklik seviyelerinin yükselmesi ve ruminatif düşüncelerinin azalmasının, etkisi olup olmadığını tespit etmek amaçlanmıştır. Çalışmada, 297 lise öğrencisi yer almaktadır. Akademik Erteleme Ölçeği, Bilişsel Esneklik Ölçeği ve Ruminasyon Ölçeği Kısa Formu bu çalışmada kullanılan ölçeklerdir. Akademik erteleme düzeyini yordamada bilişsel esneklik ve ruminasyon değişkenlerinin rolünü saptamak amaçlanarak çoklu regresyon analizi yapılmış, bu değişkenlerin akademik ertelemeyi anlamlı bir şekilde yordadığı görülmüştür. Analiz sonuçlarına göre, bilişsel esneklik ve ruminasyon değişkenleri ikisi birlikte, akademik ertelemedeki toplam varyansın yaklaşık %11’ini açıklamaktadır. Cinsiyete göre ayrı ayrı incelendiğinde de öğrencilerin akademik erteleme düzeyini yordamada bilişsel esneklik ve ruminasyon değişkenlerinin rolünü saptamak amacıyla çoklu regresyon analizi yapılmış, kız öğrencilerde de erkek öğrencilerde de bu değişkenlerin akademik ertelemeyi anlamlı bir şekilde yordadığı görülmüştür. Analiz sonuçlarına göre, kız öğrencilerin bilişsel esneklik ve ruminasyon puanları ikisi birlikte, akademik ertelemedeki toplam varyansın yaklaşık %12’sini açıklamaktadır. Erkek öğrencilerin ise bilişsel esneklik ve ruminasyon puanları ikisi birlikte, akademik ertelemedeki toplam varyansın yaklaşık %10’unu açıklamaktadır. Sonuç olarak, akademik erteleme davranışı gösteren öğrencilerin bilişsel esnekliklerinin ve ruminasyon düzeylerinin bu durumu etkilediği görülmektedir. Akademik erteleme düzeyi arttıkça bilişsel esneklik düzeyinin azaldığı ortaya çıkmıştır. Araştırmanın diğer sonucu ise, ruminasyon düzeyinin arttıkça akademik erteleme davranışlarının arttığını göstermektedir. Kız ve erkek öğrenciler için ayrı ayrı incelendiğinde, kız öğrencilerin akademik erteleme ve bilişsel esneklik puanları arasındaki ilişki, erkek öğrencilerin akademik erteleme ve bilişsel esneklik puanları arasındaki ilişkiden daha yüksektir. Bilişsel esneklik puanlarına bakıldığında da kız öğrencilerin puanlarının erkek öğrencilerden daha yüksek olduğu görülmektedir. Öğrencilerin ruminasyon puanları incelendiğinde, araştırma sonucuna göre kız ve erkek öğrencilerin ruminasyon puanları arasında anlamlı bir farklılık bulunmamıştır. Bir başka sonuç ise bilişsel esneklik ile ruminasyon arasında negatif yönde anlamlı bir ilişki olduğudur.
Mechanism of Action of Limonene in Tumor Cells: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: de Vasconcelos C. Braz Juliana , de Carvalho Fernanda O. , de Vasconcelos C. Meneses Daniele , Calixto Fernanda A.F. , Santana Hericalizandra S.R. , Almeida Isabella B. , de Aquino Luana A.G. , de Souza Araújo Adriano A. , Serafini Mairim R.
Published: October 2020

Background:

Cancer is a complex, multifactorial disease, and a major public health problem, as it is
a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although treatments have significantly improved, still
more effective drugs are searched. One source for these drugs is natural products (NPs). One NP that has
shown anticancer activity is Limonene. However, the mechanisms of limonene's antiproliferative, anticancer
and antineoplastic activity are not fully understood.

Objective:

The objective of this study is, therefore, to undertake a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature on
this subject.

Methods:

A comprehensive literature search was performed using the Scopus, MEDLINE-PubMed, Web of Science,
and Science Direct databases using the keywords: “limonene”, “cancer”, “neoplasm”, and “tumor”. The
inclusion criteria were: in vivo and in vitro studies on the use of limonene in cancer published in English, Portuguese
and Spanish until December 2019. Review articles, meta-analyses, abstracts, conference papers, editorials/
letters and case reports were excluded.

Results:

The search identified 3568 articles, of which, 126 were selected for full reading, with 11 papers meeting
the review criteria. Six more papers were added from the references of the initial 11 texts, giving a total of
17 papers. There was a high level of agreement in inclusion/exclusion (Kappa index > 80%). The risk of bias in
the texts was shown to be high.

Conclusion:

The meta-analysis suggests that limonene acts mainly on tumor regression induced apoptosis and
is a promising natural product for use in the treatment of several types of cancer.
Critical Role of NFκB in the Pathogenesis of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Widespread Key Regulator
Authors: Franceschetti Lorenzo , Bonomini Francesca , Rodella Luigi Fabrizio , Rezzani Rita
Published: October 2020

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a chronic metabolic disorder representing
the most common cause of chronic liver disease in western civilization and one of the
main causes of cirrhosis with a significant impact on all-cause mortality in the most
advanced phases. It is characterized by hepatic fat accumulation in the absence of
significant ethanol consumption, virus infection or other specific causes of liver disease.
Accumulation of fat in liver tissue occurs as a consequence of the imbalance between
overconsumption of high-fat diet and increased de novo lipogenesis and decreased lipid
disposal. Novel dietary and pharmacological therapies for the prevention of fatty liver
disease and the progression to cirrhosis are an actual field of study but still poorly
understood. In this perspective, the current review aims to summarise and clarify the
transcription factor NFκB effects, which may exert among non-alcoholic fatty liver
diseases and their progression. Through extensive previous research, it has become
clear that several signaling pathways are involved: metabolic dysregulation (such as free
fatty acids increase, adipokine alteration, insulin resistance), oxidative stress and
inflammation contribute together in a “vicious circle” to the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic
fatty liver diseases. Within this, NFκB signaling is a primary factor in inflammatory
reactions and diseases, with important molecular connections between metabolic,
oxidative, immune and inflammation systems.
The Identification of A Novel HIV-1 Second-Generation Recombinant form (CRF01_AE/CRF07_BC) Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Jiangsu, China
Authors: Yueqi Yin , Ying Zhou , Jing Lu , Hongxiong Guo , Jianshuang Chen , Yan Xuan , Hao Cheng , Defu Yuan , Haiyang Hu , Xiaoqin Xu , Bei Wang , Gengfeng Fu
Published: October 2020

Background:

CRF01_AE and CRF07_BC are the two major HIV-1 virus strains circulating
in China. The proportion of dominant subtypes (CRF01_AE and CRF07_BC) among MSM
in Jiangsu province was over 80%. A large number of URFs have been found in China in recent
years.

Objective:

This study aimed to report on novel HIV-1 recombinants.

Method:

We constructed Phylogenetic trees using the maximum likelihood (ML) method with
1000 bootstrap replicates in IQ-TREE 1.6.8 software and determined recombination breakpoints using
SimPlot 3.5.1.

Results:

We identified a novel, second-generation HIV-1 recombinant (JS020202) between CRF01_
AE and CRF07_BC. The analysis of near full-length genome (NFLG) showed there were at
least 8 breakpoints in the virus, which differed from any previously identified CRF and URF
around the world.

Conclusion:

Novel diverse CRF01_AE/07_BC suggested the complexity trends of HIV-1 genetics.
The emergency situation of diverse recombinant strains should be monitored continuously.
Anticholinergic Burden Among Hospitalised Older Adults with Psychiatric Illnesses- A Retrospective Study
Authors: Mukku Shiva Shanker Reddy , Sinha Preeti , Sivakumar Palanimuthu Thangaraju , Varghese Mathew
Published: October 2020

Background:

Drugs with anticholinergic properties are known to be associated with
deleterious effects on cognition in older adults. There is a paucity of literature in this aspect in older
adults with psychiatric disorders.

Objective:

To examine the anticholinergic cognitive burden and its predictors in hospitalised older
adults having psychiatric disorders.

Methods:

Case records of older adults who sought in-patient care under the Geriatric Psychiatry
Unit from January 2019 to June 2019 were reviewed. The anticholinergic burden was assessed
with Anticholinergic Cognitive Burden (ACB) scale updated version, 2012.

Results:

Sample included 129 older adults with an almost equal number of males (53.48%) and females
(46.52%) having a mean age of 67.84 (SD = 6.96) years. The diagnostic spectrum included
depression (34.89%), dementia (31.01%), mania (10.85%), psychosis (13.95%), delirium (6.20%),
and others (3.1%). 60.47% of the patients had more than one medical illness. 48.84% of the older
adults had clinically relevant anticholinergic cognitive burden (ACB score ≥ 3). Use of 3 or more
psychotropic drugs (OR = 4.88), diagnosis of psychosis/mania (OR = 7.62) and dementia/ delirium
(neurocognitive disorders group) (OR = 5.17) increased the risk of ACB score ≥ 3.

Conclusion:

Nearly half of the older adults in the psychiatry in-patient setting had a clinically relevant
anticholinergic burden, which was associated with higher use of psychotropics. Our study
highlights the importance of monitoringanticholinergic effects of psychotropics in older adults.
MU-LapaRobot: A Corporative Surgical Robot for Laparoscopic Surgery
Authors: Direkwatana Chawaphol , Suthakorn Jackrit , Wilasrussamee Chumpon
Published: October 2020

Objective:

Development of surgical instrument robot (MU-LapaRobot) for assisting in conventional laparoscopic surgery.

Methods:

A robot was designed based on instrument movement for a conventional procedure. The mechanism mimics and constrains manipulation movement through the wire-driven transmission. It is flexible for robot end-effector, which has a lightweight and small size. The usability of the robot is passive and active robot tasks with an interconnected driving system. Three main parts of the robot are robot end-effector, transmission, and a driving system.

Results:

On a robot platform, a parameter for setup is robot posture. The adjustment of robot position and projection of manipulation area is influenced by the accuracy of movement. To verify movement, command and exact movements are measured. Compensation with the control system is improved in order to improve the accuracy of the system.

Conclusion:

MU-LapaRobot provides surgical instrument manipulation by using wire-driven transmission with an effective system and requires less interference in the conventional operation.
Microbial Biofilms and Biotechnology – Some Perceptions
Authors: Toleti Subba R.
Published: October 2020

The review is an attempt to introduce the readers in brief about biofilms and their implications
as well as some new perceptions in biotechnology. Biofilms are adherent microbial communities,
which are developed on submerged surfaces in aquatic environments. Biofilms play a significant
role in exopolymer production, material deterioration and also cause harmful infections. Further,
the role of corrosion causing biofilm bacteria in deterioration of different materials, microbial
biofilms and their enzymatic processes in reducing the toxicity of pollutants in industrial effluents
are elaborated, along with clean technologies for wastewater treatment. Biotechnology is defined
as any technological application that uses biological systems to synthesize or modify products or
processes. The applications include biochemical processes, medical care, cell and tissue culture, as
well as synthetic biology and others. Synthetic biology details about the design, construction of
new biological components and systems for useful purposes. Finally, to overcome the limitations
that are inherent to the use of cellular host’s, cell-free systems as critical platforms for synthetic biology
applications. This mini-review also mentions new diagnostic products based on enzymes,
monoclonal antibodies and engineered proteins, as well as novel prophylactic vaccines.
Rhodamines as Photocatalyst in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Bagdi Avik K. , Sikdar Papiya
Published: October 2020

Organic synthesis, under environment-friendly conditions, has a great impact on sustainable
development. In this context, visible light photocatalysis has emerged as a green model, as this
offers an energy-efficient pathway towards the organic transformation. Different transition-metal
catalysts (Ir-, Ru-, Cu- etc.) and organic dyes (eosin Y, rose bengal, methylene blue, etc.) are wellknown
photocatalysts in organic synthesis. Apart from the well-known organophotoredox catalysts,
rhodamines (Rhodamine B and Rhodamine 6G) have also been employed as efficient photocatalysts
for different organic transformations. In this review, we will focus on the photocatalysis by rhodamines
in organic synthesis. The mechanistic pathway of the methodologies will also be discussed.
We believe this review will stimulate the employment of rhodamines in the visible light
photocatalysis for efficient organic transformations in the future.
Fully-autonomous Operation of an AC Micro-grid with Inherent Seamless Switching
Authors: Liu Baoquan , Xu Mengjie , Chen Jingwen
Published: October 2020

Background::

Conventional micro-grids operate autonomously in islanded mode but they
always rely on the utility grid for BUS voltage support and power balance in the grid-connected
mode. This results in non-seamless mode switching, alternating operation strategy and power exchange
fluctuation problems.

Methods::

An AC/DC/AC converter is utilized as the interface between the micro-grid and the utility
grid. This enables the two entities to have different voltages in the grid-connected mode. The microgrid
exchanges predefined amount of power with the utility grid in the grid-connected mode. The
power amount is estimated based on power forecasting of local generations and loads with the consideration
of the Sate of Charge (SOC) of the battery, and is updated and broadcasted every 15
minutes.

Results::

A 100kVA AC micro-grid with a rotating generator, battery storage and solar arrays is built
on Matlab/Simulink for investigation. Results indicate that the battery can effectively balance the
power flow and mode switching hardly causes distortions.

Conclusions::

The proposed micro-grid can operate autonomously in both grid-connected and islanded
mode without relying on the utility grid. Seamless switching between operation modes can be
achieved naturally. Constant power is exchanged with the power grid, which benefits the powerdispatching
algorithm of the power system.
Associations of Health Literacy, Social Media Use, and Self-Efficacy With Health Information–Seeking Intentions Among Social Media Users in China: Cross-sectional Survey
Authors: Niu Zhaomeng , Willoughby Jessica , Zhou Rongting
Published: October 2020

Background

Empirical research has demonstrated that people frequently use social media for gathering and sharing online health information. Health literacy, social media use, and self-efficacy are important factors that may influence people’s health behaviors online.

Objective

We aimed to examine the associations between health literacy, health-related social media use, self-efficacy, and health behavioral intentions online.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey of adults 18 years and older (n=449) to examine predictors of health-related behavioral intentions online including health literacy, social media use, and self-efficacy in China using 2 moderated mediation models. Mediation and moderation analyses were conducted.

Results

Self-efficacy mediated the effects of health literacy (Bindirect=0.213, 95% CI 0.101 to 0.339) and social media use (Bindirect=0.023, 95% CI 0.008 to 0.045) on health behavioral intentions on social media. Age moderated the effects of health literacy on self-efficacy (P=.03), while previous experience moderated the effects of social media use on self-efficacy (P<.001).

Conclusions

Health literacy and health-related social media use influenced health behavioral intentions on social media via their prior effects on self-efficacy. The association between health literacy and self-efficacy was stronger among younger respondents, whereas the association between health-related social media use and self-efficacy was stronger among those who previously had positive experiences with health information on social media. Health practitioners should target self-efficacy among older populations and increase positive media experience related to health.
Relationship Between Levels of Digital Health Literacy Based on the Taiwan Digital Health Literacy Assessment and Accurate Assessment of Online Health Information: Cross-Sectional Questionnaire Study
Authors: Liu Peggy , Yeh Ling-Ling , Wang Jiun-Yi , Lee Shao-Ti
Published: October 2020

Background

The increasing amount of health information available on the internet makes it more important than ever to ensure that people can judge the accuracy of this information to prevent them from harm. It may be possible for platforms to set up protective mechanisms depending on the level of digital health literacy and thereby to decrease the possibility of harm by the misuse of health information.

Objective

This study aimed to create an instrument for digital health literacy assessment (DHLA) based on the eHealth Literacy Scale (eHEALS) to categorize participants by level of risk of misinterpreting health information into high-, medium-, and low-risk groups.

Methods

This study developed a DHLA and constructed an online health information bank with correct and incorrect answers. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to detect the cutoff value of DHLA, using 5 items randomly selected from the online health information bank, to classify users as being at low, medium, or high risk of misjudging health information. This provided information about the relationship between risk group for digital health literacy and accurate judgement of online health information. The study participants were Taiwanese residents aged 20 years and older. Snowball sampling was used, and internet questionnaires were anonymously completed by the participants. The reliability and validity of DHLA were examined. Logistic regression was used to analyze factors associated with risk groups from the DHLA.

Results

This study collected 1588 valid questionnaires. The online health information bank included 310 items of health information, which were classified as easy (147 items), moderate (122 items), or difficult (41 items) based on the difficulty of judging their accuracy. The internal consistency of DHLA was satisfactory (α=.87), and factor analysis of construct validity found three factors, accounting for 76.6% of the variance. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis found 106 people at high risk, 1368 at medium risk, and 114 at low risk of misinterpreting health information. Of the original grouped cases, 89.6% were correctly classified after discriminate analysis. Logistic regression analysis showed that participants with a high risk of misjudging health information had a lower education level, lower income, and poorer health. They also rarely or never browsed the internet. These differences were statistically significant.

Conclusions

The DHLA score could distinguish those at low, medium, and high risk of misjudging health information on the internet. Health information platforms on the internet could consider incorporating DHLA to set up a mechanism to protect users from misusing health information and avoid harming their health.
Identifying and Ranking Common COVID-19 Symptoms From Tweets in Arabic: Content Analysis
Authors: Alanazi Eisa , Alashaikh Abdulaziz , Alqurashi Sarah , Alanazi Aued
Published: October 2020

Background

A substantial amount of COVID-19–related data is generated by Twitter users every day. Self-reports of COVID-19 symptoms on Twitter can reveal a great deal about the disease and its prevalence in the community. In particular, self-reports can be used as a valuable resource to learn more about common symptoms and whether their order of appearance differs among different groups in the community. These data may be used to develop a COVID-19 risk assessment system that is tailored toward a specific group of people.

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify the most common symptoms reported by patients with COVID-19, as well as the order of symptom appearance, by examining tweets in Arabic.

Methods

We searched Twitter posts in Arabic for personal reports of COVID-19 symptoms from March 1 to May 27, 2020. We identified 463 Arabic users who had tweeted about testing positive for COVID-19 and extracted the symptoms they associated with the disease. Furthermore, we asked them directly via personal messaging to rank the appearance of the first 3 symptoms they had experienced immediately before (or after) their COVID-19 diagnosis. Finally, we tracked their Twitter timeline to identify additional symptoms that were mentioned within ±5 days from the day of the first tweet on their COVID-19 diagnosis. In total, 270 COVID-19 self-reports were collected, and symptoms were (at least partially) ranked.

Results

The collected self-reports contained 893 symptoms from 201 (74%) male and 69 (26%) female Twitter users. The majority (n=270, 82%) of the tracked users were living in Saudi Arabia (n=125, 46%) and Kuwait (n=98, 36%). Furthermore, 13% (n=36) of the collected reports were from asymptomatic individuals. Of the 234 users with symptoms, 66% (n=180) provided a chronological order of appearance for at least 3 symptoms. Fever (n=139, 59%), headache (n=101, 43%), and anosmia (n=91, 39%) were the top 3 symptoms mentioned in the self-reports. Additionally, 28% (n=65) reported that their COVID-19 experience started with a fever, 15% (n=34) with a headache, and 12% (n=28) with anosmia. Of the 110 symptomatic cases from Saudi Arabia, the most common 3 symptoms were fever (n=65, 59%), anosmia (n=46, 42%), and headache (n=42, 38%).

Conclusions

This study identified the most common symptoms of COVID-19 from tweets in Arabic. These symptoms can be further analyzed in clinical settings and may be incorporated into a real-time COVID-19 risk estimator.
Use of Facebook by Academic Medical Centers in Taiwan During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Observational Study
Authors: Chu Wei-Min , Shieh Gow-Jen , Wu Shi-Liang , Sheu Wayne Huey-Herng
Published: October 2020

Background

The battle against COVID-19 remains ongoing, and social media has played an important role during the crisis for both communication and health promotion, particularly for health care organizations. Taiwan’s success during the COVID-19 outbreak is well known and the use of social media is one of the key contributing factors to that success.

Objective

This nationwide observational study in Taiwan aimed to explore the use of Facebook by academic medical centers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide observational study of all Facebook fan page posts culled from the official accounts of all medical centers in Taiwan from December 2019 to April 2020. All Facebook posts were categorized into either COVID-19–related posts or non–COVID-19–related posts. COVID-19–related posts were split into 4 categories: policy of Taiwan’s Center for Disease Control (TCDC), gratitude notes, news and regulations from hospitals, and education. Data from each post was also recorded as follows: date of post, headline, number of “likes,” number of messages left, number of shares, video or non-video post, and date of search.

Results

The Facebook fan pages of 13 academic medical centers, with a total of 1816 posts, were analyzed. From January 2020, the percentage of COVID-19 posts increased rapidly, from 21% (January 2020) to 56.3% (April 2020). The trends of cumulative COVID-19 posts and reported confirmed cases were significantly related (Pearson correlation coefficient=0.93, P<.001). Pages from private hospitals had more COVID-19 posts (362 versus 289), as well as more video posts (72 posts, 19.9% versus 36 posts, 12.5%, P=.011), when compared to public hospitals. However, Facebook pages from public hospitals had significantly more “likes,” comments, and shares per post (314, 5, 14, respectively, P<.001). Additionally, medical centers from different regions displayed different strategies for using video posts on Facebook.

Conclusions

Social media has been a useful tool for communication during the COVID-19 pandemic. This nationwide observational study has helped demonstrate the value of Facebook for academic medical centers in Taiwan, along with its engagement efficacy. We believe that the experience of Taiwan and the knowledge it can share will be helpful to health care organizations worldwide during our global battle against COVID-19.
Open-Source Technology for Real-Time Continuous Glucose Monitoring in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: Case Study in a Neonate With Transient Congenital Hyperinsulinism
Authors: Braune Katarina , Wäldchen Mandy , Raile Klemens , Hahn Sigrid , Ubben Tebbe , Römer Susanne , Hoeber Daniela , Reibel Nora Johanna , Launspach Michael , Blankenstein Oliver , Bührer Christoph
Published: October 2020

Background

Use of real-time continuous glucose monitoring (rtCGM) systems has been shown to be a low-pain, safe, and effective method of preventing hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia in people with diabetes of various age groups. Evidence on rtCGM use in infants and in patients with conditions other than diabetes remains limited.

Objective

This case study describes the off-label use of rtCGM and the use of an open-source app for glucose monitoring in a newborn with prolonged hypoglycemia secondary to transient congenital hyperinsulinism during the perinatal period.

Methods

The Dexcom G6 rtCGM system (Dexcom, Inc) was introduced at 39 hours of age. Capillary blood glucose checks were performed regularly. In order to benefit from customizable alert settings and detect hypoglycemic episodes, the open-source rtCGM app xDrip+ was introduced at 9 days of age.

Results

Time in range (45-180 mg/dL) for interstitial glucose remained consistently above 90%, whereas time in hypoglycemia (<45 mg/dL) decreased. Mean glucose was maintained above 70 mg/dL at 72 hours of life and thereafter. Daily sensor glucose profiles showed cyclic fluctuations that were less pronounced over time.

Conclusions

While off-label use of medication is both common practice and a necessity in newborn infants, there are few examples of off-label uses of medical devices, rtCGM being a notable exception. Real-time information allowed us to better understand glycemic patterns and to improve the quality of glycemic control accordingly. Severe hypoglycemia was prevented, and measurement of serum levels of insulin and further lab diagnostics were performed much faster, while the patient’s individual burden caused by invasive procedures was reduced. Greater customizability of threshold and alert settings would be beneficial for user groups with glycemic instability other than people with diabetes, and for hospitalized newborn infants in particular. Further research in the field of personal and off-label rtCGM use, efficacy studies evaluating the accuracy of low glucose readings, and studies on the differences between algorithms in translating raw sensor data, as well as customization of commercially available rtCGM systems, is needed.